text:
There’s a place in business for concepts that can’t find funding to reach production. It’s called the “Valley of Death” and it’s where the carcasses of good ideas go to die.
Consider, then, the Pennsylvania NanoMaterials Commercialization Center an oasis in the nanotechnology desert, or–perhaps more aptly–a bridge over the harsh landscape of commercialization.
The center, based in Pittsburgh, is designed to fund nanotechnology startups that need money to develop promising research into marketable products. “We’re very early stage capital investors where venture capitalists won’t go,” says Alan Brown, the center’s executive director.
Many ideas are born through research dollars at institutions and universities, but the funding often dries up once the experimenting ends. From there to the market lies the valley that the nano center bridges.
The idea is equally a boon to large corporations looking to breathe new life into their product lines. In fact, that’s how the center was born in 2006.
“The center came out of, really, a discussion with major companies in southwestern Pennsylvania,” Brown says. “They were looking for ways that new technology could revitalize these companies. A lot of these large corporations, they have considerably downsized their internal R&D.”
Instead, such companies have employees “to find innovation they can buy, license or partner” with to develop, Brown said, and the center’s niche is to facilitate that.
Nanotechnology is a broad category of innovations that often inspires thoughts of “little nano robots crawling around in our bodies and cleaning stuff,” Brown says, but what’s being done now are small breakthroughs on the molecular level for “materials, any kind of materials,” from polymers to powders to carbon nanotubes, that change or enhance the materials’ properties.
While a grad student at the university, Ranjan Dash figured out how to use metal carbides to control the pore sizes of carbon, thus tailoring the carbon’s properties for specific uses, such as increasing the energy storage in supercapacitors and hydrogen storage. He founded the company in 2004, becoming its chief technology officer, but the company didn’t become active until 2007. In 2008, the company applied for funding from the nano center and received $250,000 to build a prototype supercapacitor with twice the usual storage for a similar production price. Using that, the company is now raising capital to build an assembly line.
The company credits the nano center with shaving up to two years off its development timeline, but it also benefited from the focus the center creates through its mandatory milestones.
Going forward, the company is interested in the center’s mentoring program, which links startups with large corporations. The relationship is mutually beneficial: startups provide the innovations while big businesses provide the money to get products to market.
“In this marketplace today, it’s difficult for early-stage companies to raise capital to turn ideas into concepts,” says James Horan, Y-Carbon’s chief executive officer.
The nano center boasts other evolving success stories–such as turning research at Carnegie Mellon University into how geckos grip seemingly smooth surfaces–but it has also witnessed failures.
“As you can imagine, this is a numbers game,” Brown says.
Over the past three years, the center, which has three fulltime employees, has received nearly 100 proposals. A technology advisory committee of roughly 20 members reviews the ideas, which must be from Pennsylvania companies, based on the funding needed compared to the potential value, and submits the top proposals to the center’s board. From there, companies receive at least $150,000.
“Anything less than that, and you get less of a benefit,” Brown says.
So far, 17 projects from 15 companies have been funded. “Our statistics so far, we’ve had two companies that have failed out of that portfolio, but we have probably 3 or 4 companies who are doing very well,” Brown says.
The funding comes from a variety of sources, including the state Ben Franklin Technology Partners, foundational investments and the military. The funding helps companies like Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. transfer from research to marketing mode. The State College-based startup uses research developed at Penn State University that wraps metals with engineered polymer films to increase the ability for capacitors to store energy while decreasing their size.
According to the company, capacitors take up as much as 50 percent of a device’s volume, and its film capacitors can provide the same amount of energy at 50-percent less volume. In March, the company plans to bring that technology to market, according to Dean Anderson, the company’s director of operations.
SPS received funding from the Small Business Innovation Research program to research the technology, but–like most research funding–it didn’t cover bringing the products to market. A $200,000 grant from the nano center helped SPS develop capacitors for a smaller plantable heart defibrillator for which it’s landed a collaboration with a “Tier-I medical company,” Anderson said. The company is also seeking outside funding for its miniaturization technology to develop pulse-energy weapons, hybrid-electric vehicles and electricity transmission.
Going forward, the center hopes to interact more with private investors.
“We think we can help them by basically showcasing these companies so (investors) can have a much earlier look at what they’re going to invest in,” Brown says. “We would like to hand these small companies off to private investors.”
Beyond that, the center is looking for more funding it can hand out because as technology advances, ever more ideas spring up that could be worth funding.
“The impact that we have is obviously proportional to the size of the budget,” Brown says. “We turn away more projects than we fund.”
Rory Sweeney writes on energy and the environment when he’s paid to and sits
around talking about them when he’s not. Send feedback here.
To receive Keystone Edge free every week, click
Dr. Alan Brown, the director of the PA NanoMaterials Commercialization Center, at the Crystalplex laboratories. (Heather Mull)
Crystalplex shows vials of colored liquid called Quantum Dots. They are activated under UV
light. (Heather Mull)
Dean Anderson, Ph.D., Director of Operations for Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. (Brad Bower)
Anderson holds a sample roll of the wound capacitor film they are developing at their State College lab (Brad Bower)
Shihai Zhang, Ph.D., Director of Engineering, left, and Anderson examine a roll of the wound capacitor film. (Brad Bower)


text:
State Of The Union
Good Morning Europe
The Global Conversation
Top News Stories Today
Hacker Hunter Next Level
Women Beyond Borders
Farm To Fork
Green In The City
Low Impact Living
Cry Like A Boy
Meet The Locals
Melting Pot Culture
Depth Of Field
Here We Grow: Spain
The New Uzbekistan
Digital Garden City Nation
Under The Hood
More about this topic
Water in Qatar: aiming for sustainability in a desert climate
More about this topic
The sky's the limit: the rise of the cloud
In this episode of The Exchange we look at the expanding cloud sector and business analytics boom, asking what the tech giants actually do with our data and what it means for our privacy.
The Afghan children's orchestra plays again
“Music is a powerful force for transforming lives. Music can teach children how to live in peace and harmony. They're responsible to get the necessary skills and knowledge to be able one day to help the country once again.”
The FIFA Arab Cup: A perfect World Cup warm-up
A first ever FIFA Arab Cup provided Qatar with the ideal opportunity to test out the logistics ahead of next year's World Cup.
Going through the roof: what does 2022 have in store for global property prices?
The pandemic has transformed the global property market. In this episode of the Exchange, industry leaders offer their predictions for the $10 trillion sector in 2022.
Qatar Hosts Formula 1: Harnessing the Power of Cars
Qatar 365 gets fast and furious, exploring how the motor vehicle, supercars and motorsport have shaped the culture of Qatar.
Kidults drive boom for traditional toys
2021 is set to be another bumper year for the toy industry. And despite some reports that video games have killed the sector, it seems the traditional toy market is bouncing back.
Chocolate, the billion euro industry that tastes good and does good
The cocoa industry is big business, worth billions of euros every year. But is our love for chocolate good for the planet and farmers? We look at how the sector is trying to be more sustainable, fair and teach consumers to be more responsible.
How has Qatar’s film industry changed over the past decade?
The Ajyal Film Festival has been showing off Qatar's local and regional films for nine years. Discover how the country’s film industry has changed to encourage more women and young talent to join the thriving sector.
Seven women are suing Qatar over 'invasive' body searches at airport
These seven were among 13 women on the flight who claim to have been “invasively examined” on the tarmac.
Qatar Clasico: One of the Middle East’s biggest football matches
Labelled the 'Qatar Clasico', Al-Rayann vs Al Sadd is one of the country's biggest footballing rivalries.
Will we be hailing taxis from the sky by 2025?
Flying cars sound like something out of a science fiction film, but money is pouring into the development of human-sized drones and cargo-carrying airships. Will flying taxis soon be stopping outside our doors?
Climate crisis: How can football make a difference?
Ahead of COP26, we look at the relationship between football and the climate crisis, asking the question, is the sport doing enough to help the cause?
How are Qatar’s traditions and culture inspiring its architecture?
From the FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums to smart cities, we take a look at Qatar’s buildings and what they have to say about the country. We find out how architecture is helping to define the nation’s identity.
The all-girl Afghan robotics team is rebuilding its future in Qatar
Evacuated from Kabul, the nine young women are planning their entries for the global robotics competition. But their minds stray to those left behind.
The gaming world is booming
The gaming industry has welcomed 500 million new competitors in the last three years and is set to continue to grow with hundreds of millions of new customers in the next ten years
Luxury brands find their place in the retail revolution despite the pandemic
Online shopping has increased dramatically in recent years – helped by COVID-19. Many high street shops have been forced to close, but there are signs of a resurgence in demand for physical shopping, particularly amongst luxury brands. The Exchange looks at the direction retail is taking.
Qatar Airways grounds Airbus A350s as fuselage degrading
Qatar Airways said it grounded 13 Airbus A350s over what it described as fuselages "degrading at an accelerated rate" in the long-range aircraft, further escalating a monthslong dispute with the European airplane maker over the issue.
From gig economy to WFH — these trends are changing the future of jobs
The job market is changing. Employees are increasingly looking for more flexible hours, varied contracts and different salaries. Working from home and the gig economy are helping people achieve these goals. We speak to specialists in the job field to see what the future for employment holds.
Taliban continue talks whilst making big gains on the battlefield
Government forces are struggling to hold onto Afghanistan's major towns and cities whilst the Taliban continue to take large rural districts.
How technology is helping airline businesses bounce back from COVID
From smart screening helmets that use infrared imaging to carry out thermal checks on passengers to a robot that releases ultraviolet-C light in high traffic zones, Hamad International Airport in Qatar is using cutting-edge technology to fight the pandemic.
Qatar to require 2022 World Cup fans to be vaccinated against COVID-19
The Qatari Prime Minister said the country is negotiating to buy one million doses to immunise fans who were not able to get a jab at home prior to the World Cup.
Qatar continues its vaccination campaign at a centre in Doha.
Qatar continues its vaccination campaign at a centre in Doha, as the number of Covid-19 jabs administered globally surpassed the one billion mark on Saturday.
What are dugongs? Why these ‘sea cows’ need protecting from extinction
The tranquil ocean mammals are receiving much needed support by the global conservation community.
Triple gold for France on final day of Doha Masters
The heavyweights lined up for the final day of the Doha Masters, with 10-time World Champion Teddy Riner happy to be among them.
Agbegnenou and Grigalashvili shine on day two in Doha
On day two of the 2021 World Judo Masters, our woman of the day was four-time World Champion Clarisse Agbegnenou, who was once again on top form, dispatching her early opponents in the under -63kg category with an incredible display of ura nages.
Krasniqi and Kim take the top honours on day one in Doha
The opening event of the 2021 judo season is underway in Doha: the invitation-only World Masters, where the highest-ranked judokas in each weight category battle it out for top spot.

