August 2024 - Page 15 of 23

22 Aug

Congressional Investigation of MultiPlan Exposes Billing Practices Harmful to Health Insurance

295Health

Recent congressional actions have highlighted concerns about certain health insurance practices that could increase financial burdens for both patients and employers. At the center of these investigations is MultiPlan, a well-known data analytics firm known for its role in helping insurers determine medical claim payout amounts. On Tuesday, Reps. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), who hold leadership roles on a key House committee that deals with employer-sponsored insurance, sent a detailed request to a senior Labor Department official. They asked for a full explanation of the measures being taken against what they called “disturbing practices” in the health…

21 Aug

Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug reduces risk of developing diabetes in long-term trial

295News

In a recent long-term research study published Tuesday, Eli Lilly reported that its popular weight-management drug significantly reduced the incidence of type 2 diabetes by 94 percent among overweight or obese adults who had prediabetic symptoms, compared to a control group that received a placebo. The late-stage study explored the effects of tirzepatide, the active compound in both Eli Lilly’s Zepbound weight-loss shot and the diabetes treatment Mounjaro. Over about three years, participants who received the highest weekly dose of tirzepatide experienced an average reduction in body weight of 22.9 percent, while those who took a placebo saw only a…

21 Aug

Firefighters step up efforts to put out massive California wildfire

295Politics

CHICO, California, United States — A significant portion of California’s largest wildfire this year has been brought under control as the initial flames have subsided, allowing for a period of relative calm. The Park Fire, which has ravaged several northern counties, is now 53 percent contained after burning nearly 650 square miles. The blaze has destroyed 637 structures and damaged 49 others, making it the fourth-largest wildfire in California's recorded history. Currently, many sections of the burned area are moving into a recovery phase, focusing on cleaning up and securing containment lines. Residents who had been evacuated are now cautiously…

21 Aug

Electric vs. Gas Cars: The Actual Cost of Ownership Depends on Zip Code

295Business

The debate over whether electric vehicles (EVs) or traditional gasoline-powered cars offer better long-term value has intensified as EV prices have fallen and charging infrastructure has expanded. While EVs often come with a higher upfront cost, the potential savings on fuel and maintenance can make them an attractive option. However, the financial equation is far from simple, with factors such as location, driving habits and vehicle model playing crucial roles. A growing body of research indicates that the total cost of ownership (TCO) for electric vehicles can vary significantly depending on where you live. Studies have found that drivers in…

20 Aug

Estee Lauder Expects Profits to Fall, Freda Announces Retirement

295News

Estee Lauder Chairman and CEO Fabrizio Freda will retire, marking the end of an impactful era for the cosmetics giant. Estee Lauder forecast its annual sales and profits will fall short of expectations as the global beauty industry faces declining demand, particularly in China. The announcement comes amid news that CEO Fabrizio Freda, who has led the company since 2009, will step down on June 30, 2025, ending nearly 16 years of leadership. During her tenure, Freda, 66, has significantly expanded Estee Lauder’s skin care line, incorporating popular brands like Dr. Jart and Deciem, which owns The Ordinary. She has…

20 Aug

Russia calls Clooney Foundation for Justice ‘undesirable’

295Politics

MOSCOW, Russia — The Russian Revenue Service has officially designated the Clooney Foundation for Justice, an American nonprofit, as “undesirable.” This classification, which has been used against foreign organizations since 2015, accuses the foundation of engaging in activities that allegedly aim to discredit Russia. Founded by famed actor George Clooney and his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, the foundation has been active in advocating for justice globally. Russian authorities, however, say the foundation's operations mirror Hollywood-style tactics to undermine Moscow's image. According to a statement released via the Telegram messaging platform by the General Tax Office, the foundation allegedly…

20 Aug

How Rich Paul Stopped a Potential LeBron James Trade to the Warriors Last Season

295Sports

Last season, there was much discussion about a possible sensational move that would have sent LeBron James to the Golden State Warriors, according to respected NBA analyst Marc Stein. Stein revealed that the talks had progressed to direct talks between Warriors majority owner Joe Lacob and the Los Angeles Lakers’ Jeanie Buss. James’s close associate Draymond Green reportedly said the NBA veteran would consider a move north. However, those discussions were abruptly cut short. Rich Paul, LeBron James’ longtime representative, was adamantly opposed to the move. According to Stein, Paul was concerned about the negative repercussions of another team change…

20 Aug

Goldman Sachs cuts probability of US recession to 20% after positive economic indicators

295Business

Goldman Sachs has lowered its forecast for a potential US recession to 20%, following a reassessment prompted by the latest employment and retail trade data. The change comes after it raised its recession probability earlier this month, initially pegged at 25% due to disappointing job growth figures in early August. Earlier, Goldman Sachs economic analysts had raised their recession risk estimates when the July jobs report showed nonfarm payrolls rose by just 114,000, significantly below expectations and down from the revised June figures. The disappointing report contributed to a temporary stock market downturn and raised alarms about the potential weakening…

20 Aug

Social Media Giant X Shuts Down Operations in Brazil Due to Legal and Censorship Issues

295Technology

MEXICO CITY — Social media giant X said Saturday it would cease operations in Brazil, a move that comes after Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes reportedly ordered the arrest of X’s legal representative in Brazil unless specific warrants were complied with. X announced an immediate withdrawal of its staff from its Brazilian operations, although it mentioned that Brazilian users would still have access to its services. The company did not clarify the apparent contradiction in continuing to offer services while suspending operations. This announcement follows a series of meetings earlier this year between X representatives and Judge de…

20 Aug

Gabapentin: A Versatile Pain Management Solution Gaining Popularity Among Seniors

295Health

Gabapentin, a drug originally developed for epilepsy, has found new life as a multipurpose pain reliever adopted by seniors for ailments ranging from nerve pain to muscle aches. This versatile medication has become a daily staple for many seniors seeking relief from chronic conditions. In Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts, Mary Peart, 67, a retired nurse, recounts her experience with gabapentin, which she began using a year and a half ago to ease symptoms of fibromyalgia. The drug has significantly improved her mobility, allowing her to do daily activities like climbing stairs, walking her dog, and taking art classes. “It’s transformative,” she notes.…