Day: January 6, 2025

**Step-by-Step Guide to Drying Citrus Peels**

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are not only delicious and nutritious, but their peels are also a treasure trove of flavor and aroma. Instead of discarding citrus peels, you can dry them to create a versatile ingredient for cooking, baking, crafting, or even natural cleaning. Dried citrus peels can be used to flavor teas, infuse oils, make potpourri, or add zest to desserts. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of drying citrus peels at home.

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### **Why Dry Citrus Peels?**
Drying citrus peels is an excellent way to reduce food waste while preserving the natural oils and flavors of the fruit. Once dried, the peels can be stored for months and used in a variety of ways:
– **Culinary Uses:** Add to baked goods, spice blends, or teas.
– **Crafting:** Create homemade potpourri or scented sachets.
– **Cleaning:** Use as a natural cleaner or deodorizer.
– **Gardening:** Add to compost or use as a pest deterrent.

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### **Step 1: Gather Your Supplies**
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
– Fresh citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, etc.)
– A vegetable peeler or paring knife
– A cutting board
– Parchment paper or a baking sheet
– An oven, dehydrator, or a sunny, well-ventilated area
– Airtight containers for storage

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### **Step 2: Wash and Dry the Citrus Fruits**
Thoroughly wash the citrus fruits under running water to remove any dirt, wax, or pesticide residues. Use a vegetable brush if necessary. Pat the fruits dry with a clean towel.

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### **Step 3: Peel the Citrus**
Using a vegetable peeler or paring knife, carefully remove the outer layer of the citrus peel. Aim to peel off only the colorful zest, as the white pith underneath can be bitter. If some pith remains, you can gently scrape it off with a knife.

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### **Step 4: Decide on a Drying Method**
There are several methods to dry citrus peels, depending on the equipment you have and the time you can dedicate to the process. Here are three popular options:

#### **Option 1: Oven Drying**
1. Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F or 65°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the citrus peels in a single layer.
3. Place the baking sheet in the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
4. Check the peels every 30 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying. The process may take 2–4 hours, depending on the thickness of the peels.
5. The peels are ready when they are completely dry, brittle, and snap easily.

#### **Option 2: Dehydrator Drying**
1. Arrange the citrus peels in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
2. Set the dehydrator to a temperature of 95–115°F (35–46°C).
3. Allow the peels to dry for 6–12 hours, checking periodically for doneness.
4. The peels are finished when they are crisp and moisture-free.

#### **Option 3: Air Drying**
1. Spread the citrus peels on a clean surface, such as a wire rack or parchment-lined tray, in a well-ventilated area.
2. Place the tray in a sunny spot, if possible, to speed up the drying process.
3. Turn the peels every day to ensure even drying.
4. Air drying can take 2–5 days, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.

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### **Step 5: Store the Dried Citrus Peels**
Once the peels are completely dry, allow them to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or resealable bag, to keep out moisture and preserve their flavor. Label the container with the type of citrus and the date of drying. Properly stored dried peels can last up to a year.

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### **Step 6: Use Your Dried Citrus Peels**
Now that you’ve dried your citrus peels, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas for using them:
– **Tea Infusion:** Add a few pieces of dried peel to your tea for a burst of citrus flavor.
– **Spice Mixes:** Grind the peels into a powder and mix with salt, sugar, or spices for seasoning blends.
– **Baking:** Incorporate dried peels into cakes, cookies, or bread for a zesty

**NeueHealth to Transition to Private Ownership Following $1.3 Billion Acquisition**

In a major development within the healthcare industry, NeueHealth, a prominent player in value-based care and population health management, is set to transition to private ownership following its $1.3 billion acquisition. This landmark deal underscores the growing interest in innovative healthcare delivery models and signals a significant shift in NeueHealth’s strategic trajectory.

### The Acquisition: A Game-Changing Move

The $1.3 billion acquisition of NeueHealth marks a pivotal moment for the company and the broader healthcare landscape. While the identity of the acquiring entity has not been disclosed at the time of this report, industry insiders suggest that it could be a private equity firm or a strategic healthcare investor seeking to capitalize on NeueHealth’s expertise in value-based care.

NeueHealth, a subsidiary of Bright Health Group, has been instrumental in driving healthcare transformation by focusing on integrated care delivery, cost containment, and improved patient outcomes. The company operates a network of primary care clinics and partners with payers and providers to deliver coordinated, patient-centered care. Its innovative approach has positioned it as a leader in the shift away from fee-for-service models toward value-based care arrangements.

The acquisition will result in NeueHealth becoming a privately held entity, a move that could provide the company with greater flexibility to innovate and expand without the pressures of quarterly earnings reports and public market scrutiny.

### Why Private Ownership?

The decision to transition NeueHealth to private ownership is likely driven by several factors:

1. **Operational Flexibility**: As a private company, NeueHealth will have the freedom to make long-term investments in technology, infrastructure, and partnerships without the immediate pressure to deliver short-term financial results.

