Month: February 2024

Irish Company Origin Care Group and Charter Medical Group announce virtual ward strategic partnership

Charter Medical Group and Origin Care Group are delighted to announce the expansion of their successful strategic partnership, marked by the implementation of the Origin Connects Health solution in 2024. The next generation of this ‘virtual ward’ solution, facilitates the delivery of virtual care across multiple healthcare facilities and multidisciplinary teams.

The Origin Connects Health solution opened the reality of a ‘virtual ward’ to Charter Medical Group, seamlessly integrating comprehensive, multi-site clinical governance with a versatile digital patient care platform. Utilising secure smart technology, vitals monitoring equipment, and inclusive patient applications, this solution supports integrated patient care within the context of multi-site patient management.

Through collaborative efforts, the technology has been further developed to incorporate additional clinical pathways and functionalities. As a result, Charter Medical Group has been able to extend the provision of intermediate and step down care beds. The Origin Connects Health technology ensures continuity of care for clinicians and a seamless transition for patients.

 

Charter Medical Group is the leader in its field in Ireland in the delivery of high-quality care of the elderly services to both public and private patients in both the community and hospital settings. A key enabler in the delivery of such care is the effective and efficient use of novel technology. Tom Byrne, Chairman of Charter Medical Group said “Origin Care Group technology enhances our ability to care for patients, supports the expansion of our operating potential and the efficient management of vital care resources. We are delighted to extend our relationship with the team at Origin Care Group.”

Philp Hogan, CEO of Origin Care Group said “Cutting-edge digitally enabled technology, integrated across healthcare networks, plays a significant role in enabling healthcare operators to work together to ease the pressure on our healthcare system.

The collaboration between Charter Medical Group and Origin Care Group represents a forward-thinking approach in this area, emphasising the important role of technology in the delivery of safe, seamless patient care.”

Tech Review – Chipolo One Item Tracker

The Chipolo One Bluetooth tracker is a compact and lightweight device designed to help you find your keys or other items it’s attached to. It comes in various bright colours and is inconspicuous when connected to a pair of keys, thanks to its small, plastic disc design. The tracker has a loud audio signal, making it easy to locate, and is splash-proof and water-resistant with an IPX5 rating. It also has a replaceable battery that lasts for about two years and a Bluetooth range of up to 60 metres. The Chipolo One is compatible with Android and iOS and can be set up with voice commands on Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri.

 Key features

Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 3.79 x 3.79 x 0.64 cm; 7.65 Grams

Setup and use,

Download the Chipolo app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Various terms and conditions are required to be accepted as part of the setup. Once set, the unit can be used as a remote control for your phone’s camera or your smart home devices, change the ringtone, shareable with family and friends through the Chipolo app, and alerts when your tracker is out of range.

Comparison

Conclusion 

At techbuzz, we reviewed the Chipolo PLUS in May 2018 and the  Chipolo CARD Spot in June 2022, both were found to be solid and worked as required, while niggles were raised related to the battery, This model has a battery life of 2 years which is commendable but improved by the option to replace the battery as one with do with a watch battery.  In our review of the Chipolo One, we found it to be a practical and affordable choice for anyone prone to misplacing items. The device’s compatibility with both Android and iOS, as well as its free app with no subscription fees, further enhances its value. The simple design, with the ability to connect to any keys, key fobs, pet collars, or bags, and weighing only a few grams, makes it easy to forget until the item is lost or misplaced.

The extra features, such as a customizable ringtone, remote control capabilities, and out-of-range alerts, make it a fully-featured product. The Chipolo One’s two-year battery life, which is commendable and improved by the option to replace the battery, adds to its appeal. This device offers technology that works simply out of the box and keeps on working until required, making it an excellent choice for practical and affordable use’

Buy

Video review

Faramore Forever! Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore Launches Digitally Today Across All Platforms!

