Livingston Reporting - page 22

Easing Arthritis Pain

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The main symptoms of arthritis include swelling, tenderness, or stiffness in one or more joints. Worsening with age, the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis forces cartilage to break down, while rheumatoid arthritis results when the immune system attacks the joints, specifically the lining.

Depending on the type of arthritis you face, treatment varies, but the overall goal is to minimize symptoms and elevate the quality of life. Following an arthritis diagnosis, patients are advised to learn as much as possible about the disease and entrust their doctor with pain management. 

Arthritis patients should always pay attention to their joints and keep them moving through daily stretches, using good posture and knowing when to rest. Physical therapists can advise the correct type of movement for each individual. Generally, activities such as stretching, walking, cycling, or water exercises can help ease arthritis. Avoid running, jumping, tennis, high-impact aerobics, and repetitive movements such as serving a tennis ball.

Lifestyle changes are suggested for many people who suffer from arthritis. The biggest factor is to manage their weight and ensure it is within a healthy range. Smoking is also a huge factor for those who have arthritis, as it can cause extreme stress on connective tissues. 

Medications are available for those who experience arthritis pain. Some examples include pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), or naproxen sodium (Aleve), which can all help relieve occasional pain after unexpected movements. Creams containing capsaicin are also highly recommended for people living with arthritis. 

Arthritis pain can undoubtedly affect someone’s mood, making them feel discouraged and constantly in pain. Specific therapies are available to help treat both physical and mental symptoms. Some of which include: 

  • Acupuncture
  • Hot and cold treatments
  • Massage
  • Cognitive behavior therapy
  • Relaxation Therapy

If you are struggling with the symptoms of arthritis, contact Michigan Hand and Wrist for treatment.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Call us at 248-596-0412 for further questions. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

MI Hand & Wrist

Investment Property Rental Loans

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Rental loans, or Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans, are tapered to rental investment properties. The DSCR metric evaluates the rental income, operating expenses, and mortgage expenses to formulate a dollar value. 

Commercial lenders (private lenders, banks, etc.) typically require a minimum DSCR to qualify for a Loan-to-Value (LTV). DSCR loans provide a personal guarantee from the borrower based on whether they can prove rental investing experience, show an acceptable credit score and personal net worth, and whether the subject property is DSCR-eligible. 

Rental loans are usually 30-year terms but can be adjusted if necessary. Amortization is generally 30 years, but five, seven, or 10-year interest-only periods are possible. During this time, annual or semi-annual adjustable rate and amortization begin at the end of the interest-only period during the entire 30-year term. 

The different types of rental loans include: 

  • Purchase 
  • Cash Out Refinance 
  • Rate and Term Refinance
  • Portfolio (two or more properties) 
  • Multifamily (five or more units) 

Any rental property purchaser can use a DSCR loan. Rental loans are typically utilized by real estate investors who do not have a W2 (salaried employment), do not qualify for a conventional mortgage, and do not have tax returns available. 

DSCR loans can be refinanced, but there might be a prepayment penalty on the loan that will alter the refinance cost. Depending on the circumstances, it might be more advisable to do a rate and term refinance instead of a cash-out refinance.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today!  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

EB Mortgage

Climate Change Preparedness for Houses

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Make sure your home can adapt to climate change before it succumbs to the dangers of global warming and climatic variations. A recent report by First Street Foundation found that 8.1 million U.S. residents are expected to undergo temperatures as high as 125 degrees Fahrenheit by 2023. By 2053, more than 107.6 million Americans could live in an extreme heat belt. 

With climate change comes more natural disasters, such as hurricanes, which cause severe damage to homes through high winds and flooding. One in three homeowners has already experienced dealing with repairing the damage done by extreme weather or other climate change issues. Still, only 40 percent have been proactive enough to guard themselves and their homes against future damage.

Keep reading to discover some tips to help your home withstand climate change and severe weather events. Protect yourself and your family from harm by adapting some of the ideas below.

Extreme Heat
Too much heat and humidity can actually cause mold and warping of wood floors, which is extremely costly to remedy.  To protect your house from extreme heat, upgrade your insulation to the most efficient type on the market: spray-foam insulation. Then, upgrade your windows with double- and triple-panes, which offer superior protection than single-paned. Siding should also be considered since stucco is sturdier than vinyl in high temperatures. Upgrade your HVAC system or install a whole-home dehumidifier to help reduce humidity and keep costs down. Lastly, add ventilation fans in your attic to ensure adequate air exchange.

