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Business International & World Lifestyle Technology

SHI International and Casey Murphy Goalkeeping Academy announce brand ambassador partnership

Global IT solution provider and USWNT goalkeeper join forces to teach, inspire and challenge young soccer players while also promoting effective enterprise cybersecurity solutions

 

SOMERSET, N.J. & AUCKLAND, New Zealand — (BUSINESS WIRE) — SHI International, one of the world’s largest IT solutions providers, and top National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) goalkeeper Casey Murphy, today announced a mutual brand ambassador partnership. Officially an agreement between SHI and Casey Murphy Goalkeeping Academy (CMGK), the partnership will help fortify the resources available to CMGK coaches and players while making one of the world’s best defenders the face of SHI’s cybersecurity practice.

 

Starting 13 games as goalkeeper for the North Carolina Courage this season, Murphy led the NWSL with seven clean sheets before becoming one of three goalkeepers named to the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) set to compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup later this month. Playing for the national team at various levels, Murphy (27), has 10 shutouts in 14 caps with the USWNT senior team, making her the quickest goalkeeper to achieve double-digit clean sheets.

 

In the 2022 off-season, Murphy established CMGK with the goal of inspiring players ages 7–18 to take ownership of their own player development and build confidence by focusing on consistent, incremental improvement. First introduced at CMGK’s inaugural clinic in Murphy’s hometown of Bridgewater, NJ in January, CMGK’s core values stress an honest reflection of one’s skills combined with a growth mindset and open communication with other players and coaches. This combination helps CMGK players pave the path that others want to follow.

 

“Casey is not just a world-class athlete, but also an inspiring business owner who is committed to nurturing the next generation of soccer players,” said Thai Lee, President and CEO of SHI International. “We began this partnership with a small sponsorship of their first clinic and after witnessing the positive effect Casey has on young players, we wanted to expand our support. On the pitch, Casey’s ability to anticipate and defend against attacks also aligns perfectly with our own cybersecurity approach. There’s no better partner to help inform customers of SHI’s cybersecurity practice than our new Minister of Defense!”

 

A native of Bridgewater, New Jersey, Murphy closed an exceptional amateur career by playing three years for Rutgers University where she was twice named Big 10 Goalkeeper of the Year. Between SHI’s long-standing partnership with Rutgers, including naming rights to the stadium since 2019, and with Bridgewater serving as home to scores of SHI’s 2,000+ New Jersey-based employees, the partnership was a natural fit.

 

“This partnership will make a significant difference in the lives of young soccer players and I am proud to represent a company that is so committed to providing and supporting robust defensive strategies and execution,” said Murphy. “Teaming up with a fellow business owner who turned a small IT company into one of the largest woman-owned businesses in America, right in my own backyard, made this partnership a no-brainer.”

 

The announcement of SHI’s latest brand partnership comes on the eve of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and just over a week after second-year professional golfer and SHI brand ambassador Allisen Corpuz won her first professional tournament, becoming the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open Champion.

 

ABOUT SHI

SHI International Corp. is a $14 billion transformational technology solutions provider serving the needs of more than 17,000 corporate, enterprise, public sector and academic customer organizations around the world. It helps companies achieve business goals through the use of technologies ranging from software licensing and end user computing devices to innovative cloud and edge solutions. With over 6,000 employees worldwide, SHI is the largest Minority and Woman Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) in the U.S.

 

About Casey Murphy Goalkeeper Academy

CMGK is dedicated to helping young soccer players own their dreams and achieve greatness. Our focus is on inspiring players to improve rather than prove themselves. We believe embracing challenges and reflecting on their craft helps players take ownership of their development and build confidence. We value how each player responds to mistakes, fostering pride in personal growth. Through open dialogue with our coaches, we support the players through their journey, providing opportunities to learn, gain self-belief, and enjoy the process of improvement.

 

For more information, visit https://www.SHI.com and https://cmgksoccer.com/

 

Press Resources

SHI Blog: http://blog.SHI.com
SHI Twitter Handle: @SHI_Intl

CMGK Instagram: caseymurphy_goalkeeping
CMGK Facebook: Casey Murphy Goalkeeping

Contacts

Gregory FCA for SHI International

Matt McLoughlin

610.228.2123

Matt@GregoryFCA.com

Categories
Energy Government International & World Regulations & Security Science Technology

EMP expert shares message of hope, advises about impact of strikes and attacks

For nearly two decades, William R. Forstchen, Ph.D., a military historian and renowned expert on nuclear energy (electromagnetic pulse) EMP strikes, has been spreading the word about the importance of updating America’s aging power grid to not only protect our population in the event of an EMP attack, but to also make our opponents think twice about launching one in the first place. Dr. Forstchen is also a New York Times bestselling author who has written extensively about EMP weapons.

 

EMP expert shares message of hope, and says working together as a community is key

 

BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. — Military historian William R. Forstchen, Ph.D., considers himself an optimist by nature, even though he has written extensively about the catastrophic impact of an EMP strike and has spent nearly two decades urging national and local governments to heed his warnings.

 

“In the first hours, people will be relatively civil to each other … but at what point does that start changing?” he said in a recent interview. “Within about 24 hours, it’s going to start to get squirrely, and the big factor right at the start is water.”

 

Widely considered one of the foremost experts on EMP attacks, Forstchen is the New York Times bestselling author of the One Second After series, a fictional exploration rooted in the cold, solid facts of how an EMP strike above U.S. soil would impact society. There are now four books in the series, which should give people hope that survival is possible, with the right measures and mindset in place.

 

“The component of my [first] book that was so important … is the realization that the only way we’re going to get through this as a community is by working together as a community, helping those who need help … and then planning realistically for how we’re going to get through the next six months, the next year, and still have food on hand, water supply, medication, etc.,” Forstchen added.

 

The latest book in the series, Five Years After, follows protagonist John Matherson as he contends with new threats to the fragile civilization that he helped rebuild.

 

In Five Years After, the Republic of New America has all but collapsed into regional powers, and the world at large is struggling to remain stable as regional conflicts ravage the post-EMP landscape. After several years attempting to lead a quiet life, John receives word that the President is terminal with cancer, and John is asked to take over the reins of government.

 

Pulled back into the fray, John struggles to hold the tottering Republic together. Facing threats on multiple fronts, he races against time to stop another EMP attack on the former United States and China, putting years of progress at risk. With so much of his work under threat, John must find the strength within to start over, so that he can save the country and the people that he holds dear from even greater calamity.

 

Forstchen’s depiction of a post-EMP society throughout his One Second After series is rooted in years of extensive research, and he has long been advocating for greater awareness and preparation against an EMP strike, which he considers a very real threat. His goal is not to alarm, but to prompt proactive measures to protect the American public.

