Livingston Reporting - page 54

Better Verbal Communication for Superior Glaucoma Treatment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Patient-physician discussions are vital for treatment and education, but a new study shows that better communication may also be a valuable tool for determining the severity of glaucoma disease.

“One specific challenge in communicating about glaucoma is that the treating physician doesn’t fully grasp what the patient sees and the words they might use to describe these visual symptoms,” the researchers said. Better communication helps physicians understand the patient’s vision concerns.

One hundred seventy adults diagnosed with glaucoma were analyzed. Questionnaires rated visual symptoms, and the most notable cases were identified. Eye damage was reported in patients who experienced blurry vision, sensitivity to light, glare, cloudy vision, and poor peripheral vision. Those who exhibited the most significant variance in vision (43 percent) were people who complained of little peripheral vision.

Researchers noted there was a 62 percent variance in eye damage. Symptoms described by patients coincided with glaucoma. The information can help judge glaucoma in clinical settings.

“These symptoms suggest specific terms that are likely to reflect glaucoma damage, which can be used when communicating with patients,” said researchers.

“Missing patches can point to glaucomatous scotomas, cloudy vision can be understood as the manifestation of contrast deficits which underlie glaucoma, and worsening vision may reflect eyesight severity because of a greater rate of worsening in severe disease. Reporting worsening vision may also reflect the clinically-observed tendency of subjective vision to fluctuate more in advanced glaucoma, resulting in days of worsening, though some corresponding days of improvement would also be present,” said researchers.

Good communication can help physicians understand patient symptoms, strengthen relationships between the two, and enable patients to understand the impact of eyesight diseases on their life.

The researchers said, “Understanding what symptoms patients with severe glaucoma experience is uniquely important, as they may feel frustrated completing visual testing or lose faith in treatment due to their limited vision. If physicians demonstrate an understanding of what specific symptoms are related to severe glaucoma and the impact on a patient’s vision, they may be able to better develop therapeutic alliances with patients.”

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

Signs of Dehydration

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Water is an essential aspect of our lives; we drink, bathe, cleanse, and use water daily. The chemistry of life is based on water; over 60 percent of the human body is made up of water.

In the human body, water is necessary for vital functions, including:

  • Manufacturing hormones
  • Creating saliva
  • Keeping mucus membranes moist
  • Allowing the body’s cells to grow and reproduce
  • Regulating body temperature
  • Acting as a shock absorber for the spinal cord and brain
  • Flushing body waste
  • Maintaining a sufficient electrolyte balance
  • Lubricating joints
  • Digesting food
  • Delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body
  • Running most body parts

Despite being made up of so much water, the human body can only produce about eight percent of the water necessary for survival, meaning 92 percent has to be ingested through food and beverages. Moreover, we lose an average of three liters of water every day by sweating, breathing, and using the restroom. Therefore, we need to constantly replenish our water supply throughout the day.

There are various recommendations for water intake, ranging from 68 to 91 fluid ounces per day for women and 85 to 125 fluid ounces for adult males. A hydration calculator by Hydration for Health takes different factors into account to ensure your water intake is accurate.

Unfortunately, many people throughout the United States fall below the recommended daily intake. Sugary beverages (pop, fruit juice, energy drinks, coffee, tea, alcohol, etc.) are all diuretics, which deplete water from the body.

Consequently, symptoms of dehydration are rampant throughout the country, and most people do not even realize it. Signs of dehydration include:

  • Brain fog
  • Mood swings
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Sleepiness
  • Lack of energy
  • Headaches
  • Constipation

Effects of dehydration can persist despite replenishing water, so it’s important to stay adequately hydrated at all times.

To improve the water quality in your home or business, contact the experts at Reynolds Water today.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at www.reynoldswater.com or call 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Reynolds Water

Owners Can Now Repair Imaging Devices

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A final rule was recently granted by the federal government that allows medical imaging equipment owners to repair their machines without intervention from the maker. This new rule shatters a copyright barrier that was previously in place.

An exemption to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) allows servicers to work around medical device security controls for the purpose of accessing software required to maintain or restore the system. The Copyright Office Registrar recommended the Library of Congress move forward with the change.

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance represents the original imaging equipment manufacturers and released a statement saying the recommendation to move forward will lead to “unnecessary safety and security risks” for patients.

