Writing a Good Press Release

When writing a press release, first ask yourself the obvious and basic questions: What? When? Who? Where? Why? How? and then answer them as succinctly and clearly as possible in the body of the press release.

Some very good advice is to remember to write in inverted pyramid form - the most important facts at the top and the least important facts towards the end. In other words, grab the reader's interest from the very beginning, keeping their interest for as long as possible so that they want to read through to the end.

The first paragraph should be punchy and succinct and should sum up the content of the press release in one sentence of no more than twenty-five words. This is the most important section of the press release so use it to educate and enlighten your reader, to make them want to read more.

An article released on a web-site should sound real. Liven it up with quotes (they need not be your own) but keep the whole content alive with your own conversational language and style. People love to read about what other people are doing, as long as it is written in an interesting fashion. Overblown formality or marketing-speak won't cut it.

Always put your contact details on the bottom of the press release and include a good low res photo, (with an invitation to contact you for a high res version if needed).

Remember, a PR is your way of selling yourself to the media.

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New Approach Prevents Skin Cancer Using Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Every year there are more new cases of skin cancer than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined. One in 5 Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime. 90% of skin cancers are caused by excessive sun exposure, yet fewer than 33 percent of adults, adolescents, and children routinely use sun protection.

Cancer prevention and early detection techniques could eliminate up to 100,000 cancer cases and 60,000 US cancer deaths each year. New technologies in the evaluation and treatment of sun damaged skin could have a positive impact on changing these statistics.

The same sunny weather that attracts so many tourists and new residents to the sun-belt also increases the risk of skin cancer. The effects of chronic sun exposure result in superficial sun spots that are visible and also invisible changes that occur under the skin's surface. Ultraviolet photography and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are two recent developments that should help in the early detection and treatment of both types of pre-cancerous skin lesions.

Early Detection with UV Photography Ultraviolet (UV) photography offers a very useful screening tool to help the skilled physician detect sun damaged skin that may not be visible upon a routine examination. Visual inspection can only detect changes on the skin's surface, but damage due to sun exposure occurs beneath the outer layer of skin,

The UV camera briefly shines ultraviolet light on the face. UV light is able to penetrate 1.5-2.0 millimeters under the visible dead layer of skin and focus on the actual living portion where sun damage originates. The advantage to the doctor and the patient is that this technology allows for much earlier detection of skin problems before they develop into pre-cancers that are visible on the skins surface. After finishing the treatment plan, the doctor should take another UV photo to verify the treatment efficacy. UV photography also helps evaluate other skin conditions including acne, oil balance, hydration, inflammation, growths, fungi, pH, and thin skin due to reduced collagen which makes it an ideal tool to evaluate all problem skin.

After the damage to the deeper layers of skin, superficial signs of sun damage may eventually appear on the surface. The most common surface lesion is known as actinic keratoses (AK). AKs usually appear as rough or scaly patches. They may also flake, crust, and may temporarily disappear and then return.

An AK is most likely to appear on the face, ears, scalp, neck, backs of the hands and forearms, shoulders, and lips - the parts of the body most often exposed to sunshine. The scaly patch may be light or dark, tan, pink, red, or a combination of these...or the same color as your skin.

It is estimated that 10-20% of untreated AKs will develop into squamous cell cancers. If treated early, almost all AKs can be eliminated without becoming skin cancers. If you have AKs, it indicates that you have sustained sun damage and have a higher risk for developing all types of skin cancer - not just squamous cell carcinoma.

The more keratoses a person has, the greater the chance that one or more may turn into skin cancer. People may also have up to 10 times as many subclinical (invisible) lesions as visible, surface lesions. These invisible lesions were undetectable until the development of the UV camera.

Treatment options The most common treatment options for AKs have traditionally involved topical ointment 5-FU (Effudex), laser resurfacing, or chemical peels. To avoid the prolonged recovery period and possible scarring associated with these techniques, photodynamic therapy has been developed.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the treatment of choice for the invisible deeper sun damage as well as the visible pre-cancerous AK lesions. PDT involves a two step process that has been proven effective in clinical testing. This treatment cleared 100% of the AKs in 2/3 of the patients after one treatment.

The first step is the application of a topical solution called Levulan. Abnormal cells have a much greater affinity for the solution and absorb it while the healthy cells do not. The solution is left on for an incubation period lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to 18 hours.

The second step of PDT is to apply a concentrated light source to activate the chemical reaction which destroys the abnormal cells. Since the solution is absorbed only in the damaged cells, the healthy cells are not affected. This process can cause a mild burning sensation during the treatment. Usually, this improves immediately after treatment and ends within 24 hours.

Following the treatment, most patients experience mild swelling, redness, and a peeling of the AK lesions and the surrounding tissue. Patients choosing a more aggressive treatment will experience more peeling and/or crusting of the damaged skin that resolves within in one or two weeks. The doctor can easily control the severity of these reactions by limiting the incubation period and the amount of exposure to the light source.

