The Best Radiology Programs

Stanford, Washington and Yale offer highly-rated radiology programs.

One of the key components to diagnosing an injury is to take and review x-rays. A career in the growing field of radiology involves extensive work in taking and reviewing x-rays, along with MRI and CT scan images. Choosing a quality program in radiology can increase a student's knowledge of the field and enhance her chances of finding solid employment upon graduation.

Stanford University

The Stanford University School of Medicine's radiology program has played a leading role in the development of new technology in the field of radiology. Since 2005, researchers at Stanford have received over 100 patents in radiology technology. Currently, the school offers a resident program, a program for medical students and continuing education opportunities. Individuals participating in the four year residency program work side-by-side with researchers while they work on the advanced technology the students will use during their career.

Medical students at Stanford University benefit from clerkships offered by the department of radiology. Programs include study in diagnostic radiology, nuclear radiology, pediatric radiology and nuclear medicine. This opportunity gives Stanford medical students an additional option when choosing a specialty.

Department of Radiology

Stanford University School of Medicine

300 Pasteur Drive

Stanford, CA 94305

650-723-2300

radiology.stanford.edu/

University of Washington

Radiology students at the University of Washington benefit from eight different radiology fellowship programs that are offered upon completion of the student's residency. In addition, the faculty to resident ratio is an attractive 3:1, making the UW program a perfect fit for those looking to work under a mentor.

Program options include an Education Pathway, where residents are trained to become educators, the Research track, which teaches residents the skills needed to work in medical research and improvement, and the Global Health rotation, which gives residents the opportunity to work for a month in a developing nation.

Department of Radiology

Box 359300

4800 Sandpoint Way NE, MS R-5417

Seattle, WA 98105

206-987-2134

rad.washington.edu

Yale University

As the home of the first x-ray taken in 1896, the Yale School of Medicine is an easy choice for residents interested in pursuing radiology. Students looking to pursue a fellowship benefit from opportunities in the areas of abdominal imaging, interventional radiology, musculoskeletal imaging and neuroradiology. Students interested in a career in radiology research can study nuclear medicine in the university's new PET center.

Residents choose from two programs when entering Yale, the Diagnostic Radiology Program and the Nuclear Medicine Radiology program. Each program requires a four year commitment. Many of Yale's graduates enter the educational field after graduation.

Yale University School of Medicine

333 Cedar Street, P.O. Box 208042

New Haven, CT 06520

203-785-5251

radiology.yale.edu

Tags: School Medicine, benefit from, Stanford University, University School, University School Medicine, Department Radiology

What Are The Treatments For Lung Nodules

Approximately 1 out of every 500 chest X-rays reveals the growth of a lung nodule, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Also called a pulmonary nodule, a lung nodule is a small, round growth that appears on the surface of your lung.

Significance

In most cases, lung nodules are benign and require only observation using X-rays to check if the growth gets larger or changes over time, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine. If a biopsy shows the nodule to be cancerous, the growth requires treatment.

Features

Unlike other forms of cancer that may be treated with chemotherapy or radiation, nodules are usually surgically removed.

Types of Operations

The most invasive type of operation used to remove lung nodules is a thoractomy, which removes part of the lung along with the nodule. A mini-thoracotomy removes only the nodule. In a third type of surgery, video-assisted thorocoscopic surgery (VATS), the node is excised using only two tiny incisions and and a small camera.

Time Frame

With a VATS procedure, you are likely to be in the hospital for only one or two days; a thoractomy or mini-thoractomy usually results in a 7- to 10-day stay, according to the Thoracic Group.

Considerations

Doctors prefer to use the most minimally invasive procedure to remove lung nodules, and base their decision on the size, shape and location of the growth, the University of Rochester Medical Center reports.

Tags: lung nodule, lung nodules, Medical Center, remove lung, remove lung nodules

Ccd Chip Specifications

CCD chips capture patterns of energy and converts the information into data streams.

A charged-coupled device (CCD) is a semiconductor device that collects a pattern of charges---like a photographic image---and then shifts this array of charges off the chip into a device that turns the array of signals into a stream of data. This process can be continued to produce a sequence of images (like a movie). This technology is rapidly becoming the image-processing standard for cameras, movies and astronomy.

Frame Rate

The frame rate is the speed at which images are transferred off the CCD chip. The image on a CCD is quickly shifted off the semiconductor collector and then converted to a data stream while the next image is collected, so the frame rate represents the exposure time. Functionally, this makes the frame rate the equivalent of shutter speed in film cameras. Longer frame rates collect more light, so when the Hubble takes a CCD image the frame rate is large. For ordinary cameras (and movie cameras) a long frame rate will cause blurred images. The frame rate is a specification that is relative to the scene being photographed. If everything in the scene is stationary, the longer the frame rate, the better. The faster things are moving in the scene, the faster the frame rate needs to be.

S/N Ratio

The signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio is a measure of how much noise the CCD device adds to the data stream. It is impossible to build a CCD with no noise at all, but the better constructed the CCD device is, the better the S/N ratio will be. This is primarily a quality control issue. The two major sources of noise are read noise and shot noise. Read noise is dependent on the manufacturing process. If the CCD can only register electrons in groups of 10, then 2 electrons or 8 electrons might register the same. Shot noise is caused by the physics of light, so there is nothing that can be done about it. The noises added and the read noise stay the same, while the shot noise is dependent on how long the exposure is. In other words, for long exposures the read noise becomes a small component of the noise---the longer the exposure, the less does the quality of the CCD matter.

CCD Size

The CCD size---the number of elements---is the specification that is advertised for cameras. Each element in the CCD represents 1 pixel (picture element) in the finished product. The higher the CCD size the greater the resolution of the picture. It would seem that the greater the CCD size, the better, but this is not true. Past the point of resolution you need---the eye has its limits---all the money is wasted. Worse than that, the CCD elements have a small amount of interference with each other, which shows up as noise. Very high CCD sizes have a high S/N ratio.

Tags: frame rate, frame rate, data stream, device that, noise dependent

Track Insurance Claims

Track Insurance Claims

Insurance claims can be notoriously time-consuming, leaving claimants with little idea of the status of their case at any point in the process. Knowing track insurance claims can help you to achieve peace of mind by staying abreast of the current status of your insurance claim, from filing to payout. Staying on top of the claims filing process can also alert you of any required actions on your part that may be holding up the process.

Instructions

1. Ask a representative from your insurance provider if the company features an online claim-tracking service on its website. This service has become popular among larger insurance carriers as an effective way to increase customer satisfaction while lowering processing costs. If your provider offers online claim tracking, simply check the company's claims website regularly. If not, continue to Step 2 to begin the old fashioned claim tracking process.

2. Gather all relevant documentation related to your claim, including copies of claim forms, certifications of loss by doctors or auditors, bills and receipts in a single, easily accessible place. According to the website Money Smart Life, claims adjusters will often request proof of the value of damaged property in the form of original receipts. Remember to keep all claim and customer identification numbers together; you will likely need these numbers multiple times before your claim is settled.

3. Record all contact information gathered during the claim filing process. Store the names, titles, telephone/fax numbers and email addresses of claim representatives, and other key employees at your insurance company, including claims department supervisors.

4. Contact your list of representatives on a regular basis, perhaps once or twice per week, to ascertain the status of your claim, and record all relevant information gained in a tracking sheet.

5. Use spreadsheet software or pen and paper to create your claim tracking sheet. Use two columns and as many rows as necessary. Use the first column to list each date that you communicate with insurance representatives, and the right column to summarize the outcomes of your communication, and the current progress of your claim.

Tags: your claim, claim tracking, your insurance, filing process, status your

Mammary Gland Tumors In Dogs

Girl dogs most frequently develop mammary gland tumors, but males can also develop them.

