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Essential Foot Care Tips for People With Diabetes Can Save a Limb

NewsUSA — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Complications due to diabetes are the number-one cause of lower-leg amputations and account for nearly 86,000 amputations per year. Doctors estimate
almost 50 percent of these amputations could have been prevented if the person had taken better care of their feet.
“I can’t emphasize enough how important it is for a person with diabetes to pay rigorous attention to their feet. Foot infections are the most common issue for a person with diabetes and are more severe and take longer to heal than in a person without diabetes,” says Dr. Alan Farber, a certified doctor of podiatric medicine.
Farber added, “Proper foot care is simple and includes things like using an antifungal daily, not only to heal, but also to prevent fungal infections, and using a moisturizer daily to heal and prevent dry, cracked skin.”
Are you being thorough enough in your foot care? Read on to find out:
* Whether indoors on plush rugs or outdoors on white sand, never walk barefoot. Podiatrists recommend wide, closed-toed shoes with socks that fit very well. Shoes should not require “breaking in.”
* Clean feet daily with warm water and mild soap, but don’t soak them for more than three or four minutes. Skin submerged for too long will become macerated and more vulnerable to bacteria.
* Cracks in dry skin provide ideal openings for bacteria. Look for moisturizing creams containing L-Arginine, like DiabetiDerm Foot Rejuvenating Cream. L-Arginine helps stimulate healthy blood flow to heal dry, cracked skin. This special cream is available only in the diabetic section of your favorite drugstore or superstore.
* Under no circumstances should you shave or attempt to remove calluses or corns. Instead, show them to your podiatrist and ask about specially prescribed shoes. Even before your appointment, buy a cream made especially for people with diabetes that specifies it helps soften calluses, and apply it every day.
* Meticulously inspect feet, toes and toenails for swelling, cuts, blisters, redness, fungal buildup or any type of irritation on a daily basis. If you have thickened toenails, have a podiatrist test for fungus. If fungus is present, an antifungal will likely be recommended. Walgreens and Rite Aid both carry DiabetiDerm Antifungal Cream with L-Arginine in the diabetic section. L-Arginine helps stimulate blood flow, which in turn speeds healing.
Learn more about foot care at www.diabeticproducts.com.

Essential Foot Care Tips for People With Diabetes Can Save a Limb was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Insider Secrets to an Affordable Road Trip

NewsUSA — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Whether traveling for business or pleasure, most people will take at least one road trip this year, and when they do, they’ll be looking for value.
To help get the most out of your next trip, here are five insider secrets from travel expert and life-long hotelier, Rajiv Bhatia, head of roadside hotel chain Knights Inn.
1. Book Your Hotel Direct. Shopping around is always a good idea, and it seems like new websites pop up every day to help travelers do just that. That’s great for comparing offerings, but when you’ve made your choice, book directly with the hotel or brand. More often than not, you’ll be offered a lower price as well as a best-rate guarantee.
2. Pass on Car Rental Insurance. Rather than paying the insurance that car rental companies provide for a fee, check your personal policy. Often, your plan will include a travel clause that you may not be aware of, saving you as much as $30 a day. To save even more, don’t worry about the size of the rental car you are reserving and go with the smallest size offered. The most compact cars usually get overbooked and sell out fast, often leading to a free upgrade.
3. Don’t Pay for What’s Free. Spend your money on fun, not on hotel Internet fees and expensive breakfasts. Stick with hotels that offer these amenities at no cost.
4. Slow Down on the Highway. Savor the journey to your destination; it doesn’t pay to rush. Driving in excess of 60 miles per hour will waste gas and money. For every five miles over, you car can lose as much as 23 percent fuel efficiency.
5. Brand Loyalty Pays. Hotel loyalty programs let travelers earn points for their stays, points that can be redeemed for gift cards, free nights and more. When you stay with competing brands, it’s likely you won’t earn enough points for rewards. Stay with only one brand or its affiliates and watch your point balance grow. Like having choices when you travel? Try Wyndham Rewards, it’s the largest hotel loyalty program in the world, with 14 brands and over 6,500 hotels.

