admin, Author at ArdorComm Media Group

AI Predicted to Propel Medical Devices Industry to $1.2 Billion by 2027, Indicates GlobalData Report

According to a report from GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, the medical devices industry is anticipated to reach $1.2 billion by 2027, primarily fueled by the healthcare sector’s need to streamline processes, cut costs, and enhance accuracy in diagnosing an increasing number of patients with intricate medical profiles. Brian Hicks, Senior Analyst of Medical Devices at GlobalData, highlighted the widespread use of AI in healthcare, particularly in diagnostic settings, where AI algorithms expedite the identification of challenging image abnormalities that might be overlooked by the human eye. This advancement allows for a more comprehensive review of patient profiles while minimizing the risk of misdiagnoses. The report emphasizes that the driving force behind this surge is the adoption of computer vision technology, which finds applications in diagnostics across various medical specialties. Notably, AI’s contribution to reducing error rates in cancer detection has been well-documented, with studies indicating a significant decrease in pathologists’ error rates, from 3.4% to 0.5%, when AI was incorporated in identifying cancer-positive lymph nodes as far back as 2016. Hicks emphasized the accelerated pace at which AI can identify potential positive cases, allowing for a more rapid review of numerous patient profiles without compromising accuracy. The research reveals a notable concentration of AI-related investments in the medical imaging and diagnostic sectors, with many companies specializing in leveraging deep learning technology. Traditional MedTech companies, primarily focused on hardware and surgical instruments, have limited opportunities to integrate such advanced technologies into their products. Hicks underscored the critical role of AI in early detection, asserting that its ability to analyze challenging tissue abnormalities, symptoms, and intricate patient profiles will lead to earlier interventions and improved patient outcomes.

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New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 #ELS2023 #ELSChennai #EducationLeadershipSymposium

admin / Education

“ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” Wednesday, 13th Dec’23 | Chennai #ELS2023 #ELSChennai #EducationLeadershipSymposium Empowering Learning : Promoting Active Engagement and Student Participation with Technology-Enabled Solutions Active learning and student engagement are cornerstones of effective education. In today’s digital age, harnessing technology-enabled solutions to promote active participation is a priority for educators and institutions. This roundtable (RT) will bring together experts, edtech professionals, and educators to explore innovative ways to foster active learning and student engagement using technology. KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Active Learning Strategies: Share proven techniques and strategies for promoting active learning, including problem-based learning, collaborative projects, and flipped classrooms. Gamification in Education: Discuss the benefits and challenges of using gamification to create engaging learning experiences and motivate students. Hybrid Learning Environments: Examine how blended learning approaches, combining in-person and online elements, can encourage active participation and engagement. Assessment and Feedback: Discuss methods for assessing and providing timely feedback to students, reinforcing their active participation and continuous improvement. Teacher Training: Address the importance of training educators to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices, ensuring active learning opportunities. Measuring Engagement: Examine tools and methods for assessing student engagement and participation in technology-enabled learning environments. Who Should Attend Academicians Educators Founders Trustees Chancellors CEOs Vice-Chancellors Directors Principals Eminent Speakers AGENDA Time Topic 4:00 PM – 4:15 PM Registration & High-Tea 4:15 PM – 4:25 PM Welcome Note: ArdorComm Media Group 4:25 PM – 4:35 PM Keynote Address: D2L 4:35 PM – 6:00 PM Roundtable Session 6:00 PM – 6:10 PM Keynote Address: D2L 6:10 PM – 6:30 PM Closing Remark & Felicitation 7:00 PM Onwards Networking Cocktails followed by Dinner VENUE Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road City Centre, Near Boat Club, &, Anna Salai, Nandanam Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600035

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Disney+ Hotstar to Offer Free Streaming of Pro Kabaddi League on Mobiles

admin / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Disney+ Hotstar, a prominent broadcasting platform, has unveiled plans to offer free streaming of the upcoming season of the Pro Kabaddi League to mobile users in India, beginning on December 2, 2023. This decision is driven by the sport’s popularity, ranking second only to cricket in India. Sajith Sivanandan, the Head of Disney+ Hotstar India, expressed the goal of making Kabaddi accessible to a broader Indian audience, fostering stronger fan engagement. This move follows the success of their free mobile streaming during events like the Asia Cup 2023 and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The Pro Kabaddi League’s tenth season will feature 12 competing teams in a 12-city caravan format, aiming to replicate the success of cricket tournaments that drew record viewership. Hotstar achieved a peak concurrency of 44 million viewers during the India-South Africa match, and expects similar success as the Pro Kabaddi League approaches its conclusion.