domain: news


text:
- Sean Keach, Technology and Science Editor
- 19:01, 8 Mar 2022
- Updated: 19:09, 8 Mar 2022
APPLE unleashed a flurry of new gadgets TODAY at a special event in California.
The live-streamed showcase featured a cheap new iPhone SE 3, a new 5G iPad Air, and two new green colour options for the iPhone 13.
Apple showed off its powerful new M1 Ultra chip, and confirmed it would be available inside the Mac Studio desktop computer.
And there’s a new Studio Display monitor to go with it too.
Despite rumours of a “peek” at a VR headset, Apple declined to show us any hi-tech eyewear.
Now we’ll have to wait until Apple’s WWDC event in June – and the big iPhone launch in September – for more exciting gadgets.
Here are the key links:
- New iPhone SE 3 announced with must-have upgrade
- Two new iPhone colours available this week
- Huge iPad Air refresh with a surprising trick
- Super-speedy new Mac Studio announced – with a special gadget to go with it
Read our Apple event live blog below for the latest updates…
THAT’S A WRAP!
And we’re done. Apple has finished unveiling products.
We got a new iPhone SE with 5G (and two new colours for the iPhone 13).
There’s an iPad Air with 5G, and a powerful new M1 Ultra chip.
That chip will power the new Mac Studio, and there’s a slick Studio Display monitor to go with it.
There was no “peek” at a VR headset as rumoured. But that only makes a reveal later this year seem more likely.
That’s it from me – thanks for following along with the blog. See you at the next one!
So what’s the bill, here?
For the Mac Studio with an M1 Max chip, you’re looking at $1,999.
And for the M1 Ultra version, you’ll pay a whopping $3,999. Ouch!
Chuck in a Studio Display and you’re looking at an additional $1,599.
Both products are available to order today, and will be on sale on March 18.
Now we’re learning more about the new Apple Studio Display.
It’s got a flexible stand that lets you tilt the screen up to 30 degrees.
There’s also a height-adjustable stand option.
It’s got a 27-inch screen offering 14.7million pixels – which makes it “a 5K Retina display”.
You get a P3 wide colour gamut (so visuals will be accurately represented), and upwards of 500 nits of brightness.
Apple says the image quality is “outstanding”.
The screen itself is even fitted with an iPhone-grade A13 Bionic chip inside.
This helps power some features like the 12-megapixel Ultra Wide camera on the front.
There’s a six-speaker sound system built in, too.
With Mac Studio and the M1 Ultra, you get 60-90% better CPU performance than Mac Pro, and 80% faster GPU performance even with the top Mac Pro graphics spec.
It can support up to 8TB of SSD storage capacity, and 128GB of unified memory.
Basically, it’s ultra rapid and capable.
This is a true workhorse that will tempt pro users the world over.
The Mac Mini is small – small enough to fit under most computer monitors, anyway.
There’s a new thermal system to keep the supercharged gadget cool.
Apple says it’s so quiet “you’ll barely even hear it”, even under heavy workloads.
It’s got a load of connectivity on the back, including four Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, ethernet, HDMI, USB, a pro audio jack and more.
And WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 are built in as well.
There are two more Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports on the front, as well as an SD card.
You can even support up to four Retina XDR displays plus a 4K TV, driving around 90million pixels, with the Mac Studio. Impressive.
Apple says the new M1 Ultra is going to turn up in a new product…
…the Mac Studio.
It’s more powerful than the Mac Mini and even the iMac, according to Apple.
Apple also hopes you’ll buy the new Studio Display with it too.
FAST, FASTER, FASTEST!
So how fast is the M1 Ultra chip?
This Mac processor contains 114billion transistors – tiny electronic switches that allow computing to happen.
That’s vastly more than any M1 chip to date, meaning we can expect serious computing performance.
Apple says it provides “industry-leading performance”.
It’s currently unclear exactly how much faster than previous M1 chips. But based on Apple’s descriptions, it sounds like…a lot.
Out of nowhere, Apple has unveiled a brand new M-series chip.
It’s called the M1 Ultra, and it’s the most powerful of Apple’s own chips yet.
Apple has only been making PC-grade chips for a couple of years, with great success.
Now the M1 Ultra joins the M1, M1 Pro and M1 Max.
MAC IT HAPPEN
Now Tim is moving on to the Mac.
He’s talking about the successes of previous models.
But we’re expecting some new gadgets imminently.
Here’s a good look at the iPad Air.
It comes in Space Grey, Starlight, Pink, Purple and Blue colour options.
The iPad Air starts at $599, but will rise with the cellular option or increased storage.
There are 64GB and 256GB configurations, available to pre-order from Friday.
And it’s on sale on March 18.
Apple has also upgraded the iPad Air with 5G.
That means you’ll be able to get super-fast 5G internet – potentially.
You’ll also need to pay for the cellular iPad Air model, and get a 5G SIM contract.
And you’ll need to make sure you’re living in an area with 5G network coverage.
But it’s great news, and will definitely tempt some tech fans.
The iPad Air now supports Centre Stage.
It’s an Apple feature borrowed from the iPad Pro.
When you FaceTime, the camera will follow you (and your friends or family) around as you move.
It means you stay in focus and central to the camera.
The iPad Air is getting a HUGE power upgrade.
It’s using the MacBook-grade M1 chip that has blown tech fans away already.
The chip was even introduced to the iPad Pro, with ludicrous performance results.
This will make the iPad Air truly exceptional for its price when it comes to performance.
Tim is now moving on to the iPad Air.
He says the new model takes performance “to the next level”.
THE PRICE IS…WRONG!
The iPhone SE price has risen slightly – against expectations.
It’s still very cheap at $429, but that’s slightly higher than the previous $399.
This price rise may be linked to the 5G integration or the new A15 chip.
The new iPhone SE 3 comes in Midnight, Starlight and Product Red colour options.
It’s got a 4.7-inch Retina HD display and a Touch ID, and looks very much like an iPhone 8.
Apple says battery life is significantly improved thanks to the A15 chip.
But most importantly, the new iPhone SE supports super-fast 5G internet.
This is a great budget option for people who want to upgrade to 5G.
SE IS HERE!
There’s a new iPhone SE – it’s official!
The new model was heavily rumoured, but is finally here.
It’s Apple’s cheapest iPhone, and comes with several upgrades over the 2020 model.
For instance, it’s powered by the same A15 Bionic chip you’ll find in the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro.
That means it’s seriously quick.
TASTE THE RAINBOW
Apple has introduced two new colours for its iPhone 13.
There’s a “bold new green” that actually looks impressive.
And the Pro version comes in a new alpine green.
They’re available to pre-order this Friday.
As expected, Apple boss Tim Cook is now on stage.
He kicks off things by saying he’s been watching a lot of Apple TV+ at home.
And Tim is talking up some of the Netflix rival’s original shows.
IT’S GO TIME
We’re now just minutes away from the Apple event.
Expect to hear from Apple chief exec Tim Cook.
He’ll probably start off by giving an update on the year.
And he may make reference to the ongoing war in Ukraine (and its humanitarian crisis), given how newsy it as the moment.
Apple has already taken some action by pausing product sales in Russia over the invasion.
After Tim’s intro, we can expect to see a flurry of new gadgets.
What else is new today? An iPad, maybe!
Apple’s iPad is now more than a decade old, and it’s clearly here to stay.
This time around we’re expecting Apple to unveil a new version of the iPad Air.
It was previously refreshed back in 2020 with an iPad Pro style design.
We’re likely to see a more powerful A15 Bionic processor (to match the iPad mini) and probably 5G too.
I spoke to PP Foresight analyst and Apple expert Paolo Pescatore, who gave me a few last-minute predictions for today…
“Promises to be another action packed event which may include even a few surprises with Apple showcasing key products underlining the company’s broad portfolio.
“A new iPhone SE is inevitable. The story here will be support for 5G making it the most affordable iPhone in the portfolio. This will help drive uptake for Apple and most importantly for carriers.
“Watch out for new, refresh hardware (specifically with the iPad and Mac businesses) with a focus on better performance. Expect Apple Silicon to feature prominently.
“It feels like Apple will have a broad portfolio of devices to cater for users individual requirements; that is an enviable position in the eyes of rivals.
“We are now seeing Apple flex its muscles by leveraging the fruits of its own silicon across its portfolio. The M1 and M2 will transform its products, form factors and capabilities far beyond what users can do today.
“An update on services is overdue and this represents an opportune moment to showcase new blockbusters and offerings.”
Apple’s official livestream is now live on its website.
That means we’re a matter of minutes away from the big event.
Expect fun music and animations in the meantime.
IN THE STUDIO
We’re also hearing talk of some other Mac products.
One is a device being tipped as the Mac Studio, which would be like a crossover of the Mac mini and Mac Pro.
It’s expected that they’ll feature a newer M chip – possibly the M1 Pro or M1 Max, currently only seen in the MacBook Pro.
And we could also see a Studio Display.
This is a rumoured 27-inch 5K monitor that would go along with the Mac Studio.
It’s expected to be more reasonably priced than the $5,000 Pro Studio XDR display that Apple launched a few years ago.
If Apple does announce a new MacBook tonight, you’ll be hearing a lot about the M chip.
Apple previously used Intel chips in its laptops.
But it recently started shifting to its own custom chips – named the Apple M1.
It already does this with iPhones (and the A chips), giving it better control over the system – and allowing for exceptional power and efficiency.
The M1 chip (and its Pro and Max variants) have staggered the tech world, producing impressive performance and battery life.
Since their launch in November 2020, they’ve entered a host of Mac products – and even an iPad.
Now we’re expecting the possible debut of the M2, which could usher in even more computing heft.