In a statement, President and CEO of Avante Health Solutions said, “This is significant to healthcare systems looking for affordable options to maintain and repair expensive medical equipment and associated devices. Avante is thrilled, as this ruling builds on the FDA’s recognition of the merits and safety of the services provided by independent service organizations.”

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) outlined that manufacturers are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and independent technicians are not held to the same standards as they have a lower amount of scrutiny associated with their position.

Moreover, the alliance also voiced concern over whether manufacturers’ intellectual property would be exposed to the public, which would be detrimental to the industry.

“MITA Executive Director Patrick Hope said, “If this recommendation is ultimately accepted and implemented, it would amount to a license for unregulated third-party servicers to hack sensitive technology, creating grievous cybersecurity and patient safety risks. We intend to continue to advocate against this misguided approach.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

RadParts

Pool Installations and Renovations Increase in 2021

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During the pandemic, many homeowners re-discovered their backyards. Prospective pool owners had them installed, while those who already had pools chose to renovate.

During 2020, pool installations jumped 24 percent, according to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Some pool installation and renovation companies are booking well into 2023.

If you have been considering a pool renovation, act now and schedule today. Some factors to consider prior to renovating or building a pool include:

Water Type
Chlorinated, saltwater, or neither? You’ve undoubtedly heard the difference between the different types of pool cleansers, but have you heard of all-natural? BioNova is cleaned and maintained by biological filters: plants. Without chemicals, UV, or ozone, biofilm filters pools naturally and effectively.

Materials
There are several different types of pool materials, including concrete, gunite, fiberglass, etc. Each finish affects the design’s overall durability, installation timetable, and maintenance costs.

Color
Shades of grey have been popular in homes and, you guessed it, pools. Natural surroundings are more apparent and better reflected with darker shades, specifically.

Pool Surround
Pools can be minimalist, old-fashioned, modern, or more. The area surrounding a pool is imperative to setting the mood. Quartz, limestone, concrete pavers, grass, artificial turf, etc., can be used to create a specific look.

Accessories
Hot tubs, spas, covers, heaters, cleaners, and so much more are all helpful to minimize pool maintenance. LED lights are also ideal for nighttime swims, waterfalls, jets, etc., to accompany the dazzling display of moving water.

Are you ready to renovate your pool or want to learn more? Contact the pool renovation experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pound Pool Plastering

Electrician Pay is Increasing

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported higher wages for electricians throughout 2020. The average salary was $61,550, with the median hourly pay being $29.59 per hour. The wages of electricians across the United States were analyzed, including apprentices who typically get paid less than experienced electricians. The national average was $60,370 in 2019 and $51,190 in 2018.

Areas with large populations and dense cities are generally where the most significant number of electricians reside. There are 78,970 electricians employed in New York City, Los Angeles, and Dallas combined.

The states that employ the highest number of electricians are:

  • California (71,010)
  • Texas (60,890)
  • Florida (41,900)
  • New York (36,310)
  • Ohio (23,430)

Higher demand for electricians results in a superior standard of pay for those in that area. Each state’s cost of living is also factored in, which results in higher averages in certain regions. Chicago, New York City, and Washington, D.C. have somewhat elevated costs of living.

The states that pay the highest wages for electricians are:

  • Illinois ($81,650)
  • New York ($81,340)
  • Hawaii ($79,030)
  • District of Columbia ($79,030)
  • Oregon ($76,040)

The industries that employ the most electricians are:

  • Building Equipment Contractors (477,560)
  • Employment Services (21,160)
  • Local Government (13,780)

The highest-paying industries for electricians are:

  • Natural Gas Distribution ($106,280)
  • Land Subdivision ($99,780)
  • Technical/Trade Schools ($93,260)

According to the Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook, the employment of electricians is expected to expand by 8 percent by 2029, which is twice as fast as the average for all occupations. The introduction of alternative energy such as wind, solar, and battery power provides emerging work for electricians.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers. Call us at 877-844-5514 or visit us at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

J & P Electrical Company

What is a Homeowners Association (HOA)?

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The term HOA stands for Homeowners Association, which you might have heard in passing conversations or in real estate discussions. HOAs affect homeowners in many ways. If you are looking to purchase a home with an HOA, you might want to brush up on your knowledge to learn how it will affect you.

