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Use of Radiation Consultation Service (RCS) Has Risen During the Pandemic

During the coronavirus pandemic, most radiology practices shuttered or scaled back drastically. One service that stood out from the rest pivoted and focused on Radiology Consultation Service (RCS) to provide consultation and ensure permanence of care.

A recent study published in Clinical Imaging followed investigators from Weill Cornell Medical College at New York Presbyterian Hospital, who clarified how their RCS (launched in 2013) expanded through COVID-19.

Melissa Reichman, M.D., a women’s imaging specialist and assistant professor of radiology at Weill Cornell, led the team. Reichman said, “At a time when radiology experienced an unprecedented decrease in imaging studies during the initial peak of the COVID-19 crisis, the RCS at our institution, in contrast, showed a notable increase in services provided. Our experience demonstrates the value of an organized radiology consultation service and may serve as an example for other institutions to adopt a similar program, as patient-centered care is at the forefront of radiology.”

The number of consultations, as well as screening mammograms and ultrasounds, were compared from January 1, 2020, through July 31, 2020, to the same 2019 timeframe. Two more periods, March 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020, were compared to the same dates from the previous year.

Their findings identified many consultations ranging from 1,398 in 2019 to 1,623 in 2020, a 16 percent increase. Also, consultations were higher from March through June 2020 (679) versus 2019 (538), a 16.9 percent increase.

Results from the study indicate that RCS presents a route for radiologists to be at the forefront of the healthcare process, integrating with patients and providers regarding decisions. To determine the best plan possible for patients, all parties worked together as a team.

The report stated, “Physicians have become more conscientious about their imaging recommendations, relying on the radiologists’ clinical judgment of what is essential and minimizing unnecessary potential viral exposure. As a result, we believe that the radiology consultation service has enabled a more appropriate use of imaging.”

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.

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How to Cool Your Pool During Summer

In the sweltering summer sun, pool water can reach temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above. While a pool can be a cool respite from the heat, hot swimming water (similar to a hot tub) is undesirable for most people. Thankfully, there are several quick-and-easy ways to lower your pool temperature this summer. Read on to discover some suggestions below.

Aerators
Cheap and easy, these attachments plug or screw into the side of your pool. They work by using return water from the pump to spray a fountain of water back into the pool. These tiny droplets of water have air in them as they are sprayed, allowing heat to escape more quickly by evaporation. If your pool temperature is at 94 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, you can expect it to decrease to roughly 90 degrees Fahrenheit with an aerator installed.

Fountain and Waterfall
Similar in concept to an aerator, these water features lower temperature by increasing air bubbles, thus encouraging evaporation. Decorative in appearance, these can also increase the value of your pool area by a few notches by improving the overall aesthetic.

Evening Pump
Running the pump at night will amplify the effects of aerators and fountains. The cooler temperature drop in the air will help to lower the water temperature more efficiently when the sun isn’t working against you. Even without an aerator or fountain, running the pool pump overnight will help circulate the water and release some heat into the cool evening air.

Solar Panels
While these are primarily purchased to heat a pool, they can also be used to cool water temperatures. Instead of letting water pass through the panels during the daytime, use them while running the pump at night to take advantage of the lower temperatures. Solar panels can be used in addition to other methods listed to further enhance cooling effects.

Pool Coolers
These dedicated “air conditioners” for your pool transfer heat with help from fans and refrigerants. Once cooled, the water is then pumped back into the pool. Most pools change between 10 to 15 degrees after a pool cooler is used. Temperature controls are useful to find the perfect comfort level.

Shade
A tried-and-true method of staying cool and out of the sun, shading a pool typically involves tall trees. Unfortunately, those trees are also associated with extra cleaning issues such as tree debris (leaves, pollen, etc.) that might fall into the water. Other options for shade include canopies or another physical structure that provides shade over the pool.

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.

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Helping Wildlife Through Power Line Corridors

For safe and reliable electrical transmission, bushhogging, seeding, and herbicides are used to control weeds. Along high-voltage power line corridors and local distribution systems, a low profile must be implemented so trees and other tall vegetation do not fall onto lines. Tree branches and shrubbery meeting power lines equals interference sparking outages, wildfires, and other issues. Federal and state requirements are in place, which set guidelines for managing vegetation along power line passages.