 

“We’ve got to live our lives; we’ve got to enjoy ourselves … don’t make this the obsession,” Forstchen said of the topic of EMPs. “But it should be out there. You should be thinking about this and doing some basic planning.”

 

About the Author

William R. Forstchen is a New York Times bestselling author and a Professor of History at Montreat College, in Montreat, North Carolina. He holds a doctoral degree from Purdue University with a specialization in military history and technology. He is the author of more than 50 books, including the One Second After series that details the realistic effects of an EMP strike.

 

He is a noted expert historian and public speaker and has been interviewed on FOX News, C-SPAN and many others on topics ranging from history to technology and cultural issues, to space technology development, to security threats.

 

For more information about the One Second After series, please visit https://www.onesecondafter.com/.

Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Five-Years-After-Matherson-Novel/dp/1250854563/

Categories
Culture Healthcare International & World Lifestyle Perks

Isla Mujeres animal shelter moving to the mainland: Help needed to rebuild critical Rescue Operation

BOULDER, Colo. ― Since 2001, Isla Animals Rescue has worked tirelessly to rescue and sterilize street dogs and cats on the island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, offering vital free and reduced cost services to a community that desperately needs them.

 

“Isla Animals is the REAL thing,” said founder Alison Sawyer.

 

“Nobody’s being paid for administration; no one’s going to lunch or staying in five-star hotels. All the money goes to the animals. No one is making any kind of profit.”

But in April, the brave efforts of Isla Animals Rescue were upended by the government of Isla Mujeres, which reclaimed the space inhabited by Isla Animals, leaving the rescue organization homeless like the abandoned animals they work so diligently to protect.

In spite of the unthinkable setback, Sawyer and the organization’s director, Trina Noakes, remained steadfast in their commitment to taking animals off the streets.

“Twenty-two years and tens of thousands of dogs and cats saved — passion, sweat and tears — all of that will not be thrown away at the whim of an ungrateful government that doesn’t appreciate how we have taken care of theirproblem,” said Sawyer, who still buys her clothes at the Salvation Army so she can put everything she has into helping the animals.

After taking a step back to rethink and regroup, the organization decided that moving to the mainland, Cancun, will offer them the best chance of building an optimal shelter — that they will own independently — and that will have an impact where it is needed most. The new shelter will meet international standards for water, sewage, electricity — and they’re going to try to get solar power as well.

“The need on the mainland is much greater than on Isla, with extreme cases of abandonment and abuse and a much higher number of street animals,” said Noakes. “Not only will IA have something that no one can take away from the animals, but we will also have outdoor space, a place for on-site surgeries, isolation areas and a lot more!”

But the move comes at an immense cost that Isla Animals can’t tackle alone.

“Since we didn’t plan to go through all of this, we are struggling financially,” Noakes added.

 

“Building is expensive, and we know we can use your money better building on the mainland.”

Isla Animals is in critical need of the public’s help. They have launched a Go Fund Me campaign(https://gofund.me/7fe42686) to raise money for the new shelter. More information can be found (and donations can also be made) at https://www.islaanimals.org/.

Watch a short video explaining the full impact of Isla Animals here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOv5Qx0ag1Q.

Categories
Energy Environment International & World News Now! Technology

Renewable electricity registers record growth, but renewable heat and fuels lag far behind, hindering a shift away from fossil fuels

With a record 30% share, renewable electricity is driving the energy transition. However, renewable-based electricity needs to more than double. Renewable-based heat and fuels need to grow much faster to ensure equitable access and security of supply. 

  • Renewable energy growth is most noticeable in the power sector (electricity generation), whereas critical energy carriers such as renewable heat and renewable-based fuels remain neglected.  
  • Solar photovoltaics (PV) had another record year of growth in 2022, with a 37% increase in additional installed capacity.  
  • Grid-connected wind energy additions fell 17% relative to 2021, due to delays in permitting, disruption in supply chains, and rising material and shipping costs.  
  • China was home to 44% of renewable energy deployment and also represented 55% of total investments in renewables. Renewable investments in Europe reached 11% and in the United States 10%, while Africa and the Middle East received the lowest share by region, at only 1.6%. 

 

 

PARIS – Wide-ranging barriers are preventing renewable energy from contributing effectively to meeting the world’s climate and development goals, according to the Renewables in Energy Supply module, launched on June 12, as part of the annual Renewables 2023 Global Status Report (GSR) collection.

 

These barriers include a lack of attention to all energy carriers, a failure to diversify renewable energy technologies beyond wind and solar power, deficiencies in policies, bottlenecks in permitting and grid connections, unequal investment levels in different regions, and continued large investments in fossil fuels.

 

The Renewables in Energy Supply module covers the way final energy is distributed among heat, fuel and electricity, geographies and technologies (bioenergy, geothermal power and heat, heat pumps, hydrogen, hydropower, solar PV, concentrated solar power (CSP), solar thermal heat, ocean power and wind power). Renewables in Energy Supplyfollows the release of the GSR 2023 Demand Modules, which explored renewable energy use in the key energy-consuming sectors of buildings, industry, transport and agriculture.

 

Energy carriers include electricity and heat as well as solid, liquid and gaseous fuels. Currently, the global energy supply is split mostly among heat (49%) and fuel (29%), with electricity having the lowest share (22%). In 2022, the share of renewables in the power sector reached 30%, mainly because the sector has received long-term policy attention that enabled market and technology development and drove down costs. Across all sectors, renewables cover only 12.7% of the total energy system, a relatively low share in the larger scheme of things.

 

“The record growth of renewables in the electricity sector is positive news. However, we need to more than double this growth and to achieve deep electrification of the heat and transport sectors. We also need to invest heavily in grid infrastructure to address climate change and to provide access to over 700 million people living without electricity, mainly in Africa and Asia,” said REN21 Executive Director Rana Adib.

 

Meanwhile, the other energy carriers – fuels and heat, which provide most of the world’s energy – have only dismal renewable energy shares of 3.6% and 9.2% respectively. This indicates that efforts are narrowly focused on transitioning the power supply. This limited focus is ultimately slowing the shift to a renewables-based system, delaying efforts to reach the Sustainable Development Goals and maintaining the status quo of energy insecurity.

 

Greater attention must be paid to renewable heat and renewable-based fuels and to the diversification of renewable energy technologies. While electricity is expected to play an increasingly important role in the global energy supply, the International Energy Agency (IEA) net-zero scenario and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) 1.5 degree Celsius scenario indicate that electricity will supply only half of the world’s total final energy in 2050.

 

“This clearly means that we cannot continue to neglect the other carriers – renewable heat and fuels – if we are serious about cutting emissions and addressing the climate, energy and poverty crises. It took time, investment and policy attention to expand to 30% renewable power. We now need to award heat and fuels similar policy attention to achieve the critical shift we need,” said Adib.

