'He can't resist chaos': Critics reject 'wishful thinking' about Trump's second termWarning over routers falsely advertised as having 5G capabilityRenuka Rayasam | (TNS) KFF Health News In April, just 12 weeks into her pregnancy, Kathleen Clark was standing at the receptionist window of her OB-GYN’s office when she was asked to pay $960, the total the office estimated she would owe after she delivered. Clark, 39, was shocked that she was asked to pay that amount during this second prenatal visit. Normally, patients receive the bill after insurance has paid its part, and for pregnant women that’s usually only when the pregnancy ends. It would be months before the office filed the claim with her health insurer. Clark said she felt stuck. The Cleveland, Tennessee, obstetrics practice was affiliated with a birthing center where she wanted to deliver. Plus, she and her husband had been wanting to have a baby for a long time. And Clark was emotional, because just weeks earlier her mother had died. “You’re standing there at the window, and there’s people all around, and you’re trying to be really nice,” recalled Clark, through tears. “So, I paid it.” On online baby message boards and other social media forums , pregnant women say they are being asked by their providers to pay out-of-pocket fees earlier than expected. The practice is legal, but patient advocacy groups call it unethical. Medical providers argue that asking for payment up front ensures they get compensated for their services. How frequently this happens is hard to track because it is considered a private transaction between the provider and the patient. Therefore, the payments are not recorded in insurance claims data and are not studied by researchers. Patients, medical billing experts, and patient advocates say the billing practice causes unexpected anxiety at a time of already heightened stress and financial pressure. Estimates can sometimes be higher than what a patient might ultimately owe and force people to fight for refunds if they miscarry or the amount paid was higher than the final bill. Up-front payments also create hurdles for women who may want to switch providers if they are unhappy with their care. In some cases, they may cause women to forgo prenatal care altogether, especially in places where few other maternity care options exist. It’s “holding their treatment hostage,” said Caitlin Donovan, a senior director at the Patient Advocate Foundation . Medical billing and women’s health experts believe OB-GYN offices adopted the practice to manage the high cost of maternity care and the way it is billed for in the U.S. When a pregnancy ends, OB-GYNs typically file a single insurance claim for routine prenatal care, labor, delivery, and, often, postpartum care. That practice of bundling all maternity care into one billing code began three decades ago, said Lisa Satterfield, senior director of health and payment policy at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists . But such bundled billing has become outdated, she said. Previously, pregnant patients had been subject to copayments for each prenatal visit, which might lead them to skip crucial appointments to save money. But the Affordable Care Act now requires all commercial insurers to fully cover certain prenatal services. Plus, it’s become more common for pregnant women to switch providers, or have different providers handle prenatal care, labor, and delivery — especially in rural areas where patient transfers are common. Some providers say prepayments allow them to spread out one-time payments over the course of the pregnancy to ensure that they are compensated for the care they do provide, even if they don’t ultimately deliver the baby. “You have people who, unfortunately, are not getting paid for the work that they do,” said Pamela Boatner, who works as a midwife in a Georgia hospital. While she believes women should receive pregnancy care regardless of their ability to pay, she also understands that some providers want to make sure their bill isn’t ignored after the baby is delivered. New parents might be overloaded with hospital bills and the costs of caring for a new child, and they may lack income if a parent isn’t working, Boatner said. In the U.S., having a baby can be expensive. People who obtain health insurance through large employers pay an average of nearly $3,000 out-of-pocket for pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, according to the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker . In addition, many people are opting for high-deductible health insurance plans, leaving them to shoulder a larger share of the costs. Of the 100 million U.S. people with health care debt, 12% attribute at least some of it to maternity care, according to a 2022 KFF poll . Families need time to save money for the high costs of pregnancy, childbirth, and child care, especially if they lack paid maternity leave, said Joy Burkhard , CEO of the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, a Los Angeles-based policy think tank. Asking them to prepay “is another gut punch,” she said. “What if you don’t have the money? Do you put it on credit cards and hope your credit