Utility companies can manage their own power line vegetation issues based on their rights-of-way (ROWs) beyond basic trimming and mowing. By promoting native low-growing vegetative communities, utility companies can offer safe, reliable operation of infrastructure while simultaneously benefiting local wildlife such as songbirds, pollinators, and more. Additionally, adding low-growing, native vegetation can contribute to corporate sustainability goals, lower the site’s carbon footprint, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and beautify the landscape.

Power line ROWs make up substantial property countrywide, meaning implementing these strategies, called Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM), could provide nearly five million acres of habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. Some of the benefits for wildlife include food sources, shelter, and nesting areas.

Rick Johnstone, president of IVM Partners Inc., explained, “If you use the right techniques and the right chemistry, you’ll restore the habitat that used to be there but hadn’t been allowed to be there due to routine cutting. If you kill the root systems of unwanted species, the seeds in the soil will have a chance to grow.”

According to Johnstone, the typical methods of constant mowing and tree-cutting generally promote regrowth of negative vegetation such as invasive species (aggressive, non-native plants). The relentless re-growth results in frequent maintenance, leading to elevated labor costs.

Instead, IVM is a more enticing practice, as it can deploy appropriate, environmentally-sound, cost-effective methods to control undesirable vegetation. Techniques include bushhogging, mowing, selective tree cutting, herbicide applications, biological controls, and seeding.

“The vegetation pretty much manages itself,” once you get a compatible plant community which usually takes a couple of years, Johnstone said. After that, only periodic treatments will be needed.

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

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Cashing In on Your Second Home

Stay-at-home mandates during 2020 caused many homeowners to realize their home wasn’t accommodating to their lifestyle. At-home offices, media rooms, children’s school areas, gyms, and large yards were suddenly in high demand. These amenities became highly desirable and led many homeowners to invest in a new home.

Instead of purchasing a home near the office or in the same city, many people bought a larger second home farther away from the population to stay safe and have more space. These more spacious houses are also located on lakes or in the mountains, increasing the value.

High demand and low supply caused prices to climb, as primary residences expanded by nine percent in 2020. In every region of the United States and in 19 out of 20 major metropolitan areas, prices increased by double-digits. Sales for second homes increased by 27 percent in 2020.

Houses bought during the coronavirus pandemic were a fantastic investment because they served their function when necessary, and now, with higher sale prices, these second homes can be profitable. As the pandemic recedes and people retreat to their original homes near work, friends, and family, second homes are becoming more of a luxury rather than a necessity.

If a second home improved your day-to-day life during 2020, consider selling one of your houses to cash in on the profit. Decide whether your second home is still necessary to execute your daily functions such as work, school, and extra-curricular activities.

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.

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Protecting Yourself from Computer Viruses, Malware, Ransomware

Computer hackers are everywhere these days – literally. These engineers can implant a “virus” in your computer that can wreak havoc on your personal information. From your program files to your bank account, viruses can infiltrate nearly every aspect of your computer. Hackers are almost always looking for ways to penetrate your security. People often disregard their device’s defenses, realizing their importance after it’s too late.

A computer virus is a code embedded into a legitimate program data file or boot sector of a hard drive created with the ability to self-replicate, infecting other applications. Intended to spread from one “host” to another, these computer-targeted viruses come from e-mail attachments, file downloads, software installations, unsecured links, and more. But what do the hackers gain from accessing your computer? Your personal data is typically most valuable, such as passwords, social media accounts, online banking, and even deleting all your data. So, what are some different virus expressions?

Malware: Short for malicious software, this could harm a computer system, interfere with user data, or make the computer perform actions remotely.

Ransomware: A type of malware that holds entire computers or mobile devices hostage, requesting a ransom payment in exchange for returning access, or decrypting your files.

Worm: A standalone piece of software, this malicious program duplicates itself and circulates to other computers. Vulnerable computer networks are usually most susceptible.

