Video Radiology Helps Patients Better Understand Test Results

Video radiology reports are made for specific patients using simplified language and clearly annotated images to help them better understand test results, according to a novel study published by the American Journal of Roentgenology. 

Radiologists at NYU Grossman School of Medicine lead the study in collaboration with Visage Imaging GmbH and Siemens Healthineers. The study outlines how radiologists can create these patient-focused videos in under four minutes, delivering the results directly to patients and referring partners through an integrated patient portal. 

Lead author of the study, Michael P. Recht, MD, the Louis Marx Professor of Radiology and chair of the Department of Radiology at NYU Langone Health, said, “For decades radiologists have provided traditional radiology reports that are full of medical jargon and extremely difficult for patients to understand and decipher. Our findings demonstrate that when radiologists take a more active role in patient-centered care and provide helpful information about a particular diagnosis in an easy-to-comprehend manner, both the patient and clinician benefit.”

More than 100 radiologists at NYU Langone Health generated more than 3,500 video radiology reports during a four-month span between September 2021 and January 2022. All imaging modalities were used in the reports, such as MRIs, mammograms, X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, etc. 

The average length of each video report was 55 seconds. In a survey, 91 percent of patients reported they preferred both a written and video radiology report, suggesting it was helpful at showcasing the most imperative aspects of the overall report.

Researchers created the video radiology reports with Visage Imaging GmbH to integrate and build a tool inside the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), which is used by radiologists to read imaging studies. 

After a series of images were identified, they were brought into the diagnostic viewer screen and recorded with audio while a mouse was used to identify notable anatomical anomalies. 

The NYU Langone Health MyChart housed the video radiology reports on the patient portal, with personalized clinical notes and a complete written report. 

Dr. Recht said, “Our study disrupts the old adage that radiologists ‘sit in a dark reading room all day’ and are invisible to patients. Through projects and research like this, our radiologists take a more active approach to patient-centered care that allows our department to provide exceptional, world-class care.”

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

Difference Between Saltwater and Chlorine Pools

When pool owners build or remodel their pool, they take into account size, shape, activities, accessories, and, more recently, water sanitation methods. The two most common types of pool sanitation are saltwater and chlorine. But what are the differences, and why do they matter? Continue reading to find out.

Differences Between Saltwater and Chlorine

In saltwater pools, electrolysis creates chlorine thanks to pool-grade salt and a chlorine generator. The salty water passes through two electrically-charged plates, which then get converted to chlorine. While chlorine is still present in the pool, the process is different from a traditional chlorine pool. 

On the other hand, chlorine pools must be tested and balanced with liquid or tablet chlorine. Additionally, pH and calcium hardness must be sampled and adjusted. 

While each pool is sanitized with the same chemical, saltwater pools create fewer chloramines, contributing to the smell and feel of traditional chlorine pools.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that chloramines are “a type of combined chlorine that form in water,” and emit gas into the surrounding air, causing that typical chlorine smell, eye redness, and lung irritation. 

Saltwater Benefits

  • Everyday operations are cheaper, with an entire summer supply of salt costing roughly $25, and chlorine $165 
  • Gentler on skin, eyes, hair, swimsuits, etc.
  • No chemical chlorine smell

Chlorine Benefits

  • More cost-effective to keep a traditional chlorine pool if it already exists; converting to saltwater can cost roughly $3,000 or more
  • The pool still works on cold days

Saltwater Disadvantages

  • Pool can deteriorate more quickly due to salt erosion 
  • Salt chlorine generators require more maintenance
  • Chlorine will not be produced in water cooler than 60 degrees

Chlorine Disadvantages

  • Chlorine can cause dry skin, red eyes, bleached swimwear, irritated noses, throat, lungs, etc.
  • Chemicals cost more than pool grade salt
  • Chloramines produce a strong chemical smell, especially indoors

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

Five Methods for Collecting Emergency Water

Water is vital for life: not just ours, but for plants and animals, too. In survival situations, water is critical to locate and stockpile, as it is one of our most basic necessities. In circumstances where clean, running tap water is not available, it’s necessary to gather emergency water and have a plan of action.  

Before you scoff and say, “I have plenty of bottled water,” hear us out. Bottled water isn’t adequate; it will eventually run out much faster than anticipated. Water is used for drinking, yes, but it’s also used in cooking, hygiene, and more. There is a solution to replenishing your water supply…read on for the list.

