Livingston Reporting - page 77

Eye Damage from Glaucoma Reversed in Mice

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Scientists from Harvard Medical School have successfully restored vision in old mice by “reprogramming” cells to a younger state in which they can fix or replace damaged tissue. This accomplishment is the first to show it might be possible to safely reprogram complex tissues to a previous state. The researchers successfully reversed eye damage from glaucoma in mice; glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Notable retina benefits included nerve regeneration and reversal of vision loss in animals with and without glaucoma.

Further studies will undoubtedly pave the way for tissue reprogramming to be tested on other organs, thereby reversing age-related diseases in humans. Further studies remain to be replicated prior to human experimentation; however, this novel discovery paves the way for reversing age-related human ailments.

The researchers theorized aging results from cells within the body containing the same DNA molecules but drastically varied roles. These cells only read genes specific to their type. The theory suggests that changes can cause cells to read the “wrong” genes and malfunction, which in turn causes the aging process to decline/reverse.

Aging reduces the efficiency of all cells and organs in our bodies; our brains are no exception. Circuit-forming neurons can adapt to change, regenerating in response to injury. This process weakens over time, which has long been known, but how these shifts lead to deterioration is still unknown.

Eye conditions that damage the optic nerve can result in glaucoma. Without healthy optic nerves, blindness can result. Abnormally high eye pressure is usually the cause of significant impairment. One of the leading causes of blindness in people ages 60 and up is glaucoma. The absence of specific warning signs combined with a gradual effect is usually a perfect storm for glaucoma’s presence to be noticed at an advanced stage.

There are many risk factors to consider regarding glaucoma; additionally, preventative measures can be implemented to ensure vision loss is not taking place or worsening.

For more information, read the full article in Nature. Contact the experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today to schedule an eye exam and measure your ocular pressure. Glaucoma recognized early can be slowed or prevented.

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

The Most Beneficial Foods for Eye Health

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Drinking plenty of water, eating nutrient-rich foods, and exercising can improve our lives and increase health benefits. Eye health is also supported through these same activities. Regularly consuming specific vitamins and nutrients can prevent or delay sight-threatening eye conditions and diseases which include macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.

Fish: omega-3 fatty acids are present in oily fish such as tuna, salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, and herring. Studies have shown that dry eye can be reversed by fish oil consumption.

Nuts, seeds, and legumes: beyond omega-3 fatty acids, nuts also contain a high Vitamin E level, which can protect the eye from age-related damage. Examples include: Brazil nuts, hemp seeds, walnuts, lentils, flax seeds, cashews, chia seeds, and peanuts.

Citrus fruits: boasting high amounts of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that fights age-related eye damage, citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits can improve eye health.

Leafy green vegetables: kale, spinach, and collard greens are highly beneficial for eye health since they contain lutein, Vitamin C, and zeaxanthin.

Carrots: beta carotene and Vitamin A are both highly present in this vegetable, and both play an essential role in eye and vision wellbeing.

Sweet Potatoes: getting their orange color from beta carotene just like carrots, sweet potatoes also contain Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant helpful to increase eye health.

Beef: high levels of zinc are linked to beef consumption, which can delay age-related sight loss and macular degeneration. The eye itself contains high levels of zinc, especially in the retina.

Eggs: lutein, zeaxanthin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and zinc are present in eggs. These are all vital nutrients to combat age-related vision loss.

Water: to reduce dry eyes and dehydration, drink plenty of water daily.

Try consuming these foods to increase your overall eye health. For more information or to ask a professional for advice regarding ocular issues, contact the specialists at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

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.

Uncategorized

City of Destin, FL Wins Water Tank of the Year

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Across the United States and Canada, over 23,000 votes were cast and 300 water tanks nominated for Tank of the Year competition sponsored by Tnemec Company, Inc. A panel of water tank enthusiasts selected the tank design based on criteria such as artistic value, significance of the tank to the community, and challenges encountered during the project. Bossier City, Louisiana was the winner of the People’s Choice competition, as it won 6,281 votes from members of the public.

Scott Keilbey, Director of Sales – Water Tank Market at Tnemec explained, “The tank includes a one-of-a-kind seascape mural that now stands high above Destin in an ultra-realistic homage to all the wildlife that call the Gulf of Mexico home. From the beginning, Destin knew its tank would need to be unique, which is why they chose long-time water tank mural artist, Eric Henn, to complete the piece.”

The tank was painted with Tnemec’s UV-resistant, long-lasting fluoropolymer finish, Series 700 HydroFlon, which will ensure the design will last through the hot and humid Florida climate.

