Latest news with #Kuri
Indian Express
a day ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Debunked: Common myths surrounding desi nuskhas promising to cure bee stings
Bee stings are a common environmental hazard, especially in rural and semi-urban India. While they are usually harmless in most individuals, incorrect treatment — often rooted in traditional home remedies — can increase the risk of complications such as local infection, prolonged inflammation, or, in rare cases, systemic allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. Many desi nuskhas continue to be passed down through generations, but do they actually work? Here's what modern medical science has to say. Dr Priyanka Kuri, consultant – dermatology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, clarified that generally desi nuskhas do not work. 'We advise against using those as they lead to more irritation and inflammation,' she said. Revealing further about the hacks people come up with to cure such stings, Dr Kuri shared that people tend to apply eucalyptus oil mixtures, pain relief sprays, and even ice packs to treat a sting. However, the expert questions their effectiveness. Dr Akshay Challani, Lead & Sr Consultant Critical care and Medical Advisor- Apollo Hopsitals Navi Mumbai concurred, adding that while some traditional remedies like aloe vera or baking soda may offer symptomatic relief, many commonly used nuskhas — particularly those involving metallic objects or acidic substances — have no scientific validity and may worsen outcomes. He busted some common myths: Claim: Neutralises the venom or draws it out. Medical Reality: There is no biochemical mechanism by which metallic surfaces can deactivate apitoxin (bee venom). On the contrary, most metal objects are not sterile and can act as fomites, potentially introducing Staphylococcus aureus or other pathogens into the skin. This can lead to secondary bacterial infections, delayed healing, and local cellulitis. This practice is strongly discouraged. Claim: Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. Medical Reality: Onion contains sulfur compounds such as allicin, which have mild antibacterial properties in vitro. However, there is no clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in treating envenomation or reducing sting-related inflammation. It may provide a placebo effect, but cannot replace targeted symptomatic treatment. Claim: Disinfects the sting site and relieves pain. Medical Reality: Lime is acidic (citric acid, pH ~2) and can irritate broken or inflamed skin, worsening erythema and pain. Applying acid to a venom-inflamed dermis may also impair the skin's natural barrier function, increasing susceptibility to irritant contact dermatitis. It is medically inadvisable. Toothpaste: Largely myth. While some assume its alkaline properties can neutralize venom, bee venom is already slightly alkaline. Additionally, toothpaste may contain abrasives, detergents, or menthol, which can cause local irritation and contact dermatitis. Baking soda paste: Mildly alkaline, often used for insect bites. However, its benefit in bee stings is anecdotal, not evidence-based. It may soothe itching but does not alter venom absorption or toxicity. Turmeric paste: Contains curcumin, a known anti-inflammatory compound. While turmeric has general healing benefits, it has no proven efficacy in managing bee venom reactions. Aloe vera gel: Safe and dermatologically beneficial. Known for its mucopolysaccharide content, aloe vera provides mild anti-inflammatory and cooling effects. It may help soothe the skin but is supportive care only. Ice or cold compress: Clinically validated. Cold therapy causes vasoconstriction, limiting venom dispersion and reducing swelling, pain, and itching. This is the first-line non-pharmacological intervention for localized bee stings. Dr Challani elaborated that the goal of evidence-based treatment is to limit venom absorption, control inflammation, prevent secondary infection, and monitor for systemic complications. Key steps include: 1. Stinger removal: Prompt removal of the stinger is critical. Use a rigid object like a credit card edge to scrape it out. Avoid tweezers, as pinching can compress the venom sac, injecting more venom into subcutaneous tissue. 2. Local cleansing: Wash the area with mild soap and clean water to reduce microbial contamination. Avoid alcohol-based or overly acidic topical agents unless prescribed. 3. Cold application: Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in cloth for 10–15 minutes every hour to manage edema and local pain. 4. Pharmacological care: Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine or loratadine) to reduce pruritus and allergic response. Topical corticosteroids or calamine lotion to ease inflammation and itching. Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) for pain relief if needed. 5. Monitoring for systemic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, hypotension, or generalized urticaria may indicate anaphylaxis — a medical emergency. Such patients require immediate administration of intramuscular epinephrine, oxygen support, and emergency care.
