Month: March 2024

Some of The Modern Technologies Being Used In Pharmaceutical Production

The pharmaceutical industry has long been a pioneer in scientific advancement, bringing life-saving drugs and treatments to patients worldwide. But just as medicine itself continues to evolve, so too do the methods used to create them. Modern technologies are transforming every stage of pharmaceutical production, from drug discovery and design to manufacturing and distribution. This surge in innovation promises not only faster development of new medications, but also a future of personalized medicine, tailored to individual needs.

From Bench to Bottle: AI and Machine Learning Take Center Stage

One of the most transformative forces in pharmaceutical production is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These powerful tools are fundamentally changing the way drug discovery happens. Traditionally, this process has been a slow and laborious affair, involving extensive laboratory testing and sifting through mountains of data. AI and ML algorithms, however, can analyze vast datasets of chemical compounds and peptides, patient information, and disease biology to identify potential drug targets and predict how molecules might interact with them. This not only accelerates the discovery process but also increases the chances of finding more effective and targeted therapies.

Imagine a researcher trying to find a key that fits a specific lock. Traditionally, they would have to test hundreds or even thousands of different keys one by one. With AI, however, the computer can analyze the structure of the lock and identify keys with a higher probability of fitting. This significantly reduces the time and resources needed to find the right drug candidate.

One example of AI’s impact is the work of Insilico Medicine. In 2019, they used AI to develop a molecule targeting a specific protein linked to fibrosis in just 46 days. This molecule, INS018_055, is now undergoing Phase II clinical trials, demonstrating the incredible potential of AI to expedite drug development.

Beyond Discovery: Optimizing Production with Automation and Data

The role of technology extends far beyond the initial stages of drug discovery. Modern pharmaceutical production facilities are increasingly automated, with robots and sensors taking over many of the repetitive tasks involved in manufacturing. This not only improves efficiency and consistency but also minimizes the risk of human error.

Furthermore, the Internet of Things (IoT) is playing a growing role in pharmaceutical production. Sensors embedded in equipment can continuously monitor critical parameters like temperature, pressure, and humidity. This real-time data allows for proactive maintenance, preventing equipment failures and ensuring optimal production conditions. Additionally, data analytics can be used to identify trends and predict potential issues before they occur, further streamlining the manufacturing process.

The Rise of Continuous Manufacturing: A Paradigm Shift

Traditionally, pharmaceutical production has relied on batch processing, where large quantities of drugs are manufactured in discrete batches. However, continuous manufacturing offers a more efficient and flexible alternative and is being increasingly used by vitamin manufacturers around the world. This approach involves the continuous flow of raw materials through a series of interconnected processing units, resulting in a smaller physical footprint and faster production times.

Continuous manufacturing also allows for greater real-time control over product quality. With continuous monitoring and data analysis, any deviations from specifications can be identified and addressed immediately, minimizing the risk of producing defective batches. This not only improves product quality but also reduces waste and production costs.

Personalized Medicine: Tailoring Treatments to the Individual

One of the most exciting applications of technology in pharmaceuticals is the emergence of personalized medicine. This approach aims to develop treatments that are tailored to the specific genetic makeup and biological needs of each patient. Advancements in genomics and bioinformatics are allowing researchers to identify genetic variations that influence how individuals respond to medications.

This information can be used to develop drugs that target specific patient populations or even create individualized treatment regimens. For instance, 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize personalized medicine by enabling the production of customized drug dosages and delivery systems. Imagine printing a pill with the exact dosage required for a specific patient, eliminating the need for imprecise cutting or multiple medications.

Figuring out the most suiting solution for your medication needs can be part of a personalised healthcare approach. British people treating thyroid disorders like to buy Cytomel online in the United Kingdom after learning how precise dosing can improve their treatment outcomes. This allows them to manage their health confidently while maintaining the correct hormone levels. It also supports the growing shift towards customised treatment options that align with each patient’s needs.

