free online real money casino

APPLE has halted work on a project to build an iPhone hardware subscription service, according to sources familiar with the matter, retreating from an attempt to change the way consumers buy its flagship device. The idea was to make owning an iPhone such as subscribing to an app – with consumers paying monthly fees and getting new phones each year – but Apple recently wound down the effort, according to sources familiar with the matter. The team was disbanded and reassigned to other projects, said the sources, who asked not to be identified because the work was confidential. The move is part of a broader shift in how Apple approaches payment services. The subscription effort was overseen by the company’s Apple Pay group, which also shuttered a “buy now, pay later” programme earlier this year. That service let shoppers pay off purchases over multiple instalments, but Apple is now steering consumers towards third-party programmes instead. Bloomberg News first reported on the iPhone subscription service in 2022, when the programme was due to launch by the end of that year. It was ultimately delayed until 2023 – and beyond – after suffering numerous setbacks, including software bugs and regulatory concerns. Top company executives had sent the work back to the drawing board before the project was finally scrapped. A representative for Cupertino, California-based Apple declined to comment. When Apple began work on the hardware subscription service a few years ago, it was aiming to sell more iPhones and generate a greater amount of recurring revenue. The device is Apple’s biggest moneymaker, accounting for just over half of annual sales. The company also wanted to further lock users in to the Apple product ecosystem. It would work like this: Instead of paying for an iPhone outright or signing up for an instalment plan, customers would have a monthly fee billed to the same Apple account they use for downloading apps and subscribing to services. They’d then be able to swap out their iPhone for a new model each year. Like the now-defunct Apple Pay Later programme, the hardware subscription would use an in-house financial infrastructure and be based on loans provided by the company itself. Early this year, Apple deployed the iPhone subscription service as a test for employees within its Pay group. Teams working on App Store billing and the online store were also involved. The service would have competed with – and likely upset – Apple’s wireless carrier partners, which increasingly rely on instalment programmes and promotions to sell iPhones and retain customers. It also may have replaced two programmes long offered by Apple itself. That includes the iPhone Upgrade Program, which splits up the cost of a phone over two years and is backed by loans provided by Citizens Bank. The other is Apple Card Monthly Installments, which is handled by Goldman Sachs and is only available in the US. The Apple Pay organisation is led by Jennifer Bailey, a top deputy to services chief Eddy Cue. The group has sought to expand the company’s services revenue in a complex and highly regulated financial industry – no easy task. A few years ago, it initiated “Project Breakout”, an effort to build internal tools and rely less upon partners from the financial industry. When the company cancelled Apple Pay Later, a major factor in the decision was stricter rules by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The agency said this year that pay-later-style services would have to follow the same regulations as credit card companies. That’s a headache Apple did not want to deal with, especially since the size of the business is relatively small. Given that the iPhone subscription service would use a similar structure and technology as Apple Pay Later, the company became concerned that it too would face scrutiny. Apple teamed up with Affirm Holdings and Klarna Bank to continue to offer pay-later options within its Pay service without being regulated directly. Apple could conceivably pursue new partnerships to revive the iPhone subscription programme, but the company has no current plans to go it alone. BLOOMBERG

Key Small Arms And Light Weapons Market Trend 2024-2033: Technological AdvancementsOn the shimmering waters of Myanmar's Ayeyarwady River, fishermen tap a wooden stick against the side of a boat and sing out a rhythmic sound of "kroo kroo". It's a call to summon their unlikely partners — Irrawaddy dolphins. Together, they perform a delicate choreography. The dolphins herd shoals of fish toward the fishermen's boat. When the lead dolphin approaches, it signals by flapping its fin. A fisherman throws the net, trapping fish between the approaching dolphin and the boat. It's a win-win situation: The dolphins catch any escaping fish from the net, while the fishermen benefit from the fish driven toward their boat and catch more to sell at market. "These dolphins take care of us and help meet our needs," 53-year-old fisherman U Kyi told the ABC. "I feel a sense of pride in the close bond we share, like they're family." This cooperative relationship between fishermen and dolphins in central Myanmar is as intricate as it is rare and has been passed down over generations. "My first experience was when I joined my father on a fishing trip as a kid," said U Kyi. "When there were no boats or other noise around, the dolphins would come to us right away." But this ancient bond is under threat. A historic bond in peril Irrawaddy dolphins, charismatic and uniquely adapted to freshwater, are endangered. Found only in a few rivers — Myanmar's Ayeyarwady, Cambodia's Mekong, and Indonesia's Mahakam River — their survival is threatened by harmful fishing practices and environmental degradation. "Illegal fishing is a worsening problem," says Win Hte, a program officer for the Myanmar branch of the Swiss environmental NGO Helvetas. Some fishermen use destructive methods that indiscriminately kill fish, like detonating dynamite sticks or electrifying waters with car batteries connected to rods or nets, known as "electro-fishing". "A lot of fish go to waste — many sink to the bottom and only float up once they start to rot," U Kyi said. Gill nets, toxic chemical use and increased boat traffic have further jeopardised the dolphins' survival. According to a 2020 report by the Wildlife Conservation Society, 79 Irrawaddy dolphins remained in the Ayeyarwady River — a slight improvement from 69 in the previous year. However, the situation has deteriorated since Myanmar's military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's democratically elected government in 2021, destabilising the nation and halting many government-backed conservation initiatives. "After 2018, we started getting much more reliable data as experts brought their knowledge to Myanmar," Win Hte said. "But now, it's nearly impossible." The instability has driven many researchers away. For three years, Win Hte has studied dolphin and porpoise populations at the river mouth of the Ayeyarwaddy in the Gulf of Mottama, but his monitoring has been increasingly hampered by the security situation. "Tracking the exact population is now very challenging," he said. The rise of 'Dolphin Guardians' In the absence of formal conservation efforts, community-based conservation efforts have stepped up. A group of local fishers, known as the "Dolphin Guardians", monitor dolphin populations and report illegal fishing. The program involves about 75 fishers, including 15 women, across several communities. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has helped fill the gap left by halted government monitoring. "We educate people that the number of dolphins reflects the health of the river — they are interconnected," said U Kyi, who is a member of the group. The guardians patrol the river, counting dolphins and keeping an eye out for illegal activities like electro-fishing. However, the war has made river monitoring risky. "There's ongoing conflict in our area, so we have to check with each other before heading out to the river to avoid trouble," says U Kyi. Burma Dolphins, a social enterprise that supports the guardians, once offered alternative livelihood programs for fishing families to reduce pressure on fish populations but many of these programs have stalled. The challenges of cracking down on illegal fishing Illegal fishing practices, particularly electro-fishing, have devastated fish populations and harmed dolphins. U Kyi has witnessed species like Gagata catfish decline from areas where he once fished. He said confronting the illegal fishers was impossible. "They have more people with dangerous equipment," he said. Instead, he gathers information on their activities and reports it to the Burma Dolphins who map illegal fishing hotspots. Although the monitoring was not perfect, it kept communities engaged in conservation, said network co-founder Paul Eshoo. "We're just trying to do our part and keep our staff fed," Mr Eshoo said, referring to network members like U Kyi who are paid for their participation. Hope through community efforts Win Hte said community education, particularly for young people, was important despite the country's despite instability. "We inform villages along the coast, and they also help us with information like if they find any [dolphins or porpoises] dead, so we can map the incidents," he says. Before the military coup, conservation initiatives showed promise. Protected zones were established along the Ayeyarwady, and eco-tourism allowed tourists to watch a dolphin-fisher cooperative for a fee, generating a significant income and awareness. More women were becoming involved too. With such programs on hold, grassroots efforts like the Dolphin Guardians' community monitoring provide a glimmer of hope. "These dolphins have taken care of us and taught us so much," U Kyi said. "When I see dolphins while fishing, it feels like meeting a relative," he added. ABC

( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Branded Generics Global market Report 2024 - Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2024-2033 The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-for a limited time only! LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, December 19, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Make the most of The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-limited time only! The branded generics market size has shown robust growth in recent years and continues to thrive. Marked by its significant growth from $335.98 billion in 2023 to an estimated $367.67 billion in 2024, the market is expanding steadily at a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 9.4%. This growth during the historic period is primarily driven by cost savings and affordability, patent expiries, market expansion, increased accessibility, government initiatives, and healthcare reforms. Looking forwards, where is the market projected to head? Anticipated to witness rapid growth in the coming years, the branded generics market size is forecasted to reach 542.32 billion dollars in 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 10.2%. This anticipated growth