Insider Secrets to an Affordable Road Trip was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Sealing Homes After Winter’s Wrath

NewsUSA — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – The winter weather trifecta of ice, snow and wind can leave a house full of new cracks and openings, rendering it defenseless when spring brings rain and unexpected pests. Unfortunately, the total damage left by winter’s wrath may not be known until after pests have already invaded your home.
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), more than half of homeowners are concerned about pest damage to their homes and property — and rightfully so.
“Increased moisture from melting ice and snow can create cracks and holes in roofs and foundations, allowing pests easy access,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association. “Ice dams, which form on roofs and prevent snow from melting, are especially problematic as they can damage walls, ceilings, insulation and drywall, with resulting moisture attracting pests such as termites and carpenter ants.”
If pests have already found their way indoors, immediate action is recommended. “Homeowners should deal with a pest problem right away since household pests breed relatively quickly. A small pest problem can result in a full-blown infestation in a matter of weeks, posing serious health risks to homeowners and their families,” advised Henriksen.
The first step toward keeping spring pests outdoors is to repair any obvious damage. The NPMA recommends the following advice:
* Look for missing roof shingles, ripped window screens and clogged gutters, all of which are as inviting as a “Pests welcome” vacancy sign.
* Seal cracks and holes, including entry points for utilities and pipes.
* Replace weather-stripping, and repair loose mortar around basement foundations and windows.
* Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
* Vacuum around doors and windows, as these are key entry points for eager pests. Frequent vacuuming can catch invaders like spiders, silverfish, earwigs and beetles.
* Inspect garages and outbuildings for rodent tenants. Organize cluttered debris, boxes and random items along the walls where mice may hide or nest. Does spring cleaning call for a new shelving unit?
* Partner with a local pest professional to treat existing infestations, and consider a quarterly maintenance plan to keep pests out for good.
For more information about pest maintenance, tips on identifying an infestation and locating a qualified and licensed pest professional, visit www.pestworld.org.

Sealing Homes After Winter’s Wrath was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

5 Study Tips to Curb Exam-Preparation Stress

NewsUSA — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – For college students, the stress of exams is an anxiety-filled final hurdle to overcome before fully relaxing and enjoying the long-deserved break. These exams can be intimidating — especially for freshmen with an advanced workload — which is why stress management is key.
Use these five stress-relief tips to help ease exam-taking tensions as casual study time becomes cram time.
* Watch a funny movie. There’s nothing like comic relief and laughter to get your mind off that chemistry final. Need an idea for a great college-aged comedy? Check out “The Pool Boys,” available on DVD, Blu-Ray, streaming and digital download from Seven Arts.
The DVD and Blu-Ray include special features that you can save for further study breaks, including interviews and commentary. For a preview, check out the trailer (rated R) at www.ThePoolBoysMovie.com.
* Hit the gym. Try to schedule regular workouts around your blocks of exam studying time to help keep stress in check. If you are on a sports team, you may still have practices during exam time, but if not, make plans with teammates to do some conditioning. Go for a run, shoot hoops or lift some weights.
If you’re on your own for exercise and the weather outside is frightful, try an indoor dance or yoga class, or an exercise video or DVD that you can do in your room.
* Have a snack. It’s hard to concentrate if your stomach is growling, but hold off on the celebratory drinks until after exams are over. Instead, have some energy-boosting snacks on hand while studying, such as trail mix or energy bars. Stay hydrated, too.
* Get some air. Does your exam stress mean hours in the library or lab? Go out and walk around the building, or around the block. Clearing your head and getting your eyes away from the screen can work wonders.
* Avoid all-nighters. Sometimes an all-night study session is inevitable, but don’t underestimate the value of sleep in keeping exam stress under control. If you have multiple exams in the same week, several days with little sleep will leave you even more stressed.
Don’t overdo the caffeine, and try to plan your sleep as you plan your exam study schedule. If you are a night person who studies more effectively from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., make that work for you, but factor in a mid-morning nap the next day.

