Backing up your DVD collection to digital IMG image files is a great way to preserve the entire DVD, but it doesn't make your movies any more portable. Converting the image files to a movie file allows you to play the file back in standard video player applications as well as drastically reducing the file size. Converting these files is fairly simple with a free, cross-platform utility.
Instructions
1. Download and install Handbrake version 0.7. Handbrake is a free, cross-platform video conversion utility.
2. Launch Handbrake. Select "Source" from the navigation toolbar and select your IMG file.
3. Select "Toggle Presets" and select one of the pre-configured video output options.
4. Choose a name and select a destination to save the file to in the main window.
5. Select "AVI" from the "Format" drop down menu. There are additional options you can set within the main window, but it is best to leave these at the default unless you know what you are changing and adjusting. Refer to Handbrake's help files for more information regarding these advanced settings.
6. Select "Start" from the navigation toolbar. Handbrake will begin the process of extracting the movie from the IMG and converting it to an AVI movie file. Once completed, exit Handbrake.
Tags: Convert File, free cross-platform, from navigation, from navigation toolbar, image files, main window, movie file
The skin test is the most common TB diagnostic method.
Tuberculosis is a potentially fatal infectious disease that affects the lungs. The infection can remain asymptomatic but in some cases will develop in to the fully active form of the disease. The symptoms of TB include coughing, bloody sputum, weight loss and fever. The disease is spread through the air when infected people cough or sneeze.
Skin Test
The Mantoux skin test offers a simple method of diagnosing TB. A small amount of purified protein derivative tuberculin is injected just under the surface of the skin. The substance is purified to prevent development into TB, but it still causes a reaction in someone who carries TB. If the injection site becomes red and swollen with a hard red bump it is likely that the subject is carrying the infection. A health care professional will examine your reaction to the injection and determine a suitable course of action depending on the outcome. If the Mantoux test is positive, the doctor will order a blood test for confirmation.
Blood Test
The blood test will be used to confirm or rule out TB infection in people who developed a hard red bump after their skin test. It is also used for people at higher risk of infection, such as those that have come in to contact with confirmed carriers of the infection and those displaying symptoms of the disease. The blood test produces results faster than the skin test. A blood sample is taken and exposed to the bacteria that causes TB. The blood's reaction to the agent is monitored and used to diagnose the disease.
Chest X-Ray
After a positive TB test of either type, a doctor will normally order a chest X-Ray to establish the clinical affects of the disease and its stage of development. The X-Ray reveals how much of the lung surface area is infected with the disease and whether the disease is at the stage where nodules are being produced. White spots on the lung indicate that the immune system is protecting the body from the spread of the disease.
CT Scan
The CT scan is very similar to the X-Ray in that it takes an image of the lungs for examination. It is the method by which the image is captured that differs, rather than the diagnostic process itself.
Culture Test
Your doctor may order a culture test to determine the best method of treatment. By collecting either a sample of sputum or stomach acid, your doctor will expose the TB bacteria to a range of treatments to determine which one is most effective at treating the disease.
Tags: skin test, blood test, doctor will, disease stage, hard bump
Students may have to complete prerequisites before taking radiology courses.
Careers in radiology require good communication skills. People in radiology must be thoughtful and caring because they deal with sick patients continually. Individuals in radiology should possess organizational skills and be detail-oriented. They keep records used by physicians and other health care professionals.
Radiology Technician Jobs
Radiology technicians take X-rays of parts of the human body for doctors to diagnose medical conditions. Radiology technicians prepare the patient for tests by explaining the procedure, removing jewelry and properly positioning patients. Radiology technicians must accurately follow the orders of a physician to prevent radiation harm to patients and themselves. They may also have to prepare fluids for patients to drink so their organs and tissue are easily seen during imaging procedures. Some radiology technicians specialize in computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging scans. Radiology technicians are on their feet all day. Most have 40-hour work weeks and at times may have to work in the evenings and on weekends.
Radiology Technician Education
Most radiology technicians have associate degrees or certifications. Programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology typically last 21-24 months and include classroom and clinical studies. Students interested in careers as radiology technicians should take courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Voluntary certifications for radiology technicians are offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Technicians must graduate from an ARRT-approved accredited program and pass an examination for certification eligibility. Most states require licensure.
Radiation Therapists Jobs
Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. Radiation therapists work with an oncology team to create treatment plans. Before the plan is created, radiation therapists use an X-ray imaging machine or computer tomography scan to pinpoint the exact location of the cancer cells. A radiation oncologist and a radiation physicist create the best plan, and the radiation therapist finalizes the plan by positioning the patient correctly so that treatment is most effective. Radiation therapists record the details of the treatment and explain the procedures to the patient. They also monitor the physical conditions of patients while treatment is administered. Radiation therapists work in hospitals and cancer treatment centers.
Radiation Therapist Education
Most radiation therapists must complete an associate or bachelor's degree in radiation therapy or radiography. Degree programs include classes on radiation therapy and the scientific theories that support the procedure. Students must also complete courses in human anatomy, biology, physics, algebra, pre-calculus and research methodology. Most states require licensing for radiation therapists, and licensing requirements vary per state. Some states and employers require radiation therapists to receive certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. They must renew their certification every year. Radiation therapists must meet continual education requirements every two years.
Tags: Radiology technicians, American Registry, American Registry Radiologic, Education Most, Most states
According to the National Institutes of Health, close to 300,000 deaths are related to obesity each year and obesity is the leading cause of preventable death in America. According to The Journal of Nutrition, regularly elevating your heart rate will allow you to lose body fat and gain muscle. The best weight loss plan involves a diet that limits saturated fat, combined with daily exercise.
Avoid Saturated Fat
Only 7 percent of your daily calorie intake should come from saturated fat, according to the American Heart Association. If your goal is rapid weight loss then saturated fat should be almost entirely eliminated from your diet. Fast foods have a particularly high saturated fat content, which is why they should be avoided when you are trying to lose weight rapidly. For example, an Angus Deluxe from McDonald's has 16g of saturated fat and a Steakhouse Burger from Burger King has 21g of saturated fat. However, according to Harvard University research, it's also important to reduce your daily calorie intake aside from staying away from saturated fat. Most of the time foods that are high in saturated fat are also high in calories.
Exercise Daily
Weight loss is a result of a calorie deficit that's created by eating less food or exercising more. If you exercise on a daily basis then you'll be burning a few hundred extra calories per day. According to The Journal of Nutrition, choosing exercises that elevate your heart rate also helps to reduce belly fat. Some of the best cardio exercises that you can use for rapid weight loss include running, biking, and hiking. Swimming is also a great alternative to running because it puts very little stress on the body. If you exercise daily, you will lose weight much faster.
Hydrate
According to the University of Ohio, drinking water can help significantly with weight loss. The first way that water helps with weight loss is by reducing an individual's appetite for food. Some scientists at the University of Ohio also believe that water might increase energy expenditure or metabolism. Staying hydrated will also help you feel better while exercising. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals should drink 64 oz. of water per day. This can be accomplished by consuming eight 8-oz. glasses of water. You can actually tell if your body is fully hydrated by looking at the color of your urine. If your urine is clear, then you know your body is fully hydrated. However, if your urine is dark yellow, you need to drink significantly more water to fully hydrate your body. If you employ these tips, you will be able to lose weight rapidly.
Tags: lose weight, weight loss, your body, your urine, According Journal, According Journal Nutrition
Non-invasive breast cancers indicate the cancer has not spread beyond the ducts or lobules into other breast tissue. Lobules are the glands that produce milk, while ducts carry the milk to the nipple. It is also called in-situ breast cancer, stage 0 breast cancer or pre-invasive breast cancer. Treatments will depend on several factors.