 

Efforts in renewable electricity need to be accelerated as well. Despite the strong focus on the power sector, the ongoing failure to build and extend electrical grids and to speed permitting processes are creating bottlenecks that are slowing the shift to a renewable-based power system. More than 1 terawatt of renewable energy projects are still waiting to be constructed and connected to the grid globally due to delays in permitting and lack of investment in grid infrastructure. The status of Energy Systems and Infrastructure will be addressed in an upcoming module to be released as part of the GSR 2023 collection.

 

“Even in the power sector, we are still not taking a systemic approach that builds renewable energy as a healthy economic sector and industry by investing in manufacturing capacities, and skilling people. We focus on a few technologies like solar PV and wind and their generation capacity, neglecting distribution and connection to grids,” said Adib. “Electricity generation from renewables means attention to infrastructure. It´s like you manufacture cars and wait for roads. When we built cars, we did it with confidence that roads will accompany the process. The same thought and action process must apply to renewables.”

 

Momentum has been building for the creation of a worldwide target for renewable energy in the power sector, to be announced at the United Nations Climate Conference (COP 28) in Dubai in November. Recently, leaders of the G7 countries made a historic pledge to collectively increase the world’s offshore wind power capacity by 150 gigawatts and its solar capacity to more than 1 terawatt by 2030.

 

“These announcements are welcome signals for both countries and renewable energy markets; however, science and experience tell us that to be effective, these targets need to be urgently translated into concrete actions that will speed the energy transition in all countries – including through national policies, technology development and sharing, equitable investments in all regions, fossil fuel phase-outs, and the removal of barriers and bottlenecks”, said Adib.

 

The limited approach to the carriers has also been mirrored in the technologies and geographies. Solar and wind power currently dominate the annual additions of renewable power – together contributing 92% – with only 8% coming from other renewables such as hydropower, geothermal, bioenergy, CSP and ocean power.

 

“The energy crisis, which resulted from the Russian Federation invasion of Ukraine, has shown the importance of security of supply. To shield us from new crises, policy makers must immediately ramp up efforts in all renewable energy technologies, including hydropower, geothermal, ocean, CSP and bioenergy. If we don´t quickly evolve these alongside solar PV and wind, we will still need to depend on coal, oil and gas, and nuclear for our energy supply well into the future,” said Adib.

 

Geographically, China led the world in renewable energy investments in 2022, with 55% of the global total energy, followed by Europe with 11% and the United States with 10%. Africa and the Middle East together received the lowest share of renewable investments, at only 1.6%. Most of the worldwide deployment in renewables was in China, which accounted for 44% of all solar capacity additions and 38% of all wind capacity additions, pointing to the high geographic concentration of renewable energy additions.

 

“Within Africa, a continent blessed with an abundance of renewable energy, a silent storm rages on – the prolonged energy crisis, an ignoble plight that the world regrettably chooses to disregard. It is our moral imperative to accelerate the deployment of a sufficient quantity of renewable energy and to ensure that this transition uplifts the most vulnerable, improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development that reaches far beyond economic gains,” said Joel Nana from Sustainable Energy Africa.

 

Financial flows are still not shifting fast enough towards renewables and away from fossil fuels. Of the USD 640 billion in global power investments in 2022, 26% still went to fossil fuels and nuclear power, even though renewable electricity is the least-cost option. This means that we continue to lock in more emissions in the atmosphere by investing in fossil fuel technologies that will soon become obsolete – depriving people and the planet of the sustainability, development, health and jobs benefits of the energy transition.

 

“Renewable energy is now recognised as the necessary backbone for all energy systems. However, it also needs to be developed as an economic sector, with clear and strategic focus on building a profitable industry. Investment in manufacturing and skilled labour are now crucial to deliver a secure, sustainable and thriving sector,” said Chief Executive Officer of the Global Renewables Alliance Bruce Douglas.

 

About REN21 and the GSR 2023 Collection

REN21 is the only global community of renewable energy actors from science, academia, governments, non-governmental organisations and industry across all renewable energy sectors. Our community is at the heart of our data and reporting activities. All of our knowledge activities, including the GSR 2023 Demand Modules, follow a unique reporting process that has allowed REN21 to be globally recognised as a neutral data and knowledge broker.

 

Since its first release in 2005, REN21 has worked with thousands of contributors to put the spotlight on ongoing developments and emerging trends that shape the future of renewable energy. Producing this report each year is a collaborative effort of hundreds of experts and volunteers contributing data, reviewing chapters and co-authoring the report.

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Art & Life Environment International & World Lifestyle

First gen immigrant, viral Gen Z interior designer launching e-commerce, taking over your feed

Bilal Rehman, a 23-year-old luxury interior designer and content creator who has skyrocketed to social media fame for his unapologetic and comedic style, takes on design and spaces.

 

Rehman is leading the next generation of luxury interior design. Featured on INSIDER.COM, Buzzfeed, and The New York Times for his viral content, Bilal is next gearing up to launch his e-commerce store where he will sell home goods to make any space feel more luxurious.

 

From an interior design intern to CEO of his own company in only 4 years, he is ready to impress the world with his talents and branch out to create a full fledged lifestyle brand. We would love to set up an interview with you and Bilal to discuss his unique take on design, tips for styling the interiors of your home or business, and what’s next for the young artist.

 

As CEO of his Design Studio & Gallery based out of Houston, Texas, Bilal has already shown his skills and talented eye for design in his numerous commercial and residential design projects. Bilal takes an all-encompassing approach, focusing on every detail of the space to make sure it is cohesive and tells a story. Bilal’s commercial projects have included plastic surgery offices that strived for a less “medical office” feel, law offices meant to stand out and have a stylish atmosphere, and retail stores that promised to leave their customers feeling at the height of luxury.

 

Growing up with immigrant parents (dad is Pakistani and mom is Lebanese), Bilal was expected to pursue a career in law, medicine, or something of the sort. He began his college career at the University of Houston majoring in computer engineering, but found that he hated the subject and quickly switched to the much more creative major of interior design. Surprisingly, he wasn’t thrilled about this major either as he discovered you couldn’t learn the intricacies of interior design in a textbook. He was learning such things as ADA laws, building policies, etc. and craved to learn the creative side of the industry. He switched his major for a third time to pursue a business degree and began searching for an interior design internship so he could get hands-on experience in the field. While it was a struggle for him to find the internship, he finally landed one at an interior design company where he worked his way up from intern to senior level designer in only 4 years. In October of 2022, Bilal decided to launch his own company, giving him the creative freedom he desired

 

Bilal was active on social media, creating content surrounding his passion for interior design and using it to promote his business. In January of 2022 he decided to bring on his younger sister Maya Rehman to help with socials. She developed a brand new strategy and suddenly Bilal blew up, going viral on his socials for his genuine and comedic attitude. He credits his sister’s natural marketing talent for getting the word out about his business all over the internet and is thrilled to work hand-in-hand with her everyday as a dynamic brother-sister duo. With over 740k followers across all major social media platforms (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube), they create content that creatively promotes and grows the Bilal Rehman Studio.