Blockchain: Ensuring Transparency and Security in the Supply Chain

The complex global supply chains of pharmaceutical products are susceptible to counterfeiting and diversion. Blockchain technology such as ServBlock, with its secure and transparent ledger system, offers a potential solution to these challenges. By creating a digital record of every step in the manufacturing and distribution process, blockchain can ensure the authenticity and traceability of medications.

This not only protects patients from counterfeit drugs but also allows for faster and more efficient recalls in case of product defects. Additionally, blockchain can improve logistics and inventory management, leading to a more secure and efficient supply chain for pharmaceutical products.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Training the Next Generation of Pharma Professionals

The pharmaceutical industry relies heavily on a skilled workforce with a deep understanding of complex processes and equipment. VR and AR technologies are revolutionizing how this workforce is trained. VR simulations can immerse trainees in realistic, virtual environments where they can practice procedures, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and learn about complex manufacturing processes in a safe and controlled setting. AR, on the other hand, can overlay digital information onto the real world, allowing trainees to visualize data and interact with equipment in a more interactive way.

These immersive technologies not only improve the effectiveness of training but also make it more engaging and accessible. Trainees can learn at their own pace and practice complex procedures in a risk-free environment, leading to a more skilled and confident workforce.

The Future of Pharma: A Tech-Driven Landscape

The integration of modern technologies is transforming the pharmaceutical industry from the ground up. AI is accelerating drug discovery, automation is optimizing production, and personalized medicine is tailoring treatments to individual patients. These advancements hold immense promise for the future of healthcare, leading to the development of more effective, safer, and accessible medications for all.

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more groundbreaking innovations in pharmaceutical production. From the development of new drug delivery systems using nanotechnology to the use of virtual and augmented reality for training and remote monitoring, the future of pharma is undeniably tech-driven. This exciting new era promises to deliver a new wave of life-saving treatments, improving the lives of patients worldwide.

 

EDIFIER announces QR65 Desktop Active Monitor Speakers

Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer, reveal the QR65 Desktop Active Monitor speakers – a new all-in-one unit that combines the brand’s renowned acoustic technology with immersive Lumia light effects and TurboGaN fast-charging capabilities. 

One of 4 Edifier products to win a prestigious Visual Grand Prix 2024 award and also highly recommended with a much sought after VGP 2024 Gold Medal Award, the QR65 is remarkably versatile, placing an emphasis on both compatibility and multi-use functionality. As the brand name develops, audio quality remains paramount with the QR65 featuring an advanced Acoustic Architecture. Equipped with 2.75″ mid-low drivers, an aluminium alloy diaphragm and a long-throw design, the QR65 can produce consistently punchy bass frequencies whilst bolstering rich and full-bodied mids. Thanks to 1.25″ silk diaphragm dome tweeters, finely tuned by Edifier’s world-leading audio engineers, the speakers boast precision-tooled high frequency reproduction, creating crisp and bright trebles that stand out above even the most bass-laden of mixes. 

Housed in an acoustically treated MDF enclosure, the QR65 includes independent acoustic cavities designed to isolate sections of amplification, ensuring minimal signal loss and reduced excess resonance and distortion. This is further enhanced by Edifier’s MazeTube Bass Reflex Channels and TurbMuff Air Noise Suppression Technology which reduces unwanted port noises and acoustic resonance. To ensure a consistent audio experience, the QR65 also comes with two machine-tooled aluminium stands designed to raise the speakers – reducing unwanted surface noise – and directing the sound precisely at ear level when the speaker is placed on a desktop. 

In support of the QR65’s advanced internal structuring and acoustic treatment, the speaker also features integral end-to-end High Resolution Audio Processing making it both Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certified. Following Edifier’s impeccable reputation for audio quality, the dual T1 Class-D digital audio amplifiers provide the precise two-way active crossover, magnify high frequency signals and mid-low frequency signals separately and manage DRC effectively to ensure the best audio signal purity. 