card goes through?” Calculating the final costs of childbirth depends on multiple factors, such as the timing of the pregnancy , plan benefits, and health complications, said Erin Duffy , a health policy researcher at the University of Southern California’s Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. The final bill for the patient is unclear until a health plan decides how much of the claim it will cover, she said. But sometimes the option to wait for the insurer is taken away. During Jamie Daw’s first pregnancy in 2020, her OB-GYN accepted her refusal to pay in advance because Daw wanted to see the final bill. But in 2023, during her second pregnancy, a private midwifery practice in New York told her that since she had a high-deductible plan, it was mandatory to pay $2,000 spread out with monthly payments. Daw, a health policy researcher at Columbia University, delivered in September 2023 and got a refund check that November for $640 to cover the difference between the estimate and the final bill. “I study health insurance,” she said. “But, as most of us know, it’s so complicated when you’re really living it.” While the Affordable Care Act requires insurers to cover some prenatal services, it doesn’t prohibit providers from sending their final bill to patients early. It would be a challenge politically and practically for state and federal governments to attempt to regulate the timing of the payment request, said Sabrina Corlette , a co-director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University. Medical lobbying groups are powerful and contracts between insurers and medical providers are proprietary. Because of the legal gray area, Lacy Marshall , an insurance broker at Rapha Health and Life in Texas, advises clients to ask their insurer if they can refuse to prepay their deductible. Some insurance plans prohibit providers in their network from requiring payment up front. If the insurer says they can refuse to pay up front, Marshall said, she tells clients to get established with a practice before declining to pay, so that the provider can’t refuse treatment. Related Articles Health | Which health insurance plan may be right for you? Health | California case is the first confirmed bird flu infection in a US child Health | Your cool black kitchenware could be slowly poisoning you, study says. Here’s what to do Health | Does fluoride cause cancer, IQ loss, and more? Fact-checking Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s claims Health | US towns plunge into debates about fluoride in water Clark said she met her insurance deductible after paying for genetic testing, extra ultrasounds, and other services out of her health care flexible spending account. Then she called her OB-GYN’s office and asked for a refund. “I got my spine back,” said Clark, who had previously worked at a health insurer and a medical office. She got an initial check for about half the $960 she originally paid. In August, Clark was sent to the hospital after her blood pressure spiked. A high-risk pregnancy specialist — not her original OB-GYN practice — delivered her son, Peter, prematurely via emergency cesarean section at 30 weeks. It was only after she resolved most of the bills from the delivery that she received the rest of her refund from the other OB-GYN practice. This final check came in October, just days after Clark brought Peter home from the hospital, and after multiple calls to the office. She said it all added stress to an already stressful period. “Why am I having to pay the price as a patient?” she said. “I’m just trying to have a baby.” ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.live casino locations 。

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It looks like the great MAGA love story of Donald Trump Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle has come to an end, with the oldest son of President-elect Donald Trump seen holding hands with his reputed new girlfriend, Palm Beach socialite Bettina Anderson, during a dinner date in her hometown Monday. Photos of Trump Jr. and Anderson, walking hand-in-hand while leaving a swanky Palm Beach restaurant, offer “incontrovertible proof” that the soon-to-be first son has moved on from Guilfoyle , his long-time fiancée and partner in pro-Donald Trump campaigning, the Daily Mail reported . Trump Jr., 46, has replaced Guilfoyle, 55, with Anderson, known as a 37-year-old “it girl” with a natural style of glamour, the Daily Mail has concluded. The New York Post also confirmed Tuesday that Trump Jr. and Guilfoyle had split — shortly before the incoming president announced that he had appointed the former Fox News host to serve as ambassador to Greece in his new White House term. “For many years, Kimberly has been a close friend and ally,” Trump posted on Truth Social Tuesday afternoon, the Post and other outlets reported. “Her extensive experience and leadership in law, media, and politics along with her sharp intellect make her supremely qualified to represent the United States, and safeguard its interests abroad.” Guilfoyle, also the ex-wife of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, said Tuesday that she was “honored to