 

Bilal spends most of his time working on design projects, brainstorming for the future, and creating content for his business, as he loves his job and never views it so much as “work.” He is also passionate about fashion, as a person with a great eye for design whether it be in a space on a person’s body. He can also normally be found shopping, or spending time with his family and partner of 3 years, as well as his two cats and two dogs.

Categories
Education International & World Technology

Teachers Lead Tech named winner in Learning and Education category at World Summit Awards, eyes US expansion

Teachers Lead Tech, a computer science teaching platform, won the Learning and Education category at the World Summit Awards. The platform aims to provide computer science skills to all children and is now expanding into the United States with the goal of reaching 20 million students worldwide by 2025.

 

On June 3, the winners of the World Summit Awards (WSA) global digital project competition were announced at an international ceremony in Puebla, Mexico.

 

Teachers Lead Tech, a computer science teaching platform for K-8 educators, was recognized as the winner in the Learning and Education category. Previously, the platform also won the WSA Young Innovator 2022 Award.

 

Teachers Lead Tech aims for every child to grow up with fundamental computer science skills, regardless of gender, location and socio-economic background. Entirely female-founded, the platform allows teachers to deliver a creative learning experience and effectively teach technology skills to every student by providing them with the appropriate tools, resources, and a supportive community.

 

Helping pupils discover the joy of computer science

In the initial 18 months following its launch, Teachers Lead Tech successfully onboarded 60% of K-5 teachers in its home market, Lithuania, making a direct impact on over 100,000 girls and boys.

 

“We were delighted by the enthusiastic response of teachers, who were in need of effective solutions that could let kids experience the thrill of creating with technologies,” said Monika Katkutė, Founder and CEO of the platform. “We have recently opened and adapted our solution to K-8 teachers as well.”

 

The platform — managed by a team with over 8 years of experience in implementing large-scale education projects — benefits K–8 teachers by offering them innovative and comprehensive computer science curricula, and a digital learning assistant to free up their time, reduce their mental load in the classroom and encourage students’ self-directed learning and creativity. The platform also offers professional development workshops for teachers to build their competences in a supportive environment.

 

The education tool has attracted attention for its distinctive features. Firstly, it integrates computer science into a wide range of subjects using a “Understand. Practice. Create” pedagogical approach, leading learners from understanding the fundamentals to creating their unique projects. Secondly, it provides a time-saving digital learning assistant that encourages students’ creativity and saves teachers’ time. Lastly, the platform offers comprehensive support for teachers, ensuring they have the necessary resources and assistance to deliver a holistic learning experience.

 

Teachers Lead Tech have also forged partnerships with top digital firms, such as Google, Mailerlite, and Vinted, who operate as social investors, to ensure sustainable development and a long-term impact model. In order to further demonstrate its dedication to long-term impact, the platform has also signed multi-year partnerships with significant city governments in Lithuania and the Ministry of Education.

 

A helping hand to U.S.-based teachers

Having established itself in the home market, Teachers Lead Tech is now expanding into the United States. The platform is already recruiting new teachers and forming partnerships with states,  aiming to make a global impact by reaching 20 million students worldwide by 2025.

 

“We are committed to directly and meaningfully improving the lives of K-8 teachers, who account for 58% of teachers in public elementary and secondary schools, 82% of whom are female and wield enormous power in the field of technology and computer science. This group has a significant untapped potential in the worlds of technology and creativity,” explained Ms. Katkutė.

 

Teachers Lead Tech hopes to support teachers by providing them with a comprehensive system that takes care of three crucial aspects: an engaging computer science curriculum that includes coding, 3D modeling, virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and more, a digital classroom learning assistant, and relevant professional development resources, empowering teachers to enhance their skills and confidence in teaching computer science.

 

By extending its reach to the USA and beyond, Teachers Lead Tech seeks to improve education on a global scale and ensure that millions of children have access to quality computer science education.

Categories
Business Government Healthcare International & World Lifestyle Science

FDA approves Bayer’s Ultravist® (iopromide) injection for contrast-enhanced mammography

  • Ultravist™-300, -370 is now the only contrast agent in the U.S. indicated to visualize known or suspected lesions of the breast in adults, as an adjunct to mammography and/or ultrasound
  • Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is an emerging modality combining digital mammography with the administration of a contrast agent1
  • Strategically expands Bayer’s portfolio in breast imaging, including contrast agents and injectors

 

WHIPPANY, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Bayer announced today that Ultravist® (iopromide)-300, -370, its iodine-based contrast agent, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) – making it the only contrast agent approved for this indication. The product can be used to visualize known or suspected lesions of the breast in adults, as an adjunct to mammography and/or ultrasound. CEM is an emerging modality that combines digital mammography with the administration of a contrast agent, such as Ultravist, to help identify breast lesions.1

 

The new FDA approved indication aligns with the recent increased focus on supplemental imaging needs for women at a higher risk for breast cancer, which may include the 40-50% of U.S. women older than 40 with dense breasts.2

 

“The approval of Ultravist-300 and -370 in contrast-enhanced mammography gives physicians a new imaging option where conventional mammography might not be enough,” said Dr. Konstanze Diefenbach, Head of Radiology Research and Development, Bayer. “We are pleased to be able to offer additional options for breast imaging to healthcare professionals, as we aim to support them in their role of providing clear answers from diagnosis to care for patients.”

 

The approval expands upon Bayer’s focus on breast imaging, with a portfolio that also includes Gadavist® (gadobutrol) injection, a gadolinium-based contrast agent approved for use with MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to assess the presence and extent of malignant breast disease in adult patients. In 2019, the MEDRAD® Stellant FLEX Computed Tomography (CT) Injection System with Certegra® Workstation was also cleared in the U.S. for use in CEM. Through the use of iodine-based x-ray contrast agents, CEM can allow for better visualization of abnormalities in breast tissue that may not be visible with standard mammography.3

 

About breast cancer and contrast-enhanced mammography

In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).4 Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) has been demonstrated to help with visualization of lesions in breast tissue and is a relatively low-cost breast imaging examination. CEM is easy to perform in everyday clinical practice and can be used in various clinical settings, such as when routine imaging produces inconclusive findings. It can also be a helpful tool when breast MRI is unavailable or contraindicated.5

 

About Ultravist

INDICATIONS and IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Intra‐arterial Procedures*: Ultravist® is indicated for: • Cerebral arteriography and peripheral arteriography in adults; • Coronary arteriography and left ventriculography, visceral angiography, and aortography in adults; • Radiographic evaluation of cardiac chambers and related arteries in pediatric patients aged 2 years and older.