  1. Containers: buckets, pails, pans, etc., are wonderful for trapping and storing emergency water. In an open area, place the container outside while it rains to collect fairly clean, drinkable water. After collecting the water, ensure the container can be tightly sealed to prevent contamination. 
  1. Umbrellas: in lieu of a hard container, flip an umbrella upside-down and gather rainwater that way. You can either use it as a funnel to point toward the container or into another vessel, such as a plastic bag or a more flimsy material that wouldn’t stand up on its own to collect water. 
  1. Whole-House System: built into a home’s gutters, these systems utilize the large surface area of the roof to collect huge amounts of rainwater in a short period. Rain barrels are popular for whole-house water collection and require little- to no maintenance.
  1. Melt Ice or Snow: if you look up to the sky and see snowflakes instead of raindrops, have no fear, you can still gather potable water. Collect ice or snow in clean containers and bring them inside to melt. 
  1. Bodies of Water: seek out rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, or other large bodies of water to gather emergency hydration. Ensure you use water filter systems to remove contaminants, as water that has already hit the ground can be tainted with dissolved solids and harmful microbes. 

Ready to start collecting emergency water? The earlier, the better. When prepping for any emergency, water should be at the top of your list. It’s undoubtedly an essential aspect of survival, so make sure you know where you’re going to get it from if need be. 

________________________________________

Are you looking for water supplies? Check out our water gear to keep you and your family hydrated during emergencies.

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’ll need it later. Visit our website for more information. 

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

Hotels Race to Meet Growing Demand for EV Chargers

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are quickly charging their way forward, growing from niche to normal. According to a Bloomberg New Energy Finance report, titled, “Electric Vehicle Outlook 2018,” sales of EVs will increase from 1.1 million worldwide in 2017 to 11 million in 2025, followed by 30 million in 2030.

Hotel operators are racing to meet the demand for charging stations by installing EV chargers and attracting customers. A charging station manufacturer, EOS Linux, struck a deal with Choice Hotels International to install charging stations at specific properties.

Blake Snyder, President of EOS Linx, said, “Choice Hotels properties are often located close to highways, making them ideal locations for EV chargers.” Each of the EOS Charging Stations to be installed includes a 75-inch digital display to showcase public service announcements.

Rick Summa, Vice President of Partner Services at Choice Hotels International, said, “This will provide drivers with access to EV chargers while traveling, and potentially uncover new customer engagement opportunities for our 6,000-plus domestic franchised hotels.”

Companies such as Hilton and Destination Hotels have partnered with Tesla or other businesses such as General Electric or Kerbspace, with some contracts sparked back in 2019.

Jonathan Wilson, Vice President of customer experience and innovation at Hilton, guessed that roughly 300 properties in the United States and Canada have EV charging stations. While some companies are rushing to install chargers, some have had EV charging stations for roughly a decade, such as Marriott International.

Denise Naguib, Vice President of sustainability and supplier diversity at Marriott, said Marriott properties today have over 1,700 charging stations at more than 600 hotels. The number of chargers range from one unit to 15, depending on guest demand.

Looking to attract the EV demographic to your place of business? You’ve come to the right place! At State Electric Company, our professional and experienced team will review your goals, inspect your infrastructure, design, and install the EV charging station(s) customized for your property and key metrics – all with unmatched service. Contact us today to learn more.

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 in 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 staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan’s Underground Storage Tanks are Raising Concern

Legacy tanks typically store fuel and other hazardous chemicals underground. These tanks generally receive a little-to-no maintenance and were buried before strict regulations were established.

Experts are concerned about the chemicals leaching into municipal drinking water.  A recent fuel leak in Flat Rock was suspected to be caused by a pair of underground steel tanks. The fuel spread to the Huron River by a tributary, as spotted by a fisherman.

After a swift cleanup and containment efforts (such as closing the park), the Flat Rock tanks are a microcosm for a much more significant issue throughout the entire state. Over 8,000 underground storage tanks are potentially leaking, according to the state of Michigan.

Jill Greenberg, an employee of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, said, “Of the 24,000 contaminated sites, 8,000 are leaky underground storage tanks. If there’s a property transaction and the owner knows about contamination, they are legally required to disclose it.”

Companies that are no longer in business are notorious for abandoning tanks as far back as 100 years ago. Greenberg suggested a need for heavier funding to address the unregistered sites, such as those in Flat Rock. However, state leaders anticipate a budget of $163 million to locate and remedy the tanks that have slipped through time.

The overwhelming feeling at the state and federal levels is that these storage tanks pose an urgent crisis that cannot continue to be ignored. Some representatives believe infrastructure dollars should be used toward the tanks.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) said, “EGLE inherited an outdated it system that heavily relied on paper records. We are in the process of upgrading our system and that will allow us to categorize, cross reference and track the contaminated properties we know about.”

United States Representative Debbie Dingell said the tanks in Flat Rock were 100 years old and said, “Nobody had a record of them. I’m sure there’s situations like that all over the state.”