accept” Trump’s nomination, which requires Senate approval. Trump Jr. added on X : “I am so proud of Kimberly. She loves America and she always has wanted to serve the country as an Ambassador.” Any suggestion that Trump was sending Guilfoyle abroad to make way for his son’s new romance with Anderson was met with scorn by the president-elect’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, the New York Times reported . Cheung said such speculation was “sexist.” Whatever led to Guilfoyle’s appointment, the “loved-up” Trump Jr. and Anderson spent nearly two hours at the Palm Beach restaurant Buccan Monday night, the Daily Mail reported. The restaurant is some three miles from Anderson’s West Palm Beach townhouse, where the two “have been spending days and nights,” the Daily Mail added. But if Trump Jr. has been staying at Anderson’s place, that means that Guilfoyle could be holing up in the mansion about 20 miles north that she and Trump Jr. purchased together after they moved to Florida in 2021. Trump Jr. and Guilfoyle announced their “secret” engagement in early 2022, with the former San Francisco first lady sharing an Instagram photo showing her sporting a massive, sparkling diamond on the fourth finger of her left hand. She declared in a caption, “I can’t wait to spend the rest of our lives together.” Trump Jr. and Guilfoyle began dating in 2018, shortly after Trump Jr.’s first wife, Vanessa, filed for divorce to end their 12-year marriage. Trump Jr. and Vanessa share five children. As a couple, Trump Jr. and Guilfoyle, a former San Francisco prosecutor, became known as “the prom king and queen of MAGA” politics as they campaigned together around the country on his father’s behalf. At donor events, they also were known for alluding to their playful sex life , while Guilfoyle often liked to introduce herself to the crowd — or appear at Trump’s Jan. 6, 2021 rally preceding the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol — doing a sexy dance . Now comes the idea that Trump Jr. has ended his once red-hot romance with Guilfoyle. Then again, speculation has been brewing for months that they were no longer a couple. The Daily Mail first reported in September that his “dalliance” with Anderson had become an “open secret” in elite Republican circles in and around ritzy Palm Beach. The Daily Mail reported that Guilfoyle was said to be coming to terms that her fiancé had been “fooling around” with another woman. “Kimberly either didn’t know about Bettina — or didn’t want to know,” an insider told The Daily Mail in September. “Did she hear whispers that Don Jr. was fooling around with someone else? Probably.” At the time, the Daily Mail also revealed that Trump Jr. and Anderson had been seen “canoodling” and “kissing” during an “intimate brunch” in August. Breakup speculation grew on on election night, when Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump family observers noted a physical distance between Guilfoyle and Trump Jr., as they joined the rest of the family and other top supporters on stage in Florida to celebrate Trump’s return to the White House. Trump Jr. could even be seen in video, trying to avoid standing next to Guilfoyle several times before finally settling on turning his back on her, the Daily Beast reported. But Trump Jr. wasn’t the only person who may have been trying to avoid Guilfoyle that night, according to another Daily Beast report. She seemed to be getting “major side-eye” from Trump Jr.’s oldest daughter, Kai Trump. Though just 17, Kai has emerged as an enthusiastic MAGA influencer and leading voice in the young, up-and-coming generation of America’s new ruling dynasty. She’s also created a major presence on social media by sharing slickly produced photos and videos about the fun she has hanging out with her beloved, president-elect “grandpa.” In those posts, Kai has given off major signals as to who’s in and who’s out in the family’s inner circle, according to the Daily Beast. From Kai’s perspective, Guilfoyle looked to be on the outs with the “side-eye” she appeared to give her. If GuIlfoyle hasn’t “won her would-be stepdaughter over, it could be an uphill battle for her future as Mrs. Don Jr.,” the Daily Beast said. Two days later, Kai Trump posted a curious family photo on X — that didn’t include Guilfoyle. The photo was taken at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Palm Beach resort on election night, and the teenager captioned it “the whole squad.” The photo showed the future 47th president surrounded by all five of his adult children and three of their partners, along with Kai and her four siblings. But Guilfoyle was notably absent from the “squad” photo. More or less in her place was Vanessa Trump, who stood with her ex-husband and their five children. Speaking of Vanessa Trump, Anderson bears some resemblance to her, with both women sporting slender model looks and long, light-colored hair. Anderson often posts photos of herself modeling designer outfits in glamorous settings. She cheekily refers to herself on Instagram as “Your typical stay at home mom ... only I don’t do household chores... or have a husband... or have kids.” Related Articles Entertainment | Kate Middleton’s post-chemo Christmas is ‘calm before storm’ of succession Entertainment | Malibu homes of Jay-Z, Beyonce and other celebrities under ‘significant threat’ from Franklin Fire Entertainment | TLC, Alanis Morissette added to ‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ lineup Entertainment | ‘Mod Squad’ actor Michael Cole dead at 84 Entertainment | Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to make Broadway debut in '& Juliet' Anderson and Vanessa Trump also appeared to be pretty friendly when the socialite attended an “intimate” gathering of Trump supporters in Jupiter, Florida over the summer, the Daily Mail said in another report. Photos and videos shared on social media showed Anderson sitting close to both Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump. Kai Trump also was seen in the background, sharing a hug with her father and chatting with her mother and with Anderson. Again, Guilfoyle didn’t appear in any of these images. The Daily Mail reported Tuesday that Guilfoyle has not been photographed with Trump Jr. since Nov. 12. Meanwhile, Trump Jr. and Anderson looked very much like an established couple while leaving the restaurant in Palm Beach Monday night, according to the Daily Mail. They left the restaurant with another couple, and Trump Jr. could be heard laughing before he and Anderson said goodbye to the others and headed across the street to his pickup truck, while still holding hands. The first report about Trump Jr.’s alleged romance with Anderson came about four months after he proclaimed his love for Guilfoyle as the couple marked six years together. “Happy 6 year anniversary @kimberlyguilfoyle thanks for always being there no matter what the haters are throwing our way. I love you,” Trump Jr. gushed in an Instagram post. To mark the occasion, Guilfoyle also wrote on Instagram : “You are my best friend and my soulmate. Here’s to us and out incredibly blessed life we share together. Looking forward to creating new memories and enjoying more adventures together.”

New Delhi, Dec 15 (PTI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday said the opening of an embassy of Moldova in New Delhi opens a “new chapter” that will further the partnership between the two countries and help in advancing collaboration in key areas. “Let me express the expectation, hope that in the not very distant future, you will see an Indian embassy in Moldova as well,” the minister said in his address at an event held here to mark the opening of the embassy. Jaishankar termed the opening of the embassy a “significant milestone” in the relationship between India and Moldova, an east European country. “Every time an embassy opens here, I know we have done something right,” he said. The opening of various new embassies or consulates of India abroad in the last few years is “a reflection of India’s growing engagement with the world”. And in this particular case, a statement of a deeper friendship between the two countries, he said. “This moment reflects the shared commitments of our nations since the establishment of our diplomatic ties in 1992,” he added. Jaishankar recalled that Moldova extended crucial help to India during ‘Operation Ganga’ to evacuate a large number of stranded Indian students during the Ukraine crisis. “And India will never forget it,” he said. In his address, the Union minister appreciated Moldova’s “warm embrace” of yoga practices and Hindi, terming it a “reflection of our ties”. India has cultivated a much more dynamic and contemporary relationship with Europe, he said. This new embassy is a “practical step towards strengthening our diplomatic relations”, a new chapter that will further the partnership between the two countries and help in advancing collaboration in key areas, he said. “I am confident that this embassy will become a beacon of friendship, serve as a bridge... (give) a practical meaning to our cooperation,” Jaishankar said. Later in a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Held productive talks with DPM & FM @MihaiPopsoi today in New Delhi. Discussed our growing bilateral and multilateral cooperation. And new opportunities in investment, education, technology and culture. Today’s signing of declaration of intent on a Migration and Mobility partnership will open new avenues for our partnership.” PTI KND DIV DIV This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );Spending squeeze ‘could cost more than 10,000 Civil Service jobs’