2. **Focus on Growth**: Private ownership can enable NeueHealth to focus on scaling its operations, entering new markets, and enhancing its service offerings. This is particularly important in the competitive and rapidly evolving healthcare sector.

3. **Strategic Realignment**: The acquisition may allow NeueHealth to refine its strategic priorities and align its resources more effectively to meet the demands of value-based care.

4. **Access to Capital**: The backing of a private investor or equity firm could provide NeueHealth with the financial resources needed to accelerate its growth and innovation initiatives.

### Implications for the Healthcare Industry

NeueHealth’s transition to private ownership has broader implications for the healthcare industry. It highlights the increasing interest of private investors in value-based care models, which prioritize quality and outcomes over the volume of services provided. This shift reflects a growing recognition that traditional fee-for-service models are unsustainable and fail to address the needs of patients and providers alike.

The acquisition also underscores the importance of integrated care delivery systems in addressing the challenges of rising healthcare costs, fragmented care, and poor patient outcomes. NeueHealth’s success in leveraging technology, data analytics, and partnerships to deliver coordinated care could serve as a blueprint for other organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of value-based care.

### What’s Next for NeueHealth?

As NeueHealth transitions to private ownership, the company is expected to double down on its mission to transform healthcare delivery. Key areas of focus may include:

– **Expanding its Network**: NeueHealth could look to grow its network of primary care clinics and partnerships with providers to reach more patients and communities.
– **Investing in Technology**: Advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and telehealth solutions could play a central role in NeueHealth’s efforts to enhance care delivery and patient engagement.
– **Enhancing Patient Outcomes**: By prioritizing preventive care, chronic disease management, and personalized treatment plans, NeueHealth aims to improve health outcomes while reducing costs.

### Conclusion

The $1.3 billion acquisition of NeueHealth and its transition to private ownership represent a significant milestone for the company and the healthcare industry as a whole. This move positions NeueHealth to lead the charge in value-based care, leveraging its innovative approach to address some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare today.

As the company embarks on this new chapter, stakeholders across the industry will be watching closely to see how NeueHealth leverages its newfound flexibility and resources to drive meaningful change. For patients, providers, and payers alike, the future of healthcare delivery may well be shaped by the bold steps NeueHealth takes in the years to come.

### A Classic Greek Meal: Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese and Tomato Sauce

Greek gastronomy is renowned for its lively flavors, fresh produce, and deep culinary heritage. Among the many scrumptious meals that capture the spirit of Greek cooking, Shrimp Saganaki emerges as a cherished favorite. This dish, known for its tender shrimp simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce and finished with rich feta cheese, exemplifies the Mediterranean diet and Greek warmth.

#### The History of Saganaki

The word “saganaki” describes a small frying pan utilized in Greek culinary practices, as well as various dishes made in this skillet. Although Saganaki is frequently linked to fried cheese, the version with shrimp has become exceptionally popular, particularly in Greece’s coastal areas where fresh fish is plentiful. Typically served as an appetizer or meze, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce.

#### Key Ingredients

The charm of Shrimp Saganaki lies in its uncomplicated nature and the excellence of its components. Here are the primary ingredients:

1. **Shrimp**: Fresh, medium to large shrimp are perfect for this recipe. They should be peeled and deveined, enabling them to soak up the sauce’s flavors.

2. **Tomatoes**: Fresh ripe tomatoes or canned varieties can be utilized. The sauce is often enriched with herbs and spices like oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes for added depth and flavor.

3. **Feta Cheese**: This crumbly and tangy cheese is a cornerstone of Greek cooking. It provides a creamy consistency and salty taste that balances the shrimp’s sweetness and the tomatoes’ acidity.

4. **Olive Oil**: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is vital for sautéing the shrimp and creating a luxurious sauce base.

5. **Herbs**: Fresh parsley or dill is commonly used for garnish, contributing a fresh note to the dish.

6. **Optional Additions**: Some adaptations incorporate bell peppers, onions, or even ouzo (a classic Greek anise-flavored spirit) for extra flavor complexity.

#### Cooking Instructions

Preparing Shrimp Saganaki is simple and takes less than 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a fast weeknight meal or an impressive dish when hosting.

1. **Sauté the Aromatics**: Start by heating olive oil in a saganaki or skillet over medium heat. Introduce minced garlic and sauté until aromatic, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

2. **Cook the Shrimp**: Add the shrimp to the heat, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes just a few minutes.

3. **Create the Sauce**: Stir in the chopped (or crushed) tomatoes, seasoning with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

4. **Incorporate Feta**: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and tomato sauce, allowing it to melt slightly into the mixture for a creamy texture.

5. **Garnish and Serve**: Take it off the heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve right away with crusty bread or over rice.

#### Serving Ideas

Shrimp Saganaki is best enjoyed warm, directly from the pan. It can be presented as a standalone dish or paired with Greek salad, tzatziki, or roasted vegetables. A glass of crisp white wine or ouzo perfectly complements the dish, elevating the dining experience.