Mammary gland tumors, also known as breast cancer, can occur in female dogs between the ages of 5 and 10, according to veterinarian Race Foster of PetEducation.com. This condition is most frequently seen in female dogs who have not been spayed or were spayed later in life. This condition does not frequently strike male dogs or females that were spayed early in life. This is the easiest form of cancer to prevent in dogs, Foster says.

Symptoms

Often, dogs who develop mammary gland tumors do not show many symptoms in the early stages of the condition, according to veterinarian Jeffrey Philibert of the University of Minnesota. Typically mammary gland cancer is not discovered until it is in its late stages and is usually noticed while palpating the breasts of the dog. There may be some decrease in appetite and energy levels, and there may be some swelling in the dog's nipples, but these are not common. Ulcers that cause secretion of pus from the nipples is not noticeable until very late in the condition.

Diagnosing

If the veterinarian notices a small solid mass in the dog's mammary glands during a physical exam, he may request tests. This mass will feel as though it is attached to the skin and will not shift during palpation. The requested tests will include a full blood work, urine analysis and X-rays. These tests will help to determine the likelihood of cancer being present in the dog's system. The X-ray will show a veterinarian the size, number and location of tumors present in the dog. A biopsy will be requested to determine if the cancer is malignant and likely to spread. There is a 50 percent chance of the tumor being malignant, according to Philibert.

Treatment

Treatment can vary depending upon the number of tumors and the size of the tumors. If there is a large number of tumors that have spread throughout the body, the condition is considered terminal and supportive treatment such as pain medication will be administered. If the tumors have not spread and the condition appears to be treatable, surgery will remove the large masses while chemotherapy and radiation can be administered to destroy the remaining cancer cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis of a dog with mammary gland tumors varies depending on the overall health of the dog and the severity of the tumors. If the dog is not in good general health and there are a large number of tumors that have infected the entire body, the prognosis is very poor and the condition may be considered terminal. If the dog is in good general health and the condition is caught early or the tumors are benign and not prone to spreading, the condition is treatable and full remission can be expected, according to Foster.

Prevention

The best way to prevent mammary gland tumors in a female dog is to have her spayed before her first heat, Foster advises. The chances of a female dog developing mammary gland tumors after being spayed before her first heat is .05 percent, while after the first heat but before the second increases her chances to 8 percent. Female dogs who are spayed after their second heat are 26 percent more likely to develop breast cancer, according to Foster. The dog spayed after her first heat should be fed a high-quality dog food and kept at an appropriate weight for her size and breed to reduce the risk of a mammary gland tumor.

Tags: mammary gland, first heat, gland tumors, number tumors, according Foster, according veterinarian, after first

Can Negative Ions Reduce Or Eliminate Emf

EMF, in this case, is an acronym for "electromagnetic field". According to the U.S. Department of Energy, some studies have found higher incidence of cancer and other illnesses amongst people exposed to strong electromagnetic fields from high-power electrical lines and other sources, but results have generally been inconclusive.

Electromagnetic Radiation

Electromagnetic radiation is an ionizing radiation. In other words, it creates charged atoms or groups of atoms, known as ions, in the air. An abundance of positively charged ions can cause tiredness, depression and irritability, amongst other ailments.

Negative Ions

Proponents of "negative ion" air fresheners, such as rock or crystal lamps, claim that these devices flood the air with negative ions when heated. In so doing, they redress any imbalance between positive and negative ions.

Evidence

The U.S. Department of Energy agrees that there is some evidence that negative ions do "clean" the air and may provide health benefits. Indeed, there is further evidence that negative ions promote fast reaction times and positive mood.

Tags: negative ions, Department Energy, evidence that, evidence that negative, that negative

Breast Cancer & Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a local breast cancer treatment that gets rid of cancer in the breast area only. This treatment can be used alone or combined with surgery, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy. Sometimes, radiation therapy is used before surgery to shrink a tumor before it's removed. At other times, it's used after surgery to kill any cancer cells left after the tumor is removed. Radiation therapy may be used during any stage of cancer.

Identification

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses radiation to destroy cancer cells. Instead of the low doses of radiation used in X-rays, high doses are used to shrink cancer cells, kill them, and keep them from spreading to other tissue.

Radiation Therapy Team

When you have radiation therapy, you become part of a team that works together to treat your condition. Other members of your team include a radiation oncologist that prescribes the amount of radiation needed, a nurse-practitioner to order tests and treat radiotherapy effects, a radiation therapist to give you treatments, and a radiation nurse who takes care of you during radiotherapy sessions.

Types

There are three ways to do radiotherapy. External radiation therapy targets cancer cells using a machine outside your body five days a week for about six weeks. Implant radiation therapy is used by inserting a small tube to put radiation directly into your breast. Brachytherapy uses surgery to place an inflatable balloon in your breast and a catheter to put radiation into the inflated balloon twice a day for a week.

Benefits

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, research shows that women who have a lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy live as long as women who have a total mastectomy. Radiation therapy isn't painful while you're having it and side effects can be managed by your radiation therapy team.

Effects

Though some people don't experience side effects from radiation therapy, many people feel fatigue, pain, weakness, and nausea. Your arm can swell and you could have problems moving your shoulder. Radiation can destroy healthy cells as well as cancerous ones, so you should notice effects such as swelling, rash, fever, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, cough, bruising, bleeding, dizziness, and depression and report them to your radiotherapy team so medicine can be prescribed.

Tags: cancer cells, radiation therapy, therapy used, radiation therapy, side effects, women have

Radiology Technical Schools

As the majority of the United States population ages and new advances in medical imaging science continue to develop, an estimated 38,000 new jobs in radiologic technology should appear throughout the country between 2008 and 2018, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A number of technical schools throughout the country offer programs in radiology technology. Approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), these schools allow graduates to take the necessary state licensing exams to work as radiology technologists.

Springfield Technical Community College

Established in 1967, Springfield Technical Community College is a public institution in Springfield, Massachusetts, with approximately 6,000 students, as of 2010. The college offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in radiography technology. Before enrolling in the program, students must spend four hours observing a radiography technician in a clinical setting and must have completed prerequisite classes in college-level algebra, biology, medical terminology and English and high-school-level chemistry.

Among the courses required for the major are computer science, anatomy, equipment maintenance, positioning, image evaluation and radiation physics. All students complete four clinical rotations and a seminar in quality control prior to graduation. Qualified students can benefit from federal and state loans and grants, institutional scholarships and work study while attending the school. Job placement assistance is available.

Springfield Technical Community College

1 Armory Street

Springfield, MA 01102

413-781-7822

stcc.edu

Chattahoochee Technical College

Located in Acworth, Georgia, Chattahoochee Technical College is a public school with more than 10,000 students, as of 2010. The school's radiography program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree. Admissions requirements for the program include passing a criminal background check and drug screening and completing prerequisite courses in English, anatomy, psychology, biology, public speaking, algebra and computer science.

Those admitted to the program spend two years taking the classes necessary for the major, including radiologic exposure, contrast procedures, pathology, radiologic equipment and radiation protection. Courses also teach the process for administering specific types of X-rays, such as those on the spine or head. Seven clinical rotations are included in the curriculum. Federal and state financial aid and job placement assistance is available through the college.

Chattahoochee Technical College

5198 Ross Road

Acworth, GA 30102

770-975-4055

chattahoocheetech.edu

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

A public institution, Minnesota State Community and Technical College is in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, a rural community approximately 50 miles east of Fargo, North Dakota. Home to more than 6,500 students, as of 2010, the school offers an Associate of Applied Science degree program in radiologic technology. To apply for admission to the program, students must possess valid CPR certification and take prerequisite classes in anatomy, chemistry, writing, algebra, physics, psychology and patient care.

The curriculum features four clinical placements and course work in computer science, film and electronic imaging, equipment, health care law and medical ethics. Sources of financial aid at the college include federal and state loans and grants, veteran's benefits, private loans and institutional scholarships. The school's Career and Placement Services department at the college provides job search assistance for all students.