Jordan News
17-04-2025
- Health
- Jordan News
Premature Graying: Why It Happens and Can You Reverse It? - Jordan News
Premature Graying: Why It Happens and Can You Reverse It? The Indian website Health Shots published a report discussing the causes of premature graying of hair and possible ways to treat or slow it down. اضافة اعلان According to the report, when hair starts losing melanin — the pigment responsible for hair color — it begins to turn white or gray. If you're young and noticing gray strands, the reasons could be genetic or health-related. While there are some methods that may help restore hair color, identifying the underlying cause is crucial. What Is Premature Graying? Premature graying refers to the appearance of gray or white hair earlier than the typical age. Dermatologist Dr. Priyanka Kuri explains that while some graying is a normal part of aging, white or gray hairs appearing as early as in the teenage years or twenties is considered premature. A study in the International Journal of Trichology highlighted that genetics, along with other factors like vitamin deficiencies, can play a significant role in early graying. When Does Hair Normally Turn Gray? Generally, graying begins in the 30s or 40s as the body gradually reduces melanin production with age. If hair turns white or gray before age 20, it's typically considered premature graying — and may be worth medical attention. What Causes Premature Graying? Genetics If your parents or grandparents went gray early, you may too. Hereditary factors are a major contributor to early graying. Stress Long-term stress can disrupt melanin production. Studies funded by the NIH (National Institutes of Health) showed that stress, including pain and restricted movement in lab mice, led to a decrease in melanin levels. Nutritional Deficiencies Lack of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, iron, zinc, copper, and calcium may trigger early graying. Addressing these deficiencies with supplements or diet changes can help slow the process. Smoking Smoking accelerates the aging process of hair and damages hair follicles, contributing to premature graying. Medical Conditions & Chemical Exposure Conditions like thyroid disorders, vitiligo, and autoimmune diseases may cause early graying. Additionally, exposure to harsh chemicals (in hair products or pollution) and some medications can damage hair follicles. Can Premature Graying Be Prevented? While you can't always prevent it — especially if it's genetic — you can take steps to slow it down: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support melanin production. Manage stress through practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Avoid smoking to protect hair and overall health. Use gentle hair care products and avoid excessive exposure to chemicals or pollutants. Take care of your hair with regular washing, moisturizing, and gentle handling. Check for underlying conditions, like thyroid issues, and get appropriate treatment. Can You Stop or Reverse It? Dr. Kuri explains that there's currently no scientific evidence that you can fully prevent or reverse gray hair once it appears. However, identifying and treating the root cause — such as stress or nutrient deficiency — may slow its progression. Once hair turns gray, it's unlikely to return to its original color without cosmetic solutions like dyes. Treatments for Premature Graying If the cause is nutritional deficiency, taking appropriate supplements (e.g., B12 or D3) may help restore some natural color over time. If related to a medical issue like thyroid dysfunction or vitiligo, treating the condition may prevent further graying. Some people may benefit from hormonal treatments in specific cases (e.g., autoimmune-related hair changes). Final Thoughts While premature graying isn't always preventable, especially due to genetics, a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and stress management can slow the process and improve overall hair health. If you notice early graying, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health concerns. Would you like tips on specific foods or supplements that support hair pigmentation naturally?