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Capgemini Witnesses a Sharp Decline in Offshore Headcount, India Heavily Impacted

admin / Human Resource Community

French IT company Capgemini has seen a significant reduction in its offshore workforce, with a decline of 14,600 employees in the September quarter. This reduction has notably affected its operations in India, where it had 185,000 employees, accounting for less than half of its total workforce of 342,700. It is estimated that Capgemini’s headcount in India may have decreased by nearly 7,000 employees during this period, following the addition of 35,000 people in the previous fiscal year. The offshore headcount of Capgemini has decreased by 7% to 196,000 employees in the September quarter, while its onshore workforce decreased by 1,100 employees. Capgemini’s CFO, Carole Ferrand, emphasized the company’s focus on efficiency and optimizing its talent base, especially in offshore locations, after a period of intensive hiring and high attrition. She mentioned that attrition rates have now cooled down to 18.6% over the last 12 months, aligning with the company’s nominal operating ranges. When contacted for a statement, Capgemini’s spokesperson explained that the company had adopted a stable hiring approach due to the challenging economic environment. They highlighted a focus on investing in new skills, fostering innovation, and expanding the portfolio. Capgemini, however, did not disclose its current headcount in India following the reduction in offshore employees. Capgemini’s CEO, Aiman Ezzat, mentioned the company’s plans to expand its workforce in data and AI, business, and technology talent, aiming to double the team to 50,000 people in the next three years. The company also intends to train over 100,000 employees in genAI-specific tools within the next 12 months. In terms of financial performance, Capgemini reported a 2.3% year-on-year revenue increase in constant currency for the September quarter. However, revenue in the North America region declined by 4%, attributed to the challenging economic environment and a gradual deceleration scenario for 2023. Ezzat emphasized the importance of the transition to a digital and sustainable economy for Capgemini’s clients and highlighted the increasing demand for generative AI. The company’s genAI campus has been launched to provide training for employees, aligning with its 2 billion euros investment plan to strengthen its presence in this field.

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Scientists Concerned About New COVID Variant ‘JN.1’ with Increased Infectiousness and Potential Vaccine Immunity Evasion

admin / Health & Wellness Community

Scientists are expressing concern about the latest COVID-19 variant, named ‘JN.1’, as it appears to be more infectious and potentially capable of evading vaccine immunity. This variant was first identified in Luxembourg on August 25, 2023, and has since been detected in several countries, including England, Iceland, France, and the United States. What particularly worries scientists is the significant number of genetic differences in JN.1 compared to other prominent COVID strains like XBB.1.5 and HV.1. XBB.1.5 is the primary target of the latest vaccine boosters in the United States, and most new variants are descendants of this strain, indicating that existing vaccines are effective against them. HV.1, while somewhat different from XBB.1.5, shares similarities with its parent strain. However, JN.1 stands out due to its substantial divergence. In comparison to XBB.1.5, HV.1 has ten additional unique mutations, but JN.1 boasts a striking 41 additional unique mutations. A significant portion of these mutations is found in the spike protein of the virus, which is associated with increased infectivity and potential immune evasion. This raise concerns that current vaccines may not be as effective against this variant. Dr. Thomas Russo, the chief of infectious diseases at the University of Buffalo in New York, stated that JN.1’s spike protein mutation makes it particularly adept at evading the immune response, which could lead to a higher risk of infections. Moreover, there is some evidence suggesting that JN.1’s parent variant, BA.2.86, may be more transmissible than earlier versions of the virus. This high degree of variability in the spike protein, which was first observed in the alpha and beta versions of SARS-CoV-2 in 2021, is a noteworthy aspect of JN.1’s genetic makeup. While these developments raise concerns, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that initial data suggests updated COVID vaccines should still provide protection against JN.1. They also stated that treatments and testing measures are expected to remain effective against this variant, based on an analysis from the federal government’s SARS-CoV-2 Interagency Group.