Overall, the QR65 champions an holistic approach to the audio experience, combining great audio with mesmerising, multi-sensory features. Powered by Edifier’s patented TempoAbyss technology, the QR65 includes three-dimensional lighting effects. There are 11 preset light effects, controlled via a button on the side, and an additional ‘customise your own’ setting via the EDIFIER ConneX app which contains a possible 16 million combinations. 

EDIFIER QR65 Desktop Active Monitor Speakers – techbuzzireland

With LDAC, the leading-edge high resolution audio codec, the QR65 features an end-to-end audio process flow which supports high resolution audio up to 24bit/96 kHz. Alongside this, there are additional USB and LINE IN inputs, as well as a subwoofer output port, making the QR65 suitable for a range of settings, from home cinema setups and Hi-Fi enthusiasts, to intense and visceral gaming sessions.

A complete package, the QR65 is a more than suitable multi-use option for consumers looking to get the widest range of uses out of their home audio equipment without sacrificing build quality and audio performance. Achieving impeccable sound quality whilst maintaining a distinct and characterful style, the QR65 is a perfect fit for the multiple demands of modern life.

  • 70W (RMS) total output power with quality sound
  • 1.25″ silk dome tweeters and 2.75″ long-throw aluminium diaphragm mid-low drivers
  • Full digital signal processing, two-way active crossover, and DRC
  • Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified
  • Splendid light effects powered by patented TempoAbyss technology
  • 65W TurboGaN fast charging via two USB Type-C ports and one USB Type-A port
  • Bluetooth V5.3, USB and LINE IN inputs; subwoofer output port available
  • Works with EDIFIER ConneX mobile app for more functions
  • Supporting LDAC, Audio Up To 24bit/96kHz

 

Price & Availability:

Available for £329.99 

https://www.kbaudio.co.uk/products/edifier-qr65-desktop-active-monitor-speakers-with-gan-charger

https://www.edifier.com/global/p/wireless-speakers/qr65

How Does React Native App Development Services Sets Start-ups Apart

Start-ups are constantly seeking ways to stand out from the crowd and gain a competitive edge. One avenue that has gained significant traction in recent years is React Native app development services. This innovative framework, developed by Facebook, allows start-ups to build cross-platform mobile applications using a single codebase. React Native has become a preferred choice for ambitious entrepreneurs, but why is it favored by so many start-ups?

The Rise of React Native

React Native has emerged as a game-changer in the world of mobile app development, offering a powerful solution for building high-quality applications quickly and cost-effectively. Unlike traditional approaches that require separate codebases for iOS and Android platforms, React Native enables developers to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms, saving time and resources.

Faster Time to Market

For start-ups, speed is of the essence. React Native’s “write once, run anywhere” approach significantly reduces development time, allowing start-ups to bring their products to market faster than ever before. With a single codebase shared between platforms, developers can iterate quickly, make updates in real-time, and roll out new features without the need for separate development cycles for each platform.

This agility gives start-ups a crucial advantage, allowing them to respond swiftly to market demands, user feedback, and emerging trends. By getting their app into the hands of users sooner, start-ups can gain valuable insights, validate their ideas, and refine their product strategy to drive growth and success.

Cost-Effectiveness

In the early stages of development, cost considerations are paramount for start-ups with limited budgets. React Native offers a cost-effective solution by streamlining the development process and reducing overheads associated with maintaining separate codebases for iOS and Android.

By leveraging a single team of developers proficient in JavaScript, start-ups can achieve significant cost savings compared to hiring separate teams for each platform. Additionally, the modular and reusable nature of React Native components further enhances cost-effectiveness, as developers can leverage existing code and libraries to speed up development and minimize redundant work.

Seamless User Experience

User experience is a critical factor that can make or break the success of a mobile app. With React Native, start-ups can deliver a seamless and consistent user experience across platforms, ensuring that their app performs flawlessly on both iOS and Android devices.