 

Intravenous Procedures*: Ultravist® is indicated for: • Excretory urography in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older; • Contrast Computed Tomography (CT) of the head and body (intrathoracic, intra-abdominal, and retroperitoneal regions) for the evaluation of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older; • Contrast mammography to visualize known or suspected lesions of the breast in adults, as an adjunct following mammography and/or ultrasound.

 

*Specific concentrations and presentations of Ultravist® are recommended for each type of imaging procedure [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3, 2.4)] in the Full Prescribing Information]

 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: RISK ASSOCIATED WITH INTRATHECAL USE

Intrathecal administration, even if inadvertent, may cause death, convulsions, cerebral hemorrhage, coma, paralysis, arachnoiditis, acute renal failure, cardiac arrest, seizures, rhabdomyolysis, hyperthermia, and brain edema. ULTRAVIST is not approved for intrathecal use.

 

Risks Associated with Intrathecal Use: Intrathecal administration, even if inadvertent, can cause death, convulsions, cerebral hemorrhage, coma, paralysis, arachnoiditis, acute renal failure, cardiac arrest, seizures, rhabdomyolysis, hyperthermia, and brain edema. Ultravist® is for intra-arterial or intravenous use only. Ultravist® is not approved for intrathecal use.

 

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Ultravist® can cause life-threatening or fatal hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis. Manifestations include respiratory arrest, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, angioedema, and shock. Most severe reactions develop shortly after the start of injection (e.g., within 1 to 3 minutes), but delayed reactions can also occur. There is increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with a history of previous reaction to a contrast agent and known allergic disorders, or other hypersensitivities. Premedication with antihistamines or corticosteroids does not prevent serious life-threatening reactions but may reduce both their incidence and severity. Obtain a history of allergy, hypersensitivity, or hypersensitivity reactions to iodinated contrast agents and have emergency resuscitation equipment and trained personnel available prior to Ultravist® administration. Monitor all patients for hypersensitivity reactions.

 

Acute Kidney Injury: Acute kidney injury, including renal failure, may occur after administration. Risk factors include: pre-existing renal insufficiency, dehydration, diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, advanced vascular disease, elderly age, concomitant use of nephrotoxic or diuretic medications, multiple myeloma or other paraproteinemia, and repetitive and/or large doses of Ultravist® . Use the lowest necessary dose of Ultravist® in patients with renal impairment. Hydrate patients prior to and following Ultravist® administration. Do not use laxatives, diuretics, or preparatory dehydration prior to Ultravist® administration.

 

Cardiovascular Adverse Reactions: In patients with cardiac and / or renal disease, hemodynamic disturbances including shock and cardiac arrest may occur during or shortly after administration of Ultravist®. Hypotensive collapse and shock have occurred. Cardiac decompensation, serious arrhythmias, and myocardial ischemia or infarction can occur during coronary arteriography and ventriculography. Use the lowest necessary dose of ULTRAVIST in patients with congestive heart failure. Always have emergency resuscitation equipment and trained personnel available. Monitor all patients for severe cardiovascular reactions.

 

Thromboembolic Events: Serious, in some cases fatal, thromboembolic events causing myocardial infarction and stroke can occur during angiography procedures. During these procedures, increased thrombosis and activation of the complement system can occur. Risk of thromboembolic events can be influenced by: length of procedure, catheter and syringe material, underlying disease state, and concomitant medications. To decrease thromboembolic events, use meticulous angiographic techniques and minimize the length of the procedure. Avoid blood remaining in contact with syringes containing iodinated contrast agents, which increases the risk of clotting. Avoid angiography in patients with homocystinuria because of the risk of inducing thrombosis and embolism.

 

Extravasation and Injection Site Reactions: Extravasation can occur, particularly in patients with severe arterial or venous disease. In addition, injection site reactions such as pain and swelling at the injection site can also occur. Ensure intravascular placement of catheters prior to injection. Monitor patients for extravasation and advise patients to seek medical care for progression of symptoms.

 

Thyroid Storm in Patients with Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid storm has occurred after the intravascular use of iodinated contrast agents in patients with hyperthyroidism or with an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule. Evaluate the risk in such patients before use of Ultravist®.

 

Thyroid Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients 0 to 3 Years of Age: Thyroid dysfunction characterized by hypothyroidism or transient thyroid suppression has been reported after both single exposure and multiple exposures to iodinated contrast media (ICM) in pediatric patients 0 to 3 years of age. Younger age, very low birth weight, prematurity, underlying medical conditions affecting thyroid function, admission to neonatal or pediatric intensive care units, and congenital cardiac conditions are associated with an increased risk of hypothyroidism after ICM exposure. After exposure to ICM, individualize thyroid function monitoring based on underlying risk factors, especially in term and preterm neonates. The safety and effectiveness of Ultravist® in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age have not been established, and Ultravist® is not approved for use in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age.

 

Hypertensive Crisis in Patients with Pheochromocytoma: Hypertensive crisis in patients with pheochromocytoma has occurred with iodinated contrast agents. Closely monitor patients when administering Ultravist® if pheochromocytoma or catecholamine-secreting paragangliomas are suspected. Inject the minimum amount of Ultravist® necessary and have measures for treatment of a hypertensive crisis readily available.

 

Sickle Cell Crisis in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: Iodinated contrast agents may promote sickling in individuals who are homozygous for sickle cell disease. Hydrate patients prior to and following administration and use only if the necessary imaging information cannot be obtained with alternative imaging modalities.

Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) may develop from 1 hour to several weeks after intravascular contrast agent administration. These reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Reaction severity may increase and time to onset may decrease with repeat administration of contrast agent; prophylactic medications may not prevent or mitigate severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Avoid administering Ultravist® to patients with a history of a severe cutaneous adverse reaction to Ultravist®.

 

Interference with Laboratory Tests: Ultravist® can interfere with protein-bound iodine test.

Common Adverse Reactions: Common adverse reactions (>1%) are headache, nausea, injection site and infusion site reactions, vasodilatation, vomiting, back pain, urinary urgency, chest pain, pain, dysgeusia, and abnormal vision.

 

Please see Full Prescribing Information for Ultravist®.

About Gadavist

INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

INDICATIONS

Gadavist® (gadobutrol) injection is a gadolinium-based contrast agent indicated for use with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):

  • To detect and visualize areas with disrupted blood brain barrier and/or abnormal vascularity of the central nervous system in adult and pediatric patients including term neonates.
  • To assess the presence and extent of malignant breast disease in adult patients.
  • To assess myocardial perfusion (stress, rest) and late gadolinium enhancement in adult patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

 

Gadavist® is indicated for use in magnetic resonance angiography (MRA):

  • To evaluate known or suspected supra-aortic or renal artery disease in adult and pediatric patients including term neonates.