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Reliance Foundation Offers Postgraduate Scholarships for 2023-24: Apply by December 17, 2023

8 Comments / admin / Education Community

Reliance Foundation is currently accepting applications for postgraduate scholarships for the academic year 2023-24. These scholarships are available to first-year postgraduate students in nine specific fields of study, and the application deadline is set for December 17, 2023. You can find all the necessary information, including eligibility criteria and registration details, on the official website at scholarships.reliancefoundation.org. The Reliance Foundation scholarships are open to first-year postgraduate students pursuing full-time courses in India. The eligible fields of study include computer science, artificial intelligence, mathematics and computing, electrical or electronics engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, renewable and new energy, material science and engineering, and life sciences. If you’re selected for this scholarship, you can receive a grant of up to Rs 6 lakh for the entire duration of your postgraduate studies. Additionally, the scholarship program offers a holistic development initiative that involves interactions with experts, exposure to industry, and volunteering opportunities. The selection process for these scholarships is quite rigorous and involves evaluating applications, conducting aptitude tests, and holding interviews. The goal of the Reliance Foundation postgraduate scholarships is to identify students who exhibit qualities such as excellence, leadership potential, integrity, community commitment, a growth mindset, and courage.

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EPFO Initiates Evaluation of Financial Implications for Higher Pensions Following Supreme Court Ruling

1 Comment / admin / Human Resource Community

The Employees’ Pension Fund Organisation (EPFO) has commenced the process of evaluating the financial implications of a Supreme Court ruling by issuing letters to individuals who have requested higher pension benefits. The EPFO is seeking a response of Rs 2,000 crore in this regard, marking the initial step in gauging the financial repercussions of the court’s decision. To assess the preliminary financial impact, the EPFO has employed an Actuary to make calculations based on specific assumptions. However, this actuarial assessment will be an ongoing process and will be conducted in batches of 50,000 demand letters sent out. A comprehensive evaluation will follow once all cases have been addressed. Additionally, the EPFO is in the process of establishing an actuarial department at its headquarters to ensure the use of realistic assumptions and to conduct thorough actuarial reviews of reports provided by the valuer or consulting actuary. In total, the EPFO has received 1.749 million applications for increased pension benefits, of which 629,000 have been reviewed. Among these, approximately 527,000 applications required the EPFO to contact employers for additional information or corrections, while around 3,618 forms were rejected. During a recent meeting of the EPFO’s Central Board of Trustees (CBT), it was noted that processing these applications is a time-consuming task, and the actuarial analysis can only be completed after addressing all applications, as per the CBT, which serves as the EPFO’s top decision-making body.

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Unmasking the Air Pollution Crisis in India: Health Implications and Urgent Solutions

admin / Blogs

India is grappling with a multifaceted challenge that poses a severe threat to public health – air pollution. As the air quality crisis in the National Capital Region, Delhi, continues to worsen, it prompts a closer look at the health implications of this persistent issue. This blog provides a comprehensive analysis of the ongoing air pollution crisis in India and delves into the critical health implications of air pollution, shedding light on the gravity of the issue and the urgent need for action. The Silent Killer Air pollution is often referred to as a “silent killer” because its health effects are not immediately apparent but accumulate over time, leading to chronic illnesses and reduced life expectancy. This problem is particularly severe in India, where rapid industrialization and urbanization have resulted in soaring levels of air pollutants. Health Implications of Air Pollution Respiratory Ailments: High levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3) can lead to a surge in respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable. Cardiovascular Diseases: Air pollution plays a significant role in the development of cardiovascular diseases, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other circulatory issues. Cancer Risk: Long-term exposure to air pollution, particularly air containing carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women exposed to high levels of air pollution are at a higher risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in their offspring. Mental Health: Recent research has linked air pollution to mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Also Read: Prioritizing Mental Health: The Cornerstone of Student Success in Education Delhi’s Air Quality Crisis Recent developments in Delhi highlight the severity of the air pollution crisis. Despite minor improvements, the overall air quality in Delhi remains ‘very poor.’ The Air Quality Index (AQI) recently shifted from ‘severe’ to ‘very poor,’ but this change does not indicate a significant improvement. The Supreme Court has criticized central and state governments for engaging in a blame game rather than implementing effective solutions. In response, authorities have taken measures, such as suspending physical classes (except for Classes 10 and 12) until November 10 and reintroducing the odd-even car rationing system from November 13 to 20. While there’s a marginal dip in pollution levels as reflected in the AQI, the concentration of PM2.5 particles continues to be a significant concern. Delhi’s PM2.5 levels consistently exceed the government-prescribed safe limit by a substantial margin, posing severe health risks to residents. Also Read: Top 12 Daily Habits for a Healthier Lifestyle What Can Be Done? Addressing India’s air pollution problem requires a multi-faceted approach. Some of the essential measures include: Strict Emission Standards: Enforcing and regularly updating emission standards for industries, vehicles, and power plants is crucial. Promoting Renewable Energy: Transitioning to cleaner energy sources like solar and wind power can reduce emissions. Improving Public Transportation: Expanding and improving public transportation systems can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and, consequently, pollution levels. Urban Planning: Better urban planning and reducing traffic congestion can help mitigate pollution in metropolitan areas. Public Awareness: Raising awareness about the health implications of air pollution can empower citizens to take steps to protect themselves and advocate for change. Also Read: Mobilizing Global Education and Cultural Exchange through Technology Conclusion The air pollution crisis in India, exemplified by Delhi’s ongoing struggle, is a pressing concern with far-reaching health implications. It’s essential to recognize that this is not just a seasonal issue; it’s a year-round problem that demands immediate and sustainable solutions. The blame game among political entities must give way to effective measures to curb air pollution and protect public health. As PM2.5 levels significantly surpass safe limits, there is an urgent need for comprehensive, long-term actions. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the grave consequences of air pollution and the urgency of taking decisive action. It is high time for all stakeholders, including the government, industries, and citizens, to unite in the fight against air pollution and prioritize the well-being of the nation. The battle against air pollution continues, and it’s a fight for the health and future of generations to come. The author, Pratik Ghosh is associated with ArdorComm Media