React Native’s native-like performance and UI elements enable developers to create apps that look and feel just like native applications, providing users with a familiar and intuitive experience. Whether it’s smooth animations, responsive layouts, or seamless navigation, React Native empowers start-ups to deliver a polished and professional app that leaves a lasting impression on users.

Access to Native Features and APIs

While React Native provides a unified development experience, it also offers access to native features and APIs, allowing start-ups to take advantage of platform-specific capabilities when needed. Whether it’s integrating with device hardware, accessing location services, or leveraging push notifications, React Native provides robust APIs that enable developers to tap into the full potential of iOS and Android platforms.

This flexibility allows start-ups to deliver feature-rich apps that meet the diverse needs of their users while maintaining a single codebase. By harnessing the power of native capabilities, start-ups can create compelling experiences that drive engagement, retention, and ultimately, business growth.

React Native app development services offer start-ups a powerful toolkit for building cross-platform mobile applications that set them apart from the competition. With its emphasis on speed, cost-effectiveness, seamless user experience, and access to native features, React Native empowers start-ups to bring their ideas to life quickly, efficiently, and with unparalleled flexibility. As start-ups continue to disrupt industries and drive innovation, React Native stands out as a valuable ally in their quest for success. By embracing this transformative framework, start-ups can differentiate themselves in the market, attract users, and propel their businesses to new heights of growth and prosperity.

Tech Review – CHIVALZ Air Purifiers

The CHIVALZ Air Purifiers are a simple to use product to keep your home smelling fresh and give you clean air, we have the two pack configuration here and tested in two areas in the house one being a hallway and which is central in the home and my own bedroom, this product uses 3-in-1 Filtration with the combination of the H13 True HEPA Filter and high-efficiency activated carbon filter effectively filtration of dust, smoke, pollen, pet dander and unpleasant smells.

The unit itself is about the size of a projector or speaker and not too cumbersome to be placed in your home there is plenty of precautionary measures to ensure safe use which you can see in the video review below.

On the front there is one button which controls the unit, there is no app but the one click operation as they call is quite sufficient and simple to use in fairness and you can set it on a timer if you wish and it is best to use with windows closed in the desired room to get the job done efficiently.

These can cover a large area which is good in one sense so two could to the entire home if your build allows it, there is several modes to pick and the full speed one is on the noisy side but the sleep mode is fine in fairness and will not disturb you trying to sleep again you can see this in the video below.

Overall it is a nice product that is simple to use and set up and just leave it there to do its job giving you clean air and a nice fresh smell in your home and is cost effective doing several jobs at once. After testing it here for two weeks I am happy with the result knowing the air I breathe is better and you can pick your own flavours of smell and not only that they are energy efficient.

 

  • 2-Pack High Efficiency: CARB Certified and FCC Certified. This compact air purifier for bedroom features a 360° air intake system, ensuring that every corner of the room is effectively purified from all directions. Its portable design allows for flexible use, you can use a single purifier in bedroom or two at the same time in living room, bringing fresh and clean air closer to you.
  • 3-in-1 Filtration: The combination of the H13 True HEPA Filter and high-efficiency activated carbon filter effectively filtration of dust, smoke, pollen, pet dander and unpleasant smells. It is recommend to replace the filter at least every 3-6 months to extend the life of the air purifier! Search ASIN: B0CF1F7MYM to buy the original filter of HY1800 air purifier.
  • One-Button Control: With its user-friendly design, this portable air purifier for the bedroom offers a simple one-button operation. You can easily switch between 3 different speeds and activate the 4-hour timer mode by long-pressing the button for 3 seconds.In sleep mode, air purifiers for bedroom runs at 24 dB, provide you with a quiet and comfortable sleeping/working environment.
  • Aromatherapy: Enhance the atmosphere of your bedroom by adding 2-3 drops of your preferred essential oil (essential oil not provided) to the aroma pad. Soak in the soothing and fragrant atmosphere while breathing in the fresh air, great for bedrooms, dorms, apartment, medium rooms, small rooms, offices, desk, desktop, living rooms, kitchens, indoor or bookroom.
  • Energy Saving & Gift: At 10 cents kWh in the city, High Fan Speed Mode power is 5W – only $0.08 per week for continuous operation (24 h/7 days). CHIVALZ HY1800 HEPA air purifiers for home is suitable for pet families, but also as a gift for friends and family.