Trojan Horse: This type of malware uses a specific code to install software that appears okay but is hidden to create an alternative entry into a system. Data theft or loss is usually the goal.

Spyware: The main goal of this virus is to gather information about you, your organization, family, or more. Running inconspicuously, it can monitor and log any activity on a target system such as keystrokes, credit card information, and more.

Adware: To generate revenue for its author/publisher, this software causes pop-ups, banner advertisements, and more. Free programs often utilize Adware, but not in a cruel way. If it is used with a destructive intention, it is instead classified as spyware or malware.

To protect yourself from computer viruses, avoid clicking on suspicious or lengthy links, pop-ups, or unfamiliar websites. Scan all e-mail attachments, download a pop-up blocker for your browser, and install an anti-virus program.

Have you been hacked? Do you need assistance preparing your computer for virus prevention? Prevention is the best policy! Contact the computer virus experts at CPS today to strategically remove, prevent, and protect your computer from viruses.

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.

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Low-Cost Imaging Reporting Can Help Lower Unnecessary Opioid Prescriptions

A new report published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology suggests radiologists can help drop unnecessary opioid prescriptions by using a low-cost reporting change.

Healthcare providers on the West Coast have experimented with improving patient care by including pertinent information in their reports. Providers can notate treatment options that do not include pain pills, or opioids, in patient files based on prior cases or experience. For example, patients who visit their provider for lower back pain and show no acute injury (normal wear-and-tear) will have a detailed report written in their file by the radiologist, which will significantly reduce the possibility of physician-prescribed opioids.

Lead author Brian Bresnahan, PhD., from the University of Washington’s Department of Radiology, wrote, “Systematically adding age-based prevalence information on imaging reports would require a low level of resources, including a small amount of personnel time for an IT programmer, a manager, and a radiologist.”

This simple yet effective intervention method has proven effective at decreasing opioid prescriptions. The start-up cost is roughly $5,000, which includes pilot-testing with providers. The costs are made up of small amounts of time from a radiologist (six to 12 hours) and imaging ordering providers (one to 8 hours each). One or two days was all it took to implement and involved a radiology IT specialist, with variability depending on the number of clinics, level of experience in imaging departments, and interconnectivity between sites.

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.

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Making Emergency Calls Without a Signal

Modern smartphones are technological marvels that encompass various tools and lifesaving functionality into a pocket-sized object. Through the years, smartphones have enabled people to place phone calls to emergency services during crises. This lifesaving functionality is available to anyone who holds a cell phone throughout much of the developed world.

Smartphones in North America are serviced by cellular network providers. These companies use cell phone towers to provide service to their clientele. The cell towers interact with smartphones when calls are placed. Network providers do not have to own the tower; they sometimes rent services from tower owners. This ensures cell phones are recognized and have permission to interact with a network through different towers.

Each tower between placed cell phone calls is utilized to transmit a signal between one cell phone to another. Whether it’s a text message or phone call, cell phone transmissions are vital for bringing them to life. As long as the cell phone is recognized by the cell tower and authorized for use, it will have service.

When a cell phone shows “no signal” or zero bars, it is an indication that your network is not connected to a nearby tower. Most people think this is because no towers are near the vicinity; however, it simply means your network is not allowed to transmit to the closest tower.

In normal circumstances, this “no service” situation is typically based on what you pay for. In emergencies, it is imperative to circumvent those factors and access the nearest cell phone tower – regardless of whether your provider has a deal with the tower.

If you find yourself in an emergency with no cell service, don’t panic. All you need to do is press the emergency call button on your phone’s lock screen or dialer interface. If you are presented with a keypad, press 911. On some smartphones, you can just press “call” (after pressing the emergency call button), and you will be connected to emergency services immediately.

You can take comfort knowing that emergency calls will be connected. No matter the network, carrier, or tower owner, your phone will be able to contact emergency services without a signal.

Prepping for an emergency? Make sure you have all the necessary supplies – check out Wolf Survival Gear for everything you need in an emergency.

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.

