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Google Introduces Experimental AI-Powered Bard 

Google recently opened access to Bard, an experimental generative AI to bring experiences to individuals, companies, and neighborhoods. Google touts Bard as a way to improve productivity, satisfy curiosity, and bring ideas to the forefront. Bard can help people reach goals, explain quantum physics, or summarize articles. 

Research Large Language Models (LLMs) can learn from a wide range of data to output information. Bard, an LLM, uses Google as a database to predict responses to questions. Creativity is factored in to make it less predictable and stale. LLMs are known to give momentum to human efficiency, imagination, and curiosity. 

Bard will offer several options of responses at first to get a good feel for the user’s starting point. It helps the user to discover more relevant search results based on their query. 

Bard’s rival is a Microsoft-backed OpenAI called ChatGPT, which one study has found to “Outperform physicians in high-quality, empathetic answers to patient questions.” 

ChatGPT has even been studied for use in neurosurgery, based on medical and surgical implementation, clinical decision-making, and administrative assistance. 

Though Google’s Bard is a fresh addition to the LLM realm, some privacy concerns have caused countries such as Italy to ban the app, subsequently lifting the ban later. Apprehension for LLMs is rooted in their ability to create fake news articles or untrue social media posts. 

Bard is savvy in various genres, from music to organic chemistry, and beyond. The usefulness of LLMs is practically endless. Used properly, Bard is a valuable means to gain knowledge and understanding for humans across the planet. 

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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 team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

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Traditional Advertising is Making a Comeback

Digital marketing has dominated the marketing field for more than a decade as potential customers shift their focus from physical media to an online presence. With this shift, television, radio, newspaper, and other previously-relied-on traditional advertising methods have needed to pivot in different directions.

Business-to-Consumer (B2C) service companies anticipate the biggest move to traditional advertising at 10.2 percent, while B2C product companies guesstimate they will see five percent growth. Those companies that rely on the internet to provide 100 percent of their sales are switching gears and aiming to increase traditional advertising spending by almost 12 percent through the next year. 

Recent evidence suggests a change is underway. Some factors behind this include: 

Becoming Numb: Many consumers view digital advertising as clutter and do not engage like they used to. For example, frustration from having to watch an ad before a video is fueling the shift back to traditional media.

Tried-and-True: The top most trusted advertising formats are traditional, which include print, television, direct mail, and radio. 

Devouring Cookies: Third-party cookies used to track website visitors are being phased out by both Google and Apple. As a result, more than 20 percent of companies seeking advertisement rely on traditional methods.

Podcast Growth: Similar to traditional radio, podcasts use an on-demand approach with over 100 million monthly listeners who trust their hosts and follow their endorsements. 

While experts have been suggesting traditional advertising will be extinct soon, it is, in fact, poised for major growth for the first time in over ten years. Traditional and digital marketing is the best bet for companies looking to expand their customer base. 

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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/ 

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FDA Approves First Advanced Macular Degeneration Drug

A severe form of macular degeneration called geographic atrophy is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in adults over 50. Geographic atrophy impacts 1 million people in the United States.

While macular degeneration is typically considered an incurable eye disease, and its origins are unknown, it has been determined that genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of the disease. 

Clinical trials are underway at Willis Eye/Mid Atlantic Retina for Syfovre, the first and only drug to treat this advanced form of macular degeneration, geographic atrophy, which can lead to blindness. While Syfovre has been proven to slow the progression of advanced macular degeneration, it will not reverse or cure the disease. 

Dr. Sunir Garg at Willis Eye said, “It’s a big deal for us because we went from not having anything to finally having something and that is a monumental achievement in our profession. It reduces the inflammation, and the inflammation is what is causing the damage. As time goes on, we can help them [patients] better protect their vision for a longer period of time.” 

Dr. Eleonora Lad, associate professor of ophthalmology at Duke University Medical Center, helped to oversee the clinical study of Syfovre. She said the new treatment is a “game changer” and “the beginning of a new treatment era for patients with geographic atrophy.” 

