2023-12-19T08:01:00
(BPT) – A free, up-to-date listing of 17,000+ products certified to meet ANSI/BHMA Standards, the BHMA Certified® Products Directory (CPD) is a resource for anyone from manufacturers to homeowners who need to make decisions on hardware. Read on to learn more about this valuable tool.
2023-12-19T09:01:01
(BPT) – Today’s homeowner wants their bathroom to be a sanctuary for relaxation and self-care, so it’s no wonder that the bathroom redo has become one of the most popular renovation projects. A recent survey from Houzz showed that one in five homeowners (22%) enlarge the primary or en suite bathroom during a renovation. And with the extra space, more than three in five homeowners (61%) increase the size of their shower. Transforming your bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat will not only impact your overall well-being and comfort but can also boost the value of your home.
The design team at Wilsonart, an industry leader in engineered surfaces, offers these five tips to consider when expanding and enhancing your shower space:
1. Set a realistic budget
Enlarging the size of your shower space is an investment. Prior to getting started, set a realistic budget that includes not only the construction costs but also the cost of materials such as the shower surround surface, fixtures, floor tiles and other design elements. It’s also smart to have a contingency fund ready for unforeseen expenses that are sure to pop up along the way. And don’t underestimate the power of DIY when it comes to cost-efficiency. If you are handy with tools and willing to learn, there may be certain aspects of a bathroom renovation that you can tackle yourself. Taking on tasks like painting or even assembling fixtures can significantly reduce labor expenses.
2. Choose the right materials
Selecting the right materials is key for both functionality and style. For shower surrounds, select a surface with style that will stand the test of time and fit your lifestyle needs. An on-trend option like the Wetwall™ Waterproof Wall Panel System makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end designs without disruptive demolitions. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the easy-to-clean, grout-free system features tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed in as little as 2.5 hours and do not require special tools. The system is simple to maintain and features a patented, waterproof core that offers antimicrobial protection that inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing mold and mildew. Inspired by the beauty of nature, the two latest designs to join the collection, Tuscany Marble and Darlington Cherry, can add a high-impact, bold statement to any bathroom, without breaking your budget.
3. Invest in quality fixtures and features
Give your new shower space the quality fixtures and features it deserves. Adding simple luxuries like a rainfall shower head or built-in shower seat will help turn any bathroom into a sanctuary. Today’s on-trend fixture finishes include matte black, aged bronze and brass, all of which are sure to add a touch of elegance while perfectly complementing your surface selections. While investing in high-quality bathroom accessories may add to your renovation’s bottom line, it can actually save you money in the long run since cheaper fixtures tend to be more prone to breaking or wearing out.
4. Maximize natural light
Incorporating natural light into the bathroom can help enhance the room’s overall aesthetic and make the space feel larger. Consider adding a window or a skylight strategically placed to maintain privacy, while allowing natural light to enter the room. This extra light can enhance your mood while also saving money on electricity bills.
5. Incorporate smart storage solutions
Having an organized shower can help streamline your morning routine while maintaining the visual appeal of the bathroom. Incorporating built-in storage niches helps create an elevated design aesthetic and optimizes convenience. The Wilsonart® Bath and Shower Accessories Niche collection is compatible with the Wetwall system and features sleek and functional recessed shelving for holding shampoo, soap and other shower accessories. Not only do these built-in bathroom storage ideas maximize square footage, but they also make a strong design statement.
Transforming your shower can take your entire bathroom to the next level and create a tranquil place to start and end your day.
For more bath inspiration and information, visit https://www.wetwall.com/.
2023-12-19T06:01:00
(BPT) – When her husband of 30 years was diagnosed with cancer, Cindy wanted to learn as much as she could about new approaches to cancer screenings and care. During his treatments, Cindy spent time researching and decided to be proactive to take care of her health for her family. As a Cuban American, family means everything to Cindy, who has three children and two grandchildren.
There are currently only five recommended cancer screenings in the United States, including mammograms and colonoscopies.[1] Cancers without widespread screening recommendations represent 71% of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. among individuals aged 50-79.[2] While early detection has been proven to significantly improve cancer survival rates and reduce the cost and complexity of cancer treatment,[3,4] most cancers are detected too late.