 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS (NSF)

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) increase the risk for NSF among patients with impaired elimination of the drugs. Avoid use of GBCAs in these patients unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with non-contrasted MRI or other modalities. NSF may result in fatal or debilitating fibrosis affecting the skin, muscle and internal organs.

  • The risk of NSF appears highest among patients with:
    • Chronic, severe kidney disease (GFR <30 mL/min/1.73m2), or
    • Acute kidney injury
  • Screen patients for acute kidney injury and other conditions that may reduce renal function. For patients at risk for chronically reduced renal function (for example, age >60 years, hypertension or diabetes), estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) through laboratory testing.
  • For patients at highest risk for NSF, do not exceed the recommended GADAVIST dose and allow a sufficient period of time for elimination of the drug from the body prior to any re-administration.

 

Contraindication and Important Information about Hypersensitivity Reactions: Gadavist® is contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to Gadavist®. Anaphylactic and other hypersensitivity reactions with cardiovascular, respiratory, or cutaneous manifestations, ranging from mild to severe, including death, have uncommonly occurred following Gadavist® administration. Before Gadavist® administration, assess all patients for any history of a reaction to contrast media, bronchial asthma and/or allergic disorders. These patients may have an increased risk for a hypersensitivity reaction to Gadavist®.

 

Gadolinium Retention: Gadolinium is retained for months or years in several organs. Linear GBCAs cause more retention than macrocyclic GBCAs. At equivalent doses, retention varies among the linear agents. Retention is lowest and similar among the macrocyclic GBCAs. Consequences of gadolinium retention in the brain have not been established, but they have been established in the skin and other organs in patients with impaired renal function. While clinical consequences of gadolinium retention have not been established in patients with normal renal function, certain patients might be at higher risk. These include patients requiring multiple lifetime doses, pregnant and pediatric patients, and patients with inflammatory conditions. Consider the retention characteristics of the agent and minimize repetitive GBCA studies, when possible.

 

Acute Kidney Injury: In patients with chronic renal impairment, acute kidney injury sometimes requiring dialysis has been observed with the use of GBCAs. Do not exceed the recommended dose; the risk of acute kidney injury may increase with higher than recommended doses.

 

Extravasation and Injection Site Reactions: Ensure catheter and venous patency before the injection of Gadavist®. Extravasation into tissues during Gadavist® administration may result in moderate irritation.

 

Overestimation of Extent of Malignant Disease in MRI of the Breast: Gadavist® MRI of the breast overestimated the histologically confirmed extent of malignancy in the diseased breast in up to 50% of the patients.

 

Low Sensitivity for Significant Arterial Stenosis: The performance of Gadavist® MRA for detecting arterial segments with significant stenosis (>50% renal, >70% supra-aortic) has not been shown to exceed 55%. Therefore, a negative MRA study alone should not be used to rule out significant stenosis.

 

Adverse Reactions: The most frequent (≥0.5%) adverse reactions associated with Gadavist® in clinical studies were headache (1.7%), nausea (1.2%) and dizziness (0.5%).

 

Please see Full Prescribing Information for Gadavist® (Vials and Syringes).
Please see Full Prescribing Information for Gadavist® (Imaging Bulk Package).

 

About Bayer

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2022, the Group employed around 101,000 people and had sales of 50.7 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 6.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.

Find more information at https://pharma.bayer.com/
Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bayer
Follow us on Twitter: @BayerPharma

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer’s public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conformthem to future events or developments.

PP-ULT-US-0096-1 June 2023

______________________

1 Kimeya F. Ghaderi, Jordana Phillips, Hannah Perry, Parisa Lotfi, and Tejas S. Mehta. Contrast-enhanced Mammography: Current Applications and Future Directions. RadioGraphics 2019 39:7, 1907-1920.

2 Susan G. Koman. Breast Density on a Mammogram. Updated April 4, 2023. Retrieved June 12, 2023 from: https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/breast-tissue-density/.

3 Contrast-enhanced Mammography: How Does It Work? William F. Sensakovic, et al. RadioGraphics 2021 41:3, 829-839.

4 World Health Organization. Breast Cancer Fact Sheet. Updated March 26, 2021. Retrieved May 26, 2023 from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer.

5 Maxine S. Jochelson, Marc B. I. Lobbes. Contrast-enhanced Mammography: State of the Art. Radiology 2021; 299:36–48.

Contacts

Contact for media inquiries:
Jennifer May, 412-656-8192
Email: jennifer.may@bayer.com

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Business International & World Lifestyle Science Technology

CloudBees announces DevOps World 2023

DevOps World to inspire growth and innovation through five events with sessions from industry experts.

 

SAN JOSE, Calif. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — CloudBees, the leading software delivery platform for enterprises, today announces the return of DevOps World 2023. The five-event series of events will take place September through November 2023.

 

At the largest global gathering of DevOps practitioners, CloudBees invites developers, managers, executives, and community members to explore the ever-evolving DevOps landscape in an event series that will span the United States, United Kingdom, and Asia. Registration is open now at devopsworld.com.

This year, DevOps World will be a series of events to reach more community members, IT executives, software developers, and continuous delivery practitioners around the world. With expert-led sessions, panels, and workshops, DevOps World will provide unparalleled insights that drive innovation in the DevOps community. The conference and expo will explore modern software delivery, DevSecOps, and open source topics.

 

CloudBees has assembled an inspiring lineup of speakers, industry thought leaders, and experts for this year’s event, with each featuring a keynote from the contributing authors of “Investments Unlimited: A Novel About DevOps, Security, Audit Compliance, and Thriving in the Digital Age.” Speakers include:

  • John Willis, Founder, Botchagalupe Technologies
  • Andrés Vega, Vice President of Operations, North America, ControlPlane
  • Helen Beal, Chief Ambassador, DevOps Institute
  • John Rzeszotarski, VP of Platform Engineering, Dexcom
  • Tapabrata “Topo” Pal, Vice President, Architecture, Fidelity Investments
  • Bill Bensing, Field CTO, Kosli

 

In addition to the keynotes, attendees will hear from industry experts Autodesk, Veeam Software, vFunction, and more. Speakers will provide instruction and share insights on security and risk management, AI risks to the marketplace, managing cloud native applications, and much more. Each event will include use-case examples for DevOps in the financial, manufacturing and Industry 4.0, and software and technology industries, with key session topics including “AI Risks to the Marketplace,” “Managing Cloud Native Applications,” “Accelerating Digital Transformation in Finance,” “Moving ahead with Industry 4.0;” and more.

