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MULLICA HILL, N.J. (WPVI) -- As holiday cheer is arriving in the form of boxes in the delivery truck, authorities are putting out warnings about unsolicited packages in the form of a "brushing scam." "It was a really nice gift set for skin care," said Nancy Kowalik, of Mullica Hill, who received a package out of the blue from an unknown sender. After seeing warning posts from local police departments, she believes it was likely part of a scam. "There was a QR code," said Kowalik. "And I'm paranoid so I don't scan anything. But I kept asking friends and no one ever claimed sending that gift to me." Experts like Venkat Margapuri, who is an assistant professor of computing sciences at Villanova University, say once a fraudulent seller sends a package, even though you didn't order it, they can write a verified review for their product online. "Once these packages have been delivered, these fraudulent sellers go online and write a glowing review for their product in an attempt to boost sales," said Margapuri. As Nancy mentioned, the package could also contain a QR code, which could lead you to a malicious website. They might say something like: "Scan this QR code to leave a review on a product that you recently purchased to be eligible for a $500 gift card," said Margapuri. Technology expert Tony Sebaj of Check Point Software Technologies says that scanning the QR code won't necessarily cause any harm, but the website you visit may ask you for sensitive information. You can take steps if you've received one of these packages. "Change your login on Amazon if that's the site that's the vehicle for the brushing scam," said Sebaj. "Change your password. It's always good to have the two-factor authentication set up on your online shopping accounts and banking accounts." Another precaution is to enroll in some kind of credit monitoring. Another scam that's rampant right now: shipping scams. If you get a text message about a package that can't be delivered, check with the sender or the shipping service directly before clicking on anything.Hennessy Advisors, Inc. Reports 46% Increase in Annual Earnings Per SharePolice close local highways due to weather
49ers look to maintain 'urgency' against rival RamsORLANDO, Fla. , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2025 AIUM Annual Convention , hosted by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), will explore the cutting edge of medical technology through keynote presentations on space exploration, medical innovation, and neurotherapeutics. Taking place from March 29 to April 1 in Orlando, Florida , the 2025 Ultrasound Event will showcase groundbreaking developments in ultrasound technology and its expanding role in space medicine and advancements in brain health, like treating addiction, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. "With leaders like Dr. Chiao, Dr. Dulchavsky, and Dr. Rezai guiding our keynote sessions, we are not just imagining the future of ultrasound; we are helping create it," said Richard A. Hoppmann , MD, FACP, FAIUM, President of the AIUM. "The work of our speakers reflects the commitment to progress that defines our field, and opens new avenues for improving patient care." Dr. Leroy Chiao , PhD , a former National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut and International Space Station commander, will kick off the event with his keynote presentation, "Is It SADS, or Am I in Space? Medical Considerations for Spaceflight" . Drawing on his personal experiences in space, Dr. Chiao will explore the physiological effects of space environments and the development of countermeasures and diagnostics for space missions. He will also highlight how advancements in space medicine contribute to healthcare solutions on Earth. Dr. Chiao was one of the first astronauts to use ultrasound in space. "From understanding space-related medical conditions to adapting ultrasound technologies for use in space, we continue to learn and innovate in ways that enhance healthcare for all," said Dr. Chiao. Scott Dulchavsky , MD, PhD , a NASA principal investigator and Surgeon in Chief at Henry Ford Health, will follow with his keynote, "Extraterrestrial Medical Care." Dr. Dulchavsky will explore how ultrasound has become an essential tool in diagnosing a wide range of conditions during manned space missions and how these lessons translate into groundbreaking advancements in healthcare on Earth. "Ultrasound has proven to be an invaluable tool in space medicine," said Dr. Dulchavsky. "What we have learned in space is already transforming medical care back on Earth." Ali R. Rezai , MD , Executive Chair and Director of the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, will present "Focused Ultrasound: Breaking Barriers in Neurotherapeutics." Dr. Rezai will discuss the groundbreaking potential of focused ultrasound in treating neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and addiction, offering new hope through non-invasive treatments. "Focused ultrasound has the power to revolutionize how we treat neurological disorders," Dr. Rezai stated. "I look forward to sharing the advancements we are making in brain health and demonstrating how ultrasound technology is leading the way to more effective, less invasive treatments." The 2025 Ultrasound Event invites attendees to Orlando for in-depth discussions on the latest breakthroughs in medical technologies, setting the stage for the evolution of medical ultrasound. Convention topics will cover obstetric ultrasound, gynecologic ultrasound, musculoskeletal ultrasound, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), artificial intelligence (AI) in ultrasound, and many more. For registration and more information about The Ultrasound Event 2025, please visit the event's website . If you're interested in partnering with or sponsoring the event, follow this link . About the AIUM The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) is a multidisciplinary medical association of more than 7,000 physicians, sonographers, radiologists, scientists, students, and other healthcare professionals. With over 70 years of experience, the AIUM is dedicated to empowering and cultivating a global multidisciplinary community engaged in the use of medical ultrasound through raising awareness, education, sharing information, and research. Learn more about the AIUM's membership , AIUM's Journal of Medical Ultrasound , AIUM Accreditation , and educational offerings . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/exploring-space-and-neurotherapeutics-at-the-2025-ultrasound-event-a-journey-into-the-future-of-medical-ultrasound-302332900.html SOURCE American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)