“After my husband’s treatment, I wanted to be proactive, so we went to the doctor. And while we were there, he mentioned to us about the Galleri test. Even though I felt fine, my husband said ‘just do the test.’”
During her appointment Cindy’s doctor ordered the Galleri® test which screens for a signal shared by multiple types of cancers through a single blood draw and can detect this signal even before symptoms appear. If a cancer signal is detected, the test can predict the tissue type or organ associated with the cancer signal with high accuracy to help guide diagnostic evaluation.
Early Detection is Key
Cindy was surprised when she received a cancer signal detected result since she had no symptoms. She saw a hematologist for diagnostic evaluation, and it was confirmed, via biopsy, that she had lymphoma. Lymphoma, a group of blood cancers that develops in the lymphatic system, is often aggressive and not detected until advanced stages.[5]
“I went to a hematologist, and he told me that I was one of the earliest stage patients that he’s treated,” recalled Cindy. “It’s very rare to catch this type of cancer in the beginning, because there often aren’t any symptoms.”
“I’m so happy that I’m able to still be with my family, still be strong, still be able to be around for my grandkids,” said Cindy.
Spreading the Word
After navigating their cancer journeys, Cindy and her husband want to help educate others on the importance of proactively taking care of your health, especially for those with increased risk of cancer.
“You know, this whole journey, it’s not about us, it’s about sharing this with others, so that others can benefit from it,” Cindy’s husband emphasized.
Learn More
The Galleri test must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and should be used in addition to recommended cancer screenings such as mammography, colonoscopy, prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and/or cervical cancer screening. It is intended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older.
The Galleri test does not detect a signal for all cancers, and not all cancers can be detected in the blood. False-positive and false-negative results do occur.
Based on a clinical study of people ages 50 to 79, around 1% are expected to receive a Cancer Signal Detected result, which includes predicted Cancer Signal Origin(s). After diagnostic evaluation, around 40% of people are expected to have a confirmed cancer diagnosis. The overall sensitivity in study participants with lymphoma cancer was 56.3% (27.3% for Stage I, 58.3% for Stage II, 71.7% for Stage III and 60.9% for Stage IV).
Learn more at Galleri.com.
Important Safety Information
The Galleri test is recommended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older. The Galleri test does not detect all cancers and should be used in addition to routine cancer screening tests recommended by a healthcare provider. Galleri is intended to detect cancer signals and predict where in the body the cancer signal is located. Use of Galleri is not recommended in individuals who are pregnant, 21 years old or younger, or undergoing active cancer treatment.
Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of medical history, clinical signs and symptoms. A test result of “Cancer Signal Not Detected” does not rule out cancer. A test result of “Cancer Signal Detected” requires confirmatory diagnostic evaluation by medically established procedures (e.g., imaging) to confirm cancer.
If cancer is not confirmed with further testing, it could mean that cancer is not present or testing was insufficient to detect cancer, including due to the cancer being located in a different part of the body. False-positive (a cancer signal detected when cancer is not present) and false-negative (a cancer signal not detected when cancer is present) test results do occur. Rx only.
Laboratory/Test Information
GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and accredited by the College of American Pathologists. The Galleri test was developed, and its performance characteristics were determined by GRAIL. The Galleri test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is regulated under CLIA to perform high complexity testing. The Galleri test is intended for clinical purposes.
_________________________
[1] US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended cancer screening tests, Grade A,B,C. cestaskforce.org/uspstf/topic_search_results.
[2] SEER Stat Database: Incidence -SEER 18 Regs Research Data, Nov 2017 Sub. Includes persons aged 50+ diagnosed 2006-2015. GRAIL, LLC. Data on File GA-2021-0065.
[3] Siegel RL, Miller KD, Wagle NS, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2023. CA Cancer J Clin. 2023 Jan;73(1):17-48. doi: 10.3322/caac.21763.
[4] Reddy SR, Broder MS, Chang E, et al. Cost of cancer management by stage at diagnosis among Medicare beneficiaries. Curr Med Res Opin. 2022;38(8):1285-1294. doi: 10.1080/03007995.2022.204 7536.
[5] National Cancer Institute. Cancer Types: Lymphoma. https://www.cancer.gov/types/lymphoma.
2023-12-19T12:35:00
(BPT) – Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is a serious condition that impacts more than 35 million adults in the U.S. – that’s more than one in seven adults. But 90% are unaware that they have it, as most people with kidney disease do not have symptoms until their disease is advanced, at which point irreversible kidney damage may have occurred.