text:
From contractors working on multiple job sites to the heaviest of scalping operations, the McCloskey R-Series range delivers high quality screened product across a vast range of applications.
Couldn’t make it to CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023? Here are all the highlights from 15,000ft McCloskey International stand, featuring no less than seven machines:
McCloskey reveals bold new look and new products at ConExpo 2023
McCloskey Equipment is delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Baird as After Sales Manager, as part of the company’s continuous growth.
Meet the McCloskey J50 that has chomped its way through more than 1,000,000 tonnes of material in a little over 18 months.
Redditch Skip Hire are using the McCloskey R230 for a range of applications, from recycling wood to creating high-quality topsoil. We visit McCloskey Equipment customer to find out more.
McCloskey Environmental, a leading provider of smarter equipment to the recycling industry across the globe, announced their launch in the UK with introduction of two new mobile shredders, the dual-shaft ES-250 and single-shaft ESS-300; both tracked primary shredders are capable of effectively and reliably shredding virtually any type of material.
The new McCloskey C2C Compact Cone Crusher will be unveiled at Hillhead 2022, on the McCloskey International Stand, L1. Making its UK public debut at the show on 21-23 June 2022, visitors will have the unique opportunity to get up-close to the latest addition to McCloskey’s cone crusher line up.
McCloskey Equipment provide the Complete Crushing and Screening offer – including complete range of Jaw, Impact and Cone Crushers, with an equally comprehensive range of Screeners.
As featured in the 2022 February Issue of Quarry Management, we share stories from customers in Scotland, home to some of the hardest rock and stone in the UK.


text:
BUFFALO, N.Y. (November 19, 2012) --- The Buffalo Sabres today announced they will be holding an online auction of special blue and pink jerseys that were worn and autographed by Sabres alumni during the annual Sabres Alumni Fall Wine Festival, which took place at First Niagara Center on Nov. 14.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE AUCTION
Proceeds from the auction will directly benefit the Breast Cancer Prevention and Education Bus. The bus, made possible through partnerships with the ECMC Lifeline Foundation, WNY Breast Health and First Niagara Bank, conveys two digital mammography machines to under-served and under-tested women in all areas of Western New York.
The auction will contain 40 jerseys and each jersey will come with a certificate of authenticity.
The auction will begin Tuesday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. and run until Sunday, Dec. 2 at 9 p.m. Fans can access the auction and place a bid by logging onto the auction section of Sabres.com.


text:
Norfolk-based British refrigeration manufacturer Precision is celebrating its 10th anniversary, with business up 30% in the past year, exports accounting for 40% of production and sales to the Middle East up 500% compared to 2017.
Precision have also developed some radical products during this period including its Retro Refrigeration range, mixing 50s styling with the latest technology, making refrigeration a talking point and a style feature.
"Our R&D department is working on new models to extend the range," adds Williams. "Retro was originally conceived as a one-off, but it's generated a huge buzz of interest and while it's still a relatively small part of our overall business, we're obviously looking to make the most of its success."
Since 2008 Precision's sales have gone up on average 25% per year and the company plans to expand production, which will also mean the company will need to recruit more factory operatives, engineers and support staff.
The company will celebrate its anniversary with two birthday parties, one at a venue near its factory and offices in Thetford, and one this evening in London at the Orrery in Marylebone High Street, London.


text:
FORT WORTH (AP) - Sabre Holdings Corp., the world's largest travel-reservation company, said Monday that it will cut 1,200 jobs to save money even as it agrees to pay $757 million to buy an Internet travel business.
Sabre, which owns 62 percent of the Travelocity.com Web site, will cut more than 11 percent of its work force through a combination of layoffs and attrition over the next several months, officials said.
Of the company's 10,500 employees worldwide, more than 2,000 are employed in Tulsa, Okla.
The Fort Worth-based company said it would take a third-quarter charge of $20 million in connection with the job cuts.
At the same time, Sabre said it has agreed to pay $17.75 a share for GetThere.com, which operates an Internet marketplace focused on business-to-business travel services. The price is a premium of 46 percent over GetThere's closing price Friday.
On Monday, shares of Sabre fell 93.7 cents to close at $28.813 on the New York Stock Exchange, while shares of GetThere were unchanged at $17.188 on the Nasdaq Stock Market.
Sabre said it will elimiate duplicative services to help save $100 million a year beginning in 2001, Sabre officials said in announcing the job cuts.
The money saved by cutting jobs will be reinvested in the company, officials said.
"This initiative is an important and integral part of implementing our strategy and ensuring that we maintain our leadership position as the premier technology company for the travel and transportation industries," William J. Hannigan, chairman, president and chief executive of Sabre, said in a written statement.
Hannigan said the GetThere deal signals the company's commitment to fueling growth through acquisitions and strategic partnerships with market leaders.
GetThere will continue to operate under the same name and will be based in Menlo Park, Calif. Gadi Maier, GetThere chairman, president and CEO, will be president of the combined organization and will report to Hannigan.
American Airlines' parent, AMR Corp., had owned 83 percent of Sabre before spinning it off as a stand-alone company in March.
© 2016. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
It was announced at least a week ago that both Taco Bell and KFC would soon start making home deliveries, ala Domino’s. No details were given at the time. Today this article appeared in a Tuscaloosa news outlet:
According to the report, franchises will have the ability to sign up. Meaning they will also have the ability to just disregard the program, at least for a while. So will the Shoals be getting home delivery from the two iconic eateries? We asked at the KFC Pine Street location; no one knew much if anything about the program.


text:
“Don’t tell me how to live my life.”
Those were the words a Florida mother used in a Snapchat post that showed her daughter licking a tongue depressor before placing it back into the bin reserved for unused depressors.
tap here to see other videos from our team.
The mother, Cori Ward, 30, was arrested and charged with tampering with a consumer product without regard for possible death or bodily injury, WTLV reports.
Ward was taking her daughter to the All About Kids and Families Medical Centre where she is a patient when she began Snapchatting the incident.
In an attempt to defend herself, Ward took to Facebook to make a statement about the video, but because of public outrage and backlash on social media, Ward’s explanation and entire Facebook account has apparently been deleted, WLTV reports.
“I posted this on my personal Snapchat with my 20-something friends, where someone allowed another person to video it. I didn’t post it on Facebook or YouTube as a challenge or whatever,” Ward said in the Facebook post.
“What I didn’t know was that there was a ‘licking challenge’ as I don’t scroll social media like that,” adding “The video doesn’t show that the items were thrown away or anything else that happened.”
A Snapchat user who viewed the original video recorded it and posted it to Facebook. The video has since been taken down.
The “licking challenge” Ward referred to deals with a new trend where individuals post videos of themselves on social media licking a variety of food and other objects in stores before placing them back on the shelves.
Florida man found dead with more than 100 dog bites after taking shortcut
'WE'RE RELIEVED': Blast rocks Florida shopping centre, 21 hurt
A woman in Lufkin, Texas, recorded herself licking a tub of ice cream in a supermarket before putting it back this past week.
The medical centre was quick to respond, releasing a statement following Ward’s arrest that said: “we immediately removed all materials and containers from the specific exam room and re-sanitized our entire facility.”
Ward is not eligible for bond and is due in court on Friday.


text:
Corkers throws its weight behind Liam Fairhurst Foundation
- Credit: Archant
PYMOOR-based crisp manufacturer Corkers has pledged to donate 3p from ever pack sold to the Liam Fairhurst Foundation.
The foundation was launched in 2011 by Liam Fairhurst’s brother Callum in his memory and Corkers has been a supporter since the start.
Liam was diagnosed with a soft tissue cancer in his leg and lungs in July 2005 when he was just 10–years-old. He went on to raise £340,000 for charity before his death in 2009.
Corkers managing director, Rod Garnham, said: “3p from every pack sold will go directly to the Liam Fairhurst Foundation. We will be adding a charity logo to every single packet of crisps sold within local counties such as Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Peterborough, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
“We also plan to carry out a number of stunts that will inevitably include us being confined in the Corkers classic Mini Cooper - a very confined space - together for an unsociable amount of time – we’ll keep you posted on that one!
“The whole Corkers team feels very humbled to be closely involved with the Liam Fairhurst Foundation and will endeavour to do any fundraising activities – however crazy – suggested by Corkers customers on Twitter or Facebook.”
For more information visit: www.liamfairhurstfoundation.com


text:
Editorial: Gaming / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Instagram / News / Discord / Forums
Horizon Forbidden West was one of the big announcements at the PlayStation 5 presentation. The sequel to Horizon: Zero Dawn is already reality and will arrive sometime next year.
The first installment had a very good reception, largely thanks to its engaging world and narrative. We owe this work to John Gonzalez, a writer who joined Guerrilla Games in September 2013.
The creative is looking for a new step in his career, as we recently learned that he left his position in the Sony studio. Now he will be creative director of an AAA project that sounds quite striking.
John Gonzalez left Guerrilla, but already works in another studio
John Gonzalez’s LinkedIn profile (via Push Square) accounts for his successful stint at Guerrilla Games. The creative was instrumental in creating Horizon’s attractive lore: Zero Dawn.
Gonzalez created the story of the game, its main characters, collaborated on design issues and wrote 90% of the script for the first installment. To make matters worse, he helped other writers who participated in the development as an editor.
His profile reveals that the writer is also responsible for the story and main characters of Horizon Forbidden West. He worked with various departments to seamlessly unite the narrative and the gameplay. He also assisted in the creation of new tribes and key locations for the sequel.
After 6 years and 10 months, Gonzalez left Guerrilla Games in June of this year. Fortunately, Gonzalez will not leave the industry, having already joined a new studio based in Barcelona, Spain.
The profile does not reveal which study it is, but it is a fact that it is a company that will develop an AAA project. Gonzalez notes that this is an open world IP. Sources suggest that this is the Smilegate study, but there is nothing confirmed.
Everything indicates that Gonzalez’s departure will not affect the development of Horizon Forbidden West, since apparently the writer left all his work complete.
In case you missed it: Horizon: Zero Dawn has a release date on PC
Horizon Forbidden West is coming to PlayStation 5 in 2021. Find all the news related to the sequel at this link.