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Video Review

How Ireland ‘spent’ St. Patrick’s Day — 4% rise YoY, 5m+ card payments

Revolut, the global financial app with more than 40 million customers worldwide, and now over 2.7 million in Ireland, has crunched the numbers on Irish consumer spending over St. Patrick’s Day weekend and revealed that spending via Revolut rose by 4% YoY versus 2023 with over 5.25 million card payments made over March 16-18th.

Since last St. Patrick’s Day weekend (March 17-19th), more than 400,000 customers have joined Revolut from across Ireland, meaning over 2.7 million Irish people trust Revolut as their bank, with the financial app the best solution for the public to manage their finances everyday.

Revolut is recognised as the very best in Ireland with financial comparison site Bonkers.ie recently naming Revolut ‘Ireland’s Best Consumer Business’ and ‘provider of the Best Current Account’.

With figures adjusted for user growth when comparing YoY versus 2023, spending in bars, cafes, night clubs, and restaurants fell by a collective 6.75% (YoY decrease) on a weekend that saw Ireland’s rugby side clinch the Six Nations Championship but not the Grand Slam.

However, Irish consumers were still very much out and about over the weekend with spending on commuter transport (13.66% YoY increase) and taxis (7.49% YoY increase) rising considerably from 2023.

Whilst fewer spenders were heading to bars and restaurants, many hit the shops instead. Spending in men’s and women’s clothing stores rose 2.5% (YoY increase), with department store spend rising a substantial 11.7% (YoY increase).

Meanwhile, some Revolut customers chose to spend their bank holiday differently, opting for a night in. Demand for fast food rose 5.7% (YoY increase) while spending on meal delivery shot up by 6.5% (YoY increase).

For others, an increase in family get-togethers coupled with inflation might explain the steady rise in grocery store and supermarket spending (5.33% YoY increase), while spending on beer, wine, and liquor was at a rate similar to that of St Patrick’s Day 2023, with the amount customers spent on alcohol rising just 0.88% (YoY increase).

Nearly 1 million (936,615) more Revolut card payments were made on St. Patrick’s Day weekend 2024 than the celebrations of 2023 — an unweighted difference of 21.5%, highlighting the financial app’s continued growth in Ireland.

Maurice Murphy, General Manager at Revolut Bank UAB – Ireland Branch, commented: “It’s brilliant to see that a bumper St. Patrick’s Day weekend saw an increase in consumer spending from our customers all across Ireland. Our growth in this country is signified by the whopping 5 million card payments we recorded over the recent bank holiday weekend and illustrates that we remain Irish people’s preferred way to manage their money on a daily basis.

We plan to add even more new and innovative products to our offering later this year across savings, credit, and more, as we continue growing our existing customer base. Since introducing local IBANs in Ireland, an increasing number of our Irish customers trust Revolut as their primary bank account, which is proven by our recent wins at the Bonkers.ie awards.”

National Strategy for Open Education Practices Strategy would widen access to education in Ireland – OER24

A national strategy for Open Education Practices is needed to address current and future access and equity issues in the Irish higher education sector. That’s according to the N-TUTORR programme, a collaboration across the Technological Higher Education sector focused on transforming the student experience and fostering more inclusive and sustainable learning environments for all. The call for a national strategy came at OER24, the 15th annual Association of Learning Technology conference for Open Education Research, Practice and Policy. The event is taking place in Munster Technological University’s Bishopstown Campus in Cork today and tomorrow.

Open education seeks to widen access to and participation in education by removing barriers and making learning accessible through the likes of digital technologies and modern education practices.