The State of Michigan’s Office of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs is working in conjunction with EGLE to address the tanks. Unfortunately, holding current property owners accountable is fruitless, since many of the tanks were abandoned decades ago. Regardless, regulations should be established now to minimize surprises in the future.

Are you worried about chemicals in your water? Contact the water purification experts 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.

Nearsightedness Q&A

Nearsightedness (also called myopia) is common in people of all ages. It is typically defined as an inability to see far away or long distances. Millions of people worldwide suffer from myopia, a relatively prevalent condition. Read on to explore popular questions – and answers – about nearsightedness.

Q: What is nearsightedness?
A: Technically speaking, myopia is a refractive error that results in the eye’s inability to focus on light correctly. While distant objects are blurry, those nearby are visibly clear and crisp. In those who do not have myopia, light rays enter the eye and pass through the cornea and lens, followed by the retina at the back of the eye. When the eyeball grows too long (or the cornea is uneven), light rays focus in front of the retina instead of centered on it, and the image sent to the brain is blurry. Those with nearsightedness can correct their vision by donning prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction such as LASIK.

Q: How common is nearsightedness?
A: In a recent study published by Jama, an estimated 30 to 40 percent of adults in the United States are nearsighted. It is estimated that by 2050, nearly half of the world’s population will suffer from myopia.

Q: What causes nearsightedness?
A: The exact cause of myopia is unknown, but contributing factors are well-known and include genetics, eyestrain (books, computers, tablets), and lifestyle (not being outdoors where light is much brighter.)

Q: Is laser vision correction for nearsightedness permanent?
A: While laser vision correction reshapes the cornea and corrects nearsightedness at that exact moment in time, the possibility for the patient’s vision to deteriorate in the future is still plausible. If the patient develops cataracts, glaucoma, or presbyopia (natural aging of the eye), glasses will probably still be necessary when the lens loses its ability to focus on nearby objects.

Q: What demographics are good candidates for laser vision correction?
A: Typically, adults over the age of 20 who have a stable prescription, healthy corneas, and are in good general health are recommended for LASIK or other vision correction procedures.

Are you tired of suffering from nearsightedness? Contact the vision experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center to learn about our treatment options 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.

April 2022 Newsletter

Rodent Bait Stations

A mice infestation is a common household problem that brings several health risks and hazards to a home or business. Once you spot a rodent scurrying around, there are likely dozens more nesting on the property. The most effective way to get rid of these pests is by using bait stations. Unlike trapping devices that catch and kill a singular rodent, or unsafe piles of rodenticide left in various corners, bait stations are tamper-resistant devices that hold rodenticide bait blocks. Pesky rodents are attracted to the bait within the station, they eat and leave as they normally would, and they die outside within a day or two in search of hydration.

Bait stations only work as long as there is enough rodenticide for the rodents you are trying to control. Our recurring rodent services will regularly come out as scheduled to check and refill stations. We not only make sure to use the appropriate bait, but we will ensure that the bait stations are strategically placed both indoors and outdoors. For hassle-free pest control, call Northern Pest today!

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are starting to wake from their dormant state. One of the most common signs that you have an invasion of carpenter ants is wood damage. Piles of sawdust, similar to pencil shavings called “frass,” is actually the excavated wood that they chopped up with their mandibles and discarded near their nest entrance. Carpenter ants don’t eat wood; they burrow through moist structures to build their colony, typically beginning near a window or door frame, along rooflines, and areas with water damage.

Another tell-tale sign is their size; carpenter ants can be 5x larger than a common black ant, and the reproductive ants are winged. The sight of flying carpenter ants indicates that the colony is well established and searching for new settlements. They are identified by their heart-shaped head and single node below their rounded thorax.

A carpenter ant colony will not go away on its own. If you notice any of the mentioned red flags, it is imperative to seek professional pest control services asap. Our professional extermination services will not only prevent future invasions by sealing up cracks and open voids, but we go the extensive length to make sure no ants are left behind (as just a few can rehome a new colony.) We are also licensed, bonded, and insured to make the necessary repairs caused by wildlife damage, bringing back the integrity of your home or office to pre-pest condition.   

Get Help Today!

From Home, the Lake, Camp, or Your Business -Northern Pest Has You Covered!

Northern Pest is licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife control. Comprehensively, our restoration crew is licensed builders with the expertise to not only track wildlife entry points but also repair any damage caused by insects or wild animals. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC offering professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!

Treating Thumb Arthritis

The basal joint, also known as the CMC (Carpometacarpal) joint, is one of the most versatile parts of our hand: the thumb. Due to its versatility, the thumb can deteriorate quickly and develop arthritis early in life.