Monitoring LCIS
The American Cancer Society notes that Lobular Carcinoma In Situ, or LCIS, is not considered an actual cancer. In most cases, doctors will not recommend any sort of treatment--just regular follow-ups. In such cases, patients should have a yearly mammogram and breast exam. Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, tests might be a good addition to mammograms; discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Prevention
While no one magic bullet exists for preventing breast cancer, certain things like maintaining a healthy weight, can aid in prevention. Talk to your doctor about preventative strategies to reduce your risk of invasive breast cancer.
Medications and Surgery
In some cases, taking tamoxifen or raloxifene, drugs that interrupt estrogen production linked to breast cancer, might be beneficial. Your doctor can also give you information on clinical drug trials for breast cancer prevention. Some women, especially those with a family history of breast cancer, might consider a double mastectomy (surgical removal of the breasts).
DCIS and Surgery
You will most likely undergo surgery for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ, or DCIS; options include a lumpectomy (just removing the cancer) or a mastectomy and will depend on the size of the affected area and other factors. Radiation usually follows lumpectomies.
DCIS and Tamoxifen
If your DCIS is estrogen-dependent, using tamoxifen for five years post-surgery can reduce the chances of recurring DCIS or invasive breast cancer.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer might, cancer might, Carcinoma Situ
Draw an object using the free, basic graphic editing program, "Microsoft Paint" and add shadows to give it depth. Any small image or even a more complex drawing will look more realistic and three-dimensional by adding darker shades, but you need to follow the technique that all artists use to place the shaded areas correctly. The drawing and shading in "Paint" is all done by the pixel, which is the dot that all computerized images are made of.
Instructions
1. Open Microsoft Paint and select the "Pencil" drawing tool. Click on the color palette and choose black--you can change this later if you want. Draw the outline of the image you would like to shade, pixel by pixel. Zoom in on the image to make it easier to draw with pixels by going to "View" in the top menu and then "Zoom", "Custom", "400%". If you make a mistake, go to "Edit", "Undo" and fix it.
2. Click on the "Brush" tool and choose the largest size brush from the options below the tool box. Place the dot at an angle a small distance away from the object--this represents the imaginary light source that is shining on it to create the shadows. Use this dot as a guide to help you decide where to shade on the object.
3. Choose a color from the color palette for the main color of the object. Keep in mind you will be using two or three darker colors to shade the object, so make sure the main color isn't dark. For example, if the object is a rock, choose a light gray for the main fill color. Click on the "Fill with Color" tool and click inside the object to fill it in.
4. Double-click on the color in the color palette that you used to fill in the object. Select "Define Custom Colors" and slide the arrow on the right of the color chart down three notches to choose a darker shade of the fill color. Click "Add to Custom Colors". Slide the arrow down three more notches and repeat the process to give you three custom colors in three shades darker than the fill color. Hit "OK" and the custom colors you choose will show up in the color palette.
5. Click on the color that is three shades darker than the fill color and choose the "Pencil" tool. Carefully shade along the inside edge opposite the side where the imaginary light is shining. Shade the object about 2/3 of the way up toward the imaginary light. Keep in mind how the object curves and follow the curves with the shading.
6. Select the color three shades darker than the first shading color. Start shading from the inside bottom edge to about 2/3 of the way up the first shaded section. Do the same with the color that is three shades darker than the present color.
7. Select the eraser tool. Left click on the color that you used for the outline on the object and right click on the color that you want to change it to, which should be three shades darker than the darkest shading color. Right click and drag the mouse over the image and the eraser tool will change the existing outline color to the color you want it to be. Save the image.
Tags: darker than, shades darker, shades darker than, three shades, three shades darker, color palette, color that
Ultrasound is often used to monitor fetal development.
Diagnostic medical imaging has revolutionized the practice of medicine over recent decades. The field dates back to the first use of x-rays for imaging in 1896, but with the computer age a host of new technologies has allowed doctors to see the body's function in ways their predecessors could never have dreamed. One of these technologies is ultrasound, or sonography, and schools across the country train technicians to use it.
How Sonography Works
In sonography, an ultrasonic signal is directed into an area of the patient's body. The high frequency sound waves meet resistance, which varies with the density of the tissues they encounter. The echoes of the deflected sound waves are gathered and analyzed by the diagnostic equipment to generate an image of the area. The technician calls upon her training and experience to determine which images are useful for diagnostic purposes. The images are passed along to the attending physician, along with notes outlining any areas of interest.
Sonographic Training
There are several educational paths available to potential sonographers. Certified technicians from other diagnostic fields often cross-train in ultrasound to make themselves more employable, and for them there is an accelerated one-year course. Those just starting in the field can enroll in a two-year associate degree program or a four-year bachelor's degree program. Programs include instruction in basic science, as well as medically-related courses, such as anatomy or physiology. Clinical experience is a part of the degree program, and it is also possible to become an ultrasound technician purely by clinical experience. In practice, most employers prefer formal training.
Schools That Teach Sonography
Training always includes hands-on clinical experience, and schools provide varying degrees of classroom instruction depending on the length of the program. Trade and vocational schools frequently offer one-year vocational certificates and, occasionally, associate degrees. Community colleges and technical schools offer associate degrees and sometimes bachelor's degrees while universities and clinical teaching institutions offer bachelor's degrees. Students may choose any of these settings, depending on personal preference and their planned career path. Many of these programs are recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Credentials and Specialization
As of 2011, there is no licensing requirement for sonography, but professional certification is considered desirable by employers. Credentialing is offered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART). The certification criteria vary somewhat, but all provide an assurance of professional knowledge and skills. Ambitious technologists may also go on to train in a specialized area of practice, such as obstetrics and gynecology, cardiac sonography or neurosonography.
A lack of appetite or energy could be a symptom of canine skin cancer.
Although the public has become more familiar with cancer and its symptoms, the ugly reality is that the disease still can show up unexpectedly. The ravages of cancer are not limited to humans; they affect pets, including dogs. Pet owners can look out for their dogs by familiarizing themselves with the symptoms of skin cancer in dogs.
Skin
Dog owners should be aware of irregular skin growths on their dogs. Not all cysts, tumors or growths are cancerous, but enough of them are that a veterinarian should be notified of unusual growths. If a growth (or tumor) is bleeding, that may be a symptom of skin cancer. Skin that has taken on an unusual color or has been a source of persistent irritation for your dog also could be a symptom. Additionally, fluid discharge from a growth could be indicative of skin cancer.
Changes in Behavior
Dogs that suffer from skin cancer may lick, scratch and chew affected areas excessively, further irritating sores that have been slow to heal. A dog that does not want to walk or is having a hard time walking might be hindered by tumors on its paws; look for for pink, wart-like growths on the dog's paws. Dogs suffering from skin cancer also may lose their appetite and lack energy.
Diet and Digestion Issues
Although it may be more typical of advanced cancer, rapid weight loss can be a symptom of skin cancer in dogs. Dogs having difficulty eliminating waste also may be showing symptoms. If a dog's feces is either bloody or dark black, these symptoms should be reported to a vet. Additionally, difficulties from skin cancer may prevent a dog from properly digesting food, so diarrhea, vomit and even bloody vomit may be symptoms.
Tags: skin cancer, from skin, from skin cancer, cancer dogs, could symptom, skin cancer, skin cancer dogs
Create an X-ray effect with a photo editing program.