“The reality is that one in three adults in the U.S. is at risk for CKD – making early testing, diagnosis and treatment important to long-term kidney health,” said Dr. Katherine Tuttle, M.D., Executive Director for Research, Providence Inland Northwest Health, Regional Principal investigator for the Institute of Translational Health Sciences and Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington. “With treatment, it’s possible to slow CKD progression and help reduce the risk of complications.”
For those who could be at risk for CKD, Dr. Tuttle shares the following quick facts and tips about the disease, the importance of testing and treatment.
CKD can have a serious impact that reaches far beyond the kidneys.
“CKD is one of a group of diseases that affect the heart, kidneys and pancreas. When one organ is affected, it can negatively impact the others,” says Dr. Tuttle. “The kidneys play a crucial role in the body and contribute to the function of other vital organs and systems. When someone has CKD, their risk for serious complications, like heart failure, increases significantly.”
There are two tests that – when used together – can help detect kidney disease.
Your doctor may perform two tests, a blood test and a urine test:
Both the eGFR and UACR tests are used to determine the stage of kidney disease and monitor kidney disease progression.
“CKD remains a widely underrecognized public health problem. Knowing the risk factors and talking to your healthcare provider about testing can help,” says Dr. Tuttle. “We have tools to diagnose and treat CKD in people with and without diabetes, so taking action to get tested and start treatment if needed is important for kidney health.”
In September 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Jardiance® (empagliflozin) 10 mg tablets to reduce the risk of further worsening of kidney disease, end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), death due to cardiovascular disease and hospitalization in adults with CKD. To learn more about Jardiance as a treatment option for CKD, visit Jardiance.com.
What is JARDIANCE?
JARDIANCE is a prescription medicine used to:
JARDIANCE is not for use to lower blood sugar in people with type 1 diabetes. It may increase their risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine).
JARDIANCE is not for use to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes who have severe kidney problems, because it may not work.
JARDIANCE is not for people with polycystic kidney disease, or who are taking or have recently received certain types of immunosuppressive therapy to treat kidney disease. JARDIANCE is not expected to work if you have these conditions.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not take JARDIANCE if you are allergic to empagliflozin or any of the ingredients in JARDIANCE.
Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:
If you have any of these symptoms, stop taking JARDIANCE and call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
JARDIANCE can cause serious side effects, including:
Talk to your healthcare provider about what you can do to prevent dehydration, including how much fluid you should drink on a daily basis. Call your healthcare provider right away if you reduce the amount of food or liquid you drink, if you are sick or cannot eat, or start to lose liquids from your body from vomiting, diarrhea, or being in the sun too long.
Talk to your healthcare provider about what to do if you get symptoms of a yeast infection of the vagina or penis. Your healthcare provider may suggest you use an over-the-counter antifungal medicine. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you use an over-the-counter antifungal medication and your symptoms do not go away.
The most common side effects of JARDIANCE include urinary tract infections and yeast infections in females.
These are not all the possible side effects of JARDIANCE. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Before taking JARDIANCE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including
if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
For more information, please see Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.
MPR-US-102610
2023-12-19T10:21:00
(BPT) – Gift-giving and the holidays are practically synonymous, but you’ve likely forgotten to get a gift for someone special. Can you guess who? You! LG Electronics USA is here to help you pick out a present that will bring you joy during the holidays and beyond. Check out these nine appliances that will bring cheer, convenience and comfort to your daily life.
1. Smart induction slide-in electric range oven
Upgrade your cooking experience with the Smart Induction Slide-in Range with InstaView®, ProBake Convection®, Air Fry and Air Sous Vide. The all-in-one range transfers heat directly to your cookware for faster and safer heating, even cooking and precision temperature control.
Equipped with an InstaView Window, you can see inside without opening the door, keeping the heat inside where it belongs. Cleaning is a breeze with the EasyClean Oven feature that cleans the oven without chemicals or high heat in just 10 minutes!
2. Smart combination wall oven
Cook like a pro and maximize your kitchen space with the Smart Combination Wall Oven with InstaView®, True Convection, Air Fry, and Steam Sous Vide. The versatile appliance uses TurboCook and Infrared Heating™ to cook up to four times faster than other wall ovens.