throughout the forecast period can be attributed to the growing demand for generic biologics, escalating number of chronic diseases, expansion of emerging markets, and an industry-wide focus on the development of biosimilars. Major trends awaiting the sector during the forecast period include strategic partnerships and collaborations, technological advancements, market consolidation, a focus on chronic disease treatment and adoption of a patient-centric approach. You Can Purchase the Full Branded Generics Global Market Report Here: What's driving this rapid growth? A key engine of the branded generics market is the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Chronic diseases, which are long-lasting illnesses that often cannot be cured but can be managed, are on the rise due to tobacco use, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Around the world, patients are turning to branded generics to treat chronic diseases more affordably. According to the World Health Organization WHO 2022 Highlights, a Switzerland-based intergovernmental health organization, there were 41 million deaths in 2022, 74% of which were caused by noncommunicable diseases NCDs, or chronic diseases globally. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases is expected to boost demand for branded generics over the forecast period. So who are the key powerhouses operating in this market? Leading the branded generics market are industry giants including Pfizer Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Sanofi SA, AstraZeneca plc, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Viatris Inc., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Alkem Laboratories Ltd., Mylan N.V., Sandoz International GmbH, Bausch Health Companies Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Cipla Ltd., Aurobindo Pharma Ltd., Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd., Apotex Inc., Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Limited, Endo International plc, Towa Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Mankind Pharma, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Par Pharmaceuticals Inc., Unichem Laboratories Ltd., Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Wockhardt, Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Novartis International AG, Novo Nordisk A/S, Zydus Lifesciences Ltd. So where does the branded generics market stand in terms of emerging trends? One of the key trends gaining momentum in the branded generics market is strategic partnerships. Companies are partnering with relevant firms to benefit from each other's resources and expand into new markets. Notably, Biocon Ltd., an India-based biopharmaceutical firm that develops affordable biosimilars, generic formulations and complex APIs, forged a partnership with Tabuk Pharmaceuticals in December 2021. This alliance broadens Biocon's presence in the MENA region, encompassing countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Iraq. How is the branded generics market segmented? This market report segments the branded generics market based on the following parameters – 1 By Drug Class: Alkylating Agents, Antimetabolites, Hormones, Anti-hypertensive, Lipid Lowering Drugs, Anti-depressants, Anti-psychotics, Anti-Epileptics, Other Drugs 2 By Route of Administration: Topical, Oral, Parenteral, Other Routes of Administration 3 By Application: Oncology, Cardiovascular Diseases, Diabetes, Neurology, Gastrointestinal Diseases, Dermatology Diseases, Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory, Other Applications What are the regional insights? Now, speaking of geography, North America held the largest chunk of the branded generics market in 2023. The fastest-growing region, however, is expected to be Asia-Pacific throughout the forecast period. Browse more similar reports- Nutritional Feed Additives Global Market Report 2024 Pharmacies and Drug Stores Global Market Report 2024 Vitamin and Minerals Global Market Report 2024 Make sure to learn more about The Business Research Company . This market research firm has published over 15000+ reports covering 27 industries and 60+ geographies. Their reports are drawn from 1,500,000 datasets, extensive secondary research, and exclusive interviews with industry leaders. Contact The Business Research Company: Americas: +1 3156230293 Asia: +44 2071930708 Europe: +44 2071930708 Email: ... Follow us on: LinkedIn: YouTube: Global Market Model: global-market-model Oliver Guirdham The Business Research Company +44 20 7193 0708 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN18122024003118003196ID1109009428 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Fermentation is turning microalgae into a sustainable superfood, delivering health breakthroughs like diabetes management and paving the way for greener, healthier diets. Review: Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Fermentation in Creating Foods: A Spotlight on Microalgae . Image Credit: Chokniti-Studio / Shutterstock In a recent review published in the journal Fermentation , researchers in Brazil explored the challenges and potential of using fermentation processes involving microalgae to produce nutritious, sustainable, and safe foods. They concluded that microalgae fermentation holds promise to support the development of healthy foods, including those with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-diabetic properties, but called for consumer education to facilitate wider commercialization and acceptance. Fermentation in food production Fermentation is a naturally occurring metabolic process