5 Study Tips to Curb Exam-Preparation Stress was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Tax Breaks for the Students in Your Family

NewsUSA — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – College costs may have entered nosebleed territory, but at least Uncle Sam is there waving a hanky in the form of juicy tax credits and deductions for those smart enough to claim them.
If you’ve been footing those education bills, either for yourself or your child, the latest College Board statistics shouldn’t be a shocker: In-state tuition and fees at four-year public colleges rose an average of 8.3 percent last year — to $8,244 — even as the economy sputtered.
“That’s a terrible upfront burden for many families,” says Elaine Smith, master tax advisor at H&R Block (www.hrblock.com), the giant tax preparation firm. “But at least there are several breaks built into the tax code that could even mean the difference between whether you owe taxes or are due a refund.”
What breaks? Read on:
* American Opportunity Tax Credit. This is the Gold Standard for those who qualify. Meaning, it’s a dollar-for-dollar tax offset of up to $2,500, per student year, for up to four years of undergraduate education. “One of the best things about it is that up to $1,000 of the credit is ‘refundable,’” notes Smith. “So you could wind up getting a refund for that amount if no taxes are otherwise due.”
Biggest cautions: You must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree program to claim it, and — like all these breaks — the benefit starts to phase out once you reach a certain adjusted gross income (AGI).
* Lifetime Learning Credit. Eligibility standards for this one are broader, even if it’s less generous than the AOTC. Pursuers of both college and graduate degrees — as well as those taking classes to improve job skills — potentially stand to benefit from a tax credit up to $2,000. Biggest caution: The credit can only be claimed once per tax return, regardless of the number of students taking courses.
* Student-Loan Interest Deduction. If you’re self-financing, congrats — and skip this one. If not, we’re talking up to $2,500 per year. Biggest caution: Only debt from graduate and undergraduate programs qualifies.
* Tuition and Fees Deduction. There’s a built-in caution to this $4,000 deduction: You can’t claim it and the Lifetime Learning Credit for the same student, so do the math to see which works best.
Of course, if the “M” word — math — scares you as much as the looming April 17 filing deadline, consult a professional like those at H&R Block, which offers in-person services at its retail offices nationwide as well as the only face-to-face online preparation through Block LiveSM.
One last tip: For those wondering whether scholarship income awarded for room and board is tax-exempt, the answer, alas, is no.

Tax Breaks for the Students in Your Family was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

5 No-Fail Gift Ideas for Men

NewsUSA — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Most young men hate to shop, and shopping for men can be a chore, too. Choosing the perfect present for a dad’s or brother’s birthday can be tricky. After all, you don’t want a gift that is going to be tucked away in a closet or garage, never to see the light of day. Never fear. This list of five no-fail gift ideas for guys is sure to make your present a winner.
* Comedies by night. What young man can resist a funny, slightly raunchy comedy? Add a few friends and some snacks, and the guys are set for an evening. Many movies old and new will fit the bill, such as “The Pool Boys,” available in digital download from iTunes, plus DVD and Blu-Ray release from Seven Arts Pictures. The DVD’s special features include interviews and commentary, making it a great gift for the movie buff who likes the behind-the-scenes scoop. Want a preview? Check out the trailer (rated R) at www.ThePoolBoysMovie.com.
* Sports by day. Depending on your relationship with the guy in question, buying workout clothes could be difficult and you can bet he could use some new stuff for the gym or pickup basketball night. If you feel confident about size and style, a moisture-wicking shirt is a sure thing. Not so sure on size? Go with a gift card for a sports store or website.
* Food always pleases. What do men want? Food. If you’re perplexed for a birthday gift for a young man, grab a giant tin of popcorn, pretzels or peanuts. If you’re lucky, they will remember to reuse the tin.
* Gadgets spark excitement. Think of gadgets that match your guy’s interests. Is he a frequent flyer? How about a watch with a built-in GPS? A survivalist? Check out solar- or crank-up flashlights/radios/chargers, so the smart phone will still work when the power goes out.
* Books and magazines recharge his mind. These days, men might be reading on a Nook or Kindle, but don’t underestimate the written word when it comes to a gift. Add credit to an e-book account, and your guy can download the latest Stephen King or Tom Clancy, or discover a new author. Alternatively, consider a gift subscription to a magazine that matches his interests, such as Bicycling magazine for the avid cyclist. That way, he’ll have something to flip through while the smart phone is recharging.