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Blind People Could See Again Thanks to Novel Technology

One of the greatest challenges for scientists remains making blind people see again. Diego Ghezzi, Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering (LNE) at EPFL’s School of Engineering, has been studying and developing technology to help blind people see. A retinal implant they created works with camera-equipped smart glasses and a microcomputer to form artificial vision.

Ghezzi said, “Our system is designed to give blind people a form of artificial vision by using electrodes to stimulate their retrial cells.”

The camera embedded within the smart glasses records images through the perspective of the wearer’s vision. This information is then transferred to a microcomputer placed in one of the eyeglasses’ end pieces. Light signals are created by the microcomputer and transmitted to electrodes in the retinal implant. When a person wears the glasses, they see a simplified, black-and-white version of the landscape in front of them. When the retinal cells are stimulated, dots and light appear in a simplified way. However, wearers will have to interpret multiple dots of light to decipher shapes and objects.

“It’s like when you look at stars in the night sky – you can learn to recognize specific constellations. Blind patients would see something similar with our system,” said Ghezzi.

The technology has yet to be tested on humans, as the research team needs to be certain of their results first. The engineers developed a reality program that enables patients to see implants in a virtual setting.

Are you looking to improve your vision without glasses or contacts? Contact the eye experts 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.

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Millions of Drinking Wells Worldwide Could Run Dry

Over-pumping, drought, and climate change are all factors depleting global groundwater resources. Up to 20 percent of the world’s drinking wells might be encountering impending doom. Without clean, fresh drinking wells, billions of people could be in a water crisis.

According to research published in the journal Science, construction records from 39 million wells scattered across 40 countries were analyzed. The depths were examined and compared to groundwater levels, supported by data from previous studies.

Debra Perrone, a water resources expert at the University of California, Santa Barbara, co-authored the study and said, “We found that this undesirable result is happening across the world, from the western United States to India.”

The researchers found that millions of wells reached less than 16 feet below the water table, putting them susceptible to running dry. At least six to 20 percent of the wells evaluated appear to be in peril. Especially in places already afflicted by drought, the remaining wells can dry up quickly, perhaps up to a meter or more a year. 

To help address the problem, digging deeper wells is a temporary solution, but these wells are much more expensive to build and maintain. 

The study said, “As groundwater levels decline around the world, only the relatively wealthy will be able to afford the cost of drilling deeper wells and paying for the additional power required to pump groundwater from greater depths. Lower-income families, poorer communities, and small businesses, including smaller farms, will experience progressively more limited access in the many regions around the world where groundwater levels are in decline. The consequences of millions of wells running dry, and perhaps millions more in the decades to come, would be severe and unparalleled at such a scale in human history.”

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.

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Five Signs of a Sprained Thumb

Thumb sprains are injuries to a ligament, a soft tissue that connects bones at the joints. Thumb fractures, on the other hand, are bone breaks, and different injuries altogether. The most injured ligament is the ulnar collateral, which connects the thumb to the hand on the side closest to the index finger.

These injuries are commonly stemmed from falls or sports injuries. Skiing, basketball, and other contact sports result in many thumb injuries. People generally try to catch themselves while falling, resulting in bent thumbs in awkward positions.

Signs of a thumb sprain

  1. Swelling
  2. Pain
  3. Bruising
  4. Weakness
  5. Inability to hold a glass or write

Jammed fingers are another common issue and can result in similar symptoms. However, jammed fingers can still be used and moved, whereas sprains cannot.

Treatments for thumb sprains

Until you can get into a doctors’ office, elevate and ice the injured hand. Apply bandages, so the thumb is immobilized until a doctor examines the injury.

To determine the severity of your injury, visit a hand surgeon as soon as possible. X-rays might be taken to see whether ligaments are torn or bones are broken. Casts or splints might be prescribed for torn ligaments. If treatment is delayed, damage to the thumb could be permanent. Don’t delay in visiting a medical professional.

Sprained thumbs can be treated with a brace or cast. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary; otherwise, recovery takes roughly three- to six weeks to fully heal.

Patient treatments vary, so ensure you receive the best treatment possible by visiting the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist today.

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.