You can easily monitor the internal temperature of a dish by simply inserting the built-in Temperature Probe. Once it has reached the desired temperature, the oven turns off automatically. Other features include an EasyClean Oven, Backlit LED SmoothTouch® Glass Controls and a PrintProof® Finish.
3. Smart top control dishwasher
Dishwashing will be easier than ever before with the Smart Top Control Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash® Pro, TrueSteam® and Dynamic Heat Dry. The ultimate one-hour wash and dry cycle uses LG’s exclusive QuadWash® Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.
Experience efficient, pro-level cleaning with high-pressure jets that offer 38% more cleaning power than similar models. You won’t have to worry about food residue because TrueSteam® technology penetrates deeply to take care of any leftover scum, leaving 60% fewer water spots. Like all LG dishwashers, it’s certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).
4. Smart French door refrigerator
Keep your food fresh and organized in the stylish 26 cu. ft. Smart InstaView® Counter-Depth MAX™ French Door Refrigerator. The standard-capacity refrigerator offers a sleek, counter-depth design with 25% more space.
The refrigerator also uses linear cooling, a three-layer air filter and the ThinQ app, which automatically connects to your smartphone to notify you about usage, maintenance suggestions and early diagnosis for repairs. Let this fridge bring convenience and style to your kitchen!
Transform your laundry routine using LG’s 5.0 / 4.5. cu
Built-in AI technology gets smarter with every wash, taking the guesswork out of laundry. Meanwhile, Smart Pairing™ can tell the dryer to select a compatible drying cycle. Say goodbye to allergens. The washer reduces dust, pollen and pet dander in fabrics by more than 95% and is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Even if you don’t enjoy laundry, you’ll be thankful for how easy this washer makes this necessary household chore.
6. Single-battery cordless stick vacuum
Are you ready for hassle-free cleaning? LG’s CordZero™ Cordless Stick Vacuum Single Battery should be your go-to appliance this season. The LG Smart Inverter Motor™ offers powerful suction, backed by a 10-year limited warranty for lasting peace of mind. With an 80-minute runtime, a portable charging stand and easy maintenance thanks to the ThinQ App, you’ll easily handle everyday cleanups.
7. All-in-one cordless stick vacuum/mop
Take cleaning to the next level with the CordZero™ All in One Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum with Auto Empty & Power Mop. The appliance comes with a vacuum to wet mop technology so you can clean any surface.
The stick vacuum quickly transforms into a hand vacuum with a telescopic wand. When you’re done, dock the appliance and watch as the docking tower cleans it of dust and debris. Kompressor technology easily compresses dirt and dust with 2.4 times more bin capacity. Comes with two batteries, so you can tackle long cleaning projects.
Freshen your wardrobe with the gentle power of steam using the LG Styler® Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Steam Closet with TrueSteam® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers. Its TrueSteam® technology lets you care for hard-to-wash items without chemicals, so you can continue to wear them again and again with little to no hassle.
Certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the steam closet helps remove airborne allergens while deodorizing and freshening items. The innovative appliance is ThinQ compatible, sending proactive alerts right to your smartphone to keep your steam closet running smoothly. No need to call an electrician or plumber for installation. The sleek, simple design can be plugged in anywhere!
Breathe easier with an air purifier like the LG PuriCare™ AeroTower™ Air Purifying Fan. This must-have appliance uses an Advanced True HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of fine dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. Smells will be a thing of the past thanks to the deodorizing filter that reduces odor and harmful organic compounds. Not to mention LG’s exclusive UVnano™ LED technology kills 99.9% of bacteria on the fan blades, so you can breathe healthier air. Plus, three airflow options and a fan will keep you cool year-round.
This holiday season, don’t settle for the ordinary! Invest in these essential home appliances to upgrade your everyday life with comfort, convenience and efficiency. To learn more about these and other appliances, visit LG.com/US.
2023-12-19T11:13:00
(BPT) – Are you planning to buy a car in 2024? Now is the time to do your homework and start shopping around so you can pick a vehicle that fits your needs without hurting your wallet.
For decades, most people followed a simple formula when they were ready to purchase a new vehicle — dealership, negotiate and purchase, drive off the lot. Today, there are a myriad of options available in the ever-evolving auto landscape that can leave drivers with a lot of questions.