Most photo editing programs offer a wide variety of options for image creation. If you wish to make your photo look like an x-ray, you can use inversion and layers to create the appropriate effect. Even the simplest photo editing program can create this effect, as long as it offers layers. For the most part, photo editing programs are not used in conjunction with actual X-rays as editing X-rays can lead to misdiagnosis or other medical errors.
Instructions
1. Double-click on the icon of your photo editing software. If you do not have a photo editing software, download one from the Internet (see Resources).
2. Click on the "File" menu and select "Open." Browse through your photographs until you find the image you want to turn into an X-ray. Click on this file and press "OK."
3. Create a duplicate layer. Right-click on the layer, in the layers box, and scroll to "create duplicate." Alternatively, copy and paste the layer into a new layer. Press "control" and "A" on the keyboard then "control" and "C" to copy the layer. Press the "New Layer" button and click on the new layer. Press "control" and "C" to paste the layer.
4. Invert the new layer. Press the "Effects" menu and scroll to "Invert."
5. Add a layer mask to the inverted layer. Click on the Layers box then click "Add Layer Mask" then "OK." Enter "RGB" for the "Channel" and check the "Invert" box. Click "OK."
6. Add a Hue and Saturation layer. Click on the "Add Layer" button and click "Layer Style" then select "Hue/Saturation." Set the saturation to the minimum.
Swimming like kites floating through the sky, the ray appears both ethereal and benevolent as it makes way through the water. Closely related to sharks, these mysterious fish date back 150 million years in the fossil record. Characterized by bearing live babies, rays also have dorso-ventrally flattened bodies with whip thin tails for protective purposes. Rays thrive in oceans through the world, with some species even inhabiting freshwater ways.
Electric Rays
Belonging to the families Narcinidae and Torpedinidae, the strong electric current generated by kidney shaped organs lend the electric ray its name. This electric current works to stun prey and provide a defense for the ray from predators. In addition, the smallest ray belongs to the electric ray family in the form of the short-nosed electric ray, which only reaches 4 inches in length and 1 pound in weight, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History.
Manta Rays
The manta ray (Manta birostris) takes the claim for the largest ray, growing as big as 30 feet. While their size may seem frightening, manta rays cause no harm to humans; they feed on small fish and plankton. Bearing a grayish blue to green coloring, manta rays also have a whip-like tail that has no barb. These graceful rays swim in tropical waters and due to their slow reproductive rate, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature has listed them as a near-threatened species, according to the Government of Western Australia Department of Environment and Conservation.
Sawfish
Distinguishable from the other rays thanks to a protruding snout lined with sharp, awl-like teeth, the sawfish belongs to the family Pristidae. Mainly bottom feeders, their sensitive snouts detect any motion that disturbs their muddy environment as they feed on invertebrates like shrimp and crabs. Eight species of the sawfish exist, all of which belong on the endangered species list. Many sawfish fatalities come as a result of accidental capture in fishing nets, as well as from the popularity of its saw-like snout for souvenir and medical purposes.
Stingrays
Around 200 species of stingrays exist in the order Myliobatiformes, according to Mote Marine Laboratory. Stingrays inhabit both saltwater and freshwater habitats, some existing permanently in freshwater springs and rivers in Florida. The poisonous barb that gives the stingray its name sits either at the base or end of the tail. This barb contains a protein-based venom that alters heart rate and causes pain to mammals that get stung.
Tags: also have, electric current, manta rays, rays also, rays also have, they feed
Online universities that offer a two-year doctorate may not be reputable.
The amount of time to acquire a PhD depends on a student's performance and not the nature of the program. In fields like medicine, a two-year PhD is impossible to acquire. Although possible two-year completion times appear more often at online universities, students who pursue an online doctorate may have difficulty making this degree appear positive to prospective employers.
The Traditional PhD
Most PhD students at reputable, in-person universities do not finish their program in two years. According to the PhD Completion Project, only 4.5 percent of PhD students from all fields acquire their degree in three years, and based on completion trends the number of students who acquire their degree in less time would be even smaller. Doctoral degrees in medicine, law and business require internships and other supervised work, and these requirements preclude a completion time of two years or less.
The Online PhD
Private, online universities occasionally offer doctoral programs with a possible two-year completion time. They focus on distance coursework followed by in-person research presentations if the program is reputable. However, the employer bias against online degrees decreases their value. In studies analyzed by Norina Columbaro and Catherine Monaghan in 2009, employers widely preferred candidates with a traditional, in-person degree by a margin of 90 percent or higher in most cases.
The Accelerated-track PhD
Under certain circumstances a candidate may create an accelerated-track PhD program in the sciences or humanities, but this requires foresight and work outside the program. Greg Mankiw, a professor of economics at Harvard University, graduated with a PhD in two years by acquiring graduate credits as an undergraduate and then doing research while working as an economist. His employer during that time became his academic advisor when he returned, which also accelerated his track to the PhD.
Tags: acquire their, acquire their degree, completion time, online universities, possible two-year, possible two-year completion
forms in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both men and women but is much more common in women. In early breast cancer, there may be no noticeable symptoms.
Significance
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, breast cancer kills more women than all other cancers except lung cancer. It affects as many as one in eight women in their lifetimes.
Considerations
Symptoms appear when a tumor starts to grow. Symptoms can vary widely and may be the result of non-cancerous conditions such as a cyst.
Symptoms
Possible indications of breast cancer include a lump or thickening of the breast or underarm area, change in size or shape of the breast, bloody discharge or change in the appearance of the nipple.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor if one or both breasts develop pain, a lump or feel abnormal, even if you have had a recent mammogram. Swollen lymph glands in the armpit may also be a sign of breast cancer.
Prevention/Solution
Most doctors recommend annual mammograms for women over 40. At any age, regular breast self-exams can help you to recognize changes in your breasts so you can identify unusual signs and symptoms.
Symptoms of a silicone implant rupture vary from person to person. Some may become ill and develop fybromyalgia, while others won't even realize their implant ruptured until they have it replaced years later. The important thing to do is be observant of any changes in overall health, and to get breast implants screened often to ensure they are intact.
Fibromyalgia
According to the FDA's research, women whose silicone implants have ruptured or are leaking may develop fibromyalgia, which is a painful and debilitating disease.
Silent Rupture
It is very possible, if not more common, to have a silent rupture, where the woman doesn't experience any symptoms at all.
Silicone Leakage
When a silicone implant leaks, the leaking silicone can move towards the scar tissue capsule, a thick layer of scar tissue that builds up around the implant after surgery. If the silicone moves towards the scar tissue, it will be contained there, and won't move anywhere else.
Warning
It is possible for the silicone to leak outside of the scar tissue capsule and migrate into other parts of the body, like the lymph nodes under the arm and major organs such as the lungs.
Key Symptoms
If a woman's silicone gel implant ruptures, it might feel less full or flatter, and may bulge where the rupture is. This can be accompanied with pain or tenderness, swelling, numbness, burning or tingling.
Tags: scar tissue, silicone implant, Breast Implant, Breast Implant Rupture, Implant Rupture, scar tissue capsule
For a career riding the waves, prospective diagnostic medical sonographers should abandon their surfboards and check out a post-secondary education program. Sonography is the field of listening to sound waves from the human body and interpreting them to detect distress, disease or injury. While the sonography field has no set educational degree requirements, applicants should expect to spend between six months to six years in school studying for their field, with two years the most common time investment.
Degrees
A range of educational opportunities are available in diagnostic medical sonography. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs, which monitors the sonography field, accredits 185 programs across the country as of February 2011. These include 13 short-term diplomas and 84 certificates, 94 two-year associate degrees, 26 bachelor's degrees and one master's program, the University of Missouri-Columbia. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the two-year associate degree program is the most common.