Strategic hire underscores Assembly's commitment to bolstering its leadership team to deliver best-in-class services and results for its clients. NEW YORK , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Assembly, a leading global marketing agency within the Stagwell (STGW) network, today announced the appointment of Josh Berman as Executive Vice President, Assembly Lead. Earlier this year, Assembly unveiled a new operating structure with teams organized into 'Assemblies' based on geography and industry sector. Based in New York , Berman will co-lead Assembly East, focusing on deepening brand relationships, driving innovation, and providing more rigor, expertise, and growth for clients. Berman brings 15 years of media industry experience to Assembly. Most recently, as Managing Partner and Client Lead at Wavemaker, he led media planning and buying for a major Church & Dwight brand and contributed to global product development initiatives, leveraging data and technology to craft effective marketing solutions. Over his career, Josh has partnered with marquee brands across various industries, including Citi, Campbell's , IKEA, Tiffany & Co., Amgen, Marriott, and AT&T. Berman's appointment is part of Assembly's ongoing growth efforts, ensuring that the agency remains at the forefront of the industry and continues to meet clients' evolving needs. "Our clients get the best of both worlds—an agency big enough to lead yet small enough to care—which means each client receives the attention, dedicated leadership, and prioritization the industry and clients are demanding," said Rick Acampora , Global CEO of Assembly. "Josh's extensive experience in media strategy, analytics, client leadership, and innovation, coupled with his ability to fuse media and creative to unlock and accelerate brand performance, will be instrumental as we continue to elevate and find the change that fuels growth for our clients. We are thrilled to have him join our team." Berman's role is effective immediately. ABOUT ASSEMBLY Assembly is a leading global omnichannel media agency that merges data, talent, and technology to catalyze growth for the world's most esteemed brands. Our holistic approach weaves together compelling brand narratives with a comprehensive suite of global media capabilities, driving performance and fostering significant business expansion. Our initiatives are powered by STAGE, our proprietary operating system, and executed by a dedicated global team of over 2,300 professionals across 35 offices worldwide. Committed to purposeful action, Assembly leads the way in social and environmental impact within the agency realm. As a proud member of Stagwell, the challenger network designed to revolutionize marketing, Assembly continues to set new standards of excellence. For more information, please visit assemblyglobal.com . Contact Mariana Delacqua mariana.delacqua@assemblyglobal.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/josh-berman-joins-assembly-as-evp-assembly-lead-in-north-america-302337752.html SOURCE Assembly
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Stock indexes drifted to a mixed finish on Wall Street Thursday, as some heavyweight technology and communications sector stocks offset gains elsewhere in the market. The S&P 500 fell less than 0.1% after spending the day wavering between small gains and losses. The tiny loss ended the benchmark index’s three-day winning streak. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite fell 0.1%. Trading volume was lighter than usual as U.S. markets reopened following the Christmas holiday. Semiconductor giant Nvidia, whose enormous valuation gives it an outsize influence on indexes, slipped 0.2%. Meta Platforms fell 0.7%, and Amazon and Netflix each fell 0.9%. Tesla was among the biggest decliners in the S&P 500, finishing 1.8% lower. Some tech companies fared better. Chip company Broadcom rose 2.4%, Micron Technology added 0.6% and Adobe gained 0.5%. Health care stocks were a bright spot. CVS Health rose 1.5% and Walgreens Boots Alliance added 5.3% for the biggest gain among S&P 500 stocks. Several retailers also gained ground. Target rose 3%, Ross Stores added 2.3%, Best Buy rose 2.9% and Dollar Tree gained 3.8%. Traders are watching to see whether retailers have a strong holiday season. The day after Christmas traditionally ranks among the top 10 biggest shopping days of the year, as consumers go online or rush to stores to cash in gift cards and raid bargain bins. U.S.-listed shares in Honda and Nissan rose 4.1% and 16.4%, respectively. The Japanese automakers announced earlier this week that the two companies are in talks to combine. All told, the S&P 500 fell 2.45 points to 6,037.59. The Dow added 28.77 points to 43,325.80. The Nasdaq fell 10.77 points to close at 20,020.36. Wall Street got a labor market update. U.S. applications for unemployment benefits held steady last week, though continuing claims rose to the highest level in three years, the Labor Department reported. Treasury yields mostly fell in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury slipped to 4.58% from 4.59% late Tuesday. Major European markets were closed, as well as Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. Trading was expected to be subdued this week with a thin slate of economic data on the calendar. Still, U.S. markets have historically gotten a boost at year’s end despite lower trading volumes. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation, a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the U.S. market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up 26.6% so far this year and remains near its most recent all-time high it set earlier this month - its latest of 57 record highs this year. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to next week, including updates on pending home sales and home prices, a report on U.S. construction spending and snapshots of manufacturing activity. ___ AP Business Writers Elaine Kurtenbach and Matt Ott contributed. Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC.