At the event’s opening reception, N-TUTORR published a sectoral white paper on Open Educational Practices outlining a number of recommendations and actions which will diminish barriers to accessing education, and foster equity and inclusion across the technological higher education sector.

Speaking today, Dr Gearóid Ó Súilleabháin, Head of the Department of Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL), MTU and Co-Chair of OER24, said: “While there is no official national policy document on open education in Ireland, numerous reports and initiatives have highlighted the importance of developing open education principles and institutional repositories for research outputs and teaching resources.

“We are urging the Government to prioritise developing a National OEP Strategy aligned with UNESCO’s Recommendation on Open Educational Resources. OEP can have a transformative impact on the technological higher education sector, enhancing accessibility and data privacy, promoting participatory learning and student engagement, and supporting pedagogical flexibility and innovation.”

Topics discussed at OER24 will include:

  • Ethical considerations surrounding the use of generative AI for open education resources, and its potential in making educational content more accessible;
  • The connection between Open Education, Open Data, the Open-Source movement, and digital scholarship/librarianship
  • The role of Open Educational Resources (OER) in serving marginalised groups and in promoting inclusivity, diversity and equity in open education.

 

Keynote speakers include:

  • Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning at Brock University in Ontario, Canada. The architect of Canada’s first zero textbook cost degree programs, his work focuses on open educational practices, student-centred pedagogies, and ethical approaches to educational technology.
  • Dr. Catherine Cronin, an independent scholar focusing on critical and social justice approaches in open, digital and higher education. Catherine actively interweaves work in the higher education and community education sectors.
  • Laura Czerniewicz, Professor Emerita at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, previously the founding director of its Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching. Her professional life has engaged in education from many perspectives including researcher, teacher, publisher and open education advocate, with a consistent focus on equity, digital inequality and justice.

 

Further information on OER24 is available here: https://www.oer2024.co.uk/; and information on the N-TUTORR project is available here: https://www.transforminglearning.ie/.

Tech Review – Edifier Hecate GX05 Ultra-Low Latency TWS gaming earbuds

The Edifier Hecate GX05 Ultra-Low Latency TWS gaming earbuds are a product that looks like you would find in a sci-fri film and that is not a bad thing either so for the looks alone they get a ten out of ten there in my book but what else do these have and who are they for exactly.

Ok so out of the box these look great in every respect, the look and feel is screaming premium here and that includes the package in a nice solid hard case with a nice lock thrown in, inside you get your cables tips dust caps and a nice carry pouch to store it all in so another win here.

As described up top the case is one to behold with a weighty feel and a nice solid click everytime you turn it this is a piece of art and one of if not the best cases I have seen to date. Also on the underside of the case is a MFB to control the RGB lights which gives a nice effect, these is also lights on the earbuds which can be turned on/off.

The earbuds themselves are also slightly different with their shape but fit well in the ears and look good there is a decent seal and there extra tips provided in the box there is no ANC here or access to the connect app which is disappointing however these are not aimed at music and I get it but still would of been nice so I will let them away with it this time.

The earbuds as mentioned are for gamers with dual connectivity via BT or the dongle provided in the box went with the dongle route and tested on Xbox PS5 and of course my phone, I am not one to spend hours gaming but when I do I like to have good quality tech to do so and these do well in that respect but also in fairness not so bad on listening to music in general.

You have some controls of course but missing some features again these are features more so related to music you can manage call on them you can also manage the lights the modes, play and pause and skip and reverse tracks which is fine. There is no voice assistant or volume control on them.

On the gaming from they set out what they aim to do putting you right in the game you are playing not missing a beat, you will find it hard to get zero latency on earbuds but we are getting there and these are a step in the right direction.

Sound is great powered by Hi-Res Audio with 10mm drivers on board under the Hecate name which is Edifiers professional audio brand for gamers and a new one to me too, on the music from highs lows and mids all came across fine and some bass in there there was no latency on audio on listening to my usual test tracks the audio was crisp and clear and you do have modes to change the audio like gaming and music mode, On a gaming front as mentioned it is excellent putting you in the centre not missing footsteps directional sound and so on making it an enjoyable experience overall.