Among the top 12 finalists for 2020 include tanks in: Bossier City, Louisiana; Hot Springs, Arkansas; Muscatine, Iowa; Cumming, Iowa; White Bear Lake, Minnesota; Grafton, Ohio; Hutchinson, Kansas; Troy, Virginia; Jansen, Nebraska; Pain Court, Ontario; and Kansas City, Missouri.

Keilbey explained, “This is the 15th anniversary of the competition, which recognizes municipalities for their aesthetic, creative, and innovative uses of Tnemec’s high-performance coatings on water storage tank projects. This year’s finalists represent several different types of water tanks in various shapes and sizes, all of them impressive for one reason or another.”

Destin’s tank will be featured as the month of January in Tnemec’s 2021 water tank calendar and presented as winner of Tank of the Year. The following months of the calendar will include finalists and other nominees.

To read more about the water tank competition, refer to the full article by Water World. For all of your drinking water questions or needs, contact the professionals at Reynolds Water Conditioning 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

Technologists Celebrated during National Radiologic Week

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Radiologic technicians have been on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic more than most people. These technicians have taken a front-seat approach and made a direct impact on the virus outbreak. They work extremely close with coronavirus patients daily, unlike many people throughout the world.

National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW) marks the centennial celebration for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT.) It also exhibits and honors those who perform thousands of X-rays, MRIs, CTs, mammograms, nuclear medicine, cardiac and vascular international, and ultrasound procedures weekly. The vital work of radiologic technologists across the nation are celebrated annually during NRTW. Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered the x-ray on November 8, 1895, which is commemorated by NRTW.

More than 340,000 radiologic technologists have completed chest X-rays, CT scans, and cardiac ultrasounds for COVID-19 patients. These lifesaving procedures have been crucial in detecting and handling virus advancement. When dealing with pandemic patients, proper ventilation placement and ensuring patients receive appropriate care is paramount.

To learn more about NRTW, check out the American Society of Radiologic Technologists website. For more information about purchasing radiologic parts, contact RadParts for all your needs today.

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

Protect your Medicare Card from Fraud

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Medicare card fraud is rampant during open enrollment periods, which is currently running until December 7th. Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs for taxpayers, so it’s important to know how to protect your Medicare card and number. The most imperative thing to keep in mind is that your Medicare card should be guarded with the same security as your credit card. Doctors or hospital settings are the only people who should have those numbers.

Safeguard your card by taking the following steps:

  • Keep your Medicare number private. If anyone calls asking for your number, don’t give it. This is a common Medicare scam.
  • Money or gifts for free medical care should be refused. It’s a common ploy by identity thieves who say they need your number to verify certain things.
  • Keep track of your doctor’s appointments and upcoming tests, and use a calendar to record appropriately. Look for items and services listed on your Medicare statements, along with other details that might be incorrect. If you see a suspicious charge or service and you know the provider, call the office directly to inquire.
  • Stay alert during the coronavirus pandemic since con artists take advantage of people who are highly distracted or disoriented.

If you suspect Medicare fraud, call 1-800-Medicare or call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor at 1-877-7SAFERX. To speak with a professional regarding your Medicare plan, contact Senior Health Medicare today.

Senior Health Medicare is a superior resource for Medicare guidance, information, and ongoing client support. Selecting a Medicare plan is not a frivolous decision. It requires annual revisiting and re-evaluating in order for the client to stay in the most cost-effective coverage. Senior Health Medicare is here to serve as your resource through all the years to come. Contact us today at 888-404-5049 or visit us on the web at www.seniorhealthmedicare.com. Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Senior Health Medicare

CUNA Mutual Invests in Medicare Agency

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Coverage Insurance Solutions announced they will be working with CUNA Mutual Group and examine opportunities to offer Medicare insurance options to credit union members. Founder and CEO of Coverance, Chris Mullins, said the company uses senior-focused marketing, data analytics, and automation designed to improve how seniors purchase Medicare insurance.

The COVID-19 pandemic showcases the importance of proper Medicare insurance for seniors. This has accelerated an upward trend toward centralized call centers, which were traditionally answered by insurance agents in person.

Mike Sekits, managing director of Strandview, said “We have sponsored this management team at two previous successful companies enjoying a very similar business model. The Coverance team has deep experience marketing complex financial services to seniors. They are employing a proven business model – including a highly-efficient call center, state-of-the-art technology, and a highly-effective marketing strategy – to build a leading brand in the Medicare insurance market.”

Strandview Capital’s website said strategic and opportunistic growth capital are provided to companies in the financial software and services sector. “We have established expertise and success investing in companies that are recession-resistant or even thrive in uncertain economic times. We typically lead structured, minority equity investments of $5 million to $15 million per company, and we are often the only institutional investors alongside management.”