Limited Run Games celebrates Seedy Eye Software’s gaming debut with Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore’s digital launch. Today, players can download Arzette on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X, and PC via Steam and take their first big steps into the world of Faramore.
Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore is a spiritual successor to a pair of infamous CD-i fantasy adventure titles released in 1993. Developed by Seedy Eye Software and both funded & published by Limited Run Games, it is an all-new platforming adventure where players must help Arzette save the Kingdom of Faramore from the evil demon king, Daimur. Featuring colorful animated cutscenes and an all-star cast of voice talent, including Jeffrey Rath, Bonniejean Wilbur, and other special guests, like Vinny from Vinesauce. It’s a quirky, fun homage to a more experimental time in gaming—but with smooth, modern gameplay that won’t make players pull out their hair (unless they opt for a retro challenge in its “Classic Mode”).
Physical editions of Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore are still available at limitedrungames.com until March 17th, 2024. Fans looking to pick up a physical copy or merch, including a replica CD-i controller for Switch/PC, can check out the collection today.

MTU Drives Innovation with Cybersecurity and Sustainability-Themed Hackathon

Munster Technological University (MTU) and Cyber Ireland, in collaboration with the INGENIUM University alliance, is set to host an exhilarating Cybersecurity and Sustainability-themed Hackathon on the 12th and 13th of February at the Bishopstown Campus. In this dynamic event, 50 students from the INGENIUM University alliance, spanning 10 universities, including MTU, and multiple disciplines, will converge to tackle key challenges in cybersecurity and sustainability.

The hackathon focuses on addressing industry challenges in cybersecurity and sustainability, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of real problems and develop potential solutions. The hackathon aims to foster collaboration and innovation among multidisciplinary international student teams and provide a practical application of academic knowledge. Participants will navigate the process of defining problems, developing solutions, fostering their entrepreneurial spirit, and presenting their work through impactful pitches. Cash prizes will be awarded for the best overall concept and the best pitch.

Teams will comprise five individuals, strategically selected to ensure a balanced academic background, with no team being exclusively composed of cybersecurity students. The teams will be formed from across INGENIUM, which is an alliance of ten universities from ten European countries, comprising 172,000 students and 15,000 staff. MTU proudly holds the position of a founding member of the INGENIUM Alliance and leads the Entrepreneurship workstream.

This event underscores MTU’s commitment to promoting regional, national and international partnerships and equipping students with the skills necessary to pursue and achieve their ambitions. With the collaboration and support of MTU’s External Affairs Office, Cyber Ireland and the MTU Innovation and Enterprise Office, this event promises to be an outstanding display of academic excellence and fun.

Dr. Sean McSweeney, MTU INGENIUM Coordinator said: “MTU is a very proud partner in the INGENIUM Alliance as we expand our global outlook and develop a better future for our students together.”

Eoin Byrne, Cyber Ireland Cluster Manager said: “The Hackathon aligns closely with Cyber Ireland’s goal of Developing the Workforce. We must make cybersecurity accessible with clear pathways and progression, while inspiring the next generation to consider a career in cybersecurity. It’s great to have the support from our industry partners who are key to the success of the event.”

Sponsors of the event have stated:

Rob Cameron, Cybereason: “Cybereason are delighted to sponsor this hackathon at MTU. As a company who believes in the growth of cybersecurity talent, witnessing the next generation of professionals emerge first hand is truly inspiring. A practical event like this gives a great platform to showcase their talent and skill sets and we are privileged to be a part of their journeys”.

Brian Ahern, Senior Manager, ISRM Training & Awareness, McKesson: “McKesson are delighted to sponsor the Cybersecurity Hackathon event in MTU which educates students on how to protect their future employers against evolving cybersecurity concerns.”

Louise MacIndoe, Security Program Director, Logitech: “Logitech is proud to support the Cyber Ireland and MTU Student Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024, providing an opportunity for young innovators to collaborate and create solutions for real-world problems. We are committed to nurturing the future generation of business & technology leaders, and events like this provide an excellent platform for doing so.”

Luke McDonnell, Head of PR, Huawei Technologies: “Developing the next generation of cyber-talent is important because Ireland has a great opportunity to become a cybersecurity leader in Europe. Hackathons challenge students to put their college learning into practice in a practical way and while technical skills and know-how are important, so too are the soft-skills that students will develop throughout the challenge, these skills cannot be understood and are essential for today’s modern graduate. Huawei is proud to support the Cyber Ireland and MTU Student Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024 and looks forward to seeing the students in action.”