Features 

·         Dual Wireless Convenience. Simultaneously connect via Bluetooth 5.3 and 2.4GHz wireless dual-mode for gaming and calls, enhancing multitasking comfort.

·         15ms Ultra-Low Latency. 2.4GHz technology offers 15ms ultra-low latency for wireless and seamless gaming immersion.

·         Hi-Res Audio Excellency. 10mm dynamic driver with LHDC 5.0 HD decoding delivers detailed Hi-Res audio for competitive gaming.

·         Universal Compatibility, Plug-N-Play The GX05 comes with a USB-C adapter and USB converter and works with Mobile Phones, PCs, Switch, iPad, PS5, and VR, starting instantly upon plug-in.

·         Full-Soundstage Position Identification Mode. Under the game mode, players may accurately grasp sound details such as footsteps and gunfire in the game to identify the enemy position easily keeping you ultra-focused on the game.

·         Crystal-Clear Communication. The built-in dual MIC noise cancellation ensures clear calls and in-game communication.

·         Fast Charging for Extended Play. 16-hour battery life to last you throughout most of the day. Rapid QC2.0 and USB-C charging ensure uninterrupted gaming sessions.

·         Dynamic RGB Lighting Effect. 11 unique RGB effects illuminate the GX05 and take you into a fantasy in light and shadow, adding vibrancy and enhancing the gaming experience.

 

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Video review

Portal Art Installation will connect Dublin to New York in Real-Time

A ground breaking public art installation known as ‘The Portal’ is set to form a visual bridge between New York City and Dublin, launching this May.

‘The Portal’ installation is part of programme of events that will be taking place as part of Dublin’s recent designation as European City of Smart Tourism 2024. The official handover will take place this evening in the CHQ in Dublin city-centre.

Conceived by Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, these Portals are an invitation to meet fellow humans in a way that transcends borders and differences to experience our world as it really is – united and one. The livestream of Portals provides a window between distant locations, allowing people to meet outside of their social circles and cultures.

‘The Portal’ in Dublin will be installed facing the capital’s main street, O’Connell Street and will capture the iconic vista of both Dublin’s famous GPO building and the Spire together offering the public a real-time, visual livestream that connects these two iconic cities.

In New York City, the Portal will be installed on the Flatiron South Public Plaza at Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street, next to the famed Flatiron Building, and will be presented by the Flatiron NoMad Partnership in collaboration with the New York City Department of Transportation’s Art Program (NYC DOT Art) and the Simons Foundation.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithí de Róiste announced the partnership, highlighting its importance as Dublin embraces the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism 2024:

“As we celebrate our official handover for the EU Capital of Smart Tourism designation, the Portals project symbolises Dublin’s commitment to connecting not just within the EU but also with cities like New York, which we share a deep historical and cultural bond with. This project exemplifies the fusion of technology and engineering to bring communities from across the world closer together. One of our key objectives in Dublin is to improve innovation in tourism through a number of initiatives, and this project is an example of the exciting things to expect during 2024 and beyond.” 

James Mettham, President of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership in NY commented:

“We are honoured to host the Portal’s North American debut on the Flatiron Public Plazas, at one of New York City’s most dynamic intersections. This real-time connection between two iconic public spaces in global cities on either side of the Atlantic will bring people together, both physically and digitally, becoming a captivating attraction for New Yorkers and visitors alike.”

Ya-Ting Liu, New York City Chief Public Realm Officer commented on the importance of the collaborative installation: 

“Two amazing global cities, connected in real time and space. That is something you do not see every day! We are so excited to have The Portal as a public interactive art installation, showcasing the vibrancy of our city streets and providing a new point for human connection between New Yorkers and Dubliners.  We thank the City of Dublin, NYC DOT Art Program, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, and the Simons Foundation for bringing this vision to life.” 