CUNA Mutual Group is worth $25 billion in assets and offers commercial and consumer insurance, retirement and investment solutions, and business solutions including data and analytics, lending capabilities, and marketing services.

Omega Benefit Strategies provides senior credit union members an educational resource for Medicare. Our turnkey marketing package seamlessly integrates with existing market strategies. We can help businesses increase new member acquisitions, bolster retention, cross-sell opportunities via our “scorecard” system, and even earn an ancillary revenue stream. Accommodating any size membership, we maintain exemplary member service and offer top-notch products. Contact us today by going to www.omegabenefitstrategies.com or call 888-404-5049.

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

Omega

Causes of Hand & Wrist Pain

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Our hands and wrists are often an afterthought when it comes to self-care. Many people are not proactive in protecting their extremities from damage despite the fact that they are vital to a number of daily activities. Fine motor functions wouldn’t be possible without our hand-eye coordination; thus, pain in the area can easily affect your overall quality of life. Read on to discover some common culprits of hand and wrist pain and how to manage them.

Arthritis: osteoarthritis is when cartilage (cushions for your bones) deteriorates over time. It is typically uncommon in the wrist, though it may occur in those who have suffered injuries in the past. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the tissues. The wrists are commonly susceptible and both are usually involved. Basal (thumb) arthritis is recognized by pain at the thumb base and can be treated with splints, injections, and reconstructive surgery.

Tendonitis: an inflammation of the tendons, which connects muscle to bone. It is caused by repetitive use or sudden injury. Symptoms consist of pain in the tendon area, swelling, and loss of motion. Treatments include ice, rest, immobilization, and anti-inflammatory medications. Steroid injections are also sometimes recommended.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: affecting almost eight million people in America, this syndrome is marked by a numbness and tingling in the hand/arm, which is caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist. Symptoms include hand numbness, pin-and-needles sensation, wrist pain, and cramping. Splints are recommended in order to give the wrists a break, but anti-inflammatory drugs or surgery can be treatments as well.

Trigger finger: recognized when the tendons in the fingers or thumb become stuck in a bent position. Pain, popping sensation when using specific fingers, and stiffness are common symptoms. Treatment consists of immobilization, anti-inflammatory medication, restricting activities, and steroid injections.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: numb or tingling sensations in the ring and small fingers, forearm, and/or weakness in the hand are signs of this syndrome. Avoiding actions that cause the syndrome can help reduce symptoms. Wrapping a pillow or towel loosely around the elbow can help, as can wearing a splint at night while sleeping. Surgery is sometimes recommended in severe cases.

Ganglion Cyst: commonly found on the underside of wrists. Usually benign, they can quickly grow and change in size. Bigger cysts can be painful or limit wrist movement. Repetitive movements can cause the cysts to grow, while rest can help them subside. In severe cases, immobilization or non-surgical draining of the fluid is recommended. If the cyst returns, minor surgery for a full removal is sometimes required.

Repetitive Strain Injury: muscles, tendons, nerves, and ligaments are affected, caused by improper technique or overuse of the fingers, hands, and wrists. More than three million cases per year are reported in America. Anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy are most commonly prescribed.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: marked pain on the thumb side of your wrist, swelling near the base of the thumb, inability to make a fist, strenuous to grasp objects, or difficulty moving the thumb. Treated with over-the-counter medications or steroids to reduce swelling, the exact cause hasn’t been proven.

For proper diagnosis of any of the above syndromes or diseases, contact the specialists at Michigan Hand & Wrist today. We not only diagnose, but we can also help you manage your symptoms and live pain-free.

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. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.

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

MI Hand & Wrist

How to Achieve Optimal Bathroom Lighting

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Bathroom lighting is critical yet often overlooked or underperformed. We frequent bathrooms before going to bed and after waking up in the morning, and there should be ambient lighting for bedtime, however, be bright and welcoming at daybreak. Light, particularly daylight, sets our circadian rhythms, which play an essential role in our overall health and wellness. The answer to taking the correct medication (seeing clearly), avoiding falls (recognizing water on the floor), and more troublesome bathroom issues are all solved with proper lighting.

Illumination The amount of light needed in a bathroom varies due to a few factors. Ideally, the lighting should vary based on the type of activity being performed, such as shaving or using the restroom. Dimmers can be tremendously helpful, as it is ideal to over-light an area and reduce than under-light with an inability to increase.

Daylights Natural light is the best way to regulate sleep/wake cycles (circadian rhythm) and brighten moods. Instead of one window, perhaps add two, or a larger-than-originally-planned window to increase lighting. Skylights lets in two- to three times as much illumination as the same-sized window. Larger windows also increase lighting and let sunlight in.