HOAs are organizations within subdivisions, communities, or condominium complexes. In each housing area, rules are made, and the HOA enforces them. Typically, homeownership comes with the freedom to change your home’s landscaping, exterior, or design on a whim. However, HOA community members often run into limitations doing so.

HOAs are run by a board of directors appointed by the community or within the board itself. These positions are voluntary, meaning they are not paid but are reasonably strict about enforcing HOA rules throughout their jurisdiction. The board members deal with complaints pertaining to issues with homeowners.

If you are looking to purchase a new home and an HOA is involved, be sure to meticulously examine the rules before putting in an offer. HOAs are intended to maintain harmony and appearance throughout the local area. Rules are enforced, which keep unruly residents at bay. Sometimes, HOA boards are required to implement regulations if homeowners do not follow the rules. On the other hand, HOAs help to increase community value and ensure properties do not depreciate over time.

There are some pros and cons of being a member of an HOA. Some pros include amenities, unified appearance, community involvement, and maintenance. Conveniences can consist of a pool, gym, meeting room, and more. Typically, utilities such as trash and water are also covered. Because maintenance is sometimes covered under the HOA, issues with landscaping or infrastructure can easily be fixed.

Cons of HOAs include dues, rules, and a limited amount of freedom to do as you please. Monthly dues are separate from a mortgage payment and are used toward expenses. Prices can vary between communities, and the board can adjust the dues as they deem necessary. Regulations set by the HOA aren’t crystal clear until you move into your new home. Some rules include a specific number of pets, length of grass, types of renovations, paint colors, fences, etc.

Being an HOA member is a choice some homeowners have to make, but it shouldn’t be a flippant decision. The takeaways are vast; before making a decision, research the options heavily.

Have you found a home and are ready for a mortgage? Contact the experts at EB Mortgage today!

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 at 866-246-0516 or e-mail contact@ebwmtg.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

EB Mortgage

Top Industries Most Affected by or Vulnerable to Ransomware

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Ransomware is everywhere these days. In October, Microsoft released a statement about Iranian hackers breaking into countless Office365 accounts. Google also released a threat analysis outlining phishing campaigns targeted to YouTube creators. Twitch announced on Twitter that their company had suffered a security breach. The list is extensive, but some notable attacks took place in only one month. Recent attacks include hospitals, schools, gas pipelines, television stations, and numerous municipal water systems.

NordLocker released an analysis defining attacks based on the type of business. Estimated to cost businesses roughly $20 billion in total, thousands of ransomware incidents occur daily. Since the truly successful hacks are never openly revealed, there are presumably more than recorded or published.

In 2020, 1,200 ransomware attacks were analyzed by NordLocker. The results showed that internet companies and online services are generally not highly targeted. Construction companies have been hit the hardest, with 93 affected businesses within the industry. Manufacturing companies are a close second, with 86 affected within the trade.

The top ten businesses targeted by ransomware are:

  1. Construction
  2. Manufacturing
  3. Finance
  4. Healthcare
  5. Education
  6. Technology & IT
  7. Logistics & Transportation
  8. Automotive
  9. Municipal Services
  10. Legal

The most dangerous hacker is the Conti ransomware group that claimed 450 attacks during 2020. REvil was linked to 210 attacks during 2020, Dopple Paymer was responsible for 200 attacks, and PYSA was connected to 188 attacks.

If you’ve found yourself vulnerable or a victim of a ransomware attack, contact the experts at CPS today.

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

Owners Can Now Repair Imaging Devices

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A final rule was recently granted by the federal government that allows medical imaging equipment owners to repair their machines without intervention from the maker. This new rule shatters a copyright barrier that was previously in place.

An exemption to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) allows servicers to work around medical device security controls to access software required to maintain or restore the system. The Copyright Office Registrar recommended the Library of Congress moves forward with the change.

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance represents the original imaging equipment manufacturers and released a statement saying the recommendation to move forward will lead to “unnecessary safety and security risks” for patients.

In a statement, the President and CEO of Avante Health Solutions said, “This is significant to healthcare systems looking for affordable options to maintain and repair expensive medical equipment and associated devices. Avante is thrilled, as this ruling builds on the FDA’s recognition of the merits and safety of the services provided by independent service organizations.”

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) outlined that manufacturers are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and independent technicians are not held to the same standards as they have a lower amount of scrutiny associated with their position.