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TOTAL PLAY ANNOUNCES 16% GROWTH IN EBITDA TO Ps.5,483 MILLION IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2024
—EBITDA margin of 49%, highest level since the company issues public debt— —Capex for the quarter was equivalent to 29% of the company's revenue, compared to Capex equivalent to 36% of revenue a year ago— —The EBITDA balance, net of Capex and interest, reached Ps. 816 million in the quarter and totaled Ps. 2,763 million for the full year— MEXICO CITY, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Total Play Telecomunicaciones, S.A.P.I. de C.V. ("Total Play"), a leading telecommunications company in Mexico, which offers internet access, pay television and telephony services, through one of the largest 100% fiber optic networks in the country, announced today financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024 and full year 2024. "The company's strict financial discipline, solid operational efficiency initiatives, and the strategy to moderate subscriber base growth, significantly strengthened our profitability during the period," commented Eduardo Kuri, CEO of Total Play. "Higher revenues, combined with cost reductions, led to double-digit EBITDA growth and a five-percentage-point increase in the EBITDA margin, to 49% — the highest level since the company issues public debt. The higher EBITDA, along with Capex that accounted for 29% of quarterly revenue, generated cash flow — defined as EBITDA less Capex and interest paid — of Ps. 816 million this period, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of solid cash generation." "Regarding the balance sheet, the Company announced on February 7 that it successfully completed the exchange of US$821 million, representing 94.3% of its exchange offer of up to US$870 million. The agreement involved exchanging US$566 million of existing notes due 2028 for new secured notes due 2032, along with the subscription of an additional US$255 million in cash. This transaction extends our maturity profile and enhances Total Play's liquidity, further strengthening our capital structure," added Mr. Kuri. Fourth quarter results Quarterly revenue totaled Ps. 11,176 million, a 5% increase from Ps. 10,674 million in the same period last year. Total costs and expenses were Ps. 5,693 million, down 4% from Ps. 5,938 million in the prior year. As a result, Total Play's EBITDA increased 16% to Ps. 5,483 million from Ps. 4,736 million a year ago. The EBITDA margin for the quarter reached 49%, five percentage points higher than the same period of 2023. The company reported operating income of Ps. 973 million, compared to Ps. 605 million a year earlier. Total Play reported a net loss of Ps. 1,519 million, compared to a loss of Ps. 1,024 million in the same quarter of 2023. Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Change Ps. %Revenue from services $10,674 $11,176 $502 5 %EBITDA $4,736 $5,483 $747 16 %Operating income Net result $605 $(1,024) $973 $(1,519) $368 $(495) 61% (48)% Amounts in millions of Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Revenue from services The company's revenue grew by 5%, driven by an 8% increase in the residential segment revenue, partially offset by a 12% decline in enterprise revenue. Totalplay Residencial's revenue increased to Ps. 9,655 million, up from Ps. 8,945 million a year ago, driven by a 9% rise in the number of subscribers compared to the same quarter last year. The total subscriber base reached 5,219,782 this period, including 68,996 small and medium-sized businesses. The company attributes this growth to its ability to provide technologically advanced internet services with superior stability and speed, continuous innovation in its entertainment platform, and excellence in customer service. Compared to the previous quarter, the subscriber base grew by 95,349 users, in line with Total Play's strategy of moderating its subscriber base growth. The average revenue per user (ARPU) for the quarter was Ps. 607, compared to Ps. 616 a year ago. At the end of the period, Total Play had passed 17,599,524 homes in Mexico, a minor change from 17,556,755 