Macular degeneration experts such as Dr. Steven Schwartz of the UCLA Stein Eye Institute said the FDA’s approval is “very positive” for patients with unmet needs who need to preserve their vision. He said, “It’s particularly important while we continue to rapidly develop stem cell therapies that hold the promise for restoring vision already lost to this horrifying all-to-common cause of central blindness.” 

If you suffer from vision loss or need to schedule an exam to see an ophthalmologist, contact the doctors at Zen Eye Institute today.

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/ 

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Superior Cancer Therapy via Novel Tracking Radiation Treatment 

For the first time, researchers at the University of Michigan developed a way to measure radiation during cancer treatment using precise 3D imaging. 

Medical professionals could map the radiation dose by capturing and magnifying small sound waves created by the x-ray heating body tissue. This novel approach offers a new view into data and treatments that doctors could not see before.

Hundreds of thousands of patients receive radiation in cancer treatment every year, which introduces high energy waves and x-ray particles to the body in large increments to debilitate cancer cells. A lack of precision overshadows the benefits of radiation, which also generally damages healthy surrounding cells and can increase the risk of developing new tumors. 

Xueding Wang, the Jonathan Rubin Collegiate Professor of Biomedical Engineering, professor of radiology, and corresponding author in the study published in Nature Biotechnology, and leader in the Optical Imaging Laboratory, said, “Once you start delivering radiation, the body is pretty much a black box. We don’t know exactly where the x-rays are hitting inside the body, and we don’t know how much radiation we’re delivering to the target. And each body is different, so making predictions for both aspects is tricky.” 

Real-time 3D imaging allows doctors to focus radiation on cancerous cells more accurately and minimize exposure to nearby cells. Thermal energy results from x-rays when absorbed into tissues, which causes the cells to expand, creating a sound wave. 

Standard ultrasound technology cannot pick up on these acoustic waves, which are relatively weak. Now, this new technology detects the wave with a selection of ultrasonic transducers aimed at the patient’s side. The signal is augmented and relocated into an ultrasonic device that reconstructs the image. 

Oncology clinics can then maneuver radiation doses to ensure safer and more effective care. The new therapy can also be effortlessly added to existing radiation therapy equipment without significantly altering the clinicians’ current procedures. 

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/ 

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Advantages of Professional Lawn Fertilization

One of the best ways to achieve a healthier, greener lawn is to fertilize the grass. While this might sound easy enough, incorrectly fertilizing can wreak havoc on your precious landscape. It is imperative to contact a professional to properly apply fertilizer, which will yield the following: 

Color
While pretty much everyone wants bright and beautiful green grass, the chemicals used in store-bought fertilizers can have the opposite effect. Nitrogen-heavy fertilizer can cause unpleasant patches and burn grass if not applied correctly. Moreover, the ratio of chemicals should be left up to the experts, as they know exactly what type of fertilizer your lawn needs based on a variety of factors.

Weeds
Everyone knows about dreaded weeds invading prized lawns across the country, yet most people do not treat them properly. With the correct fertilizer, grass can grow thicker and more luscious, blocking sunlight from lower weeds. Moreover, deep grass roots can overcrowd weed roots. Most fertilizers contain a pre-emergent fertilizer, particularly in the early spring mixes, helping the growth process. Professional lawn care specialists know when to apply these fertilizers. 

Roots
Lawns need strong, deep roots to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. If roots are underdeveloped or cannot grow properly, the grass will grow thin and frail due to a lack of nutrients. Thankfully, professional lawn fertilization experts are well-versed in root growth and know exactly how much to apply based on the lawn’s specific needs.

Pests
Bugs, insects, and other creatures can sense decaying lawns, as they are attracted to thin grass, bare spots, standing water, and more. With help from certain fertilizers, a special chemical deters most pests but can have negative effects if misapplied. Excess nitrogen is a wonderful environment for fleas, ticks, mites, etc.