Your horoscope today, 1 December 2024, brings astrological insights for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and other zodiac signs. Learn how the Moon in Sagittarius impacts your day. Mumbai: Astrology tells us that the heavens mirror our inner worlds. On December 1st, the Moon in Sagittarius finds itself squared with Saturn in Pisces, setting a cosmic stage rich with emotions and grounded challenges. The Moon represents our emotions and intuition, while Saturn is the disciplinarian, urging responsibility and introspection. A square aspect brings tension, yet it also pushes us to grow. This planetary combination is a mixed bag—Sagittarius nudges us toward adventure and optimism, but Saturn in Pisces asks us to temper this with realism and emotional accountability. It’s a day to balance dreams with practicality, to seek wisdom while staying tethered to the reality of our responsibilities. Let’s delve into what this means for each zodiac sign. Aries Horoscope Today Your natural fiery enthusiasm meets a thoughtful pause today. The Moon in Sagittarius fuels your desire for freedom and adventure, inspiring you to explore new horizons or dive into philosophical pursuits. Yet, Saturn’s influence reminds you of unfinished tasks, particularly in areas where your emotional needs or spiritual beliefs might be overlooked. You may feel pulled between spontaneous action and the need for a disciplined approach. It’s okay to take a step back and assess before leaping forward. Expect encounters that challenge your patience but offer valuable lessons. Use this opportunity to reflect on long-term goals. Your career or reputation might demand attention, but remember, not every issue needs to be solved immediately. A calm approach will yield better results than impulsive reactions. Taurus Horoscope Today The celestial energy today encourages you to take stock of your resources, both emotional and financial. The Moon in Sagittarius inspires thoughts of expansion—perhaps a trip or investing in something that broadens your horizons. Saturn, however, highlights the limitations, asking you first to ensure your foundations are solid. This duality might feel restrictive, but it also protects you from overreaching. You could experience a strong urge to connect with loved ones on a deeper level or tackle unresolved issues in relationships. Patience and vulnerability will be your strengths. Don’t shy away from setting boundaries if needed; they are key to maintaining your sense of security. Gemini Horoscope Today The square between the Moon and Saturn brings a focus to your relationships and partnerships. You might feel an urge to communicate or clear the air with someone close. Sagittarius energy heightens your curiosity and desire to connect, but Saturn’s influence may create temporary barriers or misunderstandings. Don’t let this dampen your spirits—persistence will bring clarity. Today is a test of how well you balance independence with collaboration. Stay mindful of your words; they hold power to either heal or hurt. If frustrations arise, take a moment to reassess your approach before reacting. Small gestures of kindness can go a long way in strengthening bonds. Cancer Horoscope Today Your nurturing instincts are at the forefront today as the Moon stirs your desire to create comfort and security for those around you. However, Saturn in Pisces insists on addressing personal limitations, especially those related to health or daily routines. You may feel emotionally stretched as you juggle responsibilities at home and work. This is a day to practise self-care and recognise the importance of saying no when necessary. Reassess your commitments and delegate where possible. Growth often comes through discomfort, and today’s challenges could offer a profound opportunity to reset unhealthy habits or patterns. Leo Horoscope Today Today feels like a tug-of-war between your need to shine and external obligations that demand your attention. The Moon in Sagittarius stokes your creative fire and desire for playfulness, but Saturn asks you to focus on long-term responsibilities, particularly in relationships or joint ventures. This conflict might make you feel constrained, but it’s an excellent opportunity to show your resilience. Your charisma is undeniable, but so is the need to act responsibly. Avoid taking shortcuts in matters that require your full attention. If you find time for leisure, consider pursuits that also contribute to personal growth or skill-building. Virgo Horoscope Today The Moon-Saturn square places a spotlight on your home and inner emotional world. You might feel an urge to rearrange your living space or tackle family dynamics. Sagittarius energy encourages bold ideas, but Saturn reminds you that lasting solutions require structure and patience. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, break tasks into manageable steps. Use this day to strengthen your emotional boundaries. While it’s natural to want to help others, be sure to reserve energy for your well-being. Your practical nature is your ally, helping you balance emotional fulfilment with tangible results. Libra Horoscope Today The square between the Moon and Saturn highlights communication and mental clarity. You may feel the need to voice opinions or share your truth, but Saturn asks you to tread carefully and consider the implications. If you feel misunderstood, don’t let frustration guide your actions. Reassess your message and try again with patience. Today is ideal for rethinking your approach to learning or short-term goals. Take advantage of the Sagittarius Moon’s optimism while respecting Saturn’s insistence on detail. You might find that structure enhances your creativity rather than stifling it. Scorpio Horoscope Today Financial and self-worth themes dominate your day. The Sagittarius Moon encourages bold investments, whether of money or personal