Moreover, the alliance also voiced concern over whether manufacturers’ intellectual property would be exposed to the public, which would be detrimental to the industry.

“MITA Executive Director Patrick Hope said, “If this recommendation is ultimately accepted and implemented, it would amount to a license for unregulated third-party servicers to hack sensitive technology, creating grievous cybersecurity and patient safety risks. We intend to continue to advocate against this misguided approach.”

Acceletronics is an industry leader in delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from CT Scanners and Linear Accelerators across all major brands and models. Call 610-524-3300 or visit our website: https://www.acceletronics.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Acceletronics

Best Survival Podcasts of 2021

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Unless you’ve been living under a rock (ok, maybe you have), you probably know that podcasts are the latest big thing. Beyond watching movies and reading books, those interested in learning about prepping, survivalism, and homesteading can now utilize a new media: podcasts.

Podcasts are incredibly convenient in our fast-paced lifestyles. Instead of sitting in front of a screen or staring at a piece of paper, podcasts are entirely audible. You can listen to a podcast while driving, vacuuming, cutting the grass, taking a shower, cooking, and while performing countless other daily activities. What more could you ask for?

To jump start your prepper podcast journey, here are five highly suggested stations:

Warrior Life (formerly Modern Combat and Survival) – episodes air once a week
Host Jeff Anderson offers an informative podcast about survival, integrated with weapons. Firearm enthusiasts, freedom patriots, and those who simply want to learn more about survival will enjoy this podcast. Episodes are short, focusing on urban survival, self-defense, escape, and evasion.

Practical Prepping Podcast – episodes air two-to-three times per week
This podcast is for people who aren’t hardcore preppers or survivalists, focusing on everyday people who simply want to be prepared for emergencies. People who merely want to integrate a survival lifestyle and mindset would enjoy this podcast best. Knowledge is essential – the more you know, the less you have to carry. Also, this podcast is great for young kids.

Survival Podcast – episodes air multiple times per week
Jack Spirko hosts this show, dedicated to self-sufficiency and prepper conversations. Valuable survival and prepping tips are given in each episode, along with an expert council who backs up information. Doctors have been known to suggest medicines for survival first aid on this podcast.

In the Rabbit Hole Urban Survival Podcast – episodes air once a week
This thorough podcast is chocked full of survival tips and topics. Focused on urban preppers, this podcast teaches listeners how to homestead in cities, survive financially, psychologically, and more. Throwing in humor, this podcast is light, easy to listen to, yet practical.

Survival Medicine Podcast – episodes air at least once a month
Medicine is imperative to bear in mind while prepping, yet many of us don’t even consider it. Chocked full of medical-related topics, this podcast is hosted by Joe and Amy Alton. Joe is a licensed MD, and Amy is a nurse practitioner and certified nurse midwife.

You have the information, but now you need the supplies. Look no further – Wolf Survival Gear offers a vast selection of prepping gear, available in our online store today!

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

Protecting Trees and Shrubs for Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Trees and shrubs can be particularly susceptible to cold weather. It’s essential to keep them healthy; beyond trimming, it’s critical to keep them protected during the winter months. 

Pruning
Trees and shrubs should be trimmed regularly, especially prior to winter storms. Snow and ice accumulation stress branches by adding extra weight. Limbs that are already large or heavy can also be removed. Rather than guess which branches need to be trimmed, hire a professional to prune your plants so they will withstand the weather.

Wrapping
While it might look silly to have burlap over trees, the protection goes a long way toward protecting them from frigid temps. Think of it as a winter coat for a human. Some trees have thinner bark than others and are unable to tolerate chilly weather. Some trees require plastic, others burlap, but either way, the “tent” protects them from the winter wind.

Sprays
Transpiration can occur in trees when moisture evaporates from leaves. During warmer months, this phenomenon is not a huge deal, as the plants utilize groundwater. However, the frozen ground makes it nearly impossible for water to flow through the tree in the winter. The best solution for this issue is to spray leaves with anti-desiccants. These sprays coat the green areas with a particular chemical that helps keep moisture inside. By holding in humidity, the plant won’t succumb to damage from extreme temperatures. 

Your landscape still needs attention during the colder months. Ensure your plants are protected from frigid temperatures before they get damaged.

To learn more about maintaining your commercial property during the winter season, contact T&T Property Maintenance today. 

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

T&T Property Maintenance