Benediktas Gylys, shared his perspective on the project’s significance:

“Portals aim to be a bridge to a united planet. I am grateful to the cities of Dublin and New York for pioneering innovation and welcoming their Portal sculptures, which is a significant milestone after years of work. From the initial two cities of Vilnius, Lithuania and Lublin, Poland, Portals are now expanding to be a global network. This is just the beginning and our team will continue bringing Portals to large cities and little towns of planet Earth.”

The ‘Portal’ New York City and Dublin Ireland connection will be from spring 2024 through the Autumn of the same year.  In addition to the real-time connection, there will be scheduled programming, including cultural performances at each city’s Portal that will be enjoyed by people in the other city via the livestream. Programming will kick-off in mid-May with a visual program to celebrate the New York Design Week Festival.

‘The Portal’ is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Dublin City Council, the EU Capital of Smart Tourism, Flatiron NoMad Partnership, Simons Foundation, DOT Art, and portals.org team.  Their support and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this visionary project to life.

For more information and to find out what’s happening and will be taking place in Dublin for the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism visit here.

The Fintech Corridor and ATPC launch one-of-a-kind transatlantic exchange

(Dublin/Belfast/Atlanta, GA) – The Fintech Corridor (TFC) and the American Transaction Processors Coalition (ATPC), today announced a new partnership to offer a one-of-a-kind exchange driving transatlantic workforce development, policy best practices, investment, and internationalization between Belfast and Dublin, and the United States of America.

American companies continue to invest in Ireland due to a strong historical relationship and its unique access to both Europe and UK following Brexit. The transatlantic exchange was set up to strengthen these relationships, develop common goals and create structured initiatives to enable fintechs in the US, EU, and UK access to new global value chains.

The Fintech Corridor and ATPC will explore these relationships, policy themes and regulatory schemes in a summit which takes place in Dublin and Belfast between May 13-16, 2024. The venues will for the events will be the Guinness Storehouse, Belfast City Hall and Killeavy Castle, not Hillsborough Castle and Leinster House and will serve as historic and interactive backdrops for the conference which will see senior leaders from the finance and technology sector as well as government development agencies to explore collaboration and hot topics like cybersecurity and AI.

The 2024 Transatlantic Exchange will focus on ‘elevating fintech; to drive a program that goes beyond mere policy and economic transactions. Instead, the goal is to build real relationships and understanding among an exclusive group of fewer than 75 industry executives, government representatives, and academic institutions. The organisation expects to announce multiple formal Memos of Understanding during the conference that will forever change the fintech and payments processing industries.  

“Our organizations established a desire to build connectivity between payments and fintech corridors and drive visibility; foster relationships; share technology and policy best practices; and bolster international investment,” said TFC CEO Hilary Moran. “A successful program of events will drive greater connectivity and collaboration within the US, EU and UK, while allowing participants to build meaningful relationships in a relaxed ‘exchange’ environment.”

“This unique cross-border proposition connects US, EU, and UK fintech ecosystems and will help drive deeper understanding of opportunities in each governance zone,” said ATPC Executive Director H. West Richards. “Brexit profoundly changed how EU and UK fintech companies interact with each other, and access to companies in both jurisdictions will enable us to work closely to develop common solutions and increase cooperation and opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic, especially as US regulators work on cybersecurity, data privacy and other critical issues.”

The ATPC, founded in 2014 and headquartered in the State of Georgia’s “Transaction Alley,” served as a blueprint for The Fintech Corridor’s work. And the two organizations became acquainted during the pandemic as TFC sought to build an education workforce development platform modeled on the Georgia Fintech Academy. A relationship grew from there and the conference was born in order to promote the spirit of cooperation, networking, education partnerships, new business opportunities, and knowledge sharing using the power of the most unique business cluster on the island of Ireland (Republic of, and Northern Ireland).

More conference details are available at www.atpcoalition.com and www.thefintechcorridor.com.