People who suffer from osteoarthritis typically also develop basal joint arthritis, as well as women over 40. Even with normal pinching and gripping, the thumb joint is especially prone to issues from normal use. It is not uncommon for people to only have basal joint arthritis without any other forms.

Some of the treatments for thumb arthritis include nonoperative and surgical reconstruction. Read on to learn more about both options.

Nonoperative Treatments

  • Ice: Applying cold for five- to 15 minutes to the most swollen or tender areas can help to reduce inflammation.
  • Brace or Splint: Make sure your splint or brace supports the thumb.
  • Massage
  • Cortisone Injections
  • NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Medications): Examples of these pharmaceuticals include aspirin, ibuprofen, Naprosyn, or meloxicam. Ensure you check with your pharmacist before taking new medications to reduce the chance of drug interactions.

Surgical Reconstruction

  • Total Joint Reconstruction: also known as CMC Arthroplasty or LRTI (Ligament Reconstruction Tendon Interposition) procedure.
  • Capsulodesis: meant to tighten the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint
  • Arthrodesis: Surgically fusing the MCP joint

If you or someone you know has thumb pain, contact 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.

Top Cabinets for Remodeled Kitchens

When remodeling their kitchens, homeowners typically look for traditional, modern, or contemporary styles. Beyond cabinet aesthetics, homeowners often rely on cabinets for storage as well.

Most homeowners consider remodeling their kitchen with a goal to redo the overall flow, style, or layout. The top style for remodeled kitchens is transitional, followed by modern, contemporary, farmhouse, and finally, traditional.

Almost all homeowners who undergo kitchen remodeling improve their cabinets by replacing them completely, while one in three chooses a partial cabinet update instead. The most popular updates include refinishing cabinet exteriors, adding new cabinets, replacing the doors, replacing only a few cabinets, followed by refinishing cabinet interiors.

Shaker style cabinets are the top door choice for cabinet updates, with flat-panel cabinets coming in second. Totally custom cabinets are the most popular option, with semi-custom in a close second. A small number of homeowners select stock or ready-to-assemble cabinets for their remodeled kitchens.

The most desired color for cabinets is white, followed by wood tones, and gray being the third most popular color for kitchen remodels.

Functionality is just as important as design, so many homeowners are upgrading their cabinets with built-in organizers and other specialty storage. Cabinets that hold cookie sheets are most popular, followed by spice racks, pullout waste or recycling drawers, lazy Susans, and finally, pull out/swing out cabinets.

Newly-remodeled kitchens are typically kept the same size, with more than half of remodeled kitchens measuring 200 square feet or more, 100 to 199 square feet comes in second, followed by 100 square feet in third. In terms of actual layout, the most popular shape is an l-shape, then a u-shape, followed by a galley.

You have your vision, so why not bring it to life? JFC Remodeling specializes in making your kitchen and bathroom remodeling dreams come true. Contact us today to learn more.

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.

Federal Reserve Raises Interest Rates for First Time Since 2018 to Combat Inflation

In March, interest rates were increased – with six more increases scheduled before year end – marking the most aggressive pace in over 15 years. The Federal Reserve hopes to thwart rising inflation, which is at its highest levels in four decades.

Rising to a point between .25 percent and .5 percent, the benchmark federal-funds rate is increasing for the first time since 2018.

When the coronavirus pandemic hit the United States in 2020, rates were nearly at zero. Now, officials have hinted at raising the rate to nearly two percent by the end of 2022. By the end of 2023, rates could inflate as high as 2.75 percent, the highest since 2008.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said, “As I looked around the table at today’s meeting, I saw a committee that’s actually aware of the need to return the economy to price stability and determined to use our tools to do exactly that.”

The ballooned interest rates are a sharp reversal from only two years ago, when rates were near zero and the economy received a plethora of support as countless shutdowns plagued the country. Record job losses were recorded, along with a severe two-month recession.

Economic output has since recovered, thanks to huge federal stimulus and vaccination availability, but Federal officials were weary that inflation might not diminish as quickly as they once expected. The annual wage growth is near its highest pace in years, and the unemployment rate has fallen to 3.8 percent in February.

The average 30-year fixed-rate home loan jumped above 4.25 percent recently, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. This escalation is an increase of almost a full percentage point since late 2021.

Housing vacancy rates have been at their lowest levels in decades due to a limited supply of homes and apartments combined with steady job gains. Through the past six months, rates went up at a 5.5 percent annualized pace, the largest increase since 1986, according to the Labor Department.

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 (616) 228-8797 or e-mail contact@ebwmtg.com today.

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