Ireland’s Industry Leaders Unite at Cantillon 2024 to Address Urgent Issues in a Sustainable World

Cantillon 2024, scheduled for 7th March at Ballygarry Estate Hotel, Tralee, marks its 10th year as a pivotal platform for thought leaders, visionaries, and industry experts to delve into the urgent issues arising from the transformation towards a sustainable future. The conference will be an opportunity to hear from industry experts on topics including strategic planning, meeting future talent needs, and the evolving culture of organisations. The conference will explore how business leaders can navigate complex transformation processes, framing transformation not just as a strategic imperative but as a commitment to a resilient and prosperous world for generations to come. Cantillon 2024 is not to be missed for those looking to lead transformation in their organisation.

President of MTU, Professor Maggie Cusack, expressed the urgency of the conference, stating, “Tickets are selling fast, be sure to secure your place at Cantillon 2024 which aims to spark innovative solutions to the most pressing issues in securing a sustainable future, honouring the legacy of Richard Cantillon, the pioneering economist.”

In a rapidly changing global landscape, Cantillon 2024 highlights the importance of the need for transformation across sectors from technology and energy to healthcare and manufacturing. The conference serves as a nexus for industry leaders, policymakers, scholars, and innovators to collectively address challenges and strategically plan for a sustainable future. The need for transformation extends beyond businesses – influencing economies, shaping policies, and necessitating the cultivation of a dynamic talent pool geared for the future.

Cantillon 2024 will feature a diverse array of presentations, interactive panel discussions, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. The conference will emphasise the urgency recognised by governmental bodies to develop and implement policies fostering sustainability. From carbon emissions reduction to incentivising green innovations, policymakers play a crucial role in steering industries towards a secure and sustainable future. Organisers are urging those interested to secure their tickets fast before they are sold out.

Highlights from the programme include keynotes from industry leaders:

  • Shane McGibney, Chief Business Transformation Officer at Kerry Group, who will be discussing how to create a transformational culture mindset;

  • Senior Economist at AIB, John Fahey who will be sharing the future transformation requirements from a global economic perspective;

  • Gemma Corrigan of Federated Hermes Limited, focusing on the multi-stakeholder engagement process when leading sustainable transformation; and

  • Disruptive innovation expert Aidan McCullen, who will explain the need to embrace the paradigm shift impacting every facet of global industries, economies, policies, and talent development.

Following the keynotes, panel discussions will dissect the seismic shift towards sustainability across industries. The rising demand for professionals with expertise in sustainability, environmental science, and technology will be a central focus, reflecting the changing landscape of the workforce.

Expert panellists across a host of industries will include:

  • Mr. Padraig McGillycuddy, CEO Ballygarry Estate Hotel: Transforming the Business Model for a Secure Future

  • Ms. Sheena Dympsey Executive Vice President and Chief Solutions Officer at Indivi.: Navigating Transformation in a Complex Digital Health environment.

  • Mr. Cathal Foley CEO, PACE; CCO, Fexco Drive: Platforming to analyse Carbon Emissions in the Air!

  • Dr Assumpta O’Kane, Business Psychologist: Workforce of the Future: The Competing Forces shaping 2040 and beyond!

  • Dr Alison Hampton, Ulster University:  Transformation through the lens of the Zillenial and AI!

With networking opportunities built in throughout the day, key topics of discussion will include the value of collective problem-solving approaches through cross-industry partnerships, public-private collaborations, and knowledge-sharing platforms.

Cantillon 2024 will also shed light on the increasing priority boards, investors, and consumers place on businesses committed to sustainable practices, influencing market trends and investment strategies.

For the full line-up of speakers, visit: www.cantillon.ie; and tickets are available to purchase here: https://events.mtu.ie/index.cfm?page=events&eventId=954

Guerbet Launch Solar Project to Power 18% of Pharmaceutical Operations in Dublin

Guerbet, a pioneer global pharmaceutical company specializing in medical imaging and contrast agents, has launched its first solar farm at its API manufacturing site in Dublin, coinciding with the celebration of its 30th year in operation.