text:
Apple has announced the winners of the second annual Apple Music Awards. Five categories will be honored including, global Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Breakthrough Artist of the Year which are chosen by Apple’s editorial team and tastemakers in the music industry.
The winners of Top Song of the Year and Top Album of the Year are selected by the number of streams they’ve received from fans around the world.
There will be a week-long musical celebration starting December 14th that will include special performances, fan events, and interviews that will be streamed worldwide on Apple Music, Apple Music TV, and the Apple TV app.
Lil Baby won Artist of the Year, Megan Thee Stallion is Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year went to Taylor Swift, “The Box” by Roddy Rich won Song of the Year and he also won Album of the Year for his debut album, “Please Excuse Me For Being Anti-Social.


text:
Fall is in the air, which means, in the beauty world, it’s time for a makeover!
Our stars have already started to make big changes to their looks in time for the new season, and you can use their recent tweaks as inspiration for your own—here’s how:
1. Fall Beauty: Gloria Estefan
Go Dark like Gloria Estefan!
After sticking to a ruby red shade for the past year, the Ultimate Latina debuted her new mahogany-chocolate color at this year’s Alma Awards. Cutler Salon South Beach colorist Johanna Stella says the singer wanted a glam look for the launch of her new album. “Gloria’s new color is the perfect complement to her skin tone and eye color,” says Stella. “It’s a great shade for anyone with dark eyes and olive skin like Gloria. If you have lighter eyes and skin, go for a lighter tint with more strawberry or gingertones.”
2. Fall Beauty: Fergie
Go Short like Fergie!
The Black Eyed Pea made the big chop, showing off a chic above-the-shoulder bob at the unveiling of her Madame Tussaud’s wax figure last night in Las Vegas. If you’re worried about such a drastic cut, keep the layers near your face as long as the rest of your hair to create the illusion of a longer style and a thinner face. Then, make the chic cut edgier with dark rocker roots, like Fergie’s.
3. Fall Beauty: Jamie-Lynn Sigler
Get Bangs like Jamie-Lynn Sigler!
What’s the best way to make a major hair change without a major hair cut? Bangs! The statement-making fringe looks best when it hits between your lids and brows. So it’s not one solid block, separate the blunt fringe with a tiny bit of pomade (like Redken Water Wax Shine Defining Pomade, $19.20, drugstore.com) to add definition.


text:
Source One Flooring Joins Fuse Alliance
Fuse Alliance, a Member-owned organization of professional commercial flooring contractors, announced today that Source One Flooring has joined the network as a new Member.
“With a top-notch, professional team and commitment to the highest level of customer service, Source One Flooring is a great addition to the Fuse Alliance Network,” said Geoff Gordon, executive director at Fuse Alliance. “We are delighted to have Source One as part of the go-to contractor network in the flooring industry as we continue to build an organization of high quality, knowledgeable commercial flooring contractors throughout the United States and Canada.”
Established in 2013, Source One Flooring has three locations and serves the Denver, DC metro, and Richmond, VA areas. Source One offers a full range of flooring solutions and maintenance for commercial environments, including workplace, government, education, hospitality, healthcare, and multi-family.
“We joined Fuse Alliance to be part of an organization that is committed to elevating and advancing the flooring industry and also to tap into the expertise of other professional flooring contractors, said Jeff Shine, president of sales for Source One Flooring. “We’re also excited about enhancing our relationships with Fuse preferred suppliers by being in this organization.
About Fuse Alliance
Fuse Alliance is a Member-owned organization of professional, commercial flooring contractors. With 110 companies in more than 180 locations across the United States and Canada, the organization’s Member businesses represent approximately $1.7 billion in sales and services. Fuse Alliance is made up of a unique network of flooring experts with a combined experience that spans across flooring product knowledge, installation expertise, and a keen understanding of meeting the environmental requirements of today’s market. Fuse Alliance’s governing body is an executive Board of Directors made up of 12 Member business owners. Through its Member network, Fuse Alliance is dedicated to serving the North American market and Member businesses can be found throughout the United States and Canada.


text:
Origin Agritech Limited Reports Third Quarter Unaudited Financial Results For Three Months Ended June 30, 2011
Origin Agritech Limited (NASDAQ: SEED) (“Origin” or the “Company”),
a technology-focused supplier of crop seeds in China, today announced
unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended June...
Origin Agritech Limited (NASDAQ: SEED) (“Origin” or the “Company”), a technology-focused supplier of crop seeds in China, today announced unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended June 30, 2011. Origin prepares its financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) of the United States. FINANCIAL RESULTS OVERVIEW During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company generated revenues of RMB244.7 million (US$37.4 million), compared with RMB462.2 million (US$68.1 million) generated in the three months ended June 30, 2010. The goods already sold and delivered to customers can be seen as Deferred Revenue line on the balance sheet and the Advances from Customers records the advance cash receipts from customers this selling season. The lower amount of revenues this quarter is in part due to a later application of the distributor discount this 2011 selling season resulting in a later recognition of revenue this year. Gross profit for the three months ended June 30, 2011 was RMB85.8 million (US$13.1 million) compared to RMB190.9 million (US$28.1 million) in the same period of the prior year. Total net operating expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2011 were RMB51.8 million (US$7.9 million) compared with RMB37.5 million (US$5.5 million) reported for the same period in 2010. Selling and marketing expenses were RMB12.6 million (US$1.9 million) for the third quarter of 2011, compared with RMB9.4 million (US$1.4 million) for the same period of the last year. General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses of RMB23.8 million (US$3.6 million) for the third quarter ended June 30, 2011, compared with RMB17.6 million (US$2.6 million) for the same period one year ago. Research and development (“R&D”) expenses increased by 46.4% to RMB15.5 million (US$2.4 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2011 from RMB10.6 million (US$1.6 million) for the same quarter last year. The increase in operational expenses, spread throughout the three sub-categories, was in part due RMB15.6 million (US$2.35 million) in bonus charges and staff benefits from Changrong awarded in this current quarter which usually occur in the fourth quarter.


text:
Mumbaikars, this isn't April fools: Uber prices will now go up as company hikes fares by 15%
App-based taxi firm Uber on Friday said it has raised fares by 15 percent for travel in Mumbai to offset the impact of rising fuel prices.
Diesel and petrol prices have gone up by Rs 6.40 per liter each between March 22, when they were hiked by 80 paise per liter after a hiatus of 137 days, and March 31.
“Uber is raising trip fares in Mumbai by 15 percent,” Nitish Bhushan, Head of Central Operations, Uber India and South Asia said in a statement.
He said the rise in fares was to “help cushion” drivers from the impact of the spike in fuel prices, adding “we listen to feedback from drivers and understand that the current rise in fuel prices is causing concern.”
The online taxi-hailing service in the statement also said that over the coming weeks, it will continue to track fuel price movements and take further steps as “needed.”
ALSO READ | GST collection rises to all-time high of Rs 1.42 lakh cr in March
ALSO READ | Commercial LPG price hiked by Rs 250 per cylinder, check new rates
Latest Business News


text:
We’re thrilled to report that Halsbury Travel has been ranked as the sixth fastest-growing tour operator in the UK, making us the fastest-growing educational tour operator in the country. The results of the recent industry review by Plimsoll reflect nearly 30 years’ of hard work and for that we would like to thank our fantastic team and, of course, our customers.
Halsbury Travel was created by former French teacher Keith Sharkey back in 1986. As a teacher, he had led numerous educational trips abroad and saw first-hand the impact that such trips had on his students. He founded Halsbury Travel in order to provide more students with the opportunity to travel with their schools, by making the process of arranging school trips easier for teachers who share his passion for learning outside the classroom.
As we fast approach our 30th anniversary (exciting plans for which will be announced soon!), we are proud to be a healthy, financially stable, growing company. We are also proud that, despite being a growing company, we continue to be a fiercely independent tour operator that puts our customers first. For us, personalised service is why we were created in the first place and will remain our promise to our customers.


text:
Bacon lovers can rejoice with nearly a ton of Patrick Cudahy samples of delicious Original Sweet Apple-Wood Smoked Bacon, which is still smoked the old-fashioned way in Cudahy, Wisconsin. The Patrick Cudahy station will once again feature the Patrick Cudahy photo opportunity, where bacon lovers can snap photos to share with friends and family on the BACONFEST MILWAUKEE site. As the “Official Bacon of the Green Bay Packers,” everyone who stops by the Patrick Cudahy booth will also be given the chance to win Green Bay Packers autographed gear, brand items on the prize wheel, and will be treated to assorted swag and coupons.
“The sweet apple-wood smoked flavor of Patrick Cudahy is a staple of BACONFEST, and we’re delighted to participate in this exciting event again this year,” said Chad McFadden, Patrick Cudahy brand manager. “As members of the community for more than 130 years, we are proud to celebrate traditions like BACONFEST MILWAUKEE with our fans because that’s what Patrick Cudahy is all about: family, friends, fun, and most importantly – bacon!”
The bacon-centric festivities will be held on Sunday, February 17, at the Event Center inside the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, from noon to 4 p.m. For more information on BACONFEST MILWAUKEE 2019 or to purchase tickets, go to www.baconfestmke.com.