Chase Auto wants to simplify car shopping, whether you’re a first-time or experienced car buyer. Here are the most important aspects of car buying that you should keep in mind when buying a car in 2024.
1. Set a realistic budget
Before you begin shopping, set a budget that you can stick to. Knowing how much you can afford, especially if you plan to pay for the car over time, will help you avoid stretching your finances.
When setting your budget, don’t just look at a car’s sticker price. Other auto expenses, like insurance, maintenance and fuel, can quickly add up. If you need help figuring out what you can realistically afford, use online tools like Chase’s Auto Loan Calculator to estimate your monthly payments. You can also use a tool like Autosave, which allows you to automate transfers from your Chase checking to Chase savings, to create a car fund for your future purchase.
2. Shop for deals
When buying a car, timing is everything. If you can, wait until the end of the month, end of the model year or end of the calendar year when dealers are trying to meet quotas or clear out inventory for new models. Your patience may help you get your ideal car at a great price.
Don’t forget to look for holiday sales! Christmas, New Year’s, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day may yield great savings on this year’s and next year’s models.
Make sure you are considering multiple vehicles and shopping around at several dealerships to get the best price.
3. Take it for a spin
Once you’ve narrowed down the vehicles you’re most excited about, schedule test drives to see how it looks and feels, and to make sure it fits your needs.
Schedule test drives of different vehicles within the same day or week so your impression of each is fresh in your memory. Keep your daily driving conditions in mind and try to simulate them during your test. For example, if you’re a parent, bring a car seat to see how it fits.
After your test drive, make sure to ask about the warranties, fuel and maintenance requirements, extended test drives and the possibility of bringing the car to your own mechanic for a second opinion if buying pre-owned.
4. Weigh your financing options
Will you take out an auto loan or lease your car? Both financing options have their benefits. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which best fits your budget and lifestyle.
If you purchase your car using a loan, you don’t have to worry about mileage limits, and you’re free to customize the car. Once you pay it off, you own it outright. At Chase Auto, you can get pre-qualified for financing before even heading into the dealership. On the other hand, leasing typically has lower upfront costs than a loan payment. After the lease term, you can return, purchase or trade in your vehicle.
5. Consider electric
More and more major manufacturers are offering electric vehicles (EVs), so it’s a good idea to consider whether an EV fits your lifestyle. Cost, maintenance, range, and charging logistics are some key factors to think through.
Although the sticker price of an EV may be higher than that of a traditional gas vehicle, there are options to help offset the cost, such as federal and local tax incentives. Also, it typically costs less to charge your vehicle than to fill up a tank with gas[1]. It may be worth it to pay more upfront for possible long-term savings.
EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional cars. Also, EV batteries tend to be covered by 8- to 10-year warranties[2], outlasting the time most people own their cars. That said, EV tires degrade faster due to the weight of the battery, so keep that in mind when calculating the long-term costs of ownership.
Finally, consider how far you drive your car and if charging stations are nearby. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the range of an EV with a fully charged battery could be between 110 to 300 miles[3], but that number depends on the make and model as well as other factors like weather, traffic conditions and driving style. Also, when it comes to charging infrastructure, some cities and states may have more charging stations than others. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and map your route.
Ultimately, it is best to stay open to different options on the market. Research different vehicle options and financing programs, and make sure to shop at several dealerships so you can get a vehicle that’s a fit for you, your family and your budget in 2024.
To learn more about car shopping and financing, visit autofinance.chase.com.
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC
This article is for educational purposes only and provides general auto information. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. Chase is not responsible for, and does not provide or endorse third party products, services or other content. For specific advice about your circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.
2023-12-18T05:01:00
(BPT) – Childproofing your home isn’t just for babies. As kids grow, so does their ability to find new things to explore, some of which can be safety hazards hidden in plain sight. Be sure you know how to spot these hazards and the safety tips to help keep little ones safe throughout the years.
Read on about important safety measures you can take to childproof your home, based on the age and development of your child.
Newborn
Begin childproofing before your child is on the move. Installing safety products helps parents be ready before the baby starts crawling (which happens overnight!) and teaches children what is off-limits.
Begin childproofing your home by doing the following and consider these safety tips:
Crawler
Crawling and cruising children will grab on to almost any surface and may pick up any item within reach. They explore by putting things in their mouths as well. This is a very curious time for children which requires additional supervision.