2.4MW solar farm will meet 18% of the company’s total electricity requirements:

Guerbet entered a contract with Enerpower powered by Greenvolt, a leading renewable energy company, for the construction of a 2.4MW solar farm at the Guerbet site in Damastown in 2022.

The two companies entered into a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement where Guerbet has guaranteed to purchase the solar PV electrical power for a period of 20 years. The solar farm is constructed on land owned by Guerbet and will provide the equivalent to the electricity consumption of 500 households.

The project will deliver 18% of the site’s electrical power on an annualised basis, and during the peak summer months could potentially power the plant without addition of electricity from the grid during daylight hours.

The initiative aligns with Guerbet’s strategy and its People and Planet Corporate Social Responsibility positioning for reducing carbon footprint as it looks forward to the next 30 years.

David Hale, CEO of Guerbet Group indicates: “At Guerbet, our purpose is ‘Building lasting relationships that enable people to live better’, and preserving our planet is a foundational part of that purpose.  In 2023, we made a commitment validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) to reduce our carbon emissions by 27,5% for Scope 1+2 and 13,5% for Scope 3 by 2032. Our partnership with Enerpower is a great example of a relationship that will help us achieve those objectives.”

David Forde, Site Lead at Guerbet Dublin said: “Guerbet has a long history of innovation, growth, and service in the pharmaceutical industry. This new Corporate Power Purchase Agreement will produce renewable electricity for our API manufacturing site in Damastown and is a significant development in our long-term strategy to significantly reduce carbon emissions at the site. Guerbet joined the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) which encourages ambitious climate action in the private sector by allowing companies to set science-based emission reduction targets. This is a further step on that journey.”

It also comes as the company celebrates 30-years of operation in Ireland. Over the past three decades, Guerbet has continuously strived for excellence, delivering cutting-edge medical imaging solutions and contrast agents to healthcare professionals worldwide, as well as offering highly skilled employment in the area.”

John Carty, CCO of Enerpower powered by Greenvolt stated, “We are delighted to partner with Guerbet on their first solar energy project. Similarly to Guerbet’s ethos we too endeavour to build lasting relationships with our customers and are delighted to add Guerbet to our list of clients using solar energy in Ireland.”

Guerbet marks 30 years of operation in Ireland, employing over 130 skilled workers

The site in Dublin began production in 1994 and currently boasts a workforce of over 130 skilled professionals at the Damastown location. This local presence contributes to the company’s global footprint, which spans across the 5 continents with 2,830 employees worldwide.

Guerbet develops and manufacture contrast media, which are instrumental in improving the visibility of internal organs, blood vessels, and tissues during medical imaging procedures.

Every second, somewhere in the world a patient undergoes an imaging procedure with a Guerbet product. More than 60,000 health professionals rely on the contrast agents to diagnose disease and assess treatment efficacy.

New tech innovations that are transforming mobile gaming

More than seven billion people own mobile phones, accounting for more than 90% of the world’s population. With these numbers, it is not surprising that casino operators and game developers have optimised their sites to suit mobile game use. For example, a player who wants to enjoy casino games can simply log on to an online casino on their phone to play. And when using sites like Hellspin, the loading rates are as fast as the player would enjoy on a desktop or console. As a result, more people have opted to embrace mobile gaming in place of desktop gaming. We look at how tech innovations have supported this change:

Mobile Gaming Innovations

By itself, mobile gaming is an innovation. Two decades ago, it was just but a dream. At the time, players who wanted to enjoy casino games or other games had to use desktops. These were bulky, expensive, and few, thus locking many players out of gaming. Mobile phones soon became common, and casino operators and mobile game developers took advantage of this popularity to introduce mobile-optimized games and sites. But this innovation on its own has not been enough. As such, operators and developers have used the following technologies to make gaming much more accessible and fun:

  • Mobile Apps

For a long time, players had to load mobile websites to play the games they wanted. Not only was this inconvenient for them, but mobile sites did not always offer optimal playing experiences. Now, operators and developers have solved this by providing players with apps that have the following advantages:

  • They are compatible with mobile devices: Operators and developers create mobile apps that work with different operating systems to ensure that players have the best experiences. For example, an Android device user can get a Google Playstore app that fits their device’s capabilities, thus resulting in smooth gameplay.
  • They offer unique features: While mobile sites often have many features, they often lack the customizability available in apps. Players can choose graphics and sounds while enjoying additional features that may not be available on the main website. For example, many casino operators offer app-only bonuses.