energy, but Saturn insists on caution. Evaluate the risks and ensure you’re not overcommitting. This could also be a day to confront deep-seated fears about security or control. Embrace the lessons Saturn offers without letting them dampen your spirit. Reflection and planning will bring greater rewards than impulsive decisions. By evening, you may find that a pragmatic approach has yielded unexpected clarity or even peace of mind. Sagittarius Horoscope Today With the Moon in your sign, your optimism and thirst for adventure are amplified. Yet Saturn’s square brings a sobering influence, pushing you to consider the consequences of your actions. You might feel like the world is urging you to slow down when all you want is to move forward. Take this as an opportunity to refine your plans. Today isn’t about denying your dreams; it’s about pursuing them wisely. Focus on aligning your goals with reality. Stay open to feedback, especially from those with more experience or insight. Capricorn Horoscope Today The Moon-Saturn square activates your subconscious, urging you to confront hidden fears or unresolved issues. Sagittarius energy wants you to explore, while Saturn encourages introspection. This tension might leave you feeling introspective, but it’s a chance to clear emotional clutter and focus on personal healing. Use today to realign with your inner compass. Meditation, journaling, or quiet time could provide the clarity you seek. While Saturn’s lessons may feel heavy, they’re paving the way for a stronger, more resilient you. Aquarius Horoscope Today Your social circles and future aspirations come under focus today. The Moon in Sagittarius heightens your idealism and desire to connect, but Saturn in Pisces reminds you of the need to ground these visions in reality. This might be a day to reassess which connections truly support your growth. Avoid spreading yourself too thin. While your innovative ideas are inspiring, ensure they’re backed by a solid foundation. Today’s challenges could help you distinguish between wishful thinking and achievable goals. Pisces Horoscope Today With Saturn in your sign squaring the Moon, today might feel like an emotional balancing act. The Sagittarius energy encourages bold moves in your career or public life, but Saturn keeps pulling you back to focus on personal limitations. This could create a sense of inner conflict, but it also offers valuable lessons about balancing ambition with self-care. Today calls for patience and persistence. Trust that the steps you take now will lead to long-term rewards. Reflect on your aspirations, and don’t hesitate to seek support from trusted allies. ( Disclaimer : The horoscope predictions provided are for general informational purposes and should not be considered professional advice. News9 Live does not take responsibility for any decisions made based on these predictions.) Click for more latest Astrology news . Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9. AK Singh, an astrologer with over 5 years of experience, offers Vastu tips, daily horoscope predictions, Lal Kitab remedies, tarot card readings, and numerology services. For inquiries, contact him at frolicstars99@gmail.com. Latest NewsNoneAs artificial intelligence (AI) continues to develop, it is changing how businesses operate. Mindbreeze, a technology company that develops AI-based knowledge management solutions, has outlined four critical AI trends they expect will come into play in 2025 while emphasizing how these advancements can help businesses tackle complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Daniel Fallmann, CEO of Mindbreeze, notes, “The goal is not only to unlock insights but to enable intelligent automation and streamlined processes that support sustainable growth.” As businesses continue to take advantage of AI in their operations and decision-making, its importance grows. Integrating AI into business operations gives organizations the opportunity to improve their competitiveness. AI Agents for Focused Business Use Cases AI agents are poised to revolutionize industry-specific applications by delivering tailored, context-aware insights. These agents represent a new wave of customizable tools designed to address unique challenges within sectors such as engineering, manufacturing, and finance. For instance, AI agents can optimize workflows, automate processes, and enhance personalization efforts. Mindbreeze’s 360-Degree Views illustrate how these agents facilitate fully automated workflows, driving operational excellence. By providing specialized solutions, businesses can address niche demands, ensuring greater efficiency and customer satisfaction. The significance of these AI agents lies in their adaptability. Unlike generic AI tools, focused AI solutions are purpose-built, offering actionable insights specific to a company’s unique operational landscape. This customization allows organizations to harness AI for specialized goals, positioning them as leaders in their respective industries. Hyper-Automation and Self-Learning Systems Hyper-automation, coupled with self-learning systems, is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of operational