Vanity lighting Optimum lighting includes fixtures mounted on either side of the mirror at eye level. No part of the face will be in shadow, which sometimes happens with overhead vanity lights. LED bulbs are much easier to dim than fluorescent, and incandescent bulbs are being phased out throughout America. Plus, LEDs are much brighter than their counterparts. They don’t get hot and they last much longer as well.

Illuminate the tub Hanging light fixtures above bathtubs is against most building codes and is not only discouraged but simply not done. No open or hanging lighting can be within eight feet of the bathtub, nor three feet next to it. Placing tubs underneath a feature window or skylight is the best bet, which lets the light in but doesn’t cause a hazard.

Night light Bathrooms are usually frequented in the wee hours of the night, so it is critical to provide some light to ensure safe maneuvering throughout the darkness. A low-wattage nightlight either on all night or that responds to motion is a simple solution. LED lighting under vanities or countertops is perfect night lighting and provides a lovely ambiance to the room’s overall aesthetic.

To read more lighting ideas, check out the original article from ProRemodeler. For lighting installation or a bathroom consultation, contact the professionals at JFC Remodeling 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: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

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

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Building Emissions Could Be Cut in Half with Heating Electrification

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The American Council on Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) published a report that outlined how carbon emissions could dramatically reduce if space heating were converted to electricity. In order to meet long-term goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel burning to heat homes and buildings needs to be moderated or eliminated. High-efficiency electric heat pumps (generated from renewable energy) are one way to fulfill this need. The report models the effects of substituting several types of gas-based heating systems in commercial buildings with different electric heat pump systems.

Heating electrification in buildings encompasses replacing electric technologies for combustion-fuel where other fuels are being used. (i.e., space heating and water heating.) Industrial electrification consists of fueling a wide range of industrial processes by electricity instead of combustion fuels.

The different types of Electric Resistance Heating as outlined by the U.S. Department of Energy include:

Electric furnaces: require extra energy to distribute the heated air throughout the home, which makes them more expensive to operate. Air flows through ducts and the furnace’s heating elements activate in stages to avoid overloading a whole-house electrical system.

Electric baseboard heaters: zonal heaters controlled by thermostats are located within individual rooms. Metal pipes encase heating elements that run the length of the baseboard’s housing unit. These are usually installed under windows and can be noisy, giving poor temperature control.

Electric wall heaters: an electric element with a rear reflector pushes heat out into a room through a fan. These are installed on mainly interior walls, as exterior walls are difficult to insulate.

ACEE published a document describing different programs to electrify space heating in homes and buildings. By promoting the programs used to electrify space heating in homes and buildings, the public will become more aware of the options, opportunities, and advantages available. Rebate incentives also increase participation, emphasizing growth within the residential sector.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Policy and Systems Analysis under the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Contract prepared a document that outlines the drivers, barriers, prospects, and policy approaches regarding the electrification of buildings and industry in the U.S.

For all your electrical equipment needs, contact J&P Electrical today. 

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

The Five Best Blue-Light Blocking Glasses to Reduce Eye Strain

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Eye fatigue from staring at computer screens, tablets, and smartphones is a real thing. Blue light emitting from these screens can cause dry eyes, headaches, and eye strain. If you work in front of a computer screen or your eyes come in contact with blue-light emission for more than a few hours a day, it might be a good idea to invest in some computer reading glasses.

  1. Warby Parker: boosting a home try-on option, these blue-light-filtering lenses start at $50. Customers can pick five frames to test out for five days, shipped free of charge. For each pair of glasses purchased, the company distributes a pair to those in need.
  2. Zenni Optical: these “Blokz” lenses start at just $16.95 and are available with several features such as photochromatic (light-changing), sunglasses, and impact-resistant for kids. They can also be bought as fashion/style glasses without a prescription.
  3. Gunnar: selling “gaming” glasses since 2006, these glasses boost experience other brands cannot compete with. They offer a Blue Light Protection Factor (BLPF), which measures lens protection for the eyes, ranging from clear to heavily tinted amber. These specialized glasses start at $49.
  4. Ambr Eyewear: husband-and-wife team based in Dublin, Ireland started this business in their kitchen after realizing there was a high demand but no answer for stylish blue-light blocking lenses. Starting at $62, they range from plastic to metal, clear to tinted.
  5. Cyxus: these glasses have been affordable since 2009, starting at just $20. A technology called “HEV-Absorb” blocks out blue light in glasses designed for women, men, kids, and teens.

For all other computer or technology needs and questions, contact the experts at Creative Programs and Systems. We know how to handle screen issues of all kinds.

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; implement internet marketing strategies for enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) results; 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