#### Final Thoughts

Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese and Tomato Sauce is more than just a dish; it symbolizes the celebration of Greek culture and its culinary legacy. The blend of fresh seafood, tangy cheese, and fragrant herbs creates a meal that balances comfort and sophistication. Whether relished at a seaside taverna in Greece or crafted at home, Shrimp Saganaki is guaranteed to whisk you away to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Savor the tastes of Greece and indulge in this enchanting dish that highlights the best of Greek cuisine.

From 2026, Hungarian legislation will allow access to health-related data stored in its National eHealth Infrastructure (EESZT) for AI development on a case-by-case basis. With this change, Hungary could capitalise on its investments into launching the EESZT platform in 2017 and standardising the health data collected by healthcare providers using the platform in the past […]

The post AI Developers to Access Hungarian Health Data by 2026 appeared first on Healthcare & Life Sciences Blog.

**Exploring Women’s Health Funding Plans for 2025: Q&A Session**

Women’s health has long been a critical area of focus in global healthcare systems, yet it remains underfunded and underserved in many regions. As we approach 2025, governments, non-profits, and private organizations are ramping up efforts to address gaps in women’s health through innovative funding strategies and targeted programs. To shed light on these developments, we’ve compiled a Q&A session that explores the key aspects of women’s health funding plans for 2025.

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### **Q1: Why is women’s health funding a priority for 2025?**

Women’s health is foundational to the well-being of families, communities, and economies. Despite its importance, it has historically been underfunded, with many women lacking access to essential healthcare services. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these disparities, disrupting maternal health services, cancer screenings, and mental health support.

The focus on women’s health funding for 2025 reflects a global commitment to addressing these inequities. Organizations are prioritizing areas such as maternal health, reproductive rights, mental health, and chronic disease prevention to ensure women receive the care they need. Additionally, funding women’s health has a ripple effect, improving outcomes for children and families while boosting economic productivity.

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### **Q2: What are the key areas of focus for women’s health funding in 2025?**

Several critical areas are being prioritized in 2025 funding plans:

1. **Maternal and Reproductive Health**: Investments are being directed toward reducing maternal mortality rates, expanding access to contraception, and improving prenatal and postnatal care. Programs are also addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes for marginalized communities.

2. **Mental Health**: Women’s mental health is gaining attention, with funding allocated for initiatives that address postpartum depression, anxiety, and the mental health impacts of gender-based violence.

3. **Chronic Diseases**: Efforts are being made to improve screening, prevention, and treatment for diseases that disproportionately affect women, such as breast and cervical cancer, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders.

4. **Access to Care**: Funding is being used to expand telehealth services, mobile clinics, and community health programs, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

5. **Research and Innovation**: Women’s health research has historically been underfunded. In 2025, there is a push to close this gap by funding studies on conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause.

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### **Q3: What are some notable funding initiatives for 2025?**

Several governments and organizations have announced ambitious funding plans for women’s health:

– **The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)** has pledged significant funding for maternal health equity programs, including initiatives to reduce racial disparities in maternal mortality rates.

– **The World Health Organization (WHO)** is collaborating with global partners to launch a $1 billion fund aimed at improving access to reproductive health services in low-income countries.

– **Private Sector Contributions**: Companies like pharmaceutical giants and tech firms are investing in women’s health innovation, including wearable health tech and AI-driven diagnostics.

– **Non-Profit Organizations**: Groups like the Gates Foundation and UN Women are spearheading campaigns to fund grassroots healthcare programs and advocacy efforts.

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### **Q4: How are these funding plans addressing health disparities?**

Health disparities, particularly those based on race, socioeconomic status, and geography, are a major concern in women’s health. Funding plans for 2025 are taking a multi-pronged approach to address these inequities:

– **Targeted Programs**: Initiatives are being designed to serve specific populations, such as low-income women, women of color, and those in rural areas.

– **Community Partnerships**: Collaborations with local organizations ensure that funding reaches the women who need it most.

– **Cultural Competency**: Training healthcare providers to deliver culturally sensitive care is a key component of many funding plans.

– **Data Collection**: Improved data collection and analysis are helping identify gaps in care and track the impact of funded programs.

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### **Q5: What role does technology play in women’s health funding for 2025?**

Technology is a game-changer in women’s health, and funding plans for 2025 are leveraging it in several ways:

– **Telehealth**: Expanded funding for telehealth services is making it easier for women to access care, particularly in remote areas.

– **Wearable Devices**: Investments in wearable health tech are enabling women to monitor their health in real-time, from tracking fertility to managing chronic conditions.

– **AI and Big Data**: Artificial intelligence is being used to develop personalized treatment plans, while big data is helping researchers identify trends and gaps in women’s health.

– **Digital Education**: Online platforms are being funded to provide women with accurate, accessible health information.

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### **Q6: What challenges remain in funding