transformation. By consolidating processes and integrating workflows, businesses can eliminate silos, improve flexibility, and achieve higher productivity. Mindbreeze’s AI solutions are at the forefront of this trend, empowering organizations to streamline operations while adapting to changing needs. Adaptive systems offer a continuous improvement mechanism, learning from new data and evolving circumstances to deliver optimized results. The potential of hyper-automation goes beyond efficiency gains. AI empowers businesses to rethink operations, cutting expenses and speeding up their time to market. As self-learning systems evolve, they will also improve decision-making, allowing companies to adapt quickly in a dynamic market. Turning Data into Actionable Insights Data has long been a cornerstone of strategic decision-making, but the ability to convert vast datasets into actionable insights is becoming increasingly critical. In 2025, AI-driven analytics will reach new heights, transforming raw information into real-time intelligence. Businesses are increasingly recognizing the potential value hidden within their data and leveraging Mindbreeze InSpire to unlock it. This transformation empowers them to derive meaningful insights and make data-informed decisions. This trend has significant implications in industries like healthcare, finance, and retail, where quick decision-making can significantly impact results. The key to success lies in integrating AI solutions capable of handling both structured and unstructured data. By doing so, organizations can identify patterns, predict trends, and gain a competitive advantage. These insights will not only inform strategic decisions but also optimize daily operations, ensuring businesses remain responsive and customer-focused. Delivering Accurate and Validatable AI Results As the capabilities of AI solutions grow, so do the risks associated with their use. Generative AI technologies, in particular, have introduced the challenge of “hallucinations”—instances where AI generates content that appears accurate but is factually incorrect. For businesses, this raises critical concerns about data integrity and trust. In response to potential risks, “Explainable AI” has emerged as a valuable approach. It offers insights into how AI creates content, ensuring that its conclusions stem from reliable and verifiable data. This is particularly crucial in fields like finance, law, and healthcare, where inaccuracies can have severe repercussions. Mindbreeze highlights Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) as a key technology in this domain. RAG ensures efficient and precise communication by delivering the right information at the right time. With robust validation mechanisms, businesses can trust AI-driven insights, enhancing their reliability and credibility. The Business Imperative for 2025 Mindbreeze’s report highlights four key trends that demonstrate the increasing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing businesses. Organizations embracing these technologies can anticipate significant enhancements in operational efficiency, customer interaction, and groundbreaking innovations. Moreover, the focus on explainability and data integrity highlights the ethical considerations associated with AI adoption. As businesses increasingly rely on AI for decision-making, ensuring accuracy and transparency will be essential for maintaining stakeholder trust. Strategic Recommendations for Executives To fully leverage these AI trends, business leaders should: By aligning their strategies with these trends, executives can position their organizations as innovators in a rapidly evolving landscape. As Fallmann emphasizes, the true potential of AI lies in its ability to foster sustainable growth while addressing complex challenges. The AI trends outlined above that are expected to be part of 2025 are expected to be more than technological advancements. They will show a change in how businesses operate. By embracing these innovations, companies can enhance efficiency and increase their competitive positioning. For executives looking to become leaders in their industries, adopting AI-driven strategies is no longer optional but essential for success in the years ahead.

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Zain offers latest 5G solutions for innovative home experienceIceland is experiencing a crucial electoral moment after a call for early elections, driven by ongoing political instability since the 2008 financial collapse. Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson disbanded his coalition following disagreements on key issues, prompting this political shake-up. Despite fierce weather conditions, polling stations remained operational with counting taking place after polls closed. This election, the sixth since the crisis, may signal a major shift, as opinion polls predict a decline in support for current governing parties. Central issues include rising inflation, immigration pressures, and housing shortages, exacerbated by a recent volcano eruption and a booming tourism sector, placing Iceland's political future in a pivotal position. (With inputs from agencies.)