Toddler
Be prepared to give lots of clear reminders about safety, as young children don’t always understand safety concerns. Make sure that the steps in the previous stages have been completed, and work on the following.
Early Elementary Age
“Big kids” can understand why some items and actions are dangerous, but still need safety precautions and guidance, as their impulses often push them to do what they know is forbidden or exciting. Make sure certain hazards are contained and they have a good understanding of safety do’s and don’ts.
No matter the age of your kids, your family deserves to feel safe at home. For more tips on childproofing your home, visit The Window Covering Safety Council.
2023-12-18T09:01:00
(BPT) – Generative AI is in the news nearly every day, and currently the most talked about topic in the world of technology. According to Forbes, well over half (64%) of business owners think AI will help benefit relationships with their customers. If you run a small to mid-sized business, you may be wondering how the latest groundbreaking developments in AI technology could help you better manage your company. One area you may not have considered is your payroll system.
While you may know how time-consuming certain payroll tasks can be, it may not be clear to you how AI — specifically generative AI — could streamline these processes. Using AI could actually save time and money while improving the experience both for you or your staff who manage payroll, and the employees who rely on it.
What is generative AI?
This widely used subset of AI uses algorithms to produce new content, data or outputs autonomously, and can be “taught” how to automate a variety of complex systems. Generative AI is “trained” by being exposed to large datasets of existing examples. The AI model then analyzes data to identify patterns, correlations and structures.
Once trained, Generative AI uses these patterns to create original content while maintaining consistency with what it learned. Common generative AI examples include writing assistance, chatbots/online agents — and payroll processing.
AI-powered chat-based assistants are one versatile tool that can engage with customers and streamline interactions. GenAI-powered chatbots can comprehend and respond to customer questions in natural language, offering real-time support and assistance while freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.
But chatbots can do much more than just answer simple customer questions. Generative AI chatbots can also streamline vital HR and administrative duties such as a company’s payroll and taxes. With Roll by ADP, you can also feel confident that there are guardrails in place to ensure safe interactions between users and their Gen AI features. Insights are drawn from ADP’s deep knowledge database, so small business owners can seek personalized guidance on managing and growing their business through an intuitive, chat-based conversation right from Roll.
Here are a few ways automating payroll processes using AI can improve your business.
Ease of use for payroll admins
Which would you or your payroll administrator prefer: spending hours on spreadsheet formulas and manual calculations, or running payroll in under a minute?
If you think the latter, Roll by ADP offers AI-powered payroll solutions that let you run payroll from your pocket on any device, whenever it fits into your busy day. All you have to do is type the word “payroll” into Roll’s payroll app for small business, and it will take you through the rest.
Simple user interface to answer employee questions
No matter the size of your business, employees always have questions about their pay, such as, “When is the next payday?” “Can I make changes to my withholding?” “How do I see when I’m getting a deposit?” “When was I last paid?” or “When will the money transfer into my account?” Using the AI-powered app makes it simple for employees to get these kinds of questions answered quickly, 24/7/365.
You or your payroll admin may also have questions, including: “How much did I pay employees in 2022?” “What information do you need for a new employee?” “Can I edit a payment I submitted?” or “How can I check the account that was set up for deposit?”
These and many more questions from employees and those running payroll can easily and quickly be answered using the Roll app.
Accurate processes — from payroll processing to compliance
Roll’s powerful solutions are built on the foundation that innovation should simplify business operations. Their AI-powered payroll solutions integrate cutting-edge technology that doesn’t just transform the way you pay your team — it changes the way your business thrives. Features include:
This payroll app is designed to be easy and seamless, so business owners can run payroll by just saying something like “Run my payroll.”
“Roll is designed with a simple conversational user interface that’s very intuitive, so you can run your payroll by just chatting with the app,” said Roberto Masiero, senior vice president of Innovation at ADP. “GenAI came as a transformative technology that can make our products better, so every single area of ADP is being rethought. Everybody now has access to this ground-breaking technology.”
Ready to make your payroll system easier to run? Sign up for a free trial today at RollByADP.com.
2023-12-18T08:01:00
(BPT) – Moira manages her depression and tardive dyskinesia and is supported by her husband and care partner Forrest.