5 No-Fail Gift Ideas for Men was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Free Tax Extension Filing Helps Avoid Costly Last-Minute Errors

NewsUSA — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Now even chronic procrastinators have no excuse for giving the IRS more money than absolutely required.
Last year, more than 10 million taxpayers applied for an extension on filing their tax returns — thus not only sparing themselves from having to fork over a monthly 5 percent penalty for missing the IRS’ dreaded deadline but also potentially avoiding making costly mistakes in a mad dash to comply.
“Rushing can cause last-minute filers to forget necessary paperwork and miss out on claiming key tax credits and deductions,” says Elaine Smith, master tax advisor at H&R Block, the giant tax preparation firm.
So with this year’s April 17 filing deadline looming, it’s a big deal that participating offices at H&R Block (www.hrblock.com) will be offering free tax-extension filing from April 1 right through to D-Day for taxpayers. An extension buys an extra six months — until October 15 — to get those returns in.
Ah, but don’t completely stop sweating just yet.
Just because you file for an automatic extension doesn’t mean the IRS calls a time-out on any taxes due. (The U.S. national debt is $15 trillion-and-counting, and the money’s got to come from somewhere.) Those who fail to pay up at the same time they submit Form 4868 face being hit with both late payment fees and interest on what’s owed.
“It’s definitely not a way to keep more of your own money in your pocket,” says Smith.
With the tax code having gotten so complex over the years, it’s easy to see why the extra six months would be needed. How many parents of special-needs children know, for instance, that the money they pay for their kid’s supplementary classes or programs is considered a deductible expense if recommended by a doctor? Or that unemployment benefits must be reported as taxable income?
That’s why it helps to consult a professional like those at H&R Block, which offers guaranteed in-person services at its retail offices nationwide as well as the only face-to-face online tax preparation through Block LiveSM.
One last thing: For those wondering why this year’s filing deadline is April 17, that’s because the normal cut-off date — April 15 — falls on a Sunday, and that Monday is Emancipation Day in the nation’s capital.

Free Tax Extension Filing Helps Avoid Costly Last-Minute Errors was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Knowing the Value of an MBA

NewsUSA — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – As the economy begins to improve, all industries will require the expertise of management professionals to help sustain financial growth and prepare for new organizational structure.
Many recent grads and working professionals consider earning a master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) to set themselves apart. According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), 67 percent of employers expect to hire recently graduated management talent in 2012, and they plan to hire in increasing numbers.
It is important to remember, however, that there are no guarantees; it is important to determine the true value of an MBA in each unique career field.

Will an MBA launch my career?
While an MBA can enhance your career, increase earning potential and possibly give you a competitive edge, it isn’t always necessary to obtain one to achieve these results. Take the time to research your desired position to gauge whether the skills acquired through an MBA program are a necessary credential. Some graduates find it worthwhile to gain work experience before applying to business schools, and many business schools favor applicants who have real-world experience.
“Prospective MBA students need to look at the big picture,” said Dr. Donna Loraine, DeVry University provost and vice president of academic affairs for DeVry, Inc. and dean of DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “We’ve found that students who map out long-term career goals and determine the potential benefit and relevance of an MBA in advance end up being the most satisfied with the value of their advanced degree.”

What is the financial ROI of an MBA?
It is crucial that students fully understand the commitment required for continuing education. According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), tuition for an MBA program can soar above $100,000 — pursuing one can be a life-changing decision.
It can be beneficial to work with a financial planner to determine the return on investment. Scholarships, financial aid options and paid internships can help ease the financial impact.

Is there only one type of MBA program available?
MBA programs that can be tailored to specific schedules, concentrations, geographic locations and online needs have made earning an additional degree possible for many students.