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India’s First AI-Powered Agricultural News Monitoring and Analysis Solution ‘Krishi 24/7’ Launched by Government

admin / Governance Community

The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), in partnership with the Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Wadhwani AI), has introduced ‘Krishi 24/7,’ India’s inaugural AI-driven solution for automated monitoring and analysis of agricultural news. Developed with support from Google.org, this innovation will enable the DA&FW to identify pertinent agricultural news, issue timely alerts, and take swift actions to safeguard farmers’ interests and encourage sustainable agricultural development by enhancing decision-making. The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare underlines the necessity for an efficient mechanism to pinpoint and manage agricultural news articles that can facilitate prompt decision-making. Krishi 24/7 scans news articles in various languages, translates them into English, and extracts crucial information, including headlines, crop names, event details, dates, locations, severity, summaries, and source links, ensuring that the ministry receives timely updates on pertinent events found on the internet. During the launch of this initiative, Manoj Ahuja, Secretary (A&FW), emphasized that this news monitoring system not only keeps stakeholders informed but also empowers them to shape the narrative. He encouraged continuous improvement and adaptability to the evolving landscape of information. Samuel Praveen Kumar, Joint Secretary (Extension), explained the system’s functions, which aim to provide near real-time monitoring of online agricultural news articles, helping the DA&FW identify relevant news and establish a comprehensive mechanism for event selection, alert creation, and timely action. JP Tripathi, Associate Director (Ag) at Wadhwani AI, highlighted their commitment to developing AI solutions for addressing challenges where news monitoring and validation have been manual and time-consuming. He mentioned the successful deployment of a similar solution for tracking and analyzing disease outbreaks in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). By collaborating with the DA&FW and other central government bodies, their goal is to provide effective tools that enhance information flow through data-driven decision-making.

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IIM Lucknow and Emeritus Launch 10-Month CEO Development Program

admin / Education Community

IIM Lucknow, in partnership with Emeritus, has introduced a Chief Executive Officer program that spans ten months. This program aims to provide extensive leadership development and equip senior executives with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to excel in their roles and drive business growth. It is open to individuals with a minimum of ten years of work experience who aspire to become CEOs and want to further enhance their abilities. Upon successful completion of the Chief Executive Officer program, participants will be equipped to meet customer expectations, foster societal engagement, build brand trust, demonstrate purposeful leadership for effective change management, cultivate an innovation culture driving digital transformation, and revamp business models for strategic growth. This program is also tailored for leaders with at least a decade of work experience who are new to the CEO role or have recently founded a company. It emphasizes adaptability in the dynamic business environment, change management, strategic decision-making, organizational performance, functional expertise, and critical thinking. The program’s main objective is to prepare CEOs to lead by promoting innovation within their organizations. It offers a blend of immersive online learning led by IIM Lucknow faculty and industry experts, combined with an on-campus experience at the IIM Lucknow campus. Additionally, participants engage in a capstone project under the guidance of IIM Lucknow faculty, business simulations like Capstone simulation and Strategy Simulation on Balance Scorecard, and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning. The program is carefully designed to help leaders develop practical, industry-relevant skills that will inspire their teams towards innovation and sustainability. Eligibility for the program includes graduates (10+2+3), diploma holders (10+2+3), and postgraduates with a minimum of ten years of work experience. The classes for this program are scheduled to commence on December 30, 2023. The total fee for the ten-month course at IIM Lucknow is Rs 5,60,000, excluding GST. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate of completion and gain access to IIM Lucknow’s executive alumni network.

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