Diseases
Just as Mother Nature created most things on our planet, yards and grass live with unique ecosystems susceptible to bacteria, mold, fungus, etc. Lawn disease can result from grass that is thin and weakened by illness. In high-nitrogen lawns, proper fertilization is important, as many fungi thrive in those environments. 

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Contact the experts at T&T Property Maintenance to learn more about our commercial property fertilizer service.

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. Call or e-mail us to learn more.

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

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Risks of Swimming in Natural Waters

Swimming is a great way to stay fit, as it can alleviate stress and enhance the production of endorphins, resulting in a feeling of well-being. Furthermore, swimming is an effective way to burn calories and work out muscles. Although swimming in a pool can be a hygienic experience, the same cannot be said for outdoor swimming. Continue reading to discover some of the dangers linked with open-water swimming.

Bacteria and Viruses
Open-water swimming is associated with many illnesses due to contamination. Bacteria or viruses can enter a human’s body through the eyes, mouth, or a cut on the skin. Viruses such as E. coli and Norovirus can lurk in natural waters, and rivers or canals might contain leptospira, which causes leptospirosis. If left untreated, leptospirosis can cause liver and kidney damage or eventually be fatal. Flu-like or jaundice symptoms can materialize up to two weeks after swimming in open water. Seawater is known to cause ear, nose, or throat infections and gastrointestinal upset. 

Chemicals
While swimming pools are extremely regulated, natural waters are not. Toxins from nearby farms or industrial areas can contaminate water, and many animals defecate in water. In specific situations, human sewage can be legally dumped into the water through pipes. There might not be signs warning of the potential dangers, but toxic agents can still be lurking in the water. When in doubt, choose to stay on land. 

Algae
Blue-green algae can be found in lakes, especially in warm summers. Once the algae start to multiply, a powdery green scum (bloom) forms on the lake’s surface. The scum is known to release toxins that are dangerous to humans and can be lethal to pets. Swimming in algal blooms can result in skin rashes, eye infections, acute gastrointestinal disruption, fever, muscle, and joint pain. 

Nearly all open-water swimming comes with risks, and swimmers should exercise caution when swimming in natural waterways. Always wash your hands before eating food after swimming in natural water, at minimum, and rinse off your entire body if possible. Open-water swimming in lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and oceans can pose some risks beyond the hidden aspects of bacteria, bugs, parasites, algae, etc. Tides, currents, swells, and waves can be dangerous aspects of swimming in outdoor areas as well. 

Swimming pools are not perfect ecosystems; however, they properly disinfect the water with chlorine and maintain the correct pH to ensure it is safe. Injuries are less likely in pools, as lifeguards and safety equipment are virtually within reach. 

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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

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J&P Electrical: Our Story

In September 2007, Jim Ozzello and Phil Delavy decided to take their combined 38 years of experience and form J&P Electrical Company. In 2012, Jason Ozzello officially became a co-owner of the company. Since Phil’s retirement, J&P has been a family-owned and operated business; owners Jason and Jim and brothers David and Jacob all work with the company. Travis Hill, our shop manager, has been a member of the company since its inception and is a longtime friend of the Ozzello family. 

Through the years, we have added many family members and friends to our team, resulting in a deep-rooted passion for the well-being of the company and our customers and vendors alike. We are a team at J&P, and we hope it shows in our customer service and products.

Thank you for allowing our family business to be a part of your business. We look forward to hearing from you!

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

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

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Five Reasons to Hire an Electrician for Solar Panel Maintenance

To lower our carbon footprint, thereby reducing global warming, we need to use less fossil fuels. Thankfully, the sun provides powerful energy that can be harnessed through solar panels. Solar power provides electricity for both businesses- and homeowners alike. Typically, solar panels are installed by experienced electricians and are low maintenance. However, an electrician should perform routine maintenance to ensure the solar panels receive the proper diagnostic tests and are at peak performance. Read on for five reasons electricians are the best bet for solar panel maintenance.  