text:
NEW YORK, April 19, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- dotmailer, a leading provider in the digital marketing sector, has today announced the launch of new omnichannel features which enhance its existing marketing automation platform. With a host of new channels now available – including SMS and Facebook Messenger; automated retargeting across Google AdWords and Facebook Audiences; and in-email product recommendations – this development will empower brands to engage more effectively with their customers.
Answering the increasing demands being placed on marketers, the new capabilities will help brands build conversations with customers that run seamlessly across multiple channels – from SMS to email, social audience ads to instant messaging platforms.
Built by marketers, for marketers
A recent study found that over half of marketers (54%) felt that a lack of time was their biggest day-to-day challenge – unsurprising when you consider that customers now expect to engage instantly with brands, no matter the time or device. Clearly, businesses must evolve and adopt an ‘always-on’ approach that can maintain marketing effectiveness 24/7, and across an array of channels.
dotmailer’s marketing automation platform will help deliver against this challenge, bringing advanced automation and powerful data analytics tools together in a package that is simple to use and easy to master.
Real results, instant impact
The impact for businesses will be staggering – an ARF research report has revealed that by increasing their marketing channels from one to two, brands can see a 19% uplift in ROI. And by expanding to five channels, organizations could raise ROI by more than a third (35 per cent).
However, the omnichannel approach offers more than an increase in revenue. The same study found that moving from a single channel to an omnichannel approach could lift existing customer retention averages from 33% to 89%.
Same values, new tools
Many of the new features are delivered by supercharging the popular EasyEditor and Program Builder functions already inside dotmailer.
Facebook Messenger, SMS automation:
The Program Builder function will now be capable of orchestrating SMS and Facebook Messenger outreach campaigns, creating a truly omnichannel approach. From welcome messages to re-engagement campaigns, brands can build a complete set of automated programmes that engage customers on whatever channel they prefer.
Re-targeting towards Facebook Audiences and Google AdWords:
Brands can now sync the updating and maintenance of contact lists, providing a sophisticated approach to which segments are targeted and when. Organizations can ensure their customers receive content in the most effective a way – automatically re-targeting email non-responders via channels such as Facebook Audiences and Google AdWords.
Product recommendations sent direct to customers:
Today’s organizations have more data than ever before, but it’s useless unless you’re able to take insight from it. Partnering with Google, dotmailer users can now leverage the latest big data technologies to analyze and segment over 100 million customer records in less than a minute, allowing businesses to deliver product recommendations direct to a customer’s inbox.
To provide marketers with the best automation tools available, dotmailer is releasing 30 automation templates to all users – entirely free of charge. From welcome emails to aftersales care, brands can now kickstart their customer journeys by using a prebuilt template.
In a GDPR world, having an opt-in checkbox with, ‘Yes, I’d love to receive future emails’ is simply not enough. ConsentInsight lets brands store the exact consent text a contact agreed to, creating an evidence trail to satisfy the new legislation’s requirements. Freely available to all dotmailer users, it will store details of the consent text seen by the subscriber, along with their IP address, browser, and the date and time they consented.
Additionally, dotmailer’s Consent Maintenance is a new professional service, delivered by the dotmailer experts, that will help customers manage their subscriber's permissions to support their own GDPR compliance programs.
Milan Patel, CEO at dotmailer comments:
“dotmailer has been building and extending its platform for almost 20 years now and our driving principles remain the same: to offer a powerful platform that empowers marketers and keeps things simple.
“At its heart, the omnichannel platform is about helping businesses grow through modern and effective marketing techniques which engage customers. And with customers using multiple different channels each day, your business must be there too.”
For further information, click here.
dotmailer is the omnichannel marketing automation platform of the dotdigital Group PLC (LSE:DOTD). It currently enables more than 80,000 marketers in more than 150 countries around the world to use transactional and behavioural data to design, test and send powerful automated digital campaigns that run across all customer channels, from email to SMS and social media. Established in 1999, dotmailer is a global company with more than 300 employees and B2C and B2B enterprise and SME clients.
View original content: Here


text:
Chevrolet Cruze hatch revealed
4th March, 2011
The Chevrolet Cruze line-up will expand when the new hatchback
version goes on sale in Europe by mid-year. The full production model made its world premiere at the 81st
Geneva Motor Show (3rd-13th March 2011).
A show car version of Chevrolet's compact contender was shown at the Paris Motor Show last September.
The introduction of the new Cruze hatchback is critical in Europe, as Wayne Brannon, president and managing
director of Chevrolet Europe explains. "Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. The total compact
segment in Europe represents over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of
"The new Cruze hatchback cements that Chevrolet's claim for a place among the mainstream brands in
Europe, and it's a vehicle that will bring new levels of value against some of the more established


text:
Poultry Master Plan – ‘you can’t see me’
In the corridors of the poultry industry including segments of government, retail and farmers, some were not entirely convinced with the announcement of the Poultry Master Plan.
The Eastern Cape Poultry Farmers Association (ECPFA) which comprised of a broiler and egg producers said the Poultry Task Team established by Dti did not consult them.
“We were not consulted at all by the DTI in the Eastern Cape and we have also contacted other poultry farmers so as to find out. None are even aware of the master plan” said Mhlobo Mbane one of the leaders of ECPFA.
SA Poultry Association (SAPA) disputed this claim and said all role players like Fair Play, Proudly SA, FAWU and COSATU provided meaningful contribution.
“The plan was initiated by Ministers Patel and Didiza and they got all the stakeholders in the industry to work together, importers, small producers, trade unions and the poultry industry at large” said Izaak Breitenbach, General Manager of SAPA’s Broiler Organisation.
The plan intends to ward off reliance on bone-in portions of chickens, drive domestic demand, ensure procurement of locally produced chickens and includes a Sanitary and Phytosanitary Plan to overcomes export barriers.
Among the worrying signals for smallholder poultry farmers is the issue of contracting and feed costs which has over the years caused consternation in the industry. Feed costs in RSA were so high that it was impossible for smallholder farmers to compete.
Feed costs accounted for up to 70% of variable production costs of broiler producers in South Africa. The largest poultry producers controlled the market share of feed.
The contribution of R1.5 billion by the poultry industry also raised hairs. Contract farming in the poultry industry was beset with unfair competition practices. According to the statement released by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, 50 new contract farmers will be established within 3 years.
“The contracting part of it is what is still shocking to us and what about assisting the small-scale producers to go commercial. We want to be assisted to run commercial farming poultry enterprise and not be hand held by the very same people (SAPA) that are only concerned about their own selfish interest that seeks to protect their gains” said Mbane.
Mzansi Agriculture Talk requested the Dti and DARLLD to share the Poultry Master Plan but to no avail. None of the government agricultural agencies including departmental branches working on poultry know what the plan entailed except for SAPA.
“We gave input up to the last minute and know what is in the plan” said Breitenbach.
ECPFA said it did not have access to the document and doubts smallholder producers’ associations will support the implementation of the plan.
“SAPA main strategy in the plan is for the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) to impose heavy tariffs on all poultry imports and that alone cannot be a basis of a plan. It is not concerned with other factors like addressing its competitiveness as suggested by a BFAP baseline report of 2016” said the departmental source.
A baseline report conducted by the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) and the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) on behalf of IDC titled ‘evaluating the competitiveness of the South African broiler value chain’ identified competitiveness as the main issue towards its sustainability.
“The poultry’s industry inability to enter into the global export market and to compete against surplus products sold within the global context raised concerns regarding its long-term sustainability” the reported mentioned.
Moreover, South African producers concentrated on bone-in portions due to the demand structure locally. The EU, US, Brazil optimised carcass value by marketing premium chicken breast in their domestic markets while exporting bone-in portions to South Africa at competitive prices.
Breitenbach said SAPA was pleased that “the plan makes provision for addressing many unfair practices including dumping, and a number of food safety sins related to imports which has been of great concern to SAPA.”
Minister Patel and Didiza were encouraged to share the Poultry Master Plan without further delay.


text:
These days, everyone is hunting for iPhone 6 rumors, pictures and official news. But there is another trend that gets a lot of attention lately: the concept photos. Digital artists are creating their own iPhone 6 pictures, trying to envision how the next generation of iPhone will look like.
These iPhone 6 concept pictures are created by Arthur Reis, depicting a top-notch smartphone with incredible features: a waterproof bodyshell, new home button, better camera, slimmer body. What’s your favorite concept feature of iPhone 6?


text:
Updated: April 12, 2021 1:24:05 pm
Manufacturers of Remdesivir said a lull in demand from December to February led to low or zero production of the anti-viral drug for three months, which subsequently affected its supply chain. The manufacturers said they did not anticipate such a sudden surge, and that it would take at least 10 days to overcome the shortage.
Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh have reported a shortage of Remdesivir as Covid-19 cases surge. India has been reporting over a lakh fresh cases for the past couple of days. The number of active infections has reached close to 10 lakh, half of which are in Maharashtra that requires 40,000-50,000 vials of Remdesivir, up from 30,000 vials per day during first the “peak” last year.
The Central government has asked all seven manufacturers — Mylan, Hetero Healthcare, Jubilant Life Sciences, Cipla, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Zydus Cadila and Sun Pharmaceuticals — to scale up to their maximum capacity of 31.6 lakh vials per month.
Prafulla Khasgiwal, senior VP, Hetero Healthcare that can manufacture 10.5 lakh vials a month, said, “From December to February, we came down to 5-10 per cent of our production as there was no demand. We started scaling up from mid-March but it takes time to gear up.”
Khasgiwal said they require 25 raw materials (active pharmaceutical ingredients, packaging material, etc.) to produce Remdesivir. “We had no inventory. We had to procure and our suppliers could not deliver quickly,” he added. At present, Hetero can manufacture 35,000 vials in a day or two.
It takes around five days to produce Remdesivir. The drug then undergoes a 14-day sterility test and requires around three days for transportation in 2-8 degrees Celsius. The entire cycle takes 20-25 days. Most manufacturers scaled up their production in March, but raw material supply and transportation remain an issue due to restrictions in states in view of the rising Covid-19 cases.
Dr DJ Zawar, MD in Kamla Lifesciences that supplies Remdesivir to Cipla, said they shut production from December 31 to March 1. “A lot of stock had to be liquidated last year due to low demand. This time, the demand is unprecedented and we could not match its pace,” he added.
Kamla Lifesciences will begin manufacturing liquid Remdesivir from April 15 and plans to produce 2 lakh vials a day. Currently, it is manufacturing the powdered form that takes 72 hours to be made. Zawar said the shortage will be plugged in 10 days. Cipla said they are “in the process to optimise supplies further”.
Deepak Sapra, CEO (APIs and Services), Dr Reddy’s, said they are preparing to meet the additional demand. At present, Cipla can manufacture 6.2 lakh vials a month, while Zydus and Mylan can produce 5 lakh and 4 lakh vials a month, respectively.
A Mylan spokesperson said, “We are closely partnering with the government to meet the patient needs in India and ensure access to this critical medicine.”
Dr J B Mantri, former joint commissioner (drugs) in Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration who retired earlier this year, said there were excessive Remdesivir stocks last year with distributors forced to liquidate expired vials.
“Manufacturers scaled up production to maximum capacity and could not sell all stock. This is why this time they were cautious and did not anticipate the huge demand,” he added.
The high demand has led to instances of hoarding and inflated prices. Patients in Maharashtra have complained of buying Remdesivir for Rs 7,000-10,000, against the maximum retail price ranging between Rs 2,800-5,400.
Mumbai Police raided two places this week and seized 297 vials of the drug. Experts also raised concerns over rampant prescription of the drug for patients who will not benefit.
Dr Sudhakar Shinde, chairing a committee for price regulation of Remdesivir in Maharashtra, said the state will announce price capping of the anti-viral drug by this week. The Maharashtra FDA also wrote to the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority to bring Remdesivir under price control, seeing the surge of its usage during the pandemic.
📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines
- The Indian Express website has been rated GREEN for its credibility and trustworthiness by Newsguard, a global service that rates news sources for their journalistic standards.