Hurricanes
Giving your house a double whammy with severe wind and extreme flooding, hurricanes are natural disasters of high magnitude and should not be taken lightly. Ensure your roof is tightly secured without loose shingles or weak spots. Metal roofs are safer than shingles for hurricanes but are more expensive. Installing storm shutters and doors is imperative to protect your home from hurricanes. Broken glass can cause a lot of damage. Consider upgrading your garage door to a storm-rated type, which is double-reinforced. Finally, remove all dead trees and plant new trees far away from your house to prevent potential future damage.  

Floods
Houses in low-lying areas are especially susceptible to flooding, and climate change is causing an increasing amount of ice to melt, resulting in more Earthly water. Investing in a sump pump and flood vents is one of the most important things a homeowner can do to protect it from flood damage. Sump pumps remove excess water, and flood vents prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. If you live in an area that loses power often or is prone to storms, invest in a whole-home standby generator to ensure your sump pump and other imperative appliances continue to work through outages. Seal basement walls every few years to keep water out and protect the home from major storms. 

Interested in making some upgrades to your home? Contact JFC Remodeling for a free estimate today!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Commercial Printing Industry Outlook

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Many question whether physical printing will remain relevant with the ever-growing popularity of digital media and the Internet. Yes, the future will involve printing, but read on to discover why. 

The forecast for the printing industry is positive, with the profit (percentage of sales) remaining steady or increasing annually since the Great Recession ended in June 2009. 

Especially between 2018 and 2019, print markets flourished. In 2020, COVID-19 shutdowns impeded the upward trend, but the industry swiftly rebounded as economies re-opened. In the post-coronavirus era, sectors such as graphics, commercials, packaging, publications, and label printing face marketplace adjustments. 

Commercial printing is entering an era where elite printers will modernize their company’s process and print rooms, paying close attention to customer demands. Local print shops and chains have seen an uptick in revenue as digital printing is on the rise. E-commerce packaging is also continuously gaining momentum, providing an opportunity for advertising without flyers.

Direct mail media is increasingly popular; 43 percent of Americans feel reassured by brand communication. Many local communities are boosted thanks to 56 percent of people wanting to know what the business is doing. Moreover, mailing management accounts for 52.7 percent of a printing company’s time.  

When the coronavirus pandemic hit, the printing sector, among many other industries, took a big hit. Now, commercial printing is thriving again thanks to new opportunities and stand-out businesses that have weathered the storm.

New challenges arise daily, and print marketing is headed in the right direction. Whether you want to attract new customers or reel back your existing ones, contact the experts at Econo Print today. 

At Econo Print, we strive to deliver the highest-quality printed products possible. We produce top-rated goods in a timely fashion at a competitive price. Listening to our clients and helping them achieve their business goals is our top priority. We are proud of the strong roots we’ve built in the community and pride ourselves on using cutting-edge technology. Our products, commitment to service, and level of expertise exceed our clients’ expectations. Contact us today to learn how we can help launch your business to the next level.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Econoprint

Individualized Cancer Radiotherapy

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High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells in radiotherapy, followed by a treatment plan to minimize the effects of radiation on healthy tissues. It is impossible to predict the immediate effects of treatment (including potential side effects) as each individual is different, and cancer treatment varies. 

Associate Professor Teemu Mullyä, from the University of Oulu, Finland, said, “Cancer therapies produce extensive changes in the physiological and morphological properties of tissues, which are also dependent on the individual.” 

At Oulu University Hospital, researchers are working to alter cancer treatment by centering it around the patient. In a study published in the Journal of Biomedical Optics (JBO), they report formulating a method to measure specific patients’ biological responses to therapy, allowing them to assess real-time radiotherapy patient effects. 

Using a functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) device, researchers were able to measure changes in the amount of hemoglobin in the brain while the patient underwent whole-brain radiotherapy using a linear accelerator.

Since hemoglobin levels are a valuable indicator of changes in blood volume and radiotherapy changes blood circulation, fNIRS helps provide insights into the immediate effects of radiation. Blood circulation in the tissues was measured in ten patients via tissue oxygenation. 

Mullyä said, “This is the first time human cerebral hemodynamics and cerebral tissue oxygenation changes have been measured during irradiation in clinical radiotherapy. The instantaneous measurement of tissue oxygenation levels during radiotherapy is especially helpful in cases of tumor hypoxia, which is when the oxygen levels in a tumor are low due to certain conditions. Such tumors are particularly resistant to radiotherapy. By instantly measuring tissue oxygenation levels, our proposed method can be used to assess the effectiveness of cancer treatment. This can eventually enable physicians tailor radiation doses to optimize treatment and improve outcomes for their patients.” 

In the future, the researchers will apply their technique to more patients, helping to advance personalized cancer treatment. 

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at  877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

RadParts

Novel Glaucoma Treatment Discovered

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

A new therapeutic method to treat glaucoma has recently been unveiled by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers. 

Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disease stemming from a damaged optic nerve, causes vision loss and blindness. In the United States, over 200,000 people suffer from glaucoma yearly, though there is no cure. 

The newly-published study was released in Communications Biology and outlined how researchers used neurons found in mitochondria as a steady source of energy, restoring homeostasis in the diseased neurons to protect the optic nerve cells. 

Arupratan Das, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and the principal investigator of the study said, “Age-related neurodegenerative disease, which includes glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is the biggest global health problem. The fundamental mechanisms that we discovered can be used to protect neurons in glaucoma and be tested for other diseases. We have identified a critical step of the complex mitochondrial homeostasis process, which rejuvenates the dying neuron, similar to giving a lifeline to a dying person.”

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) from patients with and without glaucoma were used in the study, as well as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR), which engineered human embryonic stem cells with glaucoma mutation. 

Researchers identified glaucomatous retinal ganglion cells suffering from mitochondrial deficiency (which leads to damage and degeneration) using Stem Cell Differentiated Retinal Ganglion Cells (hRGCs) of the optic nerve, electron microscopy, and metabolic analysis. Mitochondria are the tube-like structures in cells that produce adenosine triphosphate, the cell’s energy source. 

A pharmacological agent could reverse the process, which could enhance mitochondrial biogenesis. Researchers showed retinal ganglion cells as highly efficient in degrading negative mitochondria, producing more to regain homeostasis.

Das said, “Finding that retinal ganglion cells with glaucoma produce more adenosine triphosphate even with less mitochondria was astonishing. However, when triggered to produce more mitochondria, the adenosine triphosphate production load was distributed among more mitochondrion which restored the organelle physiology. It is similar to a situation where a heavy stone is carried by fewer people versus a greater number of people – each person will have less pain and injury, just like each mitochondrion will have less difficulty and damage.” 

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Zen Eye Institute, formally Rohr Eye & Laser Center, has served the greater Grand Blanc area for over twenty years. Now operating under Dr. Charles Zenzen, we offer comprehensive medical and surgical eye care treating various conditions and diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, dry eyes, and more. For exceptional eye care at our state-of-the-art practice, call (810) 579-0202 to make an appointment today! 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Michigan Lasik

On Trend: Moveable Pool Floors

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High-tech trends are everywhere: from smart devices such as cellphones, doorbells, and garage doors, our houses are filled with these technological advancements. Just when you thought it was unlikely our homes could get any smarter, the next automation has been unveiled, poised to take over the smart home industry: moveable pool floors. 

While swimming pools have been around for thousands of years, the innovation that surrounds them has been mediocre at best. Pool heaters, lights, jets, and more have undoubtedly added a luxurious feel, but beyond the basic upgrades, pools have yet to see a significant leap in technological advancements. 

Swimming pools can be under or above ground, but either way, the surface area is exclusively devoted to the pool. Now, a simple patio can give way to a full-size swimming pool. Imagine pressing a button and watching the water flow across the moveable floor as the tiles fade into a tropical blue, and suddenly a pool miraculously appears. 

Moveable pool floors are executed thanks to a multitude of cables, a pulley system, and a water-based hydraulic cylinder. The base has a bearing capacity of over 100 kg per square meter, and buoyancy devices allow the pool floor to float to the surface. All moving parts are concealed in the floor frame, allowing a high level of safety and a pristine appearance.

The pool depth is fully adjustable, and it takes approximately four to five minutes for the space to be transformed into a full-sized swimming pool. 

Some of the benefits associated with moveable pool floors include the following: 

Safety: Water depth can easily be manipulated, decreasing the chances of accidents.

Energy: In a raised position, the moveable pool floor prevents water evaporation, heat loss, and ensures lower heating costs through insulation.

Convenient: Moveable floors are controlled by a button, touch panel, or mobile device.

Sleek: Flexible functionality of space, architectural integrity, and endless customizations are a plus.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Pound Pool Plastering

Types of Construction Bonds

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The industry offers a large variety of surety bonds, which are required to bid or work on all public works projects, private construction, remodeling, and new construction.

The different types of surety bonds include bid bonds, performance (contract) bonds, and payment bonds. These bonds offer protection for the project owner, taxpayers, investors, etc., associated with private projects. Typically, projects need all three bonds.

Bid Bonds
These bonds guarantee that the contractor will accept a job if they win the bid. They are required by federal law on all projects over $100,000. State-sponsored public work projects also usually require bid bonds. If the winning contractor decides not to accept the job, the project owner is able to submit a claim to cover costs linked to evaluating new contractor bonds. 