Complete Diagnostics
Solar panels are composed of a plethora of complex parts, many of which are only recognized by a qualified electrician. By determining the source of any issues and suggesting appropriate solutions for those problems, electricians know the right questions to ask. Electricians should be made aware if the system has ever been serviced before. They can also determine which panels failed or need to be replaced. 

Safety
Generally, solar panels cannot electrocute someone simply by touching them, but they can give someone a low-grade burn due to the hot cells. However, malfunctions can cause solar panels to become dangerously electrified. Faulty solar panels can also cause fires. To avoid disastrous situations, it is imperative to have an electrician oversee the solar panel system. 

Optimize Power
Electricians can guide solar panel owners to achieve their financial and environmental goals by providing an estimate of savings. They can also measure the system output, determining daily electronic use. Generally, the evening rate for electricity is lower than the daytime, so an electrician can suggest when the solar panels are at their peak production. If more solar panels are needed, they can install them accordingly. 

Early Identification
Proper maintenance can help avoid future issues, but electrical problems can happen anytime. Experienced electricians can inspect cables, isolators (polarity, tightening, wiring termination, etc.), panels, and inverters. They can also perform a number of system tests to ensure it is functioning properly. Detecting issues early can help save funds and ensure the system works correctly. 

Post-Warranty Repairs
While most solar panels come with a manufacturer warranty, they generally expire at some point. Once the warranty has lapsed, experienced electricians can ensure the system still functions properly by repairing or replacing crucial components such as inverters. 

Solar panels come with many benefits, most notably lowering utility bills. Also, solar panels lend to utilizing clean energy and reducing fossil fuel dependability. To ensure the system is functioning correctly, experienced electricians are the best bet. 

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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/ 

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Living Off-Grid Urban Style

Living “off-the-grid” refers to functioning without a controlled electrical power network, either sans electricity all together, or relying on a generator, or creating electricity through alternative sources such as solar and wind. Completely self-sufficient off-grid lifestyles are free from reliance on utilities, food, and housing. Self-sufficiency is crucial to living off the grid, especially during emergencies such as natural disasters or an economic collapse.   

Off-grid lifestyles are becoming increasingly popular as utility, housing, and food costs skyrocket. Generally, those who live off-grid find a large plot of rural land to settle in. Urban off-grid living is possible, despite initial doubts. 

Municipal utilities such as water, natural gas, electricity, sewer, and trash can all be substituted for self-reliability in one way or another. Suburban homesteading is possible…keep reading to learn how.

Housing
Living off-grid is easier if you have a home with a yard, so you can grow your own food, collect rainwater, etc. 

Food
To reduce dependence on grocery stores, grow as much food as possible, canning, dehydrating, or freeze-drying whenever possible. Consider using community gardens if you do not have an area for gardening or use pots to plant essentials. You can also plant fruit trees for long-term use. 

Transportation
Walking or biking can provide excellent exercise and saves money on gas, car maintenance, and insurance. Take advantage of public transportation and combine trips whenever possible.

Water
When water originates from a well or city municipality, conservation is essential. Take short showers or shower at the gym instead. Install water-saving shower heads, faucets, and toilets. Collect rainwater whenever possible. 

Electricity
Minimizing power usage is crucial for living off-grid, and solar panels are an excellent method to achieve this. Also, try unplugging items that are not currently in use. Turn off lights, hand-wash clothes, and bundle up inside during cold winter months. Use a clothesline to dry clothes whenever possible. Insulate your attic to prevent escaping air. Wash your dishes by hand, close unused air vents, and invest in LED light bulbs. 

Composting
Turn your food scraps into garden nutrients by using an indoor composter or creating a system outside. Worm bins are excellent options as well. 

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/ 

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Commercial Printing Industry Outlook

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/