Best of all, logging into apps is much easier as players can simply find the app and enter their details, unlike mobile sites that require them to load an entire page before they can start playing. Security features are also much better on apps.

  • Augmented Reality (AR)

Playing offline games often appeals to many players who want to experience the gameplay in real-time. However, offline gaming comes with many challenges, including increased costs, limited accessibility, and strict gaming periods. Online operators have figured out how to merge the real-world gaming aspects with virtual elements to create an immersive experience. They do this through AR, which makes digital images look real to the player, thus making the game even more interesting. When a player interacts with superimposed virtual elements, it’s much easier to forget that they are not playing in a physical game setting as everything seems real.

On top of AR, many operators and developers have been looking into the use of virtual reality (VR). This technology is a step above AR as it allows players to step into an intermediary between the virtual and physical worlds. For example, a player can use VR aspects to tour a virtual casino, interact with other players, and enjoy the games, much like they would in an offline setting. While this technology is still in its early stages for mobile phone users, it already shows a lot of potential.

  • Cloud Gaming

In the early 2000s, players had to download the games they wanted to play. As such, they had to invest in additional storage. Else, they could not install or run the games. Extra storage was also necessary as players levelled up and thus acquired more features. So, when mobile gaming became available, many players worried they had to buy devices with a lot of storage to keep up with these demands.

Cloud gaming saved the day by allowing operators and developers to host their games in the cloud. This way, players can enjoy games without downloading them. They only need to secure their logins and use them to access the games when they have stable internet access. Moreover, this technology makes it easier for players to interact with others from all over the world and even play the same games.

  • 5G Connectivity

For players to enjoy mobile games, they need smart devices and stable internet access. The former has been made easy by the number of mobile manufacturers who have thrown their hats in the ring. Even with $20, a player can find a phone that can access the internet and allow them to play. But internet access is a whole other issue. Many players have often struggled with slow loading speeds despite having advanced mobile phones.

5G technology boasts fast connectivity and reduced latency, allowing players to enjoy smooth gameplay without crashes or lags. So, as the player makes a move, they can enjoy the real-time changes in the game. Not only does this make the game more interesting, but it also makes it easier for players to make good moves to secure wins.

 

Additionally, many operators have introduced blockchain technology to ease digital payments and secure transactions. 

 

Mother’s Day – Affordable tech gift ideas

Show your Mum, Stepmum or mother figure some love this Mother’s Day with some useful tech gadgets that she will love with something for everyone here check out the options below which are affordable and ideal for those ladies into some tech in their life.

QDOS HYBRID SOFT + SNAP iPhone 15 case

Price: £29.99

Available from: QDOS

This iPhone 15 case (other models available) is a MagSafe compatible, soft touch, translucent, coloured case with a frosted back panel made using 73% recycled materials. The range is made from an ultra-resistant and rigid recycled polycarbonate back with flexible, shock absorbing, recycled TPU which offers 2m drop protection. The case is coated with long lasting anti-yellowing agents to avoid discoloration, as well as a scratch-resistant coating. The gorgeous pastel colours reflect the new iPhone 15 colours.

Groov-e Serenity

Price: £19.99

Available from Amazon

If she struggles to sleep, Groov-e’s new sleep aid sound machine could be the perfect companion. Choose from six different soothing sounds which mimic the natural environment to instill tranquility including, ocean, rain and forest. There’s also a white noise option for those who struggle to sleep because of background noises – ideal for those with partners who snore, live on main roads or live in busy environments.

Rechargeable by USB, it also has a built-in LED night light which is ideal for winding down before sleep. Use the timer function so you can drift without worrying about turning it off. It’s lightweight and compact, so ideal for travel.