Performance Bonds
Sometimes called contract bonds, they guarantee that the contractor will fulfill the entire project, abiding by laws and industry standards. If they fail to do so, the project owner can file a claim to recover any financial loss resulting from another contractor re-doing the work. 

Payment Bonds
These bonds guarantee that the contractor will pay if the work is not completed in accordance with the terms of the contract by the workers, subcontractors, or suppliers. A claim by any of the aforementioned parties can result if the contractor fails to remit payment. 

Contractor License Bonds
The only type of construction bond that is not project-specific; they don’t apply to a single project. These bonds guarantee that the contractor will conduct business in a lawful and ethical manner, meeting industry standards. Some states require all contractors to be licensed at the state level to operate legally. 

In terms of cost, the contractor usually pays only a small percentage of the required bond amount established by the project owner or licensing authority. A surety bond company establishes a premium rate for each applicant based on their personal credit score, industry experience, and personal/business financial statements. Those in good standing usually pay one- to three percent of the total bond amount as an annual premium. 

Construction Bonding Specialists is a leader in obtaining construction surety bonds. We can assist you in winning more jobs through bond terms. Contact us today to learn more. 

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a distinct surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we work to discover surety solutions for all types of cases ranging from ordinary to challenging. Call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Construction Bonding Specialists

Rainwater Collection Made Easy

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A basic rainwater collection system collects rainfall and channels it into a container for storage. Rainwater collection tanks are an excellent for harvesting and storing runoff water from rooftops, parks, roads, open ground, etc. 

The benefits of rainwater collection systems are vast. From reducing reliance on potable water, solving isolated flooding in backyards, reducing water bills for gardening, or simply wanting non-chlorinated and untreated water for yard use, rainwater collection is integral. Most homes already have gutters and downspouts, making a rainwater collection system easy to implement. 

Building a rainwater collection system is simple and typically involves a rain barrel that collects any runoff water. Water used for gardens or yard irrigation does not need to be potable and can be used as-is out of the barrel. If the water needs to be potable, stainless steel corrugated tanks are ideal since they are held outside, won’t fade, and are resistant to bacterial growth. 

Connecting a rain barrel to a downspout does involve some planning but usually includes a simple tube. Some rain gardens are equipped with a filtration system and trenching as well. 

Homeowners are increasingly gravitating toward sustainable living, and those equipped with rainwater collection systems meet that mark. If you are exploring the idea of selling your house in the near future, consider the value of your rainwater collection system and how well it was installed. Low-maintenance designs are best. 

If desired, contact a professional to install an underground system that is hidden from view. 

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Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Creative Programs and Systems

Flood Electrical Safety Tips

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Floods typically cause a range of issues, such as electrical failure, fires, property loss, injury, and even death. Electrical safety hazards resulting from floods are nothing to mess with, so it is important to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones during these emergencies. 

When flooding occurs, perform the following steps: 

  • Do NOT turn off the breaker box power if you are standing on a wet floor
  • Use a dry stick or rubber utensil to turn the breaker box off
  • Do NOT step into a flooded area that contains electrical outlets, appliances, or cords
  • Avoid all electrical devices, wires, switches, and fuses when wet
  • Do NOT use anything electrical that has been exposed to water
  • Stay at least 10 feet away from downed power lines and contact the electrical utility provider ASAP

To prevent electrical fires in your home, take the following actions: 

  • Plug appliances into a wall outlet instead of power strips, which might cause overheating
  • Never use generators in wet conditions
  • Ensure light bulbs meet requirements printed on the appliance and are not too powerful
  • Use Ground-Fault Circuit Interpreters (GFCIs) to protect yourself against shock hazards in areas where water might come in contact with outlets, such as kitchens and bathrooms

When flooding occurs, never enter a building by yourself. Flooded buildings are risky, dark, slippery, and potentially full of electrical voltage. If you can access the electrical meter, removing it is a good idea to avoid electrocution. Consider all outlets and switches to be decommissioned until a licensed electrician can analyze the situation.

After a flood, most electrical equipment should be replaced, as most appliances are not rated to withstand even a brief submersion in water. Items that typically need to be replaced include: 

  • Plastic-sheathed building wire 
  • Armored cable
  • Circuit panels and breakers 
  • Fuse boxes and fuses 
  • Sub panels
  • Switch disconnect boxes 
  • Switches 
  • Outlet receptacles
  • Motors 
  • Circuit boards 
  • Non-submersible pumps
  • Blowers and fans 
  • Lights 
  • Heaters 
  • Air conditioners 
  • Furnaces and boilers 

If you face an unfortunate flood incident, contact State Electric Company who can assess the damage and provide solutions to keep you and your family safe.  

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Creative Programs and Systems