This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Moira and Forrest were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences to share their story.
While the holiday season can often be “the most wonderful time of the year” for many, it can also bring on overwhelming feelings of stress and isolation. According to a 2014 survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64 percent of people with mental illness say the holidays make their psychiatric condition worse. As such, it’s important to recognize and show support to those who may experience a difficult time during the holiday season. Read on for a unique story from a couple who provide their perspective on how to handle this time of the year.
Moira and Forrest met while they were both working in New York City. Several years after they married, an opportunity arose that prompted them to move to Long Island, New York. While Moira found herself prone to depression her entire life, the move caused her condition to worsen. “There was just a lot going on and a lot to think about in life,” said Moira. “Despite the excitement of our prospects, I found myself falling into a deep depression.”
Around 2009, her psychiatrist prescribed her an antipsychotic, which she says helped manage her depression, but within a year Moira began experiencing uncontrollable movements and eventually saw a neurologist who diagnosed her with tardive dyskinesia (TD). Moira was worried about the implications TD would have on her career as a pastor and began to withdraw from her social and family life, but she found support with Forrest.
TD is an involuntary movement disorder associated with prolonged use of certain mental health medicines (antipsychotics), characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs, and fingers or toes. It is a chronic condition that affects approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. The uncontrollable movements of TD can impact people physically, socially and emotionally. People with TD have often reported feeling judged and ashamed. “Early on, I would get very discouraged, and I would just obsess over my movements and feel like I was trapped,” said Moira.
To help manage her TD symptoms, in 2017 Moira’s psychiatrist prescribed her INGREZZA® (valbenazine) capsules. Only INGREZZA offers simple dosing that’s always one-capsule, once-daily to treat adults with the uncontrollable movements of TD.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
INGREZZA can cause serious side effects in people with Huntington’s disease, including: depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal actions. Tell your healthcare provider before you start taking INGREZZA if you have Huntington’s disease and are depressed (have untreated depression or depression that is not well controlled by medicine) or have suicidal thoughts. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is especially important when INGREZZA is started and when the dose is changed. Call your healthcare provider right away if you become depressed, have unusual changes in mood or behavior, or have thoughts of hurting yourself.
Do not take INGREZZA if you are allergic to valbenazine, or any of the ingredients in INGREZZA.
Please see full Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warning, below and Prescribing Information.
About three weeks after Moira started taking INGREZZA, Forrest noticed a reduction in her uncontrollable movements, and Moira started noticing less movement around four to six weeks after beginning treatment, while maintaining her mental health medication regimen. “With INGREZZA, I have less uncontrollable movements, which makes me feel more confident being around people,” she said. Individual results may vary. Some taking INGREZZA begin to notice reduction in movements at two weeks with clinical results at six weeks.
Moira and Forrest recognize that having an established treatment plan in place to manage mental health is important throughout the year, but especially during times that can be overwhelming and challenging, such as the holiday season. “As Moira’s husband and care partner, especially during times that are particularly busy or stressful, we work together to stick with our healthy practices, including exercising together, while prioritizing Moira’s mental health,” said Forrest. This holiday season, Moira and Forrest are sharing their best practices on how to manage mental health based on what has worked for them over the years:
1. Find a support system
While friends and family can provide support, there are other avenues for developing supportive relationships as well, including finding a community for those living with shared experiences.
“While my circle of friends is small, they provide me solid support, alongside my church, therapist and a spiritual director. I’ve also started sharing my experiences with TD, and I’m looking forward to having more opportunities to do so,” Moira said.
2. Focus on life outside of tardive dyskinesia
Especially during challenging times, it may be helpful to reframe your mindset to stick with healthy practices and find moments of joy in life. Moira keeps up with the physical fitness program she does with Forrest and enjoys spending time with members of her church and preparing for holiday festivities by decorating her Christmas tree, caroling and watching holiday movies by the fire.
“I believe people with TD need to be encouraged that they’re not their illness,” Moira said. “I needed to find a way to live with my illness without shoving it in a corner and pretending it doesn’t exist.”
3. Advocate for yourself to your doctor
If you or someone you know has been treated for a mental health condition and experience uncontrollable movements, it may be TD. Start a conversation with your doctor or mental health professional about your symptoms and how they may be impacting your everyday life, especially your emotional well-being, such as Moira experienced. There are ways to help manage your uncontrollable movements.