The comprehensive three-day program takes place on February 20-22, 2025 in the Greater Palm Springs, California area, with an optional pre-meeting workshop and a session on AI in cosmetic surgery organized by the AACS's Committee on Artificial Intelligence CHICAGO , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) , the world's largest multi-specialty home for physicians dedicated to cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine, will conduct its 41st Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) on February 20-22, 2025 , with an optional pre-meeting workshop, Sculpting Human Figure 101: The Integration of Art and Science, on February 19 . Recognized globally for its commitment to educating for patient safety since it was founded in 1985, the AACS will hold this signature Continuing Medical Education (CME) program in-person at the La Quinta Resort & Club in the Greater Palm Springs, California area. The meeting includes a comprehensive scientific program focused on top-quality education, patient safety, and cutting-edge developments in the field of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Attendees will have ample opportunities to network, learn, and share ideas with industry leaders from across the country and around the world. Offering 32 educational sessions led by foremost experts in cosmetic surgery, the scientific program content spans diverse specialties, such as dermatology, otolaryngology, general surgery, oral, and maxillofacial surgery, ophthalmology, and plastic and reconstructive surgery. The program includes an outstanding array of featured guest speakers , including opening keynote speaker Sandra Lee , MD, FAACS (widely known as Dr. Pimple Popper), Women in Cosmetic Surgery keynote speaker Susan Dunn , LMT, NMT, 2025 Webster Lecturer Edward M. Zimmerman , MD, and closing keynote speaker, Elda Fisher , MD, DMD, FACS . Attendees will experience pioneering sessions on the latest techniques and developments in cosmetic surgery, including the integration of innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into cosmetic surgery, body contouring, face lift surgery, ultrasound-guided Brazilian butt lift, breast, rhinoplasty, liposuction, skin rejuvenation and regenerative medicine, gender affirmation, and more. The rich program offers a variety of learning formats to suit every participant, including: short abstract presentations during which colleagues will share their latest techniques, discoveries, and cases; a drop-in video session for observing in-depth surgical techniques; small-group sessions for intimate discussions and expert insights; a Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) Conference focused on managing complications; a GOAT (Greatest of All Time) Panel with tips from industry veterans, and formal poster presentations. An annual highlight, The Webster Society Gala Dinner will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Richard Webster and honor the esteemed 2025 Webster Lecture recipient Dr. Edward Zimmerman . Allied Health professionals can participate in a dedicated track featuring practice management and clinical topics designed for mid-level providers. There will be an Injectables Day, featuring a three-session track on the latest techniques and advancements in injectables and a breakfast session titled, "Charting Your Course: From Training To Triumph in Cosmetic Surgery" will be offered to those newer to the field. In keeping with the Academy's mission to advocate for patient safety and ensure that new advancements meet the highest standards of care, the recently formed AACS Committee on Artificial Intelligence will present a session on "AI and New Frontiers in Cosmetic Surgery," moderated by Committee Chair Albert Carlotti , MD, DDS, FAACS , and Giselle Prado-Wright , MD, MBA. This cutting-edge session will share insights and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving AI landscape. As Dr. Carlotti comments, "Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, and cosmetic surgery is no exception. By proactively addressing the opportunities and challenges of AI, we can ensure that these advancements enhance - not compromise - our commitment to excellence in patient care." The optional pre-meeting workshop on Wednesday, February 19 will be presented by Sculpting for Surgeons, LLCTM , featuring professional sculptor and aesthetic surgeon Dr. Peter Schmid . Didactic presentations and an interactive sculpting experience will provide perspectives that can be directly applied to patient analysis, cosmetic surgical planning, execution, and ongoing practices. AACS President Mo Banki , MD, DMD, FAACS comments, "Our 41st Annual Scientific Meeting offers stellar opportunities for cosmetic surgery practitioners from around the world to learn from and be inspired by leading cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine experts, deepen their knowledge and understanding of the latest research and techniques, and exchange ideas with one another in the interest of advancing the profession." Scientific Program Chair Lisa Chipps , MD, FAACS, notes, "Given our deep commitment to education and patient safety. we are thrilled to offer such a dynamic program that will abundantly share new findings, new research, new techniques, and new ideas from outstanding cosmetic surgery practitioners." The