College Prep
Getting into a diagnostic medical sonography college program varies both per school and per type of degree. Most associate degree programs require a high school diploma or GED; all bachelor's programs do. Some schools require SAT or ACT scores, a letter of intent, recommendations and a work/volunteer history. Requirements are usually more relaxed for the certificate and diploma programs, which are usually open to students at any educational level.
Coursework
College programs in sonography may differ in the schedule of their classes, but they all prepare students for work in the field. On rosters such as Delta College's, students receive education in abdominal sonography, ultrasound physics and instrumentation, patient care and management, small parts sonography, introduction to neurologic and vascular sonography, occupational wellness, introduction to ultrasound scanning, ultrasound physics and instrumentation, human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology and general physics. Programs at or above the associate degree level almost always also require a few general education courses such as interpersonal communication, technical communication, principles of sociology and American government.
Tracks
Prospective sonographers may have the opportunity, depending on school, to select a specific track to study. In those cases, students in programs such as the cardiovascular track at Mercy College of Health Sciences spend time in cardiovascular labs and conduct cardiovascular clinics and rotations.
Tags: associate degree, diagnostic medical, diagnostic medical sonography, medical sonography, most common, physics instrumentation, two-year associate
Plantar fasciitis is most common in runners, but it is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Patients with this injury should rest and avoid activities that will put more strain to the foot. Even walking can even irritate this condition.
Definition
You suffer pain with plantar fasciitis due to inflammation in the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.
Walking Pain
The plantar fascia stretches with your every step. It hurts when you walk because the tissue is already overstretched and irritated or inflamed.
Risk Factors
Normally, your plantar fascia supports the arch in your foot. However, repetitive stretching and tearing can cause damage to the fascia. That's why plantar fasciitis is most common in people who engage in exercise that put a lot of stress on the heel, such as running and hiking.
Other risk factors are being between 40 and 60 in age, obesity, foot abnormalities and gender, as women are more likely to be affected.
Exercises
Instead of walking for exercise, try other physical activities that put less impact on your foot such as swimming and yoga. Do exercises to stretch your plantar fascia that will help tone and strengthen your lower leg muscles. This will help to stabilize your ankle and heel and to prevent future injuries.
Treatment
Resting, icing, mild stretching and the use of anti-inflammatory medications usually are very effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Wear shoes with proper support and cushioning for your heel to protect it from strain and impact. Wearing proper shoes also is a good way to prevent the condition.
Tags: plantar fascia, most common, your foot, activities that, fasciitis most, fasciitis most common
Fingernails provide a degree of protection to the soft, sensitive tissues underneath them. The National Library of Medicine reports that the nails are made up of hardened layers of a protein called keratin. Healthy nails are smooth and have a uniform color. Fingernail infection is caused by bacteria or fungus that gets underneath the nail. There are several symptoms that you may see when you have this condition.
Look of the Nail
Some nail infections, particularly the fungal ones, can cause a thickening of the nail. This thickening can cause a change or distortion in the nail. Ridges or lines may also form on the nail. According to the Mayo Clinic, the nail will lose luster or shine and become very dull looking. The nail may also become ragged, or may even crumble off in layers.
Color of Nail
When a person has a fingernail infection, there may be a change in the overall color of the nail. Some nail infections cause the nail to yellow or can even turn a dark color or black in some cases. The Mayo Clinic reports that the dark coloring of a nail can be caused when debris has gotten under the nail and caused the infection.
Swelling and Redness
Around the nail bed, the finger may become red and start to swell. This is sometimes caused by a condition called cellulitis. The skin may look very irritated and may even have pus that leaks out. At this point, if you haven't already, you should see your physician because antibiotics are needed to relieve these symptoms.
Foul Smell
Some fingernail infections will have a very bad smell. This usually occurs in severe infections or infections that have been allowed to fester without seeking medical assistance. The foul smell can be caused by a fungus that has invaded the nail, a worsening infection, or the death of tissue surrounding the nail bed. If medical help is not sought, the infection can get into the blood stream and cause a more serious, life-threatening condition called sepsis.
Pain
Pain commonly occurs when a nail infection worsens. The pain can also be caused by the loss of the nail itself. The skin and tissues around and underneath the nail are sensitive. However, when an infection invades this area, it can cause swelling and pressure that push on these already sensitive areas causing it to become increasingly painful. This pain may persist until the infection itself is treated.
Tags: condition called, fungus that, Mayo Clinic, nail caused, nail infections, reports that, Some nail
North Carolina is home to some of the United State's top universities.
North Carolina is part of the Southern Atlantic states. Aside from the many outdoor recreational activities and cultural attractions, the state is home to many private and public liberal arts colleges, community colleges and universities. In 1795, North Carolina opened the first public university in the United States, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
A public, coeducational and research university, the North Carolina State University at Raleigh is in the state's capital. The university is known as NC State, NCSU or simply "State" inside North Carolina. NC State is the state's largest university, enrolling more than 34,000 students. The university is part of the University of North Carolina system, which encompasses 17 state-supported universities. Other UNC schools include UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Wilmington, UNC Asheville, UNC Greensboro, UNC Charlotte, Appalachian State University and the UNC School of the Arts.
Duke University
A private research university, Duke University is located in Durham. It was founded in 1833 by Methodists and Quakers in the present-day town of Trinity and moved to Durham in 1892. The tobacco industrialist James Buchanan Duke established the Duke Endowment in 1924, which prompted the institution to change its name in honor of his deceased father, Washington Duke. Duke University is organized into two undergraduate, 10 graduate and professional schools and seven institutes. The university is well known for its sizable campus, research, athletics and Gothic architecture.
Barton College
A private liberal arts college, Barton College is located in Wilson, North Carolina. It was founded in 1902 by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) under the former name of Atlantic Christian College. Barton College is composed of 1,189 students on campus, with an average 11:1 student-faculty ratio. It has been accredited by The NC Association of Colleges and Universities, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the NC Association and Colleges, and the Committee of Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association.
University of North Carolina Asheville
The University of North Carolina Asheville is a four-year, liberal arts university. Located in Buncombe County, the university was known as Buncombe County Junior College and was founded as part of the Buncombe County public school system in 1927. The school merged with the College of the City of Asheville in 1930 to form Biltmore Junior College. After a series of name changes, the current name was adopted in 1969 upon becoming part of the consolidated University of North Carolina. It awarded its first bachelor's degrees in 1966. The university approximately has 3,600 students and has more than 200 full-time faculty members.
Other Colleges and Universities
North Carolina is also recognized for several historically black colleges and universities, such as North Carolina Central University, North Carolina A&T State University, Winston Salem State University, Fayetteville State University, and Elizabeth City State University. The North Carolina Community College System is a network of 58 public community colleges, enrolling more than 800,000 students.
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Learn to breathe efficiently and swimming will be faster and more comfortable.
Humans are born knowing breathe; the problem comes when you must do so while lying face-down in 4 feet of water. Next time you're at the pool, look at the other swimmers. Their creative solutions to the problem of breathe while swimming freestyle often have a negative (and comical) effect on stroke efficiency. Learning to incorporate breathing into a seamless freestyle will make swimming faster feel easier.
Stroke Mechanics
Novice swimmers typically breathe by lifting their heads out of the water (to the side or front), causing their hips to drop. When hips drop, the surface area you must push through the water becomes larger, and swimming becomes harder. The key to fast, easy swimming is to roll from side to side. An effective body roll engages your larger core muscles rather than the smaller muscles in your arms and shoulders. It also means that a leisurely breath only requires turning your head a few degrees. The sidekick, shark fin, one-arm, fingertip drag and six-count drills will help you master body roll (see "Resources" below for instructions on do these drills). Drills should be easy so you can concentrate on your form. If you are fighting just to stay afloat, wear training fins until you can comfortably swim the drills without them.
