play 7xm Notable quotes by Jimmy CarterAs we enter 2025 in a couple of days, we all know that the tech world is gearing up for major changes that will shake things up and affect our daily lives and how we run our businesses. These technological advancements are not just about making things faster or more connected; they also have much to do with big global challenges like climate change and cybersecurity. Artificial intelligence is on the verge of a significant transformation by 2025. For example, instead of relying solely on centralized servers, AI will start processing information from local devices like smartphones and gadgets. This shift will make everything run even faster. Scientists also say that we’ll see more agentic AI — autonomous systems that can make decisions on the ir own. Imagine AI optimizing supply chains based on real-time data, for example. Sustainability, which has taken the limelight these past years, will move even closer to center stage, driving more companies to focus on innovations that reduce environmental impact. We’ll also be seeing new waste management technologies and circular business models — where products are designed for reuse or recycling — as organizations aim for net-zero commitments. Additionally, AI will be used to drive the networks that optimize the distribution of energy across grids. It’s a marriage of renewable energy sources and smart technology, helping businesses to significantly lower their carbon footprints while boosting operational efficiency. In the world of quantum computing, actual applications across various fields will be seen this 2025, revolutionizing areas like drug discovery, climate modeling, and cybersecurity. As more organizations invest in quantum research and development, we might see significant advancements that change how we approach problem solving in science, finance, and logistics, among others. The Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to explode this coming year owing to 5G connectivity. The number of interconnected devices — from smart home gadgets to industrial sensors — is projected to reach billions! This allows businesses to gather vast amounts of real-time data from their operations, leading to better decision-making and greater efficiency. In smart cities, IoT applications will help manage traffic more effectively using real-time data analysis. Ambient computing envisions a world where digital devices seamlessly blend into our daily lives, operating quietly in the background without us having to think about them. Devices equipped with sensors and AI will understand our preferences automatically. In the world of work,, ambient computing could streamline workflows by anticipating needs. This trend will enhance user experiences and reduce the mental load of managing multiple devices or apps. As we embrace these exciting advancements on the horizon for 2025, we must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the potential risks associated with these innovations. While the benefits are immense, they also bring challenges that require careful consideration. For instance, as AI systems become more autonomous, we must ensure robust ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks are in place to prevent misuse and protect privacy. Similarly, with the rapid expansion of IoT devices, security measures must be strengthened to safeguard sensitive data from cyber threats. As we move toward a more sustainable future, we should also be mindful of the environmental impact of new technologies and prioritize circular economy practices to minimize waste. While we harness the power of technological advancements, we must make sure to safeguard our society and environment at the same time. Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II received his Law degree from Ateneo de Manila University in 1994. He is currently engaged in the General Practice of Law through the firm he established, Jose M. Rojas Law Office. Prior to getting his Law degree, Atty. Rojas graduated Cum Laude in Economics and Political Science from the University of Massachusetts. He used to chair the Philippine Racing Commission (Philracom) and, more recently, used to sit as Vice-Chairman and General Manager of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Atty. Rojas is an opinion columnist for the Business Mirror and Pilipino Mirror, and 2014 awardee of People Asia’s “Men Who Matter.” He is a member of the Saturday Group of artists and is married to Atty. Patricia A.O. Bunye.

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Doctors are reminding people to think carefully before coming to a hospital Emergency Department (ED) at this busy time of year for Northern Ireland's health service. Last month, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced a series of initiatives to protect key health and social care services during another highly challenging winter period. Mr Nesbitt said the measures detailed in a 2024/25 Winter Preparedness Plan will not eliminate winter pressures on the Health and Social Care system but will help to alleviate their impact. READ MORE: NI pharmacist explains new sore throat service launching this winter READ MORE: NI GP's warning for winter illness peak as NHS braces for 'quad-demic' The initiatives across primary, secondary and social care detailed in the Winter Preparedness Plan include Phone First services in all geographic Trusts for urgent and unscheduled care. This can support timely management of less serious cases away from busy Emergency Departments and facilitate booking appointments into urgent care services. So do you know where to go when you need urgent and emergency care this winter? Maggie Magowan, Interim Clinical Manager Emergency and Acute Medicine at the Ulster Hospital , says it's important you get the right care, in the right place, at the right time. She has detailed the urgent and emergency care services that are available to you across the South Eastern Trust. "Our emergency department at the Ulster Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The department treats and cares for people with a serious illness or life threatening conditions. "You should not go to an emergency department as an alternative to your GP calling 999 for an ambulance does not get you to the top of the emergency department queue. We must treat the sickest patients first, not the patients who get to the hospital first. "The consultant-led minor injury unit at the Ulster Hospital can treat injuries that are not critical or life threatening. The minor injury unit is open 8am to 6pm, seven days a week. Patients can walk in or phone first for an appointment. The phone first service is available 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday." Elsewhere the Phone First Urgent Care Centre at the Lagan Valley Hospital is a consultant-led service equipped to diagnose and deal with many of the most common ailments which people would normally attend in an emergency department. It's open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday on an appointment only basis. You will be assessed and offered an appointment within the urgent care service or directed to the most appropriate service. An Urgent Care Centre is also based in the Downe Hospital . It's consultant led and just like the Urgent Care Centre in Lagan Valley Hospital, it can deal with patients with ailments and conditions that affect people who attend the emergency department. It's open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday on an appointment only basis. You will be triaged and offered an appointment within the Urgent Care Service or directed to the most appropriate service. A minor injury unit also operates in the Downe Hospital on Saturdays and Sundays between 9am and 5pm. It is an emergency nurse led service that can see injuries that are not critical or life threatening. Patients at the Downe Minor Injury Unit must phone first. You may be given an appointment or you may be redirected to the most appropriate service. We hope this helps you find the right care for you or your loved ones. Remember in an emergency, always phone 999. Video by South Eastern HSC Trust For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and1 sign up to our daily newsletter here.Leaders wish Australians a peaceful, joyful Christmas

WATCH: NI doctors on where to go for urgent and emergency care this winter

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