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

900 Highway 34 East

Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

218-846-3700

minnesota.edu

Tags: Technical College, Applied Science, Applied Science degree, Associate Applied, Associate Applied Science, Chattahoochee Technical

Information On Forensic Xrays

Forensic X-rays can help in a variety of criminal investigations.

Forensic radiology is the science of using radiological images such as X-rays to help in law enforcement and criminal investigations. Forensic radiology is a stressful, challenging field, but the successful use of forensic X-rays to solve a crime or clear up a mystery can be very rewarding.

Crime Solving

Forensic X-rays are important following a homicide or otherwise suspicious death. These radiographic images can help identify victims who may not be recognizable from their appearance alone. Dental X-rays and bone structure images can both assist in identifying a body, especially when these images are compared with previous dental records. Law enforcement professionals, the FBI and the CIA all use forensic X-rays in this regard.

Domestic Issues

Forensic X-rays can also verify reports of child abuse or domestic violence. These images help professionals analyze the body to confirm or refute these claims. Many investigations into child abuse require forensic radiologists to examine victims. Forensic X-rays will show internal organ injury, broken bones and other damage to the body.

Drug Trade

Criminals in drug trafficking have been known to smuggle drugs by transporting them inside their bodies. Forensic X-rays can help determine the location of these hidden drugs, and are an important tool to help investigators identify and punish criminals in the drug trade.

Tags: Forensic X-rays, X-rays help, child abuse, criminal investigations, criminal investigations Forensic

Responsibilities Of An Astronaut

There are three types of astronauts: pilots, mission specialists and payload specialists, and each has different responsibilities.

Astronauts travel into space on missions ranging from exploring the Earth's atmosphere and conducting experiments to repairing technological devices orbiting the Earth, such as satellites. All astronauts participate in astronaut training, but their responsibilities while on a mission depend upon their educational experience, professional background and assigned role. The three types of astronauts that are usually present on a space mission are pilot astronauts, mission specialist astronauts and payload astronauts.

Astronaut Training

All astronauts must participate in an astronaut training program before they can participate in a mission. In the United States, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration is responsible for the space program. NASA's training takes place at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. All novice astronauts must take courses in aircraft safety, basic science, math and technology. These astronauts also receive training in a space shuttle simulator and learn to function in weightless environments. After this basic training program is complete, advanced training focusing on an astronaut's individual skills and roles continues throughout her career.

Responsibilities of Pilot Astronauts

A pilot astronaut is usually the commander of the mission. As the commander, this astronaut is responsible for maintaining the vehicle, ensuring that the crew is safe and follows orders and ultimately guaranteeing that the mission is a success. As the pilot, this astronaut controls and operates the vehicle. The pilot may also help to deploy and retrieve satellites using the remote manipulator system, which is also called the robot arm or mechanical arm.

Responsibilities of Mission Specialist Astronauts

Mission specialist astronauts coordinate all on-board operations. Their responsibilities may include performing experiments, maintaining the space shuttle systems, conducting space walks and handling the payload. In order to fulfill this role, astronauts are trained in the details of the on-board systems, the specific objectives of the mission and the use of the equipment or systems needed to fulfill those objectives. In NASA, mission specialists must be citizens of the United States.

Responsibilities of Payload Specialist Astronauts

The "payload" on a space mission is the equipment needed to perform whatever task is the main objective of the mission. Since payloads can vary significantly, payload specialist astronauts are usually selected based on the skills required to fulfill the objectives of a specific mission. However, most payload specialist astronauts have a strong background in the field of physical or life sciences, or are highly skilled technical professionals who specialize in operating the payload equipment.

Tags: specialist astronauts, astronaut training, astronauts must, mission equipment, mission specialists, participate astronaut

Fda What Are The Dangers Of Silicone

Be informed before making a decision on silicone breast implants.

Silicone breast implants have been a longtime concern for women considering breast implants. In 1992, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdrew silicone breast implants as an approved material for surgeries due to complaints filed by "hundreds of thousands of women" according to the website Now (now.org) stating that they had suffered various illnesses after experience the leakage or rupture of a silicone breast implant. In 2006, the FDA stated that silicone gel-filled breast implants were safe to use.

Rupture or Deflation

Because silicone implants are composed of a thick gel, if the implant happens to rupture, much of the gel may stay within the capsule. However, sometimes women may notice a slightly decreased size of their breast, an irregular breast shape, hardened lumps around the implant, tingling, swelling, a burning sensation, or numbness. This type of rupture is called a symptomatic rupture because it displays symptoms.

Rupture Without Symptoms

According to the FDA, it is possible to have no symptoms associated with a ruptured silicone implant. This type of rupture is known as a silent rupture. Not even a physician will be able to spot a ruptured implant by an examination. The only way to know for certain if a silicone implant has indeed ruptured is to get an MRI examination. The FDA recommends having an MRI examination performed three years after the surgery and every two years thereafter.

Migration

When silicone leaks out of the implant, the silicone might migrate or make its way towards other parts of the body. Granulomas, or hardened lumps of silicone, may form in the chest area and other tissues in areas that the silicone has migrated to. This sometimes occurs within the breast tissue, chest walls, arms, or armpit areas. In some cases, silicone gel has migrated to the liver. Removal of the gel can prove to be difficult for surgeons and in some cases, it may not be able to be removed at all.

Capsular Contracture

When breast augmentation surgery occurs, it is common for scar tissue to form around the implant itself. However, when this scar tissue starts to squeeze the implant it can cause problems. Four different grades of capsular contracture are recognized by physicians with grade four being the most painful and the implant becoming very hard. It is still unknown as to why capsular contracture occurs. In some cases, another operation is necessary to correct the contracture.

Tags: breast implants, silicone breast, some cases, around implant, hardened lumps, scar tissue, silicone implant

Recognize The Signs Of Skin Cancer

Dermatologists examine skin cancer cells under a microsope, looking for abnormalities.

More than 2 million skin cancer cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, reports the American Academy of Dermatology. Skin cancers form in the skin's outer layer, or epidermis. Ultraviolet radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, triggering mutations and leading to rapid growth of abnormal skin cells and tumor formation. It's important to know the early-warning signs of skin cancer. If diagnosed and treated early, the survival rate is almost 100 percent.

Skin Self-Exam

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends performing monthly head-to-toe skin self-exams. Warning signs to watch for include changes in size or shape of existing moles, freckles or skin lesions and unusual bleeding or itching. Look for new moles or lesions and note any sores that aren't healing. These are potential signs of skin cancers, which include basal cell carcinoma, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Actinic Keratosis

Approximately 58 million Americans have actinic keratosis, or common precancerous skin lesions. Males have a higher risk of developing the lesions, as do fair-complected individuals with blond or red hair and blue, green or gray eyes. The rough, scaly lesions are found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, including the backs of the hand, bald scalp, face and lips. The lesions look like warts and may be pink, red, tan or flesh-colored.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Approximately 2.8 million Americans are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma annually. It remains the most common type of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinomas look like flesh-colored growths; hard, flat sunken growths; open sores; red patches; scars or shiny pink or red bumps. The slow-growing lesions often are found on the arms, face, hands, neck and scalp but can occur anywhere, including the genital region. Basal cell carcinoma is rarely life-threatening.

Melanoma

The American Cancer Society estimates that diagnosed cases of melanoma would number 76,250 in 2012 in the United States. Melanoma is curable if treated in time; however, it remains the deadliest type of skin cancer. Melanomas often resemble moles and are black or brown in color, but can be blue, flesh-colored, pink, purple, red or white. Melanomas present with distinct characteristics and are often referred to as "ugly ducklings." Look for moles that are asymmetrical, have a notched or uneven border or are larger than 1/4 inch in diameter.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Approximately 700,000 people are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma annually in the United States. The second-most common type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinomas occur on the arm, bald scalp, ear, face or neck as well as inside the mouth and in the genital region. Reddish in color, squamous cell carcinomas look like hard, scaly patches, open sores or elevated or pearl-shaped growths. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can grow down into the skin and metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.