Breathe Bilaterally
Breathing to both sides irons out bad stroke mechanics. When Terry Laughlin, founder of Total Immersion Swimming, noticed that his swimmers at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy swam lopsided freestyle, he told them to breathe to their "wrong" side. "Instantly, every stroke was more symmetrical," Laughlin explains. "Lacking a history of practicing bad habits, each swimmer's less-natural breathing side was actually more efficient." Practice breathing on your "wrong" side during warm-up, warm-down and slow sets. As you improve, incorporate three-stroke breathing (breathing on alternate sides).
Focus on Exhaling
New swimmers often hold their breaths while their faces are underwater. No wonder they feel like they're drowning. There just isn't enough time to exhale and take a giant gulp of air before it's time to put your face back in the water. Novice swimmers crane their necks in all kinds of speed-sucking ways to keep their mouths above water longer--and cut their exhales short to gulp still more air. Getting enough air is not the problem, though. The average person only uses a third of the oxygen he inhales, exhaling the rest. A lack of oxygen doesn't leave you feeling breathless; instead, the culprit is the carbon dioxide build-up in your bloodstream. Concentrate on blowing all your air out underwater, then taking a relaxed breath rather than gasping forcefully when your mouth clears the water. The harder you swim, the more you should focus on your exhale. Laughlin suggests blowing the last 20 percent of your breath much harder than the first 80 percent. This will expel any extra carbon dioxide lurking in your lungs and create a vacuum, meaning you will inhale naturally and effortlessly. Practice exhaling forcefully in your next workout, and you'll be surprised at how comfortable fast swimming feels.
Tags: body roll, carbon dioxide, hips drop, Novice swimmers, rather than, wrong side
Breast cancer is curable if it's caught early enough to get effective treatment. Learning find and recognize the early signs of breast cancer may help to improve the quality of your life. Monthly self-exams of the breasts are helpful in finding abnormalities such as lumps, pitted skin or bruising. The faster you act on abnormal findings; the better your chances of a full recovery after medical treatment.
Itching
Itching may be experienced on the breasts with discharge from one or both nipples. The nipples may flatten or become inverted. The nipples may be discolored, ranging from dark pink to red. An appointment with your health professional is prudent.
Bruising
Early signs of breast cancer include a bruise, or bruising, on the breasts that won't go away. The bruises may fade or change color, however they don't disappear. This sign should definitely raise red flags and prompt you to visit your health professional for a thorough exam and testing.
Swelling
Swelling of the breasts when you are not menstruating, or lumps that suddenly appear, should be checked out with your health professional. Swelling of the breasts may be misdiagnosed by doctors as a breast infection and treated with antibiotics. While inflammatory breast cancer may present symptoms that are similar to that of a common breast infection precious time is lost using antibiotics. Always get a second opinion if you are faced with this situation.
Aggressive
Inflammatory breast cancer is a fast-moving aggresive cancer that spreads quickly to nearby tissue and lymph nodes. The build-up of fluid is the reason why the breast, or breasts, swell, causing discoloration, tenderness and redness. "Inflammatory breast cancer accounts for between 1 percent and 6 percent of all breast cancer cases in the United States. Survival rates are lower than those observed in other locally advanced breast cancers." Mayo Clinic (see Resources).
Effects
Skin may thicken under the arms and ridges or dimpling of the skin may occur on the breast rather like the surface of an orange peel; this is called, peau d'orange. Unusual warmth may be felt on the breast and the breast may be bright red in color. These are classic signs of breast cancer.
Exam
Do a monthly self-exams to detect early signs of breast cancer. The self-exams may be done lying down on an exercise mat or on the bed. Lie flat and raise your arms behind your head as if you were basking in the sun on a warm beach. Using the forefinger and index finger of your left hand, examine your right breast using small circular motions. Examine every part of your breast and underarm before repeating the process for your left breast using the fingers of your right hand. Note any abnormalities in a notebook and see your doctor at the first instance of suspicion. Repeat the self-exam monthly.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, health professional, signs breast, signs breast cancer, your health, your health professional
Stage III colon cancer is a more advanced stage of the disease where abnormal cells are no longer contained within your colon. They've now metastasized beyond this portion of your intestinal tract into neighboring regions, such as the lymph nodes, rectum and bladder. For some, it may even have spread into the membrane that lines their abdominal cavity, which helps protect your organs. And though early detection is the most effective means of fighting cancer, surviving stage III colon cancer is still possible, especially when you follow the prescribed course of treatment.
Treatment
Of all the things you can do to survive stage III colon cancer, surgery is by far one of the more effective treatment options. With this type of procedure, the diseased portion of your colon is actually removed. Often referred to as simply a "resection," cancerous tissue is first extracted. This may include just a small section of your large intestines or the entire colon itself. But regardless of the amount removed, the remaining intestinal tract is then reconnected through a procedure known as anastomosis.
Yet due to the stage of the disease, an adjuvant course of chemotherapy usually follows the extraction of the cancerous tissue. This is largely a result of the metastasis that has taken place within your body, as surgery doesn't necessarily remove all the malignant tissue. By going through chemotherapy, you're not only ridding your system of any abnormal cells that may have been missed during the resection, but you're also increasing your likelihood of survival.
With stage III colon cancer, chemotherapy is typically given systematically, which essentially means that the "anticancer" drugs are administered either intravenously or orally so that they may enter your bloodstream. This allows the medication to reach those areas of the body that may now contain the associated abnormal cells.
Follow-up Care
While this standard course of treatment can go a long way to helping you survive, it's also quite important to put in place some simple self-care measures. These can often increase your overall prognosis with any form of this disease, so start off by making sure to take some time to relax and couple this with a healthy, well-balanced diet. Treatment can really take a toll on your body, but, by getting proper sleep and nutrients, you're helping boost your immune system while combating fatigue.
It's also essential to create a support system for yourself. This may include family, friends or even strangers who are going through cancer as well. No matter where your find the support, talk about your feelings and emotions. You're not alone in this. By talking about what is going on, you can relieve a great deal of tension and stress, creating a healthier environment for you to beat the disease.
Bringing animal care to the road is a relatively new concept that is spreading across the country. Mobile vet clinics are gaining in popularity, making it possible for pet owners to have their beloved pet conveniently cared for right in their own home. Mobile vet clinics allow pet owners to avoid transporting their pets, long office waits, and having to rearrange their schedules to bring their pets in. If you are a licensed veterinarian looking for an innovative approach to caring for your patients, consider opening a mobile vet clinic.
Instructions
1. Research the vet industry well. If you already own your own veterinarian practice, focus on the aspect of a mobile business. If you are just starting out as a vet and are new to the field of veterinary care, research all aspects of the vet business.
2. Determine how in-depth you would like your mobile vet clinic to be. Decide if you will perform basic check-up and well-care services along with treating simple ailments and complaints, or if you will offer a full-service veterinary clinic, complete with X-ray machines, diagnostic tests, surgical procedures and lab services.
3. Investigate the types of machinery and equipment that will be needed for your type of clinic. Calculate the cost of equipment and supplies.
4. Hire a professional consulting company to develop a business plan. Include long-term goals, start-up costs and overall expenses, projected profits, etc.
5. Search for a financial institution that specializes in small-business loans. Present your professional business plan and apply for a business loan.
6. Apply for a business license. Check with state and local guidelines to determine if there are any additional requirements associated with operating a mobile vet clinic.