 

“With more than a decade of successful DevOps World events, CloudBees recognized the need to expand and accommodate global demand. We’re delivering local expert-led presentations, workshops, and sessions for community members to advance their skills and get ahead of the competition,” said CloudBees Chief Product Officer Shawn Ahmed. “In addition, CloudBees looks forward to introducing exciting innovations at this year’s conference that will expand on our current offerings to improve software delivery.”

 

DevOps World 2023 will include a tour in New York, Chicago, Silicon Valley, London, and Singapore beginning in September, with tour dates and locations as follows:

  • New York/New Jersey area: September 13-14 at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City
  • Chicago: September 27 at the Museum of Science and Industry
  • Silicon Valley: October 18-19 at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara
  • Singapore: October 26 at Fairmont Singapore & SWISSÔTEL The Stamford, Singapore
  • London: November 29 at etc.Venues St Pauls

 

In addition to in-person events, select DevOps World sessions will be available online for virtual attendance. Register for DevOps World 2023 here.

 

To learn more about CloudBees visit www.cloudbees.com.

 

About CloudBees

CloudBees provides the leading software delivery platform for enterprises, enabling them to continuously innovate in a world powered by the digital experience. CloudBees enables organizations with highly-complex environments to deliver scalable, compliant, governed, and secure software from the code a developer writes to the people who use it. The platform connects with other best of breed tools, improves the developer experience, and enables organizations to bring digital innovation to life continuously to unlock business outcomes that create market leaders and disruptors.

Contacts

CloudBees PR
Laura Shubel

BIGfish PR for CloudBees

cloudbees@bigfishpr.com

Categories
Business International & World Lifestyle Regulations & Security Science Technology

New research: Only 9% of global organizations avoid network outages in an average quarter

Opengear shares research revealing that 91% of global businesses experience at least one outage quarterly pointing to the need for improved network resilience

 

EDISON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Fewer than one in ten CIOs can claim that they have avoided a network outage, according to new research by Opengear, a Digi International company (NASDAQ, DGII, www.digi.com) and provider of secure and Smart Out of Band management solutions.


This finding is among new research by Opengear of both CIOs and network engineers globally. The scale and frequency of network outages is revealed by 91% of CIOs stating that they experience downtime at least once a quarter.

 

Further survey statistics reveal that network downtime has a significant financial impact for businesses. Figures show that in the US for each minute of disruption, 24% of organizations lose between $2,501 and $5,000. As an average, this figure equates to $4,344 for every minute of downtime incurred.

 

Due to continued network outages and rising economic pressures, 79% of US CIOs now say it’s harder to meet customer expectations in today’s environment, a concern also reflected by 68% of US network engineers.

 

92% of US CIOs have therefore increased their budget over the last 12 months to improve their network resilience, with almost half (44%) dedicating over 50% of their IT budget to infrastructure spend in order to secure their operations.

 

“Our research findings lay bare the challenges that organizations globally are facing with network outages in 2023,” said Gary Marks, President at Opengear.

 

“It’s perhaps unsurprising that CIOs are allocating more investment to network resiliency to ensure that downtime doesn’t occur. The key is where this investment is being targeted. From critical first day deployments and everyday maintenance, to worst day scenarios such as network outages, organizations need always-on access to their critical resources to ensure business continuity. Smart Out of Band technologies can enable remediation of network issues from any location, helping to reinforce business resilience in a difficult economic climate.”

 

About Opengear

Opengear, a Digi International company, delivers secure, resilient access and automation to support critical IT infrastructure on the First Day, Every Day and Worst Day. Through presence and proximity, Opengear solutions enable provisioning, orchestration, and remote management of network devices through innovative software and appliances. Opengear solutions are trusted by global organizations across financial, digital communications, retail, and manufacturing sectors. The company is headquartered in New Jersey, with an R&D center in Brisbane, Australia.

 

For more information, visit www.opengear.com/

 

About Digi International

Digi International (NASDAQ: DGII) is a leading global provider of business and mission-critical Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity products and solutions. We help our customers create next-generation connected products and solutions to deploy, monitor, and manage critical communications infrastructures and compliance standards in demanding environments with high levels of security, relentless reliability, and bulletproof performance. Founded in 1985, the company has helped customers connect more than 100 million things – and counting. For more information, visit www.digi.com, or call 877-912-3444 (U.S.) or 952-912-3444 (International).

Contacts

Opengear U.K. Media Contact
Emily Fishburn

emilyf@whiteoaks.co.uk
+44 (0) 1252 727313

Opengear U.S. Media Contact
Peter Ramsay / Melinda Pham

Global Results Communications

open@globalresultspr.com
+1 949.307.5908

Categories
Culture Environment International & World Lifestyle Regulations & Security Science Technology

Traversing the great divide: How to navigate the contentious debate over the future of AI

Addressing AI Angst: Expert offers 15 ways to having productive, civil discourse on artificial intelligence—the preeminent hot-button tech topic spurring heated discussions, debates and disagreements

 

As the digital era rages on, perhaps no technology topic is more polarizing at the moment than that of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Specifically, what are the roles these rapidly emerging nextgen technologies will, and should play in our daily lives and professions?


In the ever-expanding realm of AI, having civil conversations that address the potential and concerns surrounding this technology has become increasingly challenging. The two most extreme camps—one fearing an apocalyptic future ruled by machines and the other advocating for unchecked AI development—clash vehemently, leaving little room (nor inclinations) for more nuanced discussions.

 

Recognizing the urgent need for far more open dialogue and understanding, Milan Kordestani, famed Gen Z author of the new, number one best-selling book “I’m Just Saying: A Guide to Maintaining Civil Discourse in an Increasingly Divided World,” provides the below insights to serve as a de facto roadmap for engaging in productive conversations about present and future implications of AI and ML.

 

“The conversation surrounding AI is fueled by two extreme and polarized viewpoints,” explains Kordestani.

 

“On one side, there are those who harbor deep-rooted fears, reminiscent of dystopian sci-fi movies, wherein AI spells the demise of humanity. These individuals see AI as Skynet (of Terminator movie fame) come to life. This as an uncontrollable force that will override human control and wreak havoc on society. On the other side of the spectrum, there are proponents of unregulated AI development, who argue for unbridled advancement without consideration for potential job loss, ethical concerns, and socio-economic implications. This clash of ideologies creates an environment rife with hostility and ideological impasses.”

 

“The stakes are undeniably high when it comes to AI,” underscores Kordestani.

 

“The fear-driven perspective believes that the very survival of humanity hangs in the balance, while the unregulated development camp emphasizes the limitless possibilities and potential for progress. Such deeply entrenched positions make it difficult to find common ground, and discussions often devolve into heated exchanges and stubborn resistance to opposing viewpoints. Moreover, the rapid pace of AI advancements and the complex nature of its implications exacerbate the challenges, leaving little time for informed discourse and reflection.”