Groov-e Boston wooden DAB radio

Price: £39.99

Available from Groov-e, Robert Dyas, The Range

Boasting a stylish yet timeless wooden design, complemented by a silver interface and speakers, Boston has a retro-modern appearance which is adaptable to the décor of any room, it would look at home on any bookshelf, nightstand or sideboard.

Combining 40 DAB presets and FM radio with stereo speakers means users can enjoy their favourite stations with crystal clear audio. An extendable antennae ensures better reception even in trickier spots. Users can also stream their own music, podcast or audiobook from their phone or tablet via Bluetooth, allowing the Boston to also be used as a wireless speaker.

Lightweight with a compact design and featuring a carry handle, it can be moved easily anywhere around the home. It can also be powered by mains supply or four C batteries.

Groov-e Light Curve sunrise/sunset simulation clock

RRP: £39.99

Available from Robert Dyas, The Range, Studio, Groov-e

Give her the gift of better sleep with the Groo-ve Light Curve. The light, which mimics natural daylight, will come on at the selected time, starting off gently and gradually getting brighter until it’s at the optimum level, offering a gentler wake-up that leaves them feeling fresher.

When it’s actually time to get out of bed, a chosen alarm sound or radio station will also be activated to help users wake fully.

For those who like to read or need the light on darker mornings to get ready, the Light Curve has 10 levels of brightness using its LED lamp. And for those who want to create more of an atmosphere, one of the seven coloured mood lighting options can be selected.

EA SPORTS LOI Academy MU20 League launched as part of new season in 2024

The League of Ireland has announced the introduction of the EA SPORTS LOI Academy MU20 League to replace the existing MU19 League as the 2024 EA SPORTS LOI Academy was launched today. 

The introduction of the EA SPORTS LOI Academy MU20 League comes in to allow players in the final age group of the system every opportunity to develop and progress into senior League of Ireland teams. 

The move will see players be retained longer in the EA SPORTS LOI Academy system and it will provide players with the additional time they may need to physically mature and develop as a player. Additionally, the Future Developers rule has been extended to include first year MU20 players who can now play across age groups also.

The launch of the EA SPORTS LOI Academy Leagues for 2024 also sees the introduction of Mayo Football Club to the League of Ireland for the first time. 

Mayo FC will be represented by MU14, MU15 and WU17 teams in their respective EA SPORTS LOI Academy games programmes. 

Kerry FC’s introduction to the League of Ireland is also extended as they will enter a WU17 team for the first time. 

With the most amount of players and teams, the 2024 EA SPORTS LOI Academy Leagues will be the biggest ever in the League of Ireland.

Clubs who have both boys and girls EA SPORTS LOI Academy teams will have the option to play female players with the boys as a player development tool also next season. WU17 players will be allowed to play at MU14 & MU15 level and WU19 players will be allowed to play at MU15 & MU17 level.    

League of Ireland Academy Development Manager, Will Clarke, said: “We’re very excited to launch this years EA SPORTS LOI Academy Development Programme. The introduction of the EA SPORTS LOI Academy MU20 League will give players even more opportunities of fulfilling their potential and achieving their aim of playing for senior League of Ireland teams. We’re also delighted to have Mayo FC enter the League of Ireland with their new EA SPORTS LOI Academy teams as well as seeing football grow further in Kerry with their new WU17 team. Last season we expanded the games programme by hosting several successful events and we look forward to more new events in 2024. We would like to thank EA SPORTS for their continued support in helping to develop the next generation of Irish footballer and I’d like to wish all players, coaches, referees, club officials and volunteers the best of luck ahead of the new season.” 

James Taylor, Director – Football Partnerships at EA SPORTS FC, said: “We are proud to support the EA SPORTS League of Ireland Academy for the second year, as we continue our commitment to the grassroots game and help to develop young, aspiring talent in Ireland. It’s a real privilege to be a part of each player’s journey as they navigate their way through the player pathway to hopefully become a future star of the world’s game. We look forward to continuing to support the clubs, league and players across the country for Season 24.”