Tags: squamous cell, cell carcinoma, skin cancer, cell carcinomas, look like

Register A Birth Certificate In California

Register a baby's birth in California within 10 days of birth.

California law requires new parents to register the birth of their baby born in the state within 10 days of birth. To register a birth, doctors, midwives or parents must submit a birth certificate to the local health department. In order to properly process and register birth certificates, the doctor, midwife or parents must adhere to procedures outlined by state law. After the state health department registers the birth certificate, parents may obtain notarized copies.

Instructions

1. Verify the attending physician at the hospital completes the birth certificate. If you give birth in a California hospital, the hospital staff and attending physician complete the required paperwork and submit the birth certificate for registration. Be sure the original birth certificate contains correct information when you sign it; original birth certificates may not be changed once registered.

2. Request the midwife or physician in attendance complete the birth certificate. If you give birth outside of a California hospital, the attending physician or midwife must complete the birth certificate. Request they fill out the "Worksheet and Affidavit for Out-of-Hospital Births" form and the birth certificate, Certificate of Live Birth Form VS10A.

3. Complete the Certificate of Live Birth Form VS10A. If a midwife or physician did not attend the birth, California parents may complete the "Worksheet and Affidavit for Out-of-Hospital Births" and Certificate of Live Birth Form VS10A themselves.

4. Gather required materials. For out-of-hospital births, parents must gather evidence and specific documents to register the birth certificate. Gather proof of parent identity, evidence of the mother’s pregnancy, proof of the California county where the birth took place and proof of a witness’ identity.

5. Make an appointment with the local health department to submit the "Worksheet and Affidavit for Out-of-Hospital Births," Certificate of Live Birth Form VS10A and all supplemental evidence.

6. Bring the newborn baby to the health department appointment. The local health department requires the baby to be present to verify a live birth took place. After the appointment and acceptance of all forms and evidence, the department of health registers the birth certificate.

Tags: birth certificate, health department, birth California, birth certificate, Birth Form

Tell If A Louis Vuitton Men'S Wallet Is Real

Louis Vuitton is known for its expensive, stylish products. For men, this includes bags, watches, jewelry, ties and wallets. Because Louis Vuitton products are highly sought-after, fakes are made to trick consumers into buying them. These pirated copies look similar and are cheaper than authentic Louis Vuitton products. Consumers often are unaware that they are buying an inferior product. Assessing whether a Louis Vuitton wallet is real or not involves looking at several factors. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Check the pattern of the wallet. It should be identical to other products in the same line. Ensure that the pattern does not vary in any way.

2. Check the zipper, if the wallet has one. Louis Vuitton wallets usually have brass or gold zippers. Occasionally they have silver zippers.

3. Check the inside of the wallet. Inspect the label to determine where wallet was made. Louis Vuitton wallets are made in France and the location is printed on a genuine leather label. Inspect the quality of the label to ensure it is leather.

4. Look for a serial number as all Louis Vuitton wallets are assigned serial numbers.

5. Inspect the leather to ensure it is smooth and shiny.

6. Check for a price tag. Louis Vuitton wallets don't have attached price tags or bar codes. If the wallet has one, it is probably an imitation.

Tags: Louis Vuitton, Louis Vuitton wallets, Vuitton wallets, Louis Vuitton products, Vuitton products

Is Aflac Insurance Tax Deductible

AFLAC premiums are not tax deductible.

Taxpayers may be able to deduct several types of medical expenses on their federal income tax returns. While the Internal Revenue Service recognizes some insurance costs as approved tax deductions, the agency does not allow taxpayers to claim a deduction for supplemental insurance premiums purchased through the AFLAC Co.

AFLAC Insurance Policies

Unlike health or life insurance, AFLAC insurance is supplemental insurance that provides direct financial assistance for policyholders who are sick or injured. An insured person can use these financial payments to cover the cost of any living expenses she incurs while unable to work due to illness or injury.

Tax-deductible Medical and Dental Expenses

The IRS allows taxpayers to claim many medical and dental expenses as itemized deductions on IRS Schedule A. Eligible deductions include physicians' fees, hospital expenses, prescription drug payments and certain health insurance premiums.

Tax Treatment of Supplemental Insurance Premiums

Taxpayers cannot deduct the cost of supplemental insurance policies, such as those provided by AFLAC, on their tax returns. According to the IRS, the cost of an insurance policy that pays a specified amount to insured parties who are sick or hurt is not a deductible medical expense.

Reporting Qualified Medical Deductions

Those who accrue qualified medical expenses such as out-of-pocket health insurance premiums during the tax year can deduct these costs only if they itemize their deductions. These taxpayers must file using IRS Form 1040 and complete Schedule A "Itemized Deductions" to report these expenses. Taxpayers can only claim the amount of their medical and dental expenses that exceeds 7.5 percent of their adjusted gross income.

Tags: insurance premiums, supplemental insurance, dental expenses, health insurance, health insurance premiums

Write A Good Cv Personal Statement

Organize your thoughts before developing your personal statement.

A personal statement sometimes accompanies a curriculum vitae. The statement is specific to an employer and may in fact be prompted by a query on an application. Still not widely used in the corporate world, the personal statement is, however, often required for post-graduate work, grants and fellowships, and with other research and academic-related positions. It should never be attached to the CV; rather, it should be included with the cover letter, and it should be no more than 500 words.

Instructions

1. Research the position before you submit either a CV or a personal statement. Include information specific to the university or employer that demonstrates your level of interest and your understanding of the position’s expectations.

2. Don’t bury your lead. Grab your reader’s attention at the outset with whatever about you is different from all the other candidates. Include any academic, work or personal skills you may have that will contribute to the work environment. Be honest, but sell yourself.

3. Focus on the position first, yourself second. Clearly a personal statement needs to be about you, but more important, it needs to demonstrate to your potential employer why you are particularly well-suited for the position.

4. Tell why you want the position and why you have chosen the field with appropriate and genuine enthusiasm. Include any relative work experiences that match the position, but do not repeat what they’ve already read on your CV or cover letter.

5. Talk about your long-term goals in your field, but avoid lofty and unrealistic ideals.

6. Do not discuss your minority status unless it has some unique relevance to the position or the employer.

7. Be brief and articulate. Use vocabulary commensurate with the position, but avoid technical jargon. Answer the relevant questions clearly and without repetition.

8. Be positive. While you may want to include your deficiencies in the name of honesty, your personal statement is not the proper forum. Avoid finding fault with your previous positions or life circumstances.

9. Use proper structure, grammar and spelling. Edit it, read it and reread it aloud for accuracy, content and flow.

10. Avoid doing anything unusual with fonts, setup and paper.

Tags: personal statement, cover letter, your personal, your personal statement

Radiologic Technician Online Programs

Radiologic technicians use radiation imagery to assist physicians in diagnosing diseases.

Radiologic technicians, also referred to as radiographers use radiation to produce images of the internal anatomy of the human body. Physicians use these images to diagnose disease. Other duties of radiologic technicians include administrative and educational tasks. Radiologic technicians can find employment in hospitals, doctor's offices, health clinics and surgical and imaging clinics. Students who study radiology attain an associate degree in the field and can then continue on to take the licensing examination. Although the schools listed offer online degrees in radiology, students only complete academic course work online; labs and clinicals are at a local medical facility that has an arrangement with the school.

Everest University-Brandon

The radiologic technology program at Everest University creates a hands-on learning experience for students. The curriculum includes study of fluoroscopy regulations, equipment, X-ray intensification, image recording, digital fluoroscopy and three-dimensional and radiological anatomy. Graduates from the program receive an associate degree. Financial aid is available for those who qualify and the school also offers job placement assistance.