 

To combat this, Kordestani believes that having civil conversations about AI is crucial because the stakes are high and the impact of this technology on society at large is profound. The above strategies offer an easy-to-undertake though much-needed roadmap for engaging in productive and respectful dialogue. By acknowledging fears, bridging gaps, educating, fostering collaboration, considering ethical implications, and encouraging long-term thinking, individuals can navigate the minefield of AI discussions with nuance and open-mindedness.

 


Kordestani’s strategies provided below, singularly and in combination, are intended to foster more civil discourse amidst the high-stakes nature of AI’s impact on society. Here’s how he suggests we can communicate more effectively and productively on the topic.

 

  1. Consider Ethical Implications: Engage in discussions around the ethical dimensions of AI, such as data privacy, bias, and accountability. Encourage thoughtful examination of potential risks and safeguards to ensure responsible AI development.
  1. Reflect on Your Own Position: Think about your own position within discussions about AI and reflect on your biases. Honestly evaluate your views, and determine if biases or intent is skewing your perspectives. Listen to your own tone and language to ensure you are being respectful.
  1. Listen Actively: Acknowledge people’s fears and concerns genuinely. Actively listen to their questions, doubts, and criticisms. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions.
  1. Empathize: Understand that fears and concerns about AI often stem from misinformation or a lack of understanding. Put yourself in their shoes and show empathy for their worries. Avoid dismissing or trivializing their concerns.
  1. Provide Accurate Information: Offer clear, concise, and accurate explanations about AI. Avoid technical jargon and use simple language to ensure everyone can understand. Provide examples and real-life applications to illustrate how AI can be beneficial.
  1. Discuss Current Regulations: Talk about existing regulations and policies in place to ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI. Explain how governments, organizations, and researchers are working together to address concerns and develop frameworks for AI governance.
  1. Educate and Inform: Counter misinformation and misunderstandings about AI by providing accurate information and insights. Share real-world examples of how AI is already improving lives and address concerns regarding job displacement, ethics, and transparency.
  1. Address Potential Risks: Acknowledge the potential risks and challenges associated with AI, such as job displacement, ethical concerns, and privacy issues. Discuss ongoing research and initiatives aimed at mitigating these risks. Highlight the importance of responsible AI development.
  2. Showcase Benefits and Opportunities: While addressing fears and concerns, also emphasize the positive aspects of AI. Talk about the potential benefits, such as improved healthcare, enhanced productivity, and personalized experiences. Highlight how AI can augment human capabilities rather than replace them.
  3. Acknowledge Fears and Concerns: Start by validating the fears and concerns of those who envision a dystopian AI future. By acknowledging their perspective, a foundation for constructive dialogue can be established.
  4. Encourage Long-Term Thinking: Shift the conversation from immediate fears to long-term perspectives. Explore the potential for AI to amplify human abilities, solve complex problems, and enhance various aspects of daily life.
  1. Bridge the Gap: Emphasize the need for open-mindedness and the exploration of shared values. Look for common ground, such as the desire to ensure ethical AI development or the pursuit of technologies that benefit society as a whole.
  1. Involve Diverse Perspectives: Ensure that discussions about AI involve diverse voices and perspectives. Include experts from various fields, policymakers, ethicists, and individuals directly impacted by AI to provide a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
  1. Be Transparent: Maintain transparency about AI development, deployment, and decision-making processes. Discuss data handling practices, algorithmic biases, and any potential risks openly. Transparency fosters trust and helps address concerns about AI’s impact on society.
  1. Foster Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between technology experts, policymakers, ethicists, and other stakeholders to collectively shape AI’s trajectory. Highlight the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue and the need to find balanced solutions.

 

The urgency to leave behind extreme positions and embrace civil discourse is paramount. Only through respectful and informed conversations can we find common ground, address concerns, and work towards a future where AI is harnessed as a tool that benefits humanity. By following Kordestani’s guidance and approaching AI discussions with empathy, knowledge and a genuine desire to understand different perspectives, we can collectively shape the trajectory of AI in a responsible and inclusive manner.

 

In this era of rapid technological advancements, the need for civil conversations about AI cannot be overstated. Let us rise above the heated battles and engage in meaningful exchanges that pave the way for a future where AI is accurately represented and understood—even amid differing positions about its cultural value.

 

About the Expert
Milan Kordestani is author of the new book “I’m Just Saying: A Guide to Maintaining Civil Discourse in an Increasingly Divided World”—a straightforward look at the history and the art of maintaining courteous communication in an increasingly divided world.

 

In I’m Just Saying,  author Milan Kordestani shows us that although challenging conversations can be unpleasant, they can also help us grow. Sometimes, people inspire us to change how we speak, making us better communicators in the process as we search to find common ground with those with whom we disagree. Kordestani uses contemporary case studies and personal experience to teach readers how to have constructive conversations by engaging in civil discourse—the idea that good-faith actors can reach consensus on any opinion-based disagreement. He discusses influential leaders and reflects on his successes and failures in creating The Doe, an online publication focused on civil discourse. He addresses the challenges that digital media consumption presents when seeking common ground—especially when people are only digitally connected.


The book is broken into sequential order, like modules of a lesson plan. Each chapter tackles a specific aspect of civil discourse, from the importance of active listening to the dangers of point-scoring in confrontational conversations. The conversational tone and writing style make for an engaging read, and the Q&A sections that break up the chapters provide a refreshing change of pace.

 

Kordestani’s personal anecdotes make the book relatable and add another layer of personality and personability. He acknowledges his own wealth and upbringing and how that has played into his life, not hiding from it but thanking it. The book is a conversation, and the “Let’s Talk” section shows that he is open to two-way communication and sets a tone for the rest of the book.

 

Kordestani is an entrepreneur, writer and founder of several companies who is redefining the meaning of success in business. With a focus on building sustainable businesses that drive positive social change at scale, Milan is a three-time founder who wants to encourage solutions beyond his companies through storytelling and narration of civil discourse.

 

Milan’s companies prioritize transparent practice, civil discourse, and respect for creatives, including “The Doe,” an anonymously published narrative publication launched in 2019 to promote civil discourse. Audo, the only personalized career-building destination that lets you learn skills and earn money at the same time, and Guin Records, an innovative record label that offers artist-friendly deals and helps purpose-driven lyricists to produce their visions while retaining control of their masters.

 

I’m Just Saying is an essential guide for anyone who wants to learn how to communicate more effectively and respectfully in today’s polarized society. Kordestani’s personal anecdotes, practical advice, and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone who wants to promote civil discourse and find common ground with those whose opinions differ from their own.

 

Milan’s overarching expertise in entrepreneurship and civil discourse makes him a sought after expert. Whether discussing the future of sustainable business practices, the importance of civil discourse in today’s polarized society, or the art of entrepreneurship, Milan offers unique insights that are sure to engage and inspire listeners.