Patients not willing to experience a prolonged recovery time after the procedure may choose a more mild treatment and return to work after a day or two. The tradeoff is that they will require more treatments to achieve the same clinical results.

In addition to eliminating AKs and the subsurface skin damage, PDT has also been effective in improving the appearance of the skin by greatly reducing moderate to severe acne (including cystic acne), reducing color splotches, lessening the fine lines, and decreasing pore size.

Anyone who currently has, has had, or wants to prevent AKs or pre-cancerous skin lesions should be evaluated and treated using UV photography and photodynamic therapy (PDT)." Once a person has been successfully treated using this approach, it is recommended they return for a yearly follow up to prevent future problems.

Sun Exposure & UV Rays - The Basic Facts   Sun Exposure & UV Rays - The Basic Facts   

How to Have Incredible Adventures and Enjoy Something New

If you ever feel a sense of cabin fever about your life and that things are a little more boring than you would like then this can be a very disconcerting feeling that nags at you until you do something about it. We watch films and read books partly because we want a little bit of escapism from our daily routine, but also often to get a sense of adventure that is sourly lacking in our regular lives. We evolved in the wild where we would spend most of our time tracking down our prey and fighting them with sticks and home-made weaponry, and would have spent the rest of our time scaling cliffs and running through jungle. Life should be more like that if you want to avoid going crazy and you need to make sure that you have at least some adventure in your life. Here we will look at how you can do this and how you can get that real feeling of excitement that many of us are lacking.

Discover Something New

One of the most important aspects of any 'adventure' is the sense of discovery that comes from finding something new or seeing an entirely new view. When you come over the top of a mountain and see an incredible view of a land you've never seen before then that's living and it will give you that feeling of discovery and awe.

One way to do this is simply to travel, but to get the real sense of wonder you need to travel to the places that are a little less typical and a little more unique. For instance you might want to visit an exciting vibrant city with a new culture such as Hong Kong or Tokyo, or you might want to visit the desert made entirely out of salt. It exists... go find it!

Another way to discover something completely unlike anything you've seen before is to head underwater. Under the sea is an entire world that looks completely alien and is completely unlike anything we have above ground. Dive into caves, see unusual sea creatures, and look at bizarre plant life and you will feel like you're touching down on an alien planet. Really quite incredible. Most resorts will offer you some kind of diving opportunity though you will need to do lessons and get certification first in order to be allowed to dive. It's cheap though and it's something anyone can do.

You can also discover something new in your own home in some cases and this is possible for anyone with a little scientific curiosity. Science really is discovery and adventure and it's pioneering into things we previously never understood. If you can get yourself a telescope and look at the moon in exquisite detail then this can really feel like an adventure.

Adrenaline

The other aspect of adventure for some people is adrenaline and that means hurtling down a mountain or falling through the air. To experience this make sure you don't just go on holiday but that you do something there whether that means renting a go-kart or going mountain biking.

How to Have Incredible Adventures and Enjoy Something New   

Nylon Nuts

Standard type nuts with a nylon insert provide the best insulating and locking facilities in environments where there are high degrees of temperature variations, pressures and when gases or liquids need to be properly sealed into the chambers. Usually, engineers and mechanics use such nuts called "lock nuts" to provide a firm, air-tight grip. The nylon insert is fitted into the tapered end of the nut and wraps round inside the threads to provide better locking. The insert also makes the nut resistant to vibration, hence protects it from impact damage. Normal nuts may lose their grip due to vibration and render the component ineffective or dangerous.

The nuts themselves are available in a variety of materials such as carbon-steel, stainless-steel, alloys of steel, copper, brass, bronze and other tough, rust and corrosion proof materials. They may also be textured or finished in a variety of veneers such as chrome, nickel, zinc or could be powder coated or painted in different colors. These nuts are extensively used in the automobile industry White nylon nuts are also used to hold plastic sheets in place for playfields etc. They are also used in toys, furniture, walls etc. Many industries use different grades and colors of nylon for separate functions.

These nylon-insert lock nuts are used in a variety of other industries. Thinner gauge nylon is used in agricultural machinery, aerospace, computers, home-garden furniture, lighting fixtures, medical equipment, appliances, etc. Higher grades and thickness of nylon are required in the construction industry, for bridges and steel girders, oil rigs and railways.

Nylon is an excellent material for use in chemical industries, health-care and hospitals, oil refineries, food-processing, drinks and beverage bottling and marine industries. It is rust-proof, has excellent torque features and is corrosion resistant. One of the important qualities of nylon is that it is non-toxic, does not conduct electricity, non-magnetic, does not age, is resistant to sparking. Another good quality is that it is quite stable and is not inflammable and is non-combustible, can retard fire and withstand temperatures as high as 200F.