Everest University-Brandon

3924 Coconut Palm Drive

Tampa, FL 33619

813-621-0041

everest.edu

Spencerian College

The radiologic technology program at Spencerian College combines demanding scientific and practical classroom instruction with an intensive clinical schedule to give students a full learning experience. Candidates for the program must meet eight specific requirements, ranging from physical ability to visual and auditory abilities. Students who complete the program will receive an associate of applied science degree in radiologic technology. Graduates are also eligible to take the radiography certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Financial aid is available to those who qualify and the school offers job placement assistance.

Spencerian College

4627 Dixie Highway

Louisville, KY 40216

502-447-1000

spencerian.edu

Career Technical College

Students enrolled in the radiography technology program at Career Technical College will become competent radiographers prepared to take entry-level positions. Students will gain an academic foundation, technical skills and hands-on training in a clinical atmosphere. Students who complete the program will attain an associate of occupational studies degree. Financial aid is available to those who qualify and the school offers job placement assistance.

Career Technical College

2319 Louisville Ave.

Monroe, LA 71201

318-323-2889

careertc.com‎

Tags: available those, available those qualify, Career Technical, Career Technical College, Financial available, Financial available those

Annual Calendar Events Aimed At Women'S Health Issues

There are numerous annual events that focus attention on women's health issues.

Every year numerous events are held to promote issues relating to women's health. Most cities have both public and private agencies that organize women's health conferences. You can search for events in your area by logging on to your local health agency's website or you can attend one of the nationally-sanctioned events held in your area.

International Women's Day: March 8

March 8 is International Women's Day with hundreds of events held throughout the United States and around the world. International Women's Day has been observed since the early 1900s. While it started as a political event with women demanding better working conditions and voting rights, it has since expanded to include events around the world that focus on women's health and wellness. Conferences and workshops, speeches and marches are held to bring attention to various issues pertaining to women including HIV and breast cancer, as well as to provide health promotion, education and advocacy for women.

National Women's Health and Fitness Day: September

National Women's Health and Fitness Day is the nation's largest annual health-promotion event for women. Held on the last Wednesday in September, this event focuses on the importance of regular physical activity and health awareness for women. Events are held by women's organizations across the country. In 2011, more than 1,600 groups are expected to host events with an estimated participation of 80,000 to 1000,000 women. Events include walks, exercise demonstrations, health screenings and information workshops.

National Women's Health Week: May

National Health Week is organized annually in May by the Office on Women's Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Events are held over the course of a week throughout the country to encourage women to take steps to improve both their physical and mental health and to lower the risk of diseases.

National Women's Checkup Day: May

National Women's Checkup Day began in 2002 and has continued as an annual event as part of National Women's Health Week. This day is meant to inform women about the importance of visiting their health care professional to screen for illnesses and infections including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, mental health illnesses, sexually transmitted infections and other conditions. Women are encouraged to take a pledge to visit their doctors and schedule at least one preventive health screening on this day.

National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: March 10

March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. School assemblies are held for girls across the country and free HIV and AIDS tests are available at college campuses and public health facilities. Local organizations also hold public conferences to educate women on prevention of HIV, get tested and living with HIV/AIDS.

Tags: National Women, National Women Health, Health Week, International Women, across country, AIDS Awareness

Calculate A Gail Score

Calculate a Gail Score

A Gail score is a indicator of your risk for breast cancer. This score, which is named after Dr. Mitchell Gail, is obtained by using the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool. Although this test can't predict whether you will get breast cancer in the future, it can tell women ages 35 and older if they are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Having this knowledge can help you to be more vigilant about early detection methods like exams and mammograms. Your doctor can figure a Gail score for you, or you can find out your score yourself by using an online test.

Instructions

1. Go to the National Cancer Institute's website at www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool/.

2. Click on Yes or No for question 1, which asks if you have a personal history of breast cancer.

3. Click on your age for question 2.

4. Select the age at which you began menstruation in question 3.

5. Click on the age you were when you gave birth to your first live child for question 4.

6. Click on the number of close relatives who have had breast cancer in question 5.

7. Click on the appropriate information in question 6 concerning whether you've ever had a breast biopsy.

8. Click on your race in question 7.

9. Click the "Calculate Risk" button at the bottom of the test to find out your estimated risk of contracting breast cancer within the next five years, as well as within your lifetime up to age 90.

Tags: breast cancer, question Click, Calculate Gail, Calculate Gail Score, Click your, find your, Gail score

Natural Cancer Cure

Today's cancer treatment techniques cover an array of invasive methods. Doctors may elect to surgically remove tumors, inject chemicals to kill cancer cells, or poison them with radiation. Clinical and experimental trials also test combinations of chemicals and other treatments to better target cancer cells. However, there are those who advocate a different way of treating cancer: through the use of Mother Nature.

Cancer Development

Cancer cells are abnormal cells that latch on and destroy vital body organs and systems. They grow inside tumors that form inside the body, living off of oxygen and other nutrients. When the tumors break through the blood stream, they could inject their cancerous cells that spread all over the body, eating away at tissue masses. If these cells get into the lymph nodes, they immediately compromise the immune system by defeating antibodies designed to fight for your life.

Raw Foods

One way that breaks with traditional cancer cures is through changing the diet into nothing but raw foods. Dr. Jerry Lee Hoover, a proponent of natural cancer cures, suggests that raw diets are easier for your body than chemotherapy. He also says that people should maintain a raw diet until cancer is in remission, because cooked foods exacerbate cancer cell growth, while raw food is still alive and will fight cancer cells.

Detoxification

Detoxification involves speeding up your body's removal of toxins and wastes in your entire system. This can be done either through special diets that include supplements or by physical means. For example, the skin is the body's largest organ. It sometimes removes toxins through sweat. The Healing Cancer Naturally website suggests that regular sauna sessions or baking soda baths keep the skin's pores open, allowing the toxins to rid themselves through your sweat.

Flaxseed Oil

Dr. Johanna Budwig believes that cancer can be cured by adding a combination of flaxseed oil and baking soda to your regular diet. Budwig says that linol acids, which are present in cooking oils, are largely responsible for cancer-inducing oxydase enzymes. Flaxseed oil will stimulate protein growth in cells, making oils more water-soluble, effectively removing them from the body and staving off recurrent cancer cell growth.

Colon Cleansing

One of the top three killer cancers is colon cancer. The colon is where water and nutrients are filtered from your body's solid waste products. Since it is also a magnet for potentially cancerous polyps, the colon can really put you at risk for getting cancer. Advocates from the Healing Daily website say that your body can contain several ounces (or even pounds) of undigested red meat and fat in your colon. The longer it hangs out in your colon, the better chance it has to fester and then become reabsorbed in your body, creating a toxic mix that's ripe for cancer growth. Cleansing your colon can help your body rid of these wastes much faster by making your digestive system more efficient.

Tags: your body, your colon, baking soda, cancer cell, cancer cell growth, cancer cells, cancer cures

Can Laser Surgery Be Used In Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women (aside from non-melanoma skin cancer). Advancements in laser technology have significantly benefited breast cancer treatments.

Significance

Until the development of recent treatment methods, most breast cancer treatments of the twentieth century involved invasive surgery to remove the entire breast, which, while effective for removing and preventing recurrence of cancer in the treated area, came with many side effects and risks, and failed to cure many patients.

Functions

Lasers are used as minimally-invasive approaches for destroying tumors. High-intensity laser light energy is delivered to a fiberoptic cable placed in the tumor, resulting in heat that is able to destroy the tumor while it is still in the breast. (Lasers are also now used to detect breast cancer tumors.)

Procedure

Local anesthesia is used around the tumor. A laser needle is inserted into the center of the tumor through a small knick in the skin, followed by a small, multisensor thermal needle inserted through another site. The laser energy used to destroy the tumor depends on its size.