text:
Montreal-based format production and distribution company Media Ranch is changing the way it approaches formats to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Canadian outlet is now focusing on what it calls ‘QTFs,’ short for quick-turnaround formats, CEO Sophie Ferron told C21.
“People are very much interested now in getting post-Covid content. A lot of people are reaching out to us and are all looking for the next best format,” Ferron said.
“So we created a new category called QTFs – quick-turnaround formats – because everybody is seeking us out to get those formats that are quick and high volume and easy to produce post-Covid.”
Explaining that it can be difficult to find formats that tick all the QTF boxes in the current climate, Ferron listed the key elements of such titles: “Not a lot of lead time, not a lot of pre-production necessary, and something you can do in high volume, but also it has to have that big idea as well


text:
We have been hearing a lot of rumors that Intel’s upcoming 14nm Broadwell generation of CPUs are going to be delayed. They had been on track to launch in Q3 of 2014, but that might not be happening. First off the M Series and desktop parts will not be delayed at all, but the Y, U and H Series will be delayed.
The Y series will still have the Core i5 5220Y and Core i3 4030Y Haswell refresh CPUs arriving in Q3, but the Broadwell CPUs in the series will not be here until Q4 2014 at the earliest with most of the series arriving in Q1 of 2015. The U series is pretty much the same with the Haswell refresh parts coming in Q3, but the Broadwell parts being pushed back to Q4 of 2014 or Q1 of 2015. With the H Series Broadwell parts will not arrive until Q1 of 2015.
The delay of the U Series could push back Apple’s MacBook Air refresh. For those wondering the Haswell refresh will happen in mid April and the H97/Z97 will launch on May 11th 2014. The Haswell refresh will most likely bring a slight speed bump over the current Haswell parts. The new H97/Z97 motherboards are most likely not going to bring anything new to the market.


text:
"The future of Europe lies in this region," says John Boelts, Managing Director of a. hartrodt Czech Republic in Prague. With a focus on the automotive industry, he has been working in his position locally since the turn of the millennium and has observed how the change to high technology standards has also gained momentum in the surrounding countries. The increase in importance for a. hartrodt is also underlined by the fact that Sebastian Endt has been managing about 140 employees in the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia from Prague as Regional Managing Director for Central and Eastern Europe since the beginning of 2021. His predecessors had been operating from Hamburg since 1994.
Hungary plans own container chassis fleet
As a special feature in Eastern Europe, John Boelts highlights the truck business as the "fastest-growing segment with great potential". Following the successful launch of an own vehicle fleet at a. hartrodt Polska in October 2022, the product is to be rolled out to other countries. "We are currently analyzing whether we will also build our own container chassis fleet in Hungary in 2024," says Zoltán Peternics, Managing Director of a. hartrodt Hungary in Budapest.
Poland wants to rent first warehouse space
The regional heavyweight is the Polish national company founded two decades ago with a team of 86 employees in Szczecin, Gdynia, Krakow, Warsaw and Wroclaw. Robert Marszałek, Managing Director of a. hartrodt Polska, says the aim is to "diversify the range of services". He wants to continue the growth course, even if the general conditions are not ideal due to the stagnating gross domestic product and high inflation: "Depending on customer demand, we will start renting up to 5,000 square meters of warehouse space in 2024." Małaszewicze is an important hub on the still preferred northern corridor of the Iron Silk Road.
By the way, the focus in landlocked Hungary is on sea freight. "We currently offer faster and cheaper services via Bremerhaven and Hamburg than via Trieste, Koper or Rijeka," says Zoltán Peternics. According to him, the Adriatic ports are "heavily overloaded" and there are "major delays" due to rail work.


text:
Scottish cheese brand Seriously is launching a box of cook-at-home cheese nuggets and to say fromage fans are excited is an understatement.
“This is my kind of nugget!” exclaimed one cheese lover.
And, looking at the box, we have to agree!
Yes, the humble chicken nugget needs to step aside as there’s a new kid in town and he’s full of gooey, oozing, cheesy goodness.
Famed for its super-strong cheddar blocks, Seriously has now turned its hand to cooked cheese, encasing its signature mature cheddar inside breadcrumbs for your delectation.
Early testers have confirmed the melted cheese bites are a bit like baked camembert but with the “typically British flavour of cheddar”.
Oh my, these are a must try.
The nuggets make the perfect quick dinner – or snack – as they only take six minutes to cook in the oven.
They come in packs of six are high in protein and suitable for vegetarians, so they’re great if you’re looking for a meat alternative.
“With its Scottish heritage and a proven track record for bringing successful new products to market, we believe that Seriously Nuggets will be a big hit with both consumers and retailers,” said a Seriously rep.
Cheese nugget fans rejoice
Indeed, it appears Brits can’t wait to dive in.
“Wow, they look really nice,” said one soon-to-be cheese nugget fan.
“OMG they look insane!” exclaimed another.
“I need these in my life,” said a third.
“Oh wow. Bring them on!” another added.
“Oh my, these are a must try,” another added.
“Cheese nuggets – yessss!” cheered another.
Another melted cheese fan quipped they would take “10 boxes please”.
Where to buy them
If you feel the same, Seriously Nuggets will be available in Waitrose and Ocado from Tuesday (July 7).
Yum yum 😋😋
— Jason Genders (@GendChat) June 30, 2020
— кαт, αℓℓу тσ ρℓαитѕ (@lysolmehead2toe) June 30, 2020
They’ll have an RRP of £2.50 per 150g pack, and you get six in the pack.
“Next time you shop in your posh Waitrose grab me some,” said one Facebook user, tagging their pal.
They’ll launch in other supermarkets later in the year.
Head to our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and tell us if you’ll be trying them.


text:
The 2013 product line-up of electronic equipment company Brother was unveiled recently.
Sohail A Kidwai, the deputy general manager at Brother International Corporation Gulf for printing and solutions, presented the new range at the Brother Dealer Meet.
This year, Brother’s focus is mostly on the corporate models of the laser MFC (multi-function copiers) range.
The new product line-up consists of a mobile document scanner, laser printers, MFCs and the new-generation inkjet MFC.
Jumbo Electronics director and general manager C V Rappai thanked all the customers for their confidence in the Brother range of products.
A marketing session presented by assistant general manager (multi-brands) Manoj Kumar J was followed by a raffle draw for five winners.
It was also an opportunity to give away the Performance Awards for 2012 to the LuLu Group, Safari Group, Giant Stores, Delta Business System, and PC One. These were presented by manager (multi-brands) Sanjay KC.
Brother International and Jumbo Electronics, the sole distributor of the brand in Qatar, also hosted a dinner.
LEAVE A COMMENT Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked*
Katara to continue staging authentic Qatari musical programme
Poor visibility due to fog forecast
Condolences stream in for HH the Grandfather Emir
MEC proposes fish farming and aquaculture projects
QBA hosts dinner for Pakistan president
QFBA set to hold global management contest final in Doha
Workshop discusses modern methods in police training
Dignitaries, citizens offer condolences
Diplomats offer condolences to Emir and Father Emir


text:
Where was the last place you shopped for clothes? For many consumers, the answer to this question is frequently becoming ‘online’. Online shopping offers the purchaser ease – shopping from just about anywhere, home delivery, and simple return processes. So, with this system more popular than ever, has the high street lost its appeal? Should we embrace online shopping as the sartorial future?
According to the Royal Mail, 80% of British retail purchases are made online, with clothing being the most common of these purchases. There is clearly a huge demand for online shopping, and as a result many high street stores are beginning to tailor their services to meet the needs of an ever-increasing digital clientele. ‘Online exclusives’ are a common sight on websites like Urban Outfitters, Warehouse, and many more, and online retailers like ASOS, Missguided, and Boohoo have become as much of a go-to for fashion as high street shops. It is undeniable that being able to make a purchase from anywhere, at any time, and without queues and crowds is an attractive selling point. For those of us in St Andrews, with limited options, online shopping is a necessity if you want to look further than the shelves of H&M.
Sure enough, the appeal of online shopping has manifest in the closure of many high street stores around the UK. House of Fraser has announced it will shut 31 of its 59 shops, include its Oxford Street flagship. New Look launched plans to close 60 stores to restore profits, and the disappearance of their branch on Market Street seems to confirm this change. In contrast, the sales of online stores are booming. Last year, ASOS reported sales increases of 22%, and Boohoo a staggering 53%. The visible decline of the high street seems to testify to a lack of need for in-person shopping.
However, online retailers struggle to match the services of high street stores. For example, sizing clothes is an issue that continues to trouble fashion websites. Whilst retailers such as ASOS have introduced more accurate size guides, tailored to each person’s measurements, the risk of ill-fitting clothes remains, leaving many forced to buy two sizes in an item, and return the one that doesn’t suit. Additionally, some products look and fit very differently to the idealised styling presented on websites. A quick internet search reveals no end of complaints from those that received items looking nothing like the one they purchased.
Overall, while there seems to be a growing trend for online shopping, it can’t offer the same experience as high street stores. An institution of the sartorial scene, they give customers the chance to view clothes, shoes, and accessories first-hand, without the hassle of returning incorrect items. For now, a delicate balance remains between these retailers, but with the soaring profits of online shops, we may just be looking at a digitalised fashion future.
– Talia Maggs-Rapport


text:
Britain is paying £27.4 billion a year due to the burden of the European Union's most expensive regulations, a report has found.
The findings came from a study of the 100 most expensive European Union regulations by the Open Europe think-tank, which also concluded that 24 of the rules had greater drawbacks than benefits.
Open Europe analyst Vincenzo Scarpetta said: “According to the government’s own figures, we know that nearly a quarter of the EU’s most costly regulations impose a net cost on the UK economy.
“At a time when businesses across Europe are desperately struggling for growth, it is hard to understand how policymakers can knowingly impose costs on the economy that outweigh the stated benefits of regulation."
TOP STORIES TODAY
This comes after research suggested that British businesses have been burdened with 3,580 new European Union rules and directives under the coalition despite David Cameron's commitment to fight Brussels regulation.
The massive pile of new rules, amounting to 13 million extra words, would take 92 days to read at an average pace, according to the Business for Britain group, which is campaigning for a renegotiation of the UK's terms of EU membership.
“The EU has an addiction to red tape that desperately needs to be tackled,” said Business for Britain's Matthew Elliott.