homes a year earlier. This is part of the company's strategy to refrain from expanding geographic coverage, focusing instead on further strengthening its cash flow generation. Penetration — the proportion of homes passed by Total Play that have subscribed to the company's telecommunications services — reached 29.7% at the end of the quarter, up from 27.2% a year ago. Revenue from the enterprise was Ps. 1,521 million, down from Ps. 1,729 million a year ago. This decrease is attributed to the completion of projects with predetermined duration, scheduled to conclude this quarter. Costs and expenses Total costs and expenses decreased 4%, driven by a 17% reduction in service costs, partially offset by a 3% increase in general expenses. The decrease in costs, from Ps. 2,064 million last year to Ps. 1,708 million this year, is mainly due to lower content costs and the completion of business projects during the quarter, partially offset by higher link and membership costs. The increase in expenses, from Ps. 3,874 million to Ps. 3,985 million, reflects higher maintenance expenses as the company's operations grow, partially offset by lower advertising and personnel expenses. EBITDA and net result Total Play's EBITDA was Ps. 5,483 million, a 16% increase compared to Ps. 4,736 million in the previous year. The key variations below EBITDA were as follows: A Ps. 379 million increase in depreciation and amortization, primarily due to user acquisition costs, telecommunications equipment, labor, and installation expenses. A Ps. 228 million increase in interest expense, consistent with a higher financial debt balance, driven by the depreciation of the exchange rate on foreign currency-denominated debt and the issuance of Certificados Bursatiles, as well as an increase in the cost of debt. A foreign exchange loss of Ps. 817 million this quarter, compared to a foreign exchange gain of Ps. 613 million in the same period last year. This was due to net liability monetary position in foreign currency, along with the depreciation of the peso against the basket of currencies in which the company's monetary liabilities are denominated, in contrast to the appreciation of the peso in the previous year. Total Play reported a net loss of Ps. 1,519 million, compared to a loss of Ps. 1,024 million in the same period of 2023. Balance sheet As of December 31, 2024, the company's debt with cost was Ps. 56,278 million, up from Ps. 52,199 million a year ago. This increase reflects the impact of the exchange rate depreciation on foreign currency-denominated debt and the issuance of Certificados Bursatiles during the period. Lease liabilities were Ps. 4,490 million, 21% less in comparison to Ps. 5,665 million a year ago. The balance of cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash held in trusts, was Ps. 5,743 million, compared to Ps. 5,754 million a year ago. As a result, the company's net debt was Ps. 55,025 million, up from Ps. 52,110 million in the prior year. The debt ratio — Net Debt/EBITDA for the last two annualized quarters — was 2.53x. Total Play's fixed assets — including accumulated investments in fiber optics, telecommunications equipment, and subscriber acquisition costs, among other assets — was Ps. 61,504 million in comparison to Ps. 61,946 million a year ago. In a subsequent event, on January 7, the company announced an exchange offer for holders of the US$600 million Senior Notes due 2028, with interest rate of 6.375%, for New Senior Secured Notes due 2032 with interest rate of 11.125%. The agreement included a 45% additional cash subscription by Senior Notes holders, exchanged for the New Senior Secured Notes. On February 7, the company announced that it successfully completed the US$821 million exchange, which included the exchange of US$566 million in Senior Notes and the subscription of an additional US$255 million in cash. Twelve-month results Total revenue for 2024 was Ps. 44,530 million, a 10% increase from Ps. 40,503 million a year ago, driven by an 8% rise in residential revenue and a 19% growth in enterprise revenue. Total costs and expenses grew 6% to Ps. 23,574 million from Ps. 22,142 million, reflecting a 