Efficacy

The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center reports that laser therapy is effective for destroying tumors in the majority of patients. The Society of Interventional Radiology reports that one study found complete tumor destruction was achieved in one session in 66 percent of the tumors treated; another study showed 93 and 100 percent tumor death in two groups.

Side Effects/Risks

The Society of Interventional Radiology reports that there have been no adverse side effects reported after laser therapy breast cancer treatment. The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center reports that the laser procedure is safe and has minimal pain.

Advantages

Breast cancer patients have an alternative to having their entire breast surgically removed in order to expel the cancer from the body. With laser treatment, the focus is on destroying only the cancerous cells, and not unaffected body parts.

Tags: reports that, breast cancer, breast cancer treatments, Cancer Center, Cancer Center reports, cancer treatments

Test For Breast Cancer Marker

A cancer marker or tumor marker is a substance that is detected within the body of someone with cancer. The substance can be detected through urine, blood, or from the tumor itself. Cancer markers are used by physicians to determine early detection, aggressiveness of cancer, if certain treatment is working, or if there is a recurrence.

Breast Cancer Occurrence

According to the CDC, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. According to breastcancer.org, chances of having breast cancer increase with age with approximately 1 in 7 women having cancer over a 90-year life span; however, there are ways to lower risks. See the Resources section for information on lowering breast cancer risks.

Tests for Breast Cancer Markers

Tests for breast cancer markers include CA 15.3 and TRU-QUANT CA27.29, which are test designed to find breast cancer, and CA125 and Oncotype DX, which test for the risk of recurrence of breast cancer. And the ER/PR and HER2 tests are used to determine if certain treatments will be effective.

What Are They Used For?

Tests for breast cancer markers are used by a physician for a variety of reasons including to determine a patient's risk, to predict treatment success, to see how patient is progressing, and to find cancer before symptoms occur.

Reliability and Considerations

Breast cancer marker tests are not infallible. Negative results do not mean that you will not get cancer, and positive or elevated results do not necessarily mean the cancer has recurred. Working closely with a physician is imperative to understanding the results and treatments.

Gene Test

A new breast cancer test is a genetic test that does not look for cancer itself but rather at a woman's genes that are associated with breast cancer risk. These blood tests, called BRCA 1 and BRCA2, help physicians determine a person's risk for breast cancer particularly in those people with a family history of breast cancer.

Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer markers, cancer marker

Medicare Coverage Issues

Five out of six Medicare beneficiaries are aged 65 or older.

As of 2010, Medicare is used by more than 40 million people in the United States, most of then over the age of 65. Medicare is a health insurance program designed primarily for senior citizens, but people with certain health conditions may also qualify, even if they are under 65. Medicare comes in four parts, labeled A through D. There are also standardized plans to use in combination with Medicare, often called Medigap. Some Medicare issues can cause confusion or additional expenses for beneficiaries if not properly understood and planned for.

Enrollment Issues

Enrolling in Medicare itself can be confusing. People who are already receiving benefits from Social Security are automatically enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B when they turn 65. All others have to take the initiative to enroll themselves as they approach 65. The initial enrollment period for Medicare is from three months before your 65th birthday until three months after. You do not have to enroll in both parts of Medicare if you do not want them; however. If you are automatically enrolled in Part B, you will have un-enroll yourself by following the directions on your Medicare card. But if you do not take Part B when you first have the chance and then change your mind, you will have to pay a late-enrollment penalty.

Cost Issues

Part A is often, but not always, offered free, but all other parts of Medicare require monthly premiums. The amount depends on several factors. The standard monthly premium for new members of Part B Medicare in 2011 is $115.40. If you get your Part A, B and/or D benefits through a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, your insurance company will set the premiums. Companies offering Part D Medicare stand-alone plans also set their own premiums. Even after premiums, there are other costs for Medicare, as all parts come with co-pays, deductibles and excess charges. Part D also comes with what is commonly called the doughnut hole. Part D helps cover prescription drug benefits only until their retail value reaches a certain point, and then drop off completely until drug costs meet the federal catastrophic coverage level, creating a "doughnut hole" of no insurance benefits for medications.

Benefit Issues

While Medicare offers many important health insurance benefits, including those for hospitalizations, hospice, home health care and preventive services, there are many medical services that are not covered. To obtain these services, beneficiaries are required to purchase more insurance. Medicare Advantage plans offer basic Medicare bundled with other kinds of services, such as vision, dental or hearing plans. but the exact benefits depend on which plan you buy and from which provider. Part D prescription drug plans include benefits for only certain kinds or brands of medication.

Plan Issues

The premiums for basic Medicare are set by the federal government, but premiums for Parts C, D and Medigap are decided by individual companies and can vary dramatically for the same services. Medigap, Medicare Advantage and stand-alone Part D plans are also not offered in all areas, and you can only join Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans during certain times of the year. In most places, if you move out of the service area for your plan, you will have to enroll in a different one as well, with no guarantee that your premiums, benefits or even insurance company will remain the same. You will also have to pick another plan if your first company decides to stop participating in Medicare.

Tags: Medicare Advantage, will have, Advantage plans, automatically enrolled, basic Medicare

What Diseases Do Pap Smears Test For

What Diseases Do Pap Smears Test For?

A pap smear tests for a variety of vaginal and cervical diseases and conditions, allowing health care providers to treat these diseases and conditions before they advance.

Cervical Cancer

Pap smears are performed primarily in order to detect the presence of cells on the cervix that are either associated with cervical cancer, or are cancerous. Pap smears can detect cells that are in the process of mutating, which can be precancerous, and can also detect cancerous cells that indicate cancer in progress.

HPV

Pap smears can also detect cell changes that are indicative of infection with the human papilloma virus, or HPV, a sexually transmitted disease that can increase a woman's chances of developing cervical cancer.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Pap smears can detect other sexually transmitted diseases, including herpes and chlamydia.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections can be detected by pap tests, although a pap test is not required to diagnose a yeast infection.

Other Infections

Other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, will also be detected by pap tests, but do not require pap tests for diagnosis.

Tags: also detect, cells that, cervical cancer, detected tests, diseases conditions, Diseases Smears, Diseases Smears Test

Order A Tenncare Card

It is easy to replace a TennCare card.

TennCare is the name of Tennessee's expanded Medicaid program. To receive your TennCare card you must first be enrolled in the TennCare program. If you are not already enrolled, contact your local Department of Human Services office to find out if you are eligible. Then fill out the application form on TennCare's website and submit it to the Department of Human Services. If you have done the above and your TennCare card has not been mailed to you, or you have lost it, you have the following options.

Instructions

1. Phone your TennCare health plan's department and request a new card be sent to you. A list of the TennCare health plans and their department numbers can be found in Resources in this article.

2. Call the TennCare Advocacy program (1-800-722-7474) to help you order a new card if you do not know the name of your health plan. The Advocacy program can also help with any other TennCare issues you may have.

3. Use your social security number to receive medical services or prescriptions in the interim. This number can be used at doctor's offices, hospitals and pharmacies to look up your TennCare policy number.

Tags: your TennCare, Advocacy program, Department Human, Department Human Services, health plan, Human Services

Safety Precautions With Radiation

Radiation safety involves limiting exposure levels, wearing protective coverings and visible postings around radiation equipment.

Radiation energy involves the transfer of energy from a source to a material or object, according to the University of California. In the process, the object absorbs this energy, which can potentially disrupt the object's molecular balance and structure. This same process can occur when radiation makes contact with the human body. Standard safety precautions can be used to prevent the effects of radiation exposure.

Exposure Precautions

Acute or ongoing exposure to radiation can result in serious health problems as absorbed energy radiates through portions of the body. For this reason, those who work with radiation or interact with devices that produce radiation (microwaves, cell phones) can be at risk of harmful exposures. According to the NDT Resource Center, the U.S. Code of Federal regulations provide a listing of radiation exposure limits under Title 10, part 20. As a safety precaution, these regulations follow the "as low as reasonably achievable," or ALARA guidelines, which are designed to keep the levels of radiation exposure well below what a device or procedure requires.