How can I help maximize my MBA?
Career services can help students make the most of their education. For example, DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management recently partnered with CareerBuilder to supply its MBA students with a variety of career resources and counseling at no additional cost.
Students have access to dedicated career coaches, writing assistance and online tools for effective job searching, as well as insight for building a competitive edge.
Whether you are seeking more professional responsibility or a higher salary or are striving to climb the corporate ladder, an MBA can be a valuable asset, but only when utilized correctly.
Conduct research and map out your options before making this significant career decision. By thoroughly preparing, you can increase the likelihood that your MBA delivers success.
For more information, visit www.keller.edu and www.devry.edu.

Knowing the Value of an MBA was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Don’t Wait for Symptoms, Ask About PAD Now

NewsUSA — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – One out of every 20 Americans over age 50 is diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). The worst part of this reality is that most people with PAD don’t experience any symptoms. PAD is dangerous, especially when there are no warning signs.Peripheral Arterial Disease is a progressive disease commonly called clogged arteries in the legs, poor circulation or a hardening of the arteries.People have PAD when the arteries in their legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, or plaque. The buildup of plaque causes the arteries to harden and narrow, which is called atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the legs and feet.The severity of the disease depends on how early it’s diagnosed as well as pre-existing health issues. PAD’s primary symptom is an intermittent cramping of leg muscles during walks or hikes. For some, the pain may feel more like numbness, weakness or heaviness. Whether or not you have symptoms, having PAD means that you’re at a higher risk for heart attack, stroke and even death.Many people don’t get tested for PAD because they have no symptoms and never feel a thing. The good news is that proper treatment saves lives. If you’re over 50, talk to your health care provider about getting tested for PAD.The test for PAD is called the "ABI" or ankle-brachial index. It’s a comparison of blood pressure measurements taken at the arms and ankles. It can also assess the severity of the disease.Despite the presence or lack of symptoms, individuals are their own first line of defense. When face time with actual doctors is limited, it’s helpful to have a list of prepared questions on hand.The Vascular Disease Foundation (VDF), a non-profit dedicated to public awareness and education regarding vascular health, has compiled some questions to ask doctors about PAD:* Does my medical history raise my risk for PAD?* What can I do to reduce my blood sugar level if it’s too high or if I have diabetes?* What do you recommend to quit smoking?For more information, or to get a free Heart and Sole kit, go to www.vdf.org or 1-866-PADINFO (1-866-723-4636).

Don’t Wait for Symptoms, Ask About PAD Now was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Social Change: A New Year’s Resolution for 2012

NewsUSA — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Political unrest, environmental crises and economic challenges on a global scale practically defined 2011. The Arab Spring ousted three iron-fisted rulers, a deadly earthquake led to mass radiation exposure in Japan and Occupy Wall Street emerged to be a historical, internationally united protest. The year 2011 seized the idea of social change and ran with it.
Will that momentum continue throughout 2012? All signs point to yes, and Walden University’s recent Social Change Impact Report confirms the trend. The results indicate the importance of social change and reveal that people are taking action now and will continue to do so in the future. The survey shows that more than nine in 10 Americans (92 percent) have taken action to engage in positive social change in the past year and that more than half of them are committed to engaging in future positive change as individuals acting on their own or in informal groups.
“Around the world, people are ‘thinking globally and acting locally,’” notes Jonathan Kaplan, president of Walden University. “People have a strong belief in their own power to effect positive social change and make a difference.”
The Social Change Impact Report also states that nearly nine in 10 adults in the U.S. (88 percent) believe the best way to have an impact on the world is to make change at the local level. At a time when many families and organizations are vulnerable, and fewer resources are available to support the socioeconomic challenges that exist, individuals now more than ever have the opportunity to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
Walden University offers five practical tips to encourage citizens to participate in 2012.
1. Think about what kind of positive social change you want to effect.
2. Assess what specific skills or expertise you can offer to help address a particular need.
3. Connect your passion and skills with your commitment to serve.
4. Research ways your workplace can get involved in the community.
5. Use a resource that can match you with an organization that needs your skills.
To see more details from the Social Change Impact Report, visit WaldenU.edu/impactreport, and for volunteer opportunities, visit WaldenU.edu/servicenetwork.

Social Change: A New Year’s Resolution for 2012 was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com