4% increase in service costs and an 8% rise in expenses. Total Play reported EBITDA of Ps. 20,956 million, up 14% from Ps. 18,361 million in the prior year, with the EBITDA margin increasing two-percentage points to 47%. Operating income grew to Ps. 3,844 million, compared to Ps. 2,316 million in 2023. The company recorded a net loss of Ps. 7,504 million, compared to a loss of Ps. 3,147 million a year earlier.2023 2024 ChangePs. %Revenue from services $40,503 $44,530 $4,027 10 %EBITDA $18,361 $20,956 $2,595 14 %Operating income Net result $2,316 $(3,147) $3,844 $(7,504) $1,528 $(4,357) 66% ----Amounts in millions of Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. About Total Play Total Play is a leading Triple Play provider in Mexico that, thanks to the widest direct-to-home fiber optic network in the country, offers entertainment and technologically advanced services with the highest quality and speed in the market. For the latest news and updates about Total Play, visit: Total Play is a Grupo Salinas company ( a group of dynamic, fast-growing, and technologically advanced companies focused on creating economic value through market innovation and goods and services that improve standards of living; social value to improve community well-being; and environmental value by reducing the negative impact of its business activities. Created by Mexican entrepreneur Ricardo B. Salinas ( Grupo Salinas operates as a management development and decision forum for the top leaders of member companies. Each of the Grupo Salinas companies operates independently, with its own management, board of directors, and shareholders. Grupo Salinas has no equity holdings. The group of companies shares a common vision, values, and strategies for achieving rapid growth, superior results, and world-class performance. Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are concepts about the future that involve risks and uncertainty that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Other risks that may affect Total Play and its subsidiaries are presented in documents sent to the securities authorities. Investor Relations: Bruno Rangel Rolando Villarreal + 52 (55) 1720 9167 + 52 (55) 1720 9167 jrangelk@ rvillarreal@ Press Relations:Luciano PascoeTel. +52 (55) 1720 1313 ext. 36553lpascoe@ TOTAL PLAY TELECOMUNICACIONES, S.A.P.I. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED QUARTERLY INCOME STATEMENTS (Millions of Mexican pesos)4Q234Q24Change $ %$ %$ %Revenue from services 10,674 100 %11,176 100 %502 5 %Cost of services (2,064) (19 %)(1,708) (15 %)356 17 %Gross profit 8,610 81 %9,468 85 %858 10 %General expenses (3,874) (36 %)(3,985) (36 %)(111) (3 %)EBITDA 4,736 44 %5,483 49 %747 16 %Depreciation and amortization (4,131) (39 %)(4,510) (40 %)(379) (9 %)Operating profit 605 6 %973 9 %368 61 %Financial cost:Interest revenue 53 0 %67 1 %14 26 %Change in fair value of financial instruments (135) (1 %)25 0 %160 119 %Accrued interest expense (1,461) (14 %)(1,689) (15 %)(228) (16 %)Other financial expenses (33) (0 %)(194) (2 %)(161) n.m. Foreign exchange gain (loss) - Net 613 6 %(817) (7 %)(1,430) n.m. (963) (9 %)(2,608) (23 %)(1,645) (171 %)Loss before income tax provisions (358) (3 %)(1,635) (15 %)(1,277) n.m. Income tax provision (666) (6 %)116 1 %782 117 %Net loss for the period (1,024) (10 %)(1,519) (14 %)(495) (48 %) TOTAL PLAY TELECOMUNICACIONES, S.A.P.I. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED ACCUMULATED INCOME STATEMENTS (Millions of Mexican pesos) AccumulatedAccumulated 12M2312M24Change$ %$ %$ %Revenue from services 40,503 100 %44,530 100 %4,027 10 %Cost of services (7,801) (19 %)(8,108) (18 %)(307) (4 %)Gross profit 32,702 81 %36,422 82 %3,720 11 %General expenses (14,341) (35 %)(15,466) (35 %)(1,125) (8 %)EBITDA 18,361 45 %20,956 47 %2,595 14 %Depreciation and amortization (16,045) (40 %)(17,112) (38 %)(1,067) (7 %)Operating profit 2,316 6 %3,844 9 %1,528 66 %Financial cost: Interest revenue 191 0 %302 1 %111 58 % Change in fair value of financial instruments (463) (1 %)(1,099) (2 %)(636) (137 %) Accrued interest expense (5,528) (14 %)(6,345) (14 %)(817) (15 %) Other financial expenses (506) (1 %)(271) (1 %)235 46 % Foreign exchange gain (loss) - Net 3,384 8 %(4,443) (10 %)(7,827) n.m. (2,922) (7 %)(11,856) (27 %)(8,934) n.m. Equity interest in net results of non-controlling entities (19) (0 %)- 0 %(19) (100 %)Loss before income tax provisions (625) (2 %)(8,012) (18 %)(7,387) n.m. Income tax provision (2,522) (6 %)508 1 %(3,030) (120 %)Net loss for the period (3,147) (8 %)(7,504) (17 %)(4,357) (138 %) TOTAL PLAY TELECOMUNICACIONES, S.A.P.I. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Millions of Mexican pesos) As of December 31,20232024Change $ %$ %$ % AssetsCURRENT ASSETSCash and cash equivalents2,377 3 %3,355 4 %978 41 % Restricted cash in trusts3,377 4 %2,388 3 %(989) (29 %) Customers - net4,426 5 %3,319 4 %(1,107) (25 %) Other accounts receivable183 0 %- 0 %(183) (100 %) Derivative financial instruments- 0 %451 1 %451 n.a. Recoverable taxes4,141 5 %3,719 4 %(422) (10 %) Related parties367 0 %251 0 %(116) (32 %) Inventories2,926 3 %2,708 3 %(218) (7 %) Prepaid expenses529 1 %499 1 %(30) (6 %) Total current assets18,326 21 %16,690 20 %(1,636) (9 %) NON-CURRENT ASSETSRelated parties237 0 %284 0 %47 20 % Property, plant and equipmente - Net61,946 71 %61,504 73 %(442) (1 %) Rights-of-use assets -Net4,780 5 %3,184 4 %(1,596) (33 %) Trademarks and other assets2,099 2 %2,458 3 %359 17 % Total non-current assets69,062 79 %67,430 80 %(1,632) (2 %) Total assets87,388 100 %84,120 100 %(3,268) (4 %) Liabilities and Stockholders' EquitySHORT-TERM LIABILITIESFinancial debt4,573 5 %7,846 9 %3,273 72 % Lease liabilities2,338 3 %2,508 3 %170 7 % Trade payables13,373 15 %13,746 16 %373 3 % Reverse factoring2,234 3 %1,590 2 %(644) (29 %) Other payables and payable taxes1,416 2 %1,672 2 %256 18 % Related parties1,012 1 %1,216 1 %204 20 % Liabilities from contracts with customers994 1 %720 1 %(274) (28 %) Interest payable316 0 %259 0 %(57) (18 %) Derivative financial instruments175 0 %- 0 %(175) (100 %) Total short-term liabilities26,431 30 %29,557 35 %3,126 12 % LONG-TERM LIABILITIESFinancial debt47,626 54 %48,432 58 %806 2 % Lease liabilities3,327 4 %1,982 2 %(1,345) (40 %) Derivative financial instruments1,442 2 %- 0 %(1,442) (100 %) Employee benefits74 0 %93 0 %19 26 % Deferred income tax5,253 6 %5,401 6 %148 3 % Total long-term liabilities57,722 66 %55,908 66 %(1,814) (3 %) Total liabilities84,153 96 %85,465 102 %1,312 2 % STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY3,235 4 %(1,345) (2 %)(4,580) (142 %) Total liabilities and stockholders' equity87,388 100 %84,120 100 %(3,268) (4 %) TOTAL PLAY TELECOMUNICACIONES, S.A.P.I. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Millions of Mexican pesos) 12th months period ended December 31, 2023 2024 Operating activities:Loss before income tax provision(625) (8,012) Items not requiring the use of resources:Depreciation and amortization16,045 17,112 Employee benefits16 23 Items related to investing or financing activities:Accrued interest income(191) (302) Accrued interest expense and other financial transactions6,497 7,715 Unrealized exchange (gain) loss(3,420) 4,077 Non-controlling participation19 - 18,341 20,613 Resources (used in) generated by operating activities:Customers and unearned revenue1,087 832 Other receivables52 183 Related parties, net388 244 Taxes to be recovered(330) 422 Inventories(584) 218 Advance payments379 30 Trade payables2,403 560 Other payables(1,021) 248 Cash flows generated by operating activities20,715 23,350 Investing activities: Acquisition of property, plant and equipment(15,627) (12,146) Other assets19 (44) Collected interest191 302 Cash flows (used in) investing activities(15,417) (11,888) Financing activities:Loans received6,034 (460) Leasing cash flows(2,650) (2,284) Restricted Cash in Trusts(1,389) 988 Reverse factoring(457) (643) Derivative financial instruments(1,000) (2,038) Interest payment(5,349) (6,047) Cahs flows used in financing activities(4,811) (10,484) Net increase in cash and cash equivalents487 978 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 1,890 2,377 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 2,377 3,355 View original content: SOURCE Total Play Telecomunicaciones, S.A.P.I. de C.V.