By sharing their experience, Moira and Forrest hope to shed light on the importance of supporting those with mental illness and TD this holiday season and empower people to advocate for the treatment they need.
Visit INGREZZA.com to learn more about TD and resources to start a conversation with your doctor about possible treatment options, including INGREZZA.
Important Information
Approved Uses
INGREZZA® (valbenazine) capsules is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with:
It is not known if INGREZZA is safe and effective in children.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
VMAT2 inhibitors, including INGREZZA, can cause serious side effects in people with Huntington’s disease, including: depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal actions. Tell your healthcare provider before you start taking INGREZZA if you have Huntington’s disease and are depressed (have untreated depression or depression that is not well controlled by medicine) or have suicidal thoughts. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is especially important when INGREZZA is started and when the dose is changed. Call your healthcare provider right away if you become depressed, have unusual changes in mood or behavior, or have thoughts of hurting yourself.
Do not take INGREZZA if you:
INGREZZA may cause serious side effects, including:
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have a change in your heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if you faint.
Before taking INGREZZA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions including if you: have liver or heart problems, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Sleepiness (sedation) is a common side effect with INGREZZA. While taking INGREZZA, do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how INGREZZA affects you. Drinking alcohol and taking other drugs that may also cause sleepiness while you are taking INGREZZA may increase any sleepiness caused by INGREZZA.
The most common side effect of INGREZZA in people with tardive dyskinesia is sleepiness (somnolence).
The most common side effects of INGREZZA in people with Huntington’s disease are sleepiness (somnolence), allergic itching, rash, and trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep.
These are not all of the possible side effects of INGREZZA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please see INGREZZA full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.
This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Moira and Forrest were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences to share their story.
©2023 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CP-VBZ-US-3091 12/2023
2023-12-18T08:07:00
(BPT) – According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 740,000 people were injured in large-truck crashes from 2016 to 2020, exceeding the previous five-year total by nearly 44%.
To make matters worse, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 5,788 fatalities resulting from large-truck accidents in 2021.
Drivers of large trucks are often blamed for these alarming metrics due to the sheer size of commercial trucks. However, crash data and analysis indicate that other parties are more commonly at fault.
“Research from the American Trucking Association has revealed that passenger vehicle drivers are at fault in nearly 75% of all fatal car-truck crashes,” says Cliff Johnson, trucking business segment consultant, Acuity Insurance. “This showcases just how important it is for motorists to know how to safely share the road with truck drivers.”
As Johnson indicates, drivers of passenger vehicles can play a pivotal role in mitigating truck collisions. The following tips represent best practices that can help motorists improve roadway safety and reduce future crash totals:
1. How to Pass a Truck
It can take nearly the distance of two football fields for a truck that’s traveling at 65 miles per hour to come to a complete stop. If you need to pass a truck, try to do so on the left-hand side. After confirming that you have enough space to completely pass the truck, use your directional signals and ensure you can see the entire front of the vehicle in your rearview mirror before moving back into the trucker’s lane.
2. Avoid Driving in No-Zones
If you can’t see a truck driver in either of the truck’s side mirrors, you are in the driver’s blind spot. Steering clear of the following areas can ensure your vehicle is always visible:
3. Keep Your Distance
Driving too close to a large truck can prevent you from having enough time to react to roadway hazards, which can result in serious rear-end crashes. When traveling at highway speeds, keep enough distance to see mirrors on both sides of the truck. In slower traffic areas, you should always be far enough away to at least see the truck’s driver-side mirror.
4. Provide Space on Turns
Due to their width and size, large trucks require significantly more space than a passenger vehicle when making turns. As truck drivers often swing wide to complete right- or left-hand turns to avoid contact with a curb, median or sidewalk, never drive along the side of a truck when it’s turning — even if there appears to be space. Also, be sure your vehicle is positioned behind the intersection’s stop line to ensure trucks have enough room to maneuver through crossroads or intersections.
“Keeping our roads safe is a responsibility we all share,” Johnson says. “That’s why mutual respect and awareness are essential to reducing accidents.”
While these safety tips can help you avoid roadway collisions, accidents still happen. Contact an independent insurance agent to ensure your vehicle and financial future are adequately protected from the effects of roadway mishaps.