According to Princeton University, ratemeter devices can be used to measure possible radiation leaks in equipment and emit an audible warning when leaks occur. Radiation safety equipment also includes interlocking mechanisms that create a seal when doors or lids close. As these mechanisms work to prevent radiation leakage, regular inspections of door seals can help guard against frequent exposures.

Protection

According to Princeton University, devices such as x-ray machines can produce scattered beams of radiation made up of strong energy waves. These waves can only penetrate materials that have a low-density content. As a safety precaution, wearing a protective covering can prevent radiation energy from making contact with the body. The protective apron-like coverings used by x-ray technicians contain materials that have a high-density content. According to the NDT Resource Center, density content depends on the number of subatomic particles, or Z number, contained in a material. Materials such as tungsten, lead and uranium have high Z numbers and provide adequate protection from radiation waves.

A material's ability to block radiation waves depends on the level of thickness needed to reduce a person's exposure rate. The half-value layer, or HVL, provides a method for determining how thick a material needs to be in order to reduce radiation exposure by one half at the point where radiation makes contact with the material. According to the NDT Resource Center, the level of HVL needed will depend on the strength of the radiation.

Administrative Controls

Administrative controls for using radiation equipment involve proper labeling, proper placement and ongoing communication between those who use equipment on a regular basis, according to Princeton University. Proper labeling indicates that a piece of equipment generates radiation when operated. The U.S. Office of Environmental Health and Safety can provide official labels for equipment use purposes.

Proper placement for equipment such as x-ray machines involves situating it in areas that are separate from heavily trafficked locations and only permit access to authorized personnel, according to the NDL Resource Center. Ongoing communication between those who use radiation equipment on a frequent basis can help determine malfunction issues and also lets others know when repairs or modifications are in process.

Tags: radiation exposure, Resource Center, According Resource, According Resource Center, contact with, Princeton University

Benign & Malignant Bone Tumors

Benign (non-cancerous tumors) bone tumors usually do not spread and treatment will depend on if they are causing problems. Malignant (cancerous) bone tumors can be primary or secondary. The National Library of Medicine and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center offer the following information regarding bone tumors.

Incidence of Benign Tumors

For the most part, benign bone tumors form in children whose skeletons are still growing, as well as people up to 30 years of age. Hormones that affect growth play a big role in most tumor formations, which is why they are most common in children.

Treatment of Benign Tumors

Treatment will depend on many factors. In some cases, a bone tumor can trigger a bone fracture--the tumor might go away as the bone heals requiring no other intervention. Doctors might choose to observe small growths that cause any symptoms. Surgical treatments remove the tumor and facilitate the growth of healthy new bone in its place. You might need treatment for a bone tumor that is growing aggressively and poses a risk for paralysis and deformity.

Types of Malignant Tumors

Primary bone cancers originate in the bone--examples include chandrosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, fibrosarcoma and osteosarcomas. Secondary bone tumors form when cancer from another part of the body takes root in the bones. Cancers that most commonly spread to the bone include breast, kidney, lung, prostate and thyroid. Primary bone cancer is relatively rare. You are more likely to experience primary bone cancer if you have genetic cancer syndromes. Yearly, bone cancer affects five children out of every million.

Treatment for Malignant Tumors

Treatment will depend on the type of primary bone cancer or type of cancer that spread to the bone, stage of the cancer and your overall health, among other things. Common treatments include surgery to remove the tumors, radiation, chemotherapy, drugs to improve bone health and hormone therapy for prostate and breast cancers

Symptoms

Both types of tumors share the same symptoms. They include swelling or a mass at the tumor site, pain and fractures--particularly those resulting from a minimal injury. Benign tumors do not always produce symptoms.

Tags: bone tumors, bone cancer, will depend, Benign Tumors, bone tumor, bone tumors form

Ultrasound Technician Programs In San Francisco

Ultrasound techs use ultrasound to develop images of internal organs and body parts.

Ultrasound technicians are trained in the use of ultrasound as a means to diagnose medical conditions. The equipment sends high frequency sound waves to an area of the patient's body. This causes an echo, which produces an image of the tissues, abdomen, breasts or other area inside the body that may need medical attention. Ultrasound technicians are also known as sonographers and vascular technicians. They need a formal education for the job and can find it at several ultrasound technician programs in the San Francisco area.

Lincoln University

Lincoln University is in Oakland, 13 miles from San Francisco. The school offers a certificate program for the ultrasound technician position and an associate of science degree program for diagnostic imaging. The degree program has two concentrations: diagnostic sonography and echocardiography. The certificate program takes 80 weeks to complete while the degree program takes two years. Prerequisites for the degree program include classes in science and math. Both programs take 71 credit units for completion. Courses include abdomen and small parts, advanced echo imaging, physical principles of ultrasound and clinical coursework.

Lincoln University

401 15th Street

Oakland, CA 94612

888-810-9998

lincolnuca.edu/index.php?pageId=362

Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences

Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences is 18 miles outside of San Francisco in neighboring Richmond. The school offers a two-year sonogram program with concentrations in general and cardiac sonography. To be admitted to the program students must already possess at least an associate's degree in an allied health field such as radiologic technology, or have completed 60 credit hours in college coursework. Prerequisite classes include science, math and medical terminology. Core classes for both concentrations include patient care and ergonomics, ultrasound physics and instrumentation, introduction to abdominal, pelvic and cardiovascular sonography and medical and legal ethics. Other required classes are specific to each concentration, such as advanced OB/GYN for the general concentration and advances in echocardiography for the cardiac concentration.

Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Program

938 Marina Way South

Richmond, CA 94553

510-231-5055

kpsahs.org

Foothill College

Foothill College is 39 miles from San Francisco in the town of Los Altos Hills. A certificate of achievement program is offered in diagnostic medical sonography. Students will spend six quarter terms in the core degree program, which requires 96 credit hours for graduation. Prior to beginning the program students should be certified in CPR and have completed an associate or bachelor's degree in an allied health program such as nursing. Prerequisite studies include math, science and English. Core curriculum includes sectional anatomy, diagnostic medical sonography procedures and applications, six classes in critique and pathology, three classes in diagnostic medical sonography and two classes in obstetrics. Clinical courses require students to work 32 hours per week in clinical practice.

Foothill College

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Program

12345 El Monte Road

Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

650-949-7304

foothill.fhda.edu/programs/programs.php

Tags: degree program, Allied Health, Allied Health Sciences, diagnostic medical, diagnostic medical sonography, Foothill College, Health Sciences

Prostrate Cancer Survival Rates

One of the most commonly diagnosed cancers, prostate cancer also has high survival rates when detected in the early stages. Here are some statistics about the survival rates of prostate cancer.

Detection

An enlarged prostate is detected by a digital rectal exam or a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, which measures a specific protein that may indicate a prostate tumor.

Staging

Treatment and prognosis depends largely on tumor staging, a measure of how quickly the tumor is growing. Stage I: Very small tumor undetectable by digital rectal exam; Stage II: Small tumor confined to the prostate; Stage III: Tumor extending beyond the prostate but not into the lymph nodes; Stage IV: Large tumor that has spread to the bladder, rectum, bone, lymph nodes or other organs.

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on the tumor stage, age and overall health. The earlier the tumor is detected, the better the prognosis.

Survival Rates

Cancer survival rates are measured by the percentage of who live for a specific number of years after diagnosis, typically 5, 10 and 15 years. According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer in the early stages has the following survival rates: 5-year survival is nearly 100 percent; 10-year survival 93 percent; 15-year survival is 77 percent; in advanced cancer with metastasis to other organs, the average survival rate is 1 to 3 years.