7. Search for a vehicle that will accommodate your mobile vet clinic. Be sure the vehicle has enough room to house all necessary instruments and tools, supplies and equipment, as well as a treatment area.
8. Promote your business by advertising in local newspapers, with online social media sites, on the local radio stations, with in-store flyers and by mailing out flyers.
9. Speak with pet supply stores, dog groomers, animal shelters and any pet-related businesses to promote your mobile vet clinic. Leave them your business cards.
10. Develop a professional website for your mobile vet clinic. Include contact information, hours of availability, a detailed description of services offered, the benefits and convenience of a mobile clinic, and rates for standard procedures. Consider adding a section for visitors to leave comments, questions and feedback. Include colorful photographs of the mobile vet clinic.
Tags: mobile clinic, your mobile, your mobile clinic, business plan, Mobile clinics
Congratulations on being called for a job interview at Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest nonprofit health plans in the U.S. More than 150,000 people who work for the health plan have successfully completed a job interview at Kaiser Permanente, and so can you. To interview at Kaiser Permanente, research the organization and the different departments; bring the information and writing utensils you need to the interview; dress appropriately and arrive early; greet everyone in a professional manner; be prepared to answer questions about how your experience compares to the job requirements; and have some questions in mind to ask the interviewer. Follow up after the interview with a note or card and wait for further word from the company.
Instructions
1. Learn as much as you can about Kaiser Permanente. Before you go to the interview, visit the company website, read the annual report and read about the company's history. Familiarize yourself with the size and volume of the business, such as the number of health plan members; the number of employees, physicians, medical offices and hospitals; and the company's operating revenue. Visit the "Careers" section and read about the company's philosophy and core values. Learn as much as you can about the different departments at Kaiser Permanente.
2. Dress conservatively for the interview and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring copies of your resume, a notebook, a pen or pencil, additional job history information you might need to fill out an application and contact information for references.
3. Greet each person you meet with a firm handshake. Use direct eye contact and try to remember the person's name by addressing him with his name right after you learn what it is. Relax, be confident and begin conversations with small talk. For example, look around the person's office for photos and inquire about his family or an event or trophy pictured in the photo.
4. Have an understanding of the position for which you are interviewing. Match your skills and experience to the requirements of that position and be prepared to share examples of how you have successfully accomplished some of the same objectives or have successfully overcome similar challenges. Tell stories and use specific examples so that people can better relate to your experience.
5. Be prepared to ask a few questions about either the role or something that was discussed during the interview at the end of the interview. Let the interviewer know you were paying attention and that you are excited about the opportunity to work for Kaiser Permanente. At the conclusion of the interview, ask about next steps and a time frame for a decision, and reiterate your interest in the position.
Tags: Kaiser Permanente, have successfully, interview Kaiser, interview Kaiser Permanente, about company, different departments, health plan
Crestor is a synthetic lipid-lowering prescription medication that is used with a healthy diet to regulate cholesterol levels. Produced in tablet form only, it is used to control the progression of atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and type III hyperlipoproteinemia.
pills
Headache
A common neurological side effect of taking Crestor is headache. Tell your doctor if you experience a persistent headache.
Dizziness
Some patients using Crestor report feeling dizzy or faint. This side effect usually subsides after taking the medication for a while.
Depression
Depression is a more serious side effect of Crestor, shown to affect a small percentage of consumers.
Numbness and Tingling
Another common complaint with Crestor is numbness or tingling in the extremities. This may indicate your dosage is too high so consult your doctor.
Other Side Effects
Other neurological side effects associated with Crestor include chronic trouble sleeping, memory loss and increased anxiety. Combining Crestor with other medications will increase your risk for having side effects.
Tags: side effect, neurological side, side effects, with Crestor, your doctor
As you deal with illness or disability, your physician may prescribe an adjustable bed for you. Doctors prescribe these beds for many conditions, including postsurgery recovery; sleep disorders; spinal, circulatory, digestive or respiratory problems; various types of pain; and even restless leg syndrome. For those on Medicare, an adjustable bed may not be the best option unless there is a secondary funding source involved.
Identification
Medicare is health insurance for people over the age of 65. It also covers those under the age of 65 (and over 18) when they've been diagnosed with certain disabilities, and it covers anyone with permanent kidney failure. Since Medicare is mandated by the United States government, you must have lived in the U.S. for a minimum of 5 years and have legally entered the country to qualify. Medicare has several divisions, including Part A Hospital Insurance, Part B Medical Insurance, Part C Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D Drug Insurance. Part B also covers durable medical equipment (DME). Hospital beds are considered DME.
Function
Medicare does not pay for adjustable beds, but they can be billed by your DME provider on a nonassigned basis. This means that you are required to pay the provider for the rental or purchase of the bed, but that the provider will submit a "nonassigned" claim to Medicare on your behalf, including all completed paperwork. This way, if Medicare should choose to pay the claim, it would pay you directly. However, in almost all cases, Medicare won't reimburse for an adjustable bed. Still, for clients who have secondary insurance, a proper denial from Medicare is necessary for coverage to occur.
Considerations
Most durable medical equipment providers who are contracted with their state's Medicaid program will take assignment for adjustable beds if they're able to obtain preauthorization from Medicaid for coverage. "Assigned" means that the provider bills Medicare and Medicaid (or the insurance company) directly and accepts payment directly, writing off any charges above those allowed. Allowed charges are determined by Medicare, Medicaid and the insurance companies and are what these organizations consider "reasonable charges" for certain services. This way, the provider is allowed to bill for and be paid for only the allowed amount. If a provider bills for anything beyond this "allowed" amount, it is considered fraud.
Prevention/Solution
If you or a loved one is on Medicare and a physician has prescribed an adjustable bed, the first step is to determine if your secondary insurance will pay for the bed. If not, you might consider discussing alternative equipment with your physician. For example, a semielectric hospital bed is covered under Medicare's capped rental program. This means that Medicare pays your DME provider for 10 months' rental, and then gives you the option of continuing to rent or purchasing the bed. If you choose the rent option, the provider bills Medicare for the remainder of the predetermined rental period, and then the equipment is placed on a maintenance program. Then, the provider bills Medicare once every 6 months for the cost of 1 month's rent. In return, the provider retains ownership of the bed but is required to keep it in good working order (or replace as necessary) during the entire rental period. When the bed is no longer medically necessary, it must be returned to the provider. If the purchase option is chosen, the provider bills Medicare for a specified amount of time and then converts the rental to a purchase. In this case, the patient owns the bed. The provider may bill Medicare for repairs to the bed when a patient owns it.
Potential
Assuming a semielectric hospital bed is an option for you, Medicare requires that certain requirements be met before it will cover one for a client. That is, the need must be medically necessary under Medicare's standards. To prove medical necessity, your durable medical equipment provider must provide a properly completed Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN). This must be Medicare's standard form and must be completed in a very specific manner by the prescribing physician, and it must be kept up-to-date by the provider for the length of the rental period and for any repairs if you choose to purchase the bed. A physician may choose to enter "99" for length of need on the CMN, which would indicate a "lifetime" need to Medicare. In this case, the CMN would not generally need to be updated.
Whether it's a Bite-wing X-ray, Periapical X-ray or Panoramic X-ray, dental images all require top-notch equipment and software to get the job done. Seek out companies that specialize in selling dental X-ray equipment, including the X-ray itself as well as ID printers and X-ray viewers.
Instructions
1. Decide what type of equipment and how many units you need before you start shopping around.
2. Take a look at your office's setup. Some dental X-ray machines are attached to a wheeled floor stand. Others need to be mounted on the wall. See which type works best in your facility.