NoneI recently asked readers of this column if they could recommend nurseries that more of us should know about. In response, Peggy Neiman suggested I visit the San Gabriel Nursery & Florist in San Gabriel, “The employees are delightful and knowledgeable with a wonderful variety of plants and flowers,” she wrote, noting the nursery’s “very interesting history.” The story is indeed interesting, and I’m going to share a summary of that history here that I got from the nursery’s website, but you can read it in full at sgnursery.com . Before doing so, I should mention that I have visited this nursery and can testify to its vast selection of fruit trees, roses and ornamental plants that’s second to none. If you are looking for cut flowers, this is also the place to go since they have a wide selection of exotic flora from which to choose. Garden accessories are also available in generous supply. Unfortunately, San Gabriel is in the citrus quarantine zone so you will have to look elsewhere for these trees. The story of today’s San Gabriel Nursery & Florist begins in 1917, with the arrival by boat of 21-year-old Fred Yoshimura in San Francisco. He had come to America with the dream of starting a business that would enable him to support his family in Japan. The following year brought Yoshimura to San Gabriel, where he lived in a boarding house while working in the gardens that were being planted in San Marino and Pasadena. The enterprising young gardener took cuttings from the plants and with money saved from his gardening jobs was soon able to rent a piece of land and establish Mission Nursery, from which he could sell nursery stock that developed from his cuttings. At this time, sprinkler systems were being installed for the first time and Yoshimura became an expert in this technology, adding to his skills as a gardening professional. Soon afterward, Yoshimura met Mitoko Naito. At the age of 15, she had come to South Pasadena to work in a home as a domestic helper. In 1924, the two young immigrants were married. At the suggestion of one of their customers, Mrs. Yoshimura became one of the first florists in the area, learning flower-arranging skills from this same customer. As their business grew, so did their family, with the Yoshimuras having two boys and two girls, all of whom would help to expand the thriving family business. By the early 1930s, Mission Nursery had 60 employees and business was booming. In addition to selling plants, the nursery installed irrigation systems, fish ponds, and rock gardens. The nursery also imported stone lanterns and benches from Japan which became quite popular, even hiring a man who had spent time in Japan learning how to craft these special Japanese garden accessories. Fred Yoshimura was proud of his heritage and helped those around him gain a better understanding of his culture. He was active in the Chamber of Commerce and president of the Nurserymen’s Association. His charitable nature came to the fore in donating truckloads of plants to military bases throughout California. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Fred Yoshimura, along with 120,000 other Japanese Americans, was sent to an internment camp even as his oldest son would be drafted and serve in the United States Army. Once the internment of Japanese Americans began, it was assumed that the nursery would have to be sold. Mrs. Yoshimura was approached by several buyers but rejected their offers which were too low. Finally, Manchester Boddy, publisher of the Los Angeles Daily News, presented a fair offer that was accepted by Mrs. Yoshimura. Not only would Boddy’s offer allow the Yoshimuras to pay off their bank loans, but they would receive monthly payments throughout their internment that made it possible for them to start another nursery business in the future. It should also be noted that while Mrs. Yoshuimura was in the camp, she was hired by the government to run a flower shop. She grew the plants and flowers that were used in floral arrangements for weddings and other events. When the war ended in 1945, the Yoshimuras returned to San Gabriel and established San Gabriel Nursery & Florist across the street from where Mission Nursery stood. That nursery was soon closed when Manchester Boddy took all the inventory to his estate where he started his own nursery business. That estate eventually became Descanso Gardens and visitors there will set their eyes on camellias, azaleas, and Japanese lanterns that were from the stock Boddy acquired when purchasing Mission Nursery from the Yoshimuras. On the nursery’s website, there is a compelling photo of a field of pansies on the San Gabriel Nursery property at that time. In those days, pansies (and other flowers, I am sure) were not purchased in plastic containers. You would go to the nursery and point to the flowers you wanted and they would be dug up for you to take home and transplant into your own garden. It should be noted that Bellefontaine Nursery, in Pasadena, was started in the 1930s by the Uchidas, another Japanese American family. They too were interned during World War II, but with the assistance of friends were able to keep possession of the nursery during the war. You can read the complete history of the nursery and the family behind it at bellefontainenursery.com . California native of the week : Foliage, flowers and hips (fruit) of California wild roses (Rosa californica) are all fragrant and the hips are recommended for making tea. California wild roses will appreciate a bit more moisture than other native plants. While growing in full sun close to the coast, they will benefit from partial shade in hotter, more inland environments. California wild roses make a fine natural barrier because of their nasty thorns that will keep out meandering urban wildlife. Individual plants will grow in a thicket, with each rose bush reaching up to 6 feet tall with a spread of 10 feet. There is a wonderful display of these roses in a planter at the entrance to the Los Angeles Zoo.Dangote Refinery, A Wonder Of Modern Technology – Japan Ambassador