Advanced Cancer

Advanced cancer with metastasis to other organs has an average survival rate of 1 to 3 years.

Tags: other organs, prostate cancer, average survival, average survival rate, cancer with, cancer with metastasis, digital rectal

Date Vintage Louis Vuitton Handbags

Louis Vuitton began branding handbags with serial numbers and date codes in 1980. The code indicates the production date of the bag. When buying a handbag online, ask for photographs of the code and number from the inside of the bag. Determine the date based off that information and make sure the company produced that model bag in the same year. Dating the Louis Vuitton handbag ensures that you buy an authentic purse and not a replica or reproduction. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Open the bag and look inside the purse. Examine the bottom and sides of the bag, checking for a series of numbers or letters, which indicate the code.

2. Read the area in front of and behind the number on the label. On replica bags or reproduction bags, the label may state "model number" before the actual number. As Louis Vuitton never used the words on any of its bags, the words immediately indicate a fake bag.

3. Write down the first two numbers, which indicate the year the company produced the bag. The first two numbers must start at 80 or higher, as the company used 80 for bags created during 1980. If the bag has a 96, then it indicates a production date of 1996.

4. Check the last one or two numbers following the first numbers. The two numbers identify the date the company manufactured the bag. The numbers must be less than 31. If the bag contains a number above 31, then it indicates a fake.

5. Compare the number against the code used after 1990, which used a six-digit number. The first two numbers refer to the factory that produced the bag. Look to the last four numbers, as the second digit and last number in this set indicate the date. The first number and second to last number in the four digit code indicate the year of production.

Tags: first numbers, Louis Vuitton, company produced, indicate year, indicates production

Apply Telemetry Leads

Misplaced leads can lead to an incorrect diagnosis.

When our hearts beat, electrical currents are sent out resulting in contraction, which is the "beating." Telemetry is the term for the procedure that picks up these currents via electrodes (called leads) that are placed strategically on the chest in five locations. These electrodes then send signals through wires a transmitter that changes them into a format that can be read by an ECG (Electro Cardiograph) machine. The correct placement of these leads is vital to an accurate reading.

Instructions

1. Open package containing the leads being sure the stickers are intact and covered.

2. Remove the protective covering off of the white lead.

3. Place the white lead just under the bone of the right shoulder before the armpit.

4. Remove the protective covering off of the black lead next.

5. Place the black lead directly opposite the white on the left side of the body.

6. Remove the backing of the brown lead and place it on the right side diagonal from the white at the space between the ribs.

7. Remove the backing of the green lead next, place it on the left side of the chest under the rib cage.

8. Remove the backing of the red lead and place it exactly opposite the green on the right side of the chest.

9. Connect the color-coordinated wires to the corresponding leads.

10. Insert the wires into the ECG machine.

Tags: Remove backing, black lead, lead next, lead place, left side, protective covering, Remove protective

Sevoflurane Side Effects

Anesthetics are prescription drugs that a doctor or nurse practitioner administers to you before surgery or other medical procedures in order to induce sleep or relax you so that you do not experience pain or discomfort. Doctors can choose from many anesthetics, including sevoflurane, marketed as Ultane. Although it is effective, sevoflurane is not for everyone, as it carries several risks for side effects and complications in some patients.

Common Side Effects

About 25 percent of patients who receive sevoflurane report nausea, making this the drug's most common side effect. Vomiting and coughing are also common, occurring in at least 10 percent of patients. From 5 percent to 9 percent of patients experience changes in heart rhythm, agitation, difficulty breathing, decreases in blood pressure, shivering and tiredness after the medical procedure is complete.

Other Side Effects

Sevoflurane has the potential to cause several other troublesome or annoying, but not dangerous, side effects. Neurological and psychiatric side effects include crying, confusion, nervousness and dry mouth. Effects on the skin and sensory organs include itching, rash, temporary lazy eye, changes in taste and an increased incidence of eye infections such as conjunctivitis. Other possible side effects of sevoflurane are increased salivation, fever, tingling in the extremities and hiccups.

Drug Interactions

Some medications produce unwanted side effects when used in conjunction with sevoflurane. When taken with muscle relaxants, sevoflurane heightens the effects, often leading to muscle weakness. Because sevoflurane slows your respiratory system, be careful not to take other medications that will further suppress your breathing for at least 24 hours after receiving sevoflurane. Examples of drugs to avoid include narcotics, sleeping pills and sedatives, antiepileptic drugs and anti-anxiety medications.

Risks

In some patients, sevoflurane causes damage to the kidneys, resulting in decreased production of urine or even acute kidney failure. Another rare complication from sevoflurane use is hypothermia, a dangerous drop in body temperature that can lead to shock. Sevoflurane also raises potassium levels in your body. In some cases, this causes a condition called hyperkalemia, which can damage or interfere with the heart and cardiovascular system.

Considerations

Because there is not yet sufficient evidence that sevoflurane has no unwanted effects on a fetus, doctors typically do not use the drug on pregnant women. Sevoflurane often causes drowsiness, so doctors recommend that you not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after your procedure. If you have kidney or heart disease, your doctor may not use this anesthetic because of its potential side effects.

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Gallbladder Stones Symptoms

Gallbladder stones, sometimes called gallstones, are formed in the gallbladder when liquid stored in the gallbladder turn into small pebble like formations. The liquid stored in the gallbladder is called bile and it helps with digestion in the small intestine. Gallbladder stones can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Women and people over the age of 60 are at the highest risks for gallbladder stones. All suspected gallbladder stones should be checked by a medical professional.

Pain

Pain is the main symptom of gallbladder stones. The pain is typically located in the upper right portion of the abdomen, near the ribcage. Pain can also radiate up to through the back.

Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are also fairly common symptoms of gallbladder stones. Some patients attribute this to the amount of pain they are experiencing.

Biliary Colic

Biliary colic is extreme cramping caused by gallbladder stones. Biliary colic will cause the pain behind the breast bone and persist 1 hour or more.

No Symptoms

Gallbladder stones are more likely to not cause any symptoms until a stone gets stuck in a duct, causing a blockage. Belching, gas, bloating, and heartburn are not signs of gallbladder stones.

Warning

Gallbladder stones need to be treated by a doctor in order to keep from causing more damage to the gallbladder. Only a doctor can diagnose gallbladder stones.

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Breast Reduction Exercises

Breasts are made up of mostly fatty tissue. With the absence of any muscle tissue in the breasts, it is not possible for exercise to directly affect the size of the breast. The benefit of exercise in reducing breast size is the reduction of fat. By burning calories and lowering your percentage of body fat, some women will experience a reduction in the size of their breasts.

Spot Weight Loss

While certain exercises concentrate on specific areas of the body, or specific muscle groups, no exercise can affect weight loss in a specific part of the body. As a general rule, weight loss is experienced throughout the body, not in a specific area. For this reason, a good overall exercise plan will reduce your body's fat content, but it will not specifically work on the breasts.

Best Exercises

When attempting to lose weight, you will want to watch your diet and develop a good exercise routine. Your goal is to burn calories and increase muscle mass. There can be, of course, a big difference in the calories burned by doing different exercises. A 155-pound person will burn 739 calories an hour on a stationary bike. That same person will burn 422 calories in an aerobics class, 281 calories by taking a brisk walk, or an amazing 844 calories per hour by jumping rope at a fast pace. Other good exercises are swimming, rowing and jogging. Which exercise you choose will depend on your personal preference and physical condition.

Other Effects of Exercise

While the breasts do not contain muscles, there are muscles in the chest that, when toned and conditioned, will tighten the chest area and can in some cases make the breasts appear smaller. Some exercises that concentrate on your chest are push-ups, bench presses and swimming. All of these can improve muscle tone and mass in the chest area and will affect the appearance of your breasts. While the appearance of your breasts may be altered, do not expect miracles. At best, most women can expect a reduction of one cup size or less as a result of increased exercise.

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