3. Look online. There are databases that list all the companies that specialize in dental X-ray equipment. Also, ask your medical supply dealer for recommendations.
4. Compare prices. Dental X-ray units cost several thousand dollars apiece, so it's a big investment.
5. Look for units with a push button that can be operated from outside the room, if needed. Some come with a remote control panel, too.
6. Buy X-ray machines that are made of high quality materials. Many have glossy finishes, specifically so they can be cleaned easily. This helps keep your working environment hygienic.
7. Find a reputable dealer. Ask other dental offices where they bought their equipment. Get information on the company's exchange or return policy, just in case.
Tags: companies that, companies that specialize, dental X-ray equipment, that specialize, X-ray equipment, X-ray machines
When you're suffering from a torn rotator cuff, a muscle or tendon within this area of the shoulder has sustained a tear. This tear can range in severity from a very small split to a complete separation of the tissue, dictating the type of treatment necessary to heal the injury. If the tear is relatively minor, you may only need to use a form of cold treatment to help you recover.
Cold Treatment
With a torn rotator cuff, cold treatment is used to both lessen inflammation and decrease the associated pain. By reducing the temperature within the rotator cuff, you're actually forcing the blood, which is currently rushing to the tear in order to help heal the injury and subsequently causing the area to swell, away from the injured muscle or tendon. And since the blood is now moving away from the tear, the swelling should subside, thereby easing the pain.
More commonly known as cold therapy, a bag of ice is probably the easiest option to reduce the temperature along the affected tissue, but you may instead want to use a package of frozen vegetables or an actual cold pack to administer this treatment.
To use this method of treatment, simply hold the ice on the shoulder for anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes at a stretch a number of times throughout the day. Any longer and you could risk worsening the injury. Cold is applied to the injured area for the first couple of days. After this time, you should begin to switch off between cold and heat therapy. You should see an improvement in your condition in three weeks to a few months.
Follow-up Care
As you allow the tear to heal, consider employing some follow-up care in conjunction with the cold treatment. Not only should this include the heat therapy, which is applied to the injury for the same amount of time as the ice, but you'll also benefit from a little rest and gentle exercise. Resting is simply taking it easy on your shoulder and avoiding those activities that could exacerbate your condition, such as tasks that require you to reach over your head. With exercise, you want to stretch the shoulder and later incorporate some light weight training to ensure you maintain strength, flexibility and full range of motion within your shoulder.
If the pain persists, or even worsens, take a couple of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and contact your doctor. The injury may be more severe than you think and medical intervention could be necessary to properly heal your rotator cuff.
The country converted all its broadcasting facilities to digital in 2009.
Digital television has allowed consumers to view broadcasts in ways not possible with analog signals. Images broadcast by digital means arrive to the television with less distortion and with less delay. Even with all of its technological advantages, some drawbacks do exist for the technology as older Americans struggle to convert to a new way of watching TV.
High Definition Television
High definition television is a technological breakthrough made by possible by digital image broadcasting. The major advantage provided by the digital signal in HDTV is the clarity and sharpness of the image that appears on the television screen.
Fully Operational or Broken
Digital television is an all or nothing scenario. Either the signal comes through in crystal-clear quality or the image is not present. Gone are the grainy days of analog television where viewers could twist an antennae around until a partial snowy image appeared on the screen. According to the Public Broadcasting Station's website, the "all or nothing" aspect of digital TV is known as the Cliff Effect because one minute you're on dry land with a clear picture and the next you're off the cliff with a blank screen. All consumers can do to solve the problem is check the digital connections and call the cable company.
More Programming
Digital television allows stations to broadcast in more than one programming stream. The result is an increased variety of shows and other broadcasts for the consumer to choose from. You may notice a lot of television stations premiering second and third versions of parent stations such as ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPN News. This is all possible with digital broadcasting since essentially one channel can broadcast as several from the same location or combine several locations into one broadcast.
Tags: Digital television, possible with, with less
Consider all your options before undergoing cosmetic surgery.
No human face is perfectly symmetrical. Features naturally develop with asymmetry, which can appear as a crooked nose, a weak chin, or weak cheekbones. There are several cosmetic surgeries that can reduce the impact of asymmetrical features. As with any surgery, risks and expected results should be assessed prior to scheduling the procedure. It is also important to research your surgeon.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nosejob, is one surgical procedure that can reduce facial asymmetry. Rhinoplasty can correct myriad problems, from a crooked nose, to a bulbous tip. Bumps in the bridge of the nose can be shaved down and straightened, and the nose can be made smaller overall. Rhinoplasty costs vary by location and, as all the other surgeries discussed here, is not usually covered by insurance. The average cost for rhinoplasty is typically about $4,700, as of June 2010.
Chin Augmentation
Chin augmentation is a procedure that attaches an silicone or Porex implant onto the chin bone, which balances the entire face. Chin implants are curved and usually cup the sides of the chin, bringing more symmetry to the jawline as well. (Implants can be shaped and sized to your face for the best possible results.) The implant brings the chin forward and creates a more balanced symmetry to the upper and lower portions of the face, and creates a stronger profile. A weak or receding chin can distort the proportions of the nose; it can often make the nose appear larger because the face is not evenly proportioned.
Chin implants are commonly inserted through an incision on the underside of the chin (which may leave a tiny scar), but can also be inserted through a tiny incision in the mouth. They are secured to the bone or soft tissue with dissolveable sutures, and the implant eventually becomes part of the body as tissue grows over it. This procedure is usually performed by a cosmetic surgeon or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Chin implants vary in cost, but generally range between $3,000 to $5,000, as of June 2010.
Cheek Implants
Cheek implants (also called malar/submalar augmentation) help to make the face more proportionate by creating a projection from the natural cheekbones, and bringing the cheeks into better balance with your other features. This procedure may be appropriate for individuals who want to enhance weak cheekbones, or restore a youthful fullness to their face.
Cheek implants are typically done through an incision at the top of the upper lip, or on the outer cheek. A pocket is created in the tissue, and the implant is inserted into the pocket. (Implant shape and size can be tailored to your face; your surgeon will select the appropriate implant for you.) The implant is secured to the cheekbone with dissolveable sutures, and the incisions are closed with sutures. Cheek implants vary in cost, but generally average $2,400 to $5,000, as of June 2010.
What to Expect
Most surgeons are affiliated with a hospital where they will perform the procedure, although some have operating facilities in their office. The surgeon will tell you what time to arrive at the hospital or office, and a nurse will prep you for surgery upon arrival. The doctor will visit you and mark your face with a permanent marker to show you exactly where the incisions and refinements will be made. You will then be visited by an anesthesiologist, who will give you an IV to place you under general anesthesia. You will then be taken into an operating room, where the surgeon will perform the procedure. These procedures can usually be performed in two hours or less. The next step is the recovery room, where you'll most likely feel a little -- or a lot -- woozy from the anesthesia. You'll be given time to rest and relax. Most procedures allow patients to be sent home the same day.
Research Doctors Thorougly
When considering any type of plastic surgery, it is important to do extensive research on both the procedure and several surgeons. The surgeon you choose should be certified by a major professional association, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), or the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Your surgeon must also maintain a valid license to practice medicine for the state in which he/she performs your procedure.
Discuss Your Options with Your Surgeon
Have an honest conversation with your surgeon about the realistic results of the surgery you're considering. It's important to maintain a realistic expectation of the outcome. Although your surgeon can show you before-and-after photos of his or her previous work, remember that each person is different, and your results may not look like the photos. Your surgeon should be up front about what he can do for you, and what you should expect.