full AACS ASM program can be viewed here . Details about the pre-meeting workshop can be accessed here . Cosmetic surgery practitioners may register here for the 2025 AACS ASM. About the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) is committed to advancing the multi-specialty, global disciplines of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine for the benefit of patients and practitioners. Since its inception in 1985, the AACS has become the leading educational provider for cosmetic surgery practitioners from a diverse array of medical specialties, including dermatology, oral & maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology, general surgery, ophthalmology, and plastic/reconstructive surgery. AACS is composed of over 1,600 members who pursue educational and training opportunities in cosmetic surgery to ensure consistently high quality patient care. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-american-academy-of-cosmetic-surgery-aacs-presents-its-41st-annual-scientific-meeting-featuring-groundbreaking-educational-sessions-and-an-innovative-pre-meeting-workshop-302332821.html SOURCE American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS)( MENAFN - The Conversation) Sometimes in life it's important to follow your own path, regardless of what others are doing. That's why, in an age of growing populism, at The Conversation we seek out the voices of experts. It's why we treasure nuance over simplistic solutions, and collaboration matters to us far more than self-aggrandisement. It's also why we are committed to several unfashionable ideas about journalism. We believe that facts and evidence matter more than opinions. We believe access to quality information is too important to democracy to be dependent on one's ability to pay. We believe that journalism should be respectful and non-partisan, to hold open a public space in which everyone can contribute and be heard. We have been producing our unique form of“constructive journalism” in Australia and New Zealand since 2011, long before the idea became a movement. We now have expanded to have teams across the globe, across several countries in Africa, the UK, the US, France, Spain, Canada, Indonesia and Brazil. We couldn't be more proud of what we've achieved so far. But we know that nothing we've done would be possible without you, our thousands of thoughtful and generous readers who see the value of reliable information, and who care enough to help us provide it. My deepest thanks to every academic who gave up their valuable time to write an article and share their expertise this year. Thanks to our university partners and philanthropic funders who work so hard to make a positive difference. Thanks also to the volunteer board members and my colleagues in editorial, administration and technology, who are smart, passionate, humble and fun. Special thanks to the 800 readers who became monthly donors this December (and if you want to contribute, there is still time ). Finally, from everyone in the team here, we wish you a joyous and peaceful Christmas full of friends, family, reading, reflection and affection. May you continue to follow your own path, in 2025 and beyond. MENAFN16122024000199003603ID1108999786 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.1 2 Chandigarh: The PGI, Chandigarh, along with the department of health research, Govt of India, has developed an online health technology assessment (HTA) course for policy makers. It was launched on the Govt of India's ‘iGOT Mission Karamyogi' platform. The course has been designed by the HTA resource hub of the PGI, established in the department of community medicine and School of Public Health. The launch was officiated by Dr V K Paul, member (health) of NITI Aayog, and Dr Rajiv Bahl, secretary to the govt of India, with over 150 delegates from leading medical and public health institutions nationwide in attendance. Th event took place on the occasion of the HTA conclave, held in New Delhi on December 23, 2024. The course is now freely available to all civil servants of Central and state governments. The ‘iGOT Karmayogi' platform enables officials to explore, acquire, and certify their competencies, which are critical to discharging their duties. Speaking at the launch of the course, Dr Paul stated that it represented a significant step toward fostering evidence-based and transparent decision-making in healthcare in India. He added that healthcare policy makers face the challenge of deciding how to spend public money in a way that gives the maximum return in terms of improving people health. This HTA course is designed to address this challenge by equipping healthcare policymakers, including bureaucrats, administrators, program officers, as well as clinicians, with the necessary skills to use economic evidence in their routine decision-making, he added. Dr. Rajiv Bahl highlighted the efforts of the DHR in expanding the scale of generating high-quality HTA evidence. This course has been developed under the leadership of Dr. Shankar Prinja, who is professor of health economics at the PGI and heads the HTA regional resource hub at the institute. He explained that the course aims to empower policy makers to make well-informed, cost-effective, and evidence-based decisions.tnn Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword .
AI being used in Beed sarpanch murder probe: CM FadnavisTesla and SpaceX boss Elon Musk 's net worth has surpassed $400 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, setting a new milestone Wednesday for the world's richest person, as per a report. The jump in wealth, the business news outlet reported, came after SpaceX and its investors agreed to purchase as much as $1.25 billion of insider shares in a transaction that valued the rocket and satellite company at about $350 billion, AFP reported. The transaction increased Musk's personal wealth by about $50 billion to $440 billion, Bloomberg said. Musk's wealth, largely based on the share price of Tesla and the valuation of SpaceX, already took a huge leap after Donald Trump won last month's US presidential election. Tesla's share price is up by about 65 percent since the vote in November. 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He has been an ever-present sidekick for Trump since his election victory, inviting him to watch a rocket launch in Texas by his SpaceX company. Musk's businesses all have varying degrees of interactions with US and foreign governments, and his proximity to Trump has raised concerns that Musk will be able to give advantage to his own interests. Also Read : Will Beyonce stick around with rape accused husband Jay-Z; this is what a close source has said Musk is also expected to secure a reduction in regulations for Tesla as well as elimination of tax credits on electric vehicles that will punish the car-maker's rivals. Trump has selected Musk to co-head the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, which is set to deliver billions of dollars of cuts in federal spending and slash government red tape. Also Read : What is Israel up to in Syria? Its tanks are just 24 kilometres southwest of Damascus FAQs Q1. What are Elon Musk's companies? A1. Elon Musk's companies are Tesla and SpaceX. Q2. How much Elon Musk invested in Donald Trump's US election campaign? A2. Elon Musk has been a prominent political donor and advocate for Trump, pumping a staggering $270 million into the Republican's campaign. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Legislation that would weaken the powers of North Carolina’s incoming governor and other Democrat officials cleared both chambers of the state’s Republican-controlled Legislature this week. The bill would strip authority from the soon-to-be governor, Democrat Josh Stein, to appoint members to the State Board of Elections. Currently, the governor appoints all five members of the board—including three from his own party—based on the recommendations of the Democratic and Republican parties. The new bill would reassign that role to the state auditor, a position that will be filled by Republican Dave Boliek come January 2025. Another provision would limit the governor’s choice of candidates to fill vacancies on the state’s Court of Appeals and Supreme Court to a list provided by the outgoing judge’s political party. The bill would also bar the state’s attorney general from taking a legal position contrary to that of the General Assembly in litigation challenging state laws. Democrat U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson will assume that office after winning his race against Republican Rep. Dan Bishop. Meanwhile, Democrat Mo Green, set to take over the role of superintendent of public instruction, would be stripped of the power to appeal against a state review board’s decisions on charter school applications. The measure passed the North Carolina House along party lines on Nov. 19, prompting criticism from outgoing Gov. Roy Cooper. “Legislators have put forward a bill that fails to provide real support to communities hit hard by Hurricane Helene and instead prioritizes more power grabs in Raleigh,” Cooper said in a statement. The Senate nonetheless passed the bill a day later and sent it to the governor’s desk. The bill, Republican state Sen. Vickie Sawyer noted, allocates an additional $252 million for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts in Western North Carolina. “This historic commitment brings the total state funding for relief to $1.1 billion. Families still struggling to rebuild after the storm can count on our continued focus on housing, infrastructure, and other critical needs,” Sawyer wrote in a social media post. While the General Assembly is in session, Cooper has 10 days to sign or veto legislation before it automatically becomes law. If he should veto the measure, Republicans have the supermajority needed for an override, though it remains unclear if they would all support one. In the House, three Republicans from Helene-damaged areas joined with the chamber’s Democrats in voting against the bill. Just one defection would be enough for an override to fail. Republicans are poised to lose their veto-proof majority next year after falling one House seat short in the Nov. 5 election. While the party will retain its supermajority in the Senate and a majority in the House, the current lame-duck session could be the last opportunity for Republicans to bypass the state’s Democrat administration. In 2016, the state’s Republican-led Legislature pulled a similar move, limiting the governor’s powers ahead of the transition to Cooper’s administration. That legislation sparked protests and years of litigation.