text:
Summer is about to begin in America – and so is sticker shock
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) – With coronavirus cases dropping and 1.8 million U.S. residents getting vaccinated every day, more and more Americans are planning this upcoming Memorial Day weekend to return to old pleasures like friends, parties, trips and afternoons at a ball game.
They will also encounter something new and less pleasant: rising prices.
Overall, US prices in April were up about 3.1% from February 2020, the month before the pandemic brought the economy to a halt.
And prices are expected to continue to rise for much of the summer, driven, among other things, by bottlenecks limiting the supply of materials and labor and growing consumer demand.
But what about the inflation in things and the particular indulgences at the start of summer?
Reuters has developed a “Memorial Day Weekend Price Index” to capture the rising cost of an imaginary basket of goods and services peculiar to the first long weekend of the summer, which takes place this year. from May 29 to 31.
The index, made up largely of leisure spending and excluding the cost of accommodation and doctor visits among other mundane items, rose about 4.3%, faster than the overall index of consumer prices.
As Americans venture out to make and buy things that many haven’t had for a long time, they will find that the price changes are anything but uniform. Here is a sample:
Go shopping: Memorial Day sales are a lasting feature of the summer three-day opening weekend, with deals on big-ticket items like washing machines and mattresses. But with rising demand, rare parts and low inventories, durable goods prices were up 7.5% from February 2020.
A weekend getaway: Despite a sharp rise recently, including a 10% increase from March to April, airfares are still 18% lower than pre-pandemic levels, meaning a plane ticket today sells for roughly which he could have done about 15 years ago. Accommodation has also increased dramatically in recent months, but the price index that tracks hotels, motels, and Airbnbs, among others, is still around 5% lower than before the pandemic. . Car rental is another matter: the auto and truck rental price tracking index is up 45%.
Dinner, drinks: Overall, the price increase is in line with the average for all goods and services since the start of the pandemic, with the price of full-service meals and snacks increasing by about 3% since February 2020, the same as that of alcoholic beverages outside the home.
Barbecue in the courtyard: Throwing food on the grill for friends or family? Ground beef prices are up 7%; hot dogs are up 11%. Vegetables have only increased by 2% since February 2020, and the price of a fresh or frozen pie for dessert has fallen by 1%.
Movies, theme parks, ball games: Overall, the cost of admission to a movie, theater, amusement park or concert is up just 2% from pre-pandemic levels. With some cinemas permanently closed and other large theaters reopening or starting to accommodate larger crowds, it’s unclear how the balance of supply and demand may change that. Meanwhile, in April, the price index for admission to sporting events was down 1% from the pre-pandemic level.
A haircut and a manicure: The price index for haircuts and other personal services like manicures and pedicures is up about 6% since before the pandemic. Bookings at tattoo parlors are said to be on the rise, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track the price of body art.
(Reporting by Ann Saphir; Editing by Dan Burns and Nick Zieminski)
© Copyright Thomson Reuters 2021


text:
Autoliv (ALV) reported third quarter earnings per share of either $1.48 (non-GAAP) or $1.12 (GAAP). (GAAP is generally accepted accounting principles.) That consensus was $1.09 a share on Wall Street.
Revenue of $2.04 billion was in line with expectations and up 0.5% year over year.
For the full 2020 year the company said it expects a 14.5% drop in revenue–versus Wall Street projections for a 15.05% decline.
While those results may seem lackluster, they represent a huge improvement for the maker of auto safety systems. For the quarter, organic sales growth was up 0.4%. That compares to a drop of 48% in the second quarter. The most positive news came from China where organic sales grew by 10.4% in the quarter. That outstripped the 8.7% gain in light vehicle production in China for the quarter. In the Americas organic sales growth of 1.2% came against a drop in light vehicle production of 4.3%.
The Chinese story is especially encouraging with light vehicle sales showing year over year growth every month for the last six months. (Although forecasts are for a 5% year over year drop in sales in the fourth quarter as comparisons get tougher.) China represented 21% of sales for Autoliv in the third quarter.
Adjusted operating margin grew by 110 basis points to 10.1%. Free cash flow of $276 million in the quarter went to reducing net debt by $265 million from the prior quarter to $1.57 billion.
The stock climbed 0.88% today, October 23, to close at $84.94. The average Wall Street target price is $83.29.
I think the signs of the recovery in China’s auto market are real. Europe too looked like it was moving toward a recovery but the latest wave of coronavirus cases in that region puts economic trends there in doubt.
With all the signs in Autoliv’s earnings report of the company building toward a revenue recovery on the strength of sales to Chinese auto makers, I think there are better plays on the global auto recovery.
My three favorites are European chip makers Infineon Technologies (IFNNY), up 13.62% in the last month, and NXP Semiconductors (NXPI), up 10% in the last month, and Japanese electric motor maker Nidec (NJDCY), up 1.23% in the last month. My favorite of these is Nidec because of its increasing penetration of the Chinese market as a supplier of drive systems to the makers of electric vehicles.
All three stocks are members of my online portfolios.
Infineon is up 39.3% since I added it to my Jubak Picks Portfolio on May 6, 2019. NXP is up 35.8% since it joined my Volatility Portfolio on June 2, 2020. Nidec is ahead 99.9% since I added it to my 50 Stocks Portfolio on July 11, 2017.
Full disclosure: I own shares of all three companies in my personal portfolios.


text:
ePac Flexible Packaging is excited to announce the opening of ePac Seoul, Ltd., its first location in South Korea. ePac Seoul is now open to take orders and will be located about 90 minutes outside of Seoul at 3F, Building C, 195-20, Jayumuyeok-gil, Baeksan-myeon, Gimje-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea 54325. The new location will be managed by ePac Holdings Asia in partnership with ePac Holdings and CC Labs, a South Korean company. ePac Seoul’s managing director is Mr. Kim Min-Choel. According to Mr. Kim: “With small and medium-sized businesses accounting for 99% of all South Korean enterprises, 89% of employment, and strong government support, we’re excited to enter this market.
Tetra Pak today announces it is ready to deploy its portfolio of tethered cap solutions. The portfolio brings numerous benefits to food and beverage manufacturers and consumers, as the company builds on its vision of the most sustainable food package. These benefits include minimising litter, as the cap will stay attached to the package. The carbon footprint can also be reduced because the company’s tethered caps are planned to become available as a plant-based option, therefore increasing the renewable content of the package.
In tandem, the company is accelerating the expansion of its paper straws offering to ensure further renewable and low carbon materials across the range of packaging solutions. The aim of this is to address a broad range of customer sustainability needs without compromising on food safety, while still delivering on the end-user drinking experience.
Lars Holmquist, Executive Vice President Packaging Solutions and Commercial Operations, Tetra Pak, says: “These are key milestones in our journey towards the world’s most sustainable food package: a carton that is fully made from renewable or recycled materials, is fully recyclable and carbon-neutral. We consistently strive to deliver products and services that adds value to food and people while protecting the planet. Our promise, ‘PROTECTS WHAT’S GOOD™,’ allied with this strong purpose means we are providing customers with innovative products that also meet the rapidly changing demands of society.”
Tetra Pak’s tethered caps and paper straws developments mark the latest additions to its range of responsible end-to-end solutions, allowing manufacturers to achieve their ambitions in three essential areas – food safety, food waste and the environment – simultaneously.
Holmquist continues: “Approximately 32% of all plastic packaging is not collected and plastic can take hundreds of years to degrade. We focus on recycling by design, committing to invest approximately €100 million per year over the next 5-10 years to develop more sustainable packaging solutions. This includes alternatives to replace fossil-based plastics and avoid littering, as well as maximising the use of renewable, responsibly sourced materials in our packages. Addressing people’s needs for recycling is a critical component for not only becoming more sustainable but making food more available and safer for all consumers.”
These steps are also central to ensuring that Tetra Pak’s customers in Europe will be ready to comply with the Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive, an integral part of the wider approach announced in the Plastics Strategy and an important element of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan.
With this in mind, Tetra Pak has accelerated innovation in the caps domain. Holmquist adds: “The significant challenge of deploying tethered caps is the scale of the change that this brings across the value chain. If we look at Europe alone, more than 1,000 packaging lines supplied by us will be potentially transformed, translating into over 20 billion packages which are expected to be converted. All of that in three years, while minimising impact on our customers’ operations, optimising the consumer experience and contributing to both minimising litter and creating a carton package with increased plant-based and recycled content.”
Tetra Pak is progressing on this complex journey by working seamlessly across various project streams. Overall, this covers approximately 40 different packages with tethered caps. Those caps are all planned to become available as a plant-based option. The first one to be released on the market is the HeliCap™ 26 Pro closure. This product features a new screw and flip concept with a self-locking hinge, securing food protection while providing convenience for in-home consumption. Its opening and closing mechanism has proven popular with consumers, demonstrating that the solution is delivering further benefits in addition to meeting legislative requirements.
Holmquist concludes: “We won’t stop here. We are continuously innovating our sustainable openings offering. We envision a world where carton packages never become waste and where every carton is collected and recycled.”