Tags: Cheek implants, Chin implants, June 2010, surgeon will, your face, your surgeon, cost generally
A community health assessment examines health needs for a population.
A community health assessment examines the health care issues present in a population and identifies health care needs. Community health assessments are important because they help state, local, and national agencies allocate resources.
What is a Community Health Assessment?
Community health assessments seek to improve public health.
A community health assessment is a multi-step process that collects and analyzes data about health care issues and health care needs in a given population. These assessments are often part of a city or state's strategic plan. The community health assessment identifies pressing public health needs. This data is then used to set priorities and allocate resources. The ultimate goal of a community health assessment is to identify ways to improve the overall public health.
How is a Community Health Assessment Conducted?
A wide variety of data is used in a community health assessment.
Community health assessments are conducted regularly and involve the systematic collection of public health data. A team of public health professionals collects a wide variety of data about health in a given population. This can include data such as vital statistics, aggregate data from hospitals on common presenting problems, or first-hand data about health care issues and common health problems. First-hand data may be collected through interviews and other direct methods.
Why are Community Health Assessments Important?
Community health assessments identify barriers to health care access.
Community health assessments are used to set public health priorities and identify barriers to access to health care. Local and state governments can then create programs to address barriers and pressing public health issues, as well as allocate money and human resources to the most important areas as they seek to improve public health.
Tags: public health, health care, Community health assessments, health assessment, health assessments, about health, care issues
TRICARE provides affordable health care for active duty military members and their families. There are several plans from which to choose and include pharmacy benefits, dental options, and a vision plan. Transitional benefits may be available when a service member separates from the military.
From Active Duty to Retirement
Service members on active duty receive TRICARE benefits.
A service member must enroll in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). While on active duty, they are enrolled in a TRICARE Prime plan. Upon retirement, the service member can change the type of plan for themselves and their family. Moving to a different location can impact the service member's eligible benefits.
Changes in Benefits
Active duty service members do not pay fees for their TRICARE benefits and there are minimal fees for family members. As a retiree, there are enrollment fees and copayments.
Veterans Health Administration
Any service member who served on active duty is eligible to enroll in Veterans Administration (VA) health care benefits. The VA no longer only provides services to those with service-connected disabilities. Veterans are assigned to one of eight categories based on service-connected disability, income level and other factors. VA coverage includes preventative medicine and primary care as well as nursing home care and dental services.
Tags: service member, active duty, health care, TRICARE benefits
Twelve major health insurance companies and seven government programs provide health insurance coverage in New York, according to the New York State Department of Insurance. As a consumer, you can take advantage of four sources that can provide this information: the state's Department of Insurance, the insurance companies themselves, local brokers or agents, and membership organizations you may belong to.
Instructions
1. Contact the New York Department of Insurance, the state agency that regulates health insurance in New York. The department publishes consumer guides that compare for-profit, nonprofit and government-provided health plans. Visit the agency's website to print out its consumer guides and comparison charts, or telephone the staff for assistance. The New York State Department of Insurance tracks data for all health plans operating within the state, so you can determine which plan offers the most benefits for the lowest premium, as well as view data about complaints, payment of claims and customer satisfaction.
2. Call a local insurance broker or agent who can explain benefits and obtain quotes from several insurance carriers. To locate one who is nearby, use tools from agent and broker professional associations such as the National Association of Health Underwriters, the Tri-County Independent Insurance Agents Association and the Insurance Brokers' Association of the State of New York.
3. Get quotes directly from insurance companies. Use contact lists from insurance trade associations like the Greater Central New York Association of Health Underwriters or from regulators like the New York State Department of Insurance to connect directly with the companies. You can also visit websites for health plans like Aetna or Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield to get comparative quotes online.
4. Check your memberships. Some professional associations, civic or alumni groups, fraternal societies or other membership organizations offer discounts on health insurance or affordable membership in a group plan.
Tags: Department Insurance, health insurance, York State, health plans, insurance companies
Veterinary technicians help animal patients get and stay healthy.
Helping care for paws, tails, wings and snouts, veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with their animal patients. Veterinary technicians may actually spend more time with the animal than the vet, taking patient vital signs and histories, performing routine examinations and administering immunizations. Vet techs may also stand in to assist the vet in surgeries or complicated procedures, along with monitoring animals overnight.
Facts
When the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics conducted a study of wages in 2009, it discovered countrywide veterinary tech salaries averaging $14.70 per hour. The BLS also found certain industries paying vet techs significantly higher salaries. The federal executive branch of the government offered an hourly mean wage of $22.60. Medical and surgical hospitals also paid higher-than-average rates of $20.39 per hour.
Location
Vet techs working on either coast of the country earned the highest hourly rates in 2009. Almost tied for first and second place in the BLS' top-paying states for the profession were Connecticut, paying $17.48 per hour, and New York, paying $17.43 per hour. In third place and close behind was the District of Columbia, at $17.39 per hour, followed by California, at $17.17 per hour.
Considerations
The path to earning a salary as a vet tech usually starts with an associate's degree from one of the American Veterinary Medical Association's accredited college programs. Bachelor's degrees are also available. Vet techs must pass their state's licensing exam, which is usually the National Veterinary Technician exam.
Outlook
Cited as one of the faster-growing occupations, the veterinary technology field is expected to continue a 36 percent growth rate through 2018, adding 28,500 jobs across the country, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS recommends food manufacturing, biomedical facilities, diagnostic laboratories and wildlife facilities as the best employment places to attain top salaries for vet techs.
Tags: animal patients, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Department Labor, Department Labor Bureau
If you are looking for schools where you can obtain a degree in electronics engineering or electrical engineering, Miami, Florida, has several options for you. Electronics engineering typically requires a foundation of electrical engineering. From world-class universities to smaller, specialty schools, there are educational options in Miami that not only will provide you with the fundamental training you will need but also offer specialized training in your chosen field.
University of Miami
The University of Miami is a private research institute with a population of more than 15,000 students, located in the heart of the city. The school offers a course of study in the complementary disciplines of electrical and computer engineering, and it offers three undergraduate degree programs in electrical engineering, computer engineering, and information technology and software engineering. Students will learn about such diverse topics as integrated electronics and photonics, electrical power generating and transmission systems, and automation and robotics.
University of Miami
College of Engineering
P.O. Box 248294
Coral Gables, FL 33124
www.miami.edu
Florida International University
Located in the University Park and North Miami neighborhoods of the city, Florida International University is an urban university serving nearly 30,000 students in a wide variety of courses of study. Florida International University offers course work in electrical and computer engineering. The electrical engineering program includes not only academic course work but also a research component integral to the course of study. Many of the faculty are leaders in industry and combine teaching with their research interests. Thus, students are trained in both critical thinking and hands-on engineering skills.
Florida International University
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
College of Engineering & Computing
10555 West Flagler Street EC 3935
Miami, Florida 33174
305-348-2807
www.fiu.edu
ATI Career Training Center
Located in Miami, ATI Career Training Center offers career training in a number of fields, including electronic technology and electronics engineering technology. The electronic technology and electronics engineering technology programs offer students the hands-on training they need to succeed in the work place. The program offers a balance of training in electronics, digital electronics, and telecommunications. Each student is given a new computer as part of the price of tuition. Students can work towards certification as an electronics system technician with training in basic craft skills, safety on the job, networking and other digital electronics training, and electronic systems installation.
ATI Career Training Center
7265 NW 25th Street
Miami, FL 33122
1-888-209-8264
www.aticareertraining.edu
Tags: electrical engineering, Florida International, Florida International University, International University, Career Training Center, electronics engineering, Training Center