Apart from the standard threaded type, the screw type, snap-fit types, expansion, screw with grommets, etc are also available for different functions. There are contrasting opinions about the re-usability of nylon nuts, with many experts stating that they should never be re-used. However, others feel that if the manufacturer's instructions regarding re-use, lubrication and other instructions are followed, there is no harm in one or two re-cyclings of nylon nuts.

Nylon nuts differ in terms of height and choosing the right one depends on the application for which it has been purchased. Lower height nuts and normal heights are used in a variety of commercial and domestic applications, while heavier, taller nuts are used in heavy-duty structural functions.

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Inspecting a Used Excavator

Buying a used excavator can save you up to 50% of the cost than procuring a new one. However, if you are not careful enough, you might end up spending more money on repairs alone. It is therefore important to inspect the used excavator thoroughly before purchasing. You must enquire about the manufacturing date of the equipment, the specifications and date of last service. Furthermore, inspect the engine, the cab, stick, boom, bucket, track, undercarriage, hydraulic systems, swing system, gears and bearing, among others.

Engine Inspection; Excavators are designed to handle heavy tasks and are prone to wear and tear. While examining the engine, any signs of soot around the engine compartment might imply overhauling. Any oil leakage in the engine is an indication that it requires repairing. The air cooling system must also be inspected as presence of small amount of dirt can cause engine failure.

The Cab: While checking the cab, a reasonably good looking interior shows that it is being maintained properly. However, any out of place welding on the body is a sign of danger as it might be an indication that the body has previously suffered major damage.

The Bucket and Undercarriage: Make sure that nothing is bent on bucket, ensure that everything appears to be in place. Tracks and undercarriage of an excavator says a lot about its previous owner and how it was treated. Look out for wear and any signs of damage. Estimate the condition of sprockets and rollers and check if any of them need replacement. After inspecting the physical condition of the excavator, estimate the total cost the repair might need.

It is said that a well informed mechanic can say the problem in a vehicle just by listening to its engine. Therefore, start the engine and listen to detect any croaking sounds as it will give you invaluable insights into the working condition of excavator. You must also check the hydraulic system and examine the hydraulic tubes and cylinders for any sign of damage or unusual bending. Any bending can increase the wear and tear of the equipment and soon require that it be replaced. Also, track the performance of swing systems including gears and bearing before making a purchase.

Buying a used excavator is more of a financial decision than a technical one. It is paramount that you consider the gross cost rather than just listed price. The gross cost includes the listed price plus the carefully evaluated cost of repairs. If necessary, it is advisable that you seek the recommendations of a professional mechanic to make the most reasonable estimates. Proper inspection of a used excavator is the surest way to get value for your money, don't rush.

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Various Types of Wash Basins That Furnish Your Bathroom

Different types of furnishings can be used to decorate the bathroom and enhance its interior decor. Every bathroom requires some essential items such as wash basin, toilet, shower panel, bath tub, wall mirrors and so forth. Today there are many interior designing tips which can be used to enhance the overall appearance of a bathroom.

Among various types of fittings used in bathrooms, wash basin is one of the most essential components in any bathroom. As it is used commonly, it is important to choose basins according to individual needs and the entire decor of the bath. Today there are various types of basins which can be incorporated into any type of home.

Bathroom wash basins have evolved in designs and shapes. Today it is available according to the requisites of the customers. Most of the home owners prefer to use designer sinks as it adds to the decor of the room.

Different Types of Wash Basins

Some of the most stylish varieties of sinks include the following.

Pedestal: Pedestal sinks are classic and regal. It is commonly found in most of the homes. These sinks sit on top of a slim base which is either taper or cylindrical as it touches the floor. Pedestal sinks exude an aura of elegance and sophistication but it lacks proper storage capacity. It is not ideal for bathrooms with limited space and suits well in rooms with architectural designs and high ceilings. However, pedestal wash basin is now available in elegant and aesthetic designs to suit any type of room.

Wall hung: Simple in style and designs, the wall hung sinks are also widely used in most of the places. However, it is durable and available in different shapes and sizes to suit individual requisites. It can be installed in bathrooms with limited amount of space. As it does not include pedestals, it is quite easy to clean beneath the wall hung sinks. It is easy to find a plethora of designs and styles in wall-hung sink varieties. It is blended with exceptional accessories and designs which will embellish any type of bathroom. Some of the most popular varieties include the square wall mount, mount basin with towel bar, English turn corner basin and so forth.

Countertop: Also known as the bowl basin, it is often set on top of a counter or cabinet. It basically resembles a salad bowl and it is made of glass, ceramic, metal, stainless steel, porcelain and so forth. It is usually installed higher than the ordinary wash basins due to its unique features. Faucets that can reach up to the edge of the sink are also required to install these basins. However, it has a unique style and elegance to alter the entire appearance of the room.

Various other types of furnishing can also enhance the decor of a bath. Shower panels are another essential fitting used to add essence to the existing decor. Bath tubs and toilets are also made available in different colors and designs to suit different styles and budgets.

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