text:
AWS cloud consultants that offer an expanded portfolio of offerings can expect every dollar their customers spend on the cloud platform to generate as much as $6.40 in services revenue.
That's a key takeaway from AWS-commissioned partner ecosystem research, which the company unveiled this week at its annual re:Invent conference. The survey, which market analyst firm Canalys conducted with more than 40 partners, provides a glimpse into the economics of providing cloud consulting, deployment and management services.
The results show that partners investing in the depth and breadth of AWS services can obtain a multiplier effect on their revenue, noted Julia Chen, vice president of Partner Core at AWS.
"It's two dimensions. It's increasing the kinds of services they offer, but it's also increasing the number of AWS products that they're able to sell," she said.
The Canalys report stated that expert-level partners can obtain the $6.40 multiplier. The company defined an expert partner as one that has the "broadest set of service offerings and … a large professional services organization." In contrast, partners that primarily resell AWS cloud products and offer limited additional services can expect to achieve a multiplier of $0.90, according to Canalys.
Justin Copie, CEO at Innovative Solutions -- an IT services provider with headquarters in West Henrietta, N.Y. -- said there's a journey to follow when partnering with AWS to deliver customer value. "As you move along the journey, the revenue ratio increases congruently with partner maturity," he said.
That means taking a systematic approach to building services.
"The reality is, there are so many things to say 'yes' to," Copie said. "The real opportunity is for partners is to be clear about their vision and actually say 'no' to things."
Partners that take this disciplined approach can find an economic return much greater than the 6:1 ratio Canalys identified, Copie said. Innovative Solutions, an IBM Premier Consulting Partner, participated in the Canalys study.
Partner Paths support broader scope
The findings around a broader scope of services dovetail with AWS Partner Paths initiative, which the company outlined at last year's re:Invent. The company offers hardware, training, distribution, services and software paths to accommodate a wider range of partner business models and offerings. Partners can enroll in more than one path.
Since the launch of Partner Paths, about 82,000 services partners, 38,000 software partners, 500 hardware partners and 200 training partners have enrolled, said Sachin Vora, global leader of AWS Channel Programs. 100% of the company's distribution partners have joined the distribution path, he added. AWS works with more than 20 distributors.
AWS offers tools and enablement programs within Partner Path to help partners diversity their offerings and deepen their expertise, Sachin said.
Technical enablement programs, for example, aim to help partners understand the 200-plus products AWS offers. Other enablement efforts focus on building offerings on AWS. The company's SaaS Factory program supports partners through the task of building a SaaS offering.
AWS cloud consultants roll out services
Other partner developments at re:Invent included several service launches from cloud consulting firms.
Tata Consultancy Services, based in Mumbai, India, unveiled a virtual research and development environment that aims to help customers assess quantum computing. TCS Quantum Computing Lab on AWS uses Amazon Braket, a managed quantum computing service.
Krishna Mohan, global head of AWS Business Unit at TCS, said the company has 200 team members trained in quantum computing technology, including Amazon Braket. He said a few customers are experimenting with use cases such as genomic sequencing and optimization.
"With quantum specifically, customers are in the experimental phase, testing use cases with real-world applications to ensure utility and laying the groundwork for future expansions and innovation," he said.
Automated risk assessment for ISV partners
At re:Invent, AWS also launched programs geared to ISVs and other software-oriented partners. Among those is AWS Marketplace Vendor Insights, which automates third-party software and data vendor risk assessments. The service compiles vendors' security and compliance information to facilitate software procurement through AWS Marketplace.
When validating vendor software, an enterprise's procurement organization requires information on assessments such as Service Organization Control 2 and HIPAA, noted Mona Chadha, director of category management for AWS Marketplace. She said Vendor Insights speeds up a data-gathering process that would otherwise occupy an ISV for months.
AWS Marketplace doesn't charge software sellers for activating and using Vendor Insights, according to an AWS blog post. However, ISVs will be charged for using Audit Manager and AWS Config, the company said.
Accenture, meanwhile, launched Velocity, a platform that the company said speeds up the pace of business transformation. Accenture co-funded and co-developed the platform with AWS.
Andy Tay, global lead of Accenture's AWS Business Group, said the uncertain economy, digital disruption and other factors compel clients to become more resilient, agile and adaptive. "But they are faced with a time pressure to achieve this transformation," he said. "They also have a talent constraint."
To shrink delivery schedules, Velocity simplifies the setup, consumption and management of cloud enablement, he noted. He said its takes organizations three to 12 months on average to build an enterprise cloud foundation -- a timeline based on thousands of Accenture projects with AWS.
In other re:Invent partner news, the following occurred:
- IBM Consulting outlined a platform services offering that focuses on AIOps and observability. Next year, IBM and AWS expect to provide customers with software options including IBM Instana Observability, IBM Turbonomic Application Resource Management and IBM Cloud Pak for Watson AIOps.
- IBM and AWS are providing IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Stack through the AWS Marketplace. The offering is geared to IBM zSystems mainframe customers' application modernization projects.
- Atos, a systems integrator based in Paris, France, debuted an accelerator that targets data management. Atos' AWS Data Lake Accelerator for SAP speeds up the task of building data lakes, according to Atos.
AWS partners interested in ML offerings
In addition to services, AWS discussed several product rollouts at re:Invent. Partners expressed particular interest in the cloud vendor's machine learning offerings and its ML-based AWS Supply Chain application.
Julie ChenVice president, Partner Core, AWS
Jared Cheney, vice president of services in North America at SoftwareONE, said AWS has released numerous ML analytics and data ingestion services that make it easier to run applications with services such as Redshift and Sagemaker as well as integrations with Apache Spark. SoftwareONE, a software and cloud technology solutions provider based in Switzerland, last week said it has obtained AWS Premier Tier Services Partner status.
Cheney said his team is also interested in DataZone, a data management service that AWS said lets customers more readily catalog and govern data stored across AWS as well as on-premises and third-party environments. "Having a simple service that helps companies organize, discover and start the data journey is promising," he said.
Cheney also noted AWS Supply Chain, which he said lets organizations tap into and reuse the cloud provider's range of services to reinvent themselves natively in the cloud.
Accenture's Tay said AWS Supply Chain arrives at a time when supply chain disruptions look set to continue. Accenture plans to use AWS Supply Chain across its own supply chain offerings, which include SynOps.


text:
New-car sales at General Motors’ passenger vehicle joint venture with SAIC Motor Co. fell in July after stabilizing the previous month, as overall vehicle demand in China remains weak.
July deliveries at SAIC-GM, which builds and markets Cadillac, Buick and Chevrolet cars and light trucks, fell 18 percent to 111,567, according to SAIC, a Shanghai-listed company.
Coastal provinces and major inland cities in China on July 1 adopted tougher emissions rules, and SAIC-GM’s dealerships offered steep discounts in June to pare inventories of vehicles that fell short of the new standards.
As a result, June sales at the partnership were virtually unchanged from a year earlier.
But deliveries at SAIC-GM-Wuling, GM’s light-vehicle joint venture with SAIC, continue to slide, slipping 16 percent to 110,691 in July after dropping 36 percent in June.
SAIC-GM-Wuling produces and distributes cars under the entry-level Baojun brand and minibuses for the Wuling marque.
In the first seven months, sales at SAIC-GM dropped 13 percent to 945,646 while deliveries at SAIC-GM-Wuling plummeted 28 percent to 853,212.
GM only discloses China sales on a quarterly basis.


text:
AstroPrint Secures Second Round of Funding for Business Solutions
With this new investment, AstroPrint has raised a total of $2.1M, and is now poised to grow its 3D printing cloud solution.
May 17, 2019
AstroPrint has just concluded a successful second funding round where AstroPrint raised a total of $1M from two prominent venture capitalists: Stanley Ventures and Alma Mundi Ventures. With this new investment, AstroPrint has raised a total of $2.1M, and is now poised to grow its 3D printing cloud solution.
Stanley Ventures is the venture capital arm of Fortune 500 company Stanley Black & Decker. Stanley Ventures has invested in several companies in the additive manufacturing space, including an investment in a new Selective Thermoplastic Electrophotographic Process (STEP) 3D printing technology.
Alma Mundi Ventures is a tech venture fund based in Madrid with investors in Palo Alto, CA; New York; London; Paris; Barcelona and Madrid, orchestrating a global network of over 500 members in 41 cities worldwide. Their investments are primarily global tech startups in the United States and in Europe.
AstroPrint is now ready to offer the AstroPrint Enterprise Cloud to other companies. Recently emerging from the STANLEY+Techstars Accelerator, which is jointly run by Stanley Black & Decker and worldwide entrepreneurship network Techstars, AstroPrint is deploying the AstroPrint Enterprise Cloud platform across multiple Stanley Black & Decker facilities. The next step is to offer the Enterprise Cloud solution to other companies that also need distributed Additive Manufacturing abilities and would benefit from data-driven optimization of their Additive Manufacturing operations.
Building on the offices in San Diego (USA) and Malaga (Spain), AstroPrint has also opened an office in Hartford, CT, to better serve customers in New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and the rest of the northeast United States, where a high concentration of additive manufacturing operators are located.
“Stanley Ventures is proud to be a part of AstroPrint’s growth journey, and we are confident that their Enterprise Cloud solution will be a game changer in Enterprise adoption of Additive Manufacturing. We are investing in the best and brightest prospects in Additive Manufacturing as we see the potential for it to dramatically revolutionize the way companies test, prototype, and even fully manufacture products in a faster, cheaper, and more sustainable way than we do today,” says Dina Routhier, director at Stanley Ventures.
“Having won the faith and trust of VCs like Stanley Ventures and Alma Mundi Ventures tells us that we are on the right track to fill an important gap in the additive manufacturing industry and to add tremendous value for companies that are increasingly global and multi-location,” says Drew Taylor, CEO of AstroPrint.
“The next step for us is two fold: First, we want to help existing manufacturers create smarter Additive Manufacturing networks so they can share and optimize resources within their companies. Second, we want to identify industries and companies that are yet to take advantage of 3D printing in their prototyping and testing processes, and help them overcome the traditional obstacles of distributed locations and remote expertise,” Drew adds.
AstroPrint Enterprise Cloud is now available for organizations seeking to connect, control, and optimize their 3D printer fleets.
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.