in which microorganisms, including fungi, yeast, or bacteria, convert sugars into simpler compounds by producing energy anaerobically or without oxygen. It is widely used in industrial and biological processes. Microalgae are photosynthetic powerhouses that produce nearly half of the Earth's oxygen while efficiently converting carbon dioxide into biomass, making them a vital player in combating climate change. Interest is growing in the applications of fermentation in food production, focusing on creating sustainable and nutritious foods using microalgae. Recent studies demonstrate that fermentation produces bioactive peptides with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-IV) inhibition, which can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation. Microalgae fermentation produces several beneficial metabolites, including volatile compounds, organic acids, and bioactive peptides, that enhance food's health benefits, nutritional value, aroma, and flavor. For example, antioxidant activity during microalgae fermentation is linked to phenolic compounds, which reduce oxidative stress and support metabolic health. Studies show that fermenting Spirulina can enhance antioxidant properties and regulate blood glucose levels. Bioactive peptides, for example, improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate glucose levels in the blood. This presents opportunities for foods that protect against disease and provide nutrition. However, microalgae-based foods face challenges related to consumer acceptance due to sensory factors. The fermentation process Microalgae are grown in restricted environments where nutrients, light, and temperature are carefully controlled before harvesting. Microorganisms and substrates are introduced to initiate the fermentation process. Submerged fermentation involves using liquid media to optimize scaling and nutrient control, while solid-state fermentation involves minimal water use and reduces the risk of contamination. Microalgae proteins are a game-changer: They offer an alternative to traditional animal proteins, acting as thickening agents and stabilizers in food products, which could transform the food industry. Fermentation improves nutrient absorption, introducing beneficial microorganisms that promote gut health. These processes also enhance the bioavailability of microalgal pigments like phycocyanin and carotenoids, which contribute to antioxidant and health-protective effects. For example, bioactive peptides found in these foods are known to support antioxidant activity, immune function, diabetes management, and cardiovascular health. Key studies have shown that fermenting Spirulina improves antioxidant activity, supporting glucose regulation, while fermenting Undaria and Sachharina increases antioxidant and antidiabetic activity. For Ulva and Sargassum seaweed, the fermenting process inhibited alpha-amylase, which prevented spikes in blood glucose. The process also develops unique aromas and flavors, which may increase acceptance of certain products. For example, fermentation using Kluyveromyces marxianus introduces floral and fruity notes, while lactic acid bacteria reduce undesirable earthy flavors. It may be used to create alternative protein sources for vegans and vegetarians, enhancing the sustainability of food production and reducing environmental impacts from land use. Fermentation and consumer perception The fermentation process modifies the texture and flavor of microalgae, offering possibilities for the food industry. Studies on various strains of yeast show that fermented Saccharomyces cerevisiae has fruity, milky, and cheesy notes. At the same time, Kluyveromyces marxianus imparts soap-like and floral flavors, and Debaryomyces hansenii introduces fruity and acidic notes. Lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus strains reduce undesirable earthy flavors and add unique flavors, respectively. Specifically for dairy products, adding Spirulina in yogurt can improve texture and odor acceptance, but higher concentrations may impart an unpalatable aftertaste. In probiotic yogurts, even distributions of Spirulina can improve palatability and acceptability. Similarly, Spirulina has been shown to enhance the texture and taste of crackers, crostini, and bread. Microalgae biodiversity is vast: There are an estimated 200,000 to 800,000 species of microalgae, but only about 50,000 have been described, leaving enormous untapped potential for innovation in food and biotechnology. However, despite their established nutritional benefits, microalgae are not commonly used in food, and how consumers perceive fermented microalgae food products remains inconsistent and dynamic. The growing interest in healthy and sustainable foods is offset by low consumer acceptance due to unfamiliarity. Sensory profiles strongly impact consumer perception. The strong odors, colors, and flavors introduced by pigments like chlorophyll, as found in powdered Spirulina, have an intense taste and may reduce appeal. Recent research emphasizes that transparent labeling and sustainability certifications can significantly improve consumer trust and willingness to try these products. Educating consumers on the benefits of microalgae may overcome these challenges, as a lack of awareness about the health benefits may hinder acceptance. In addition to health benefits, many consumers may view the sustainability and environmental benefits of microalgae favorably. Microalgae uses less water and land than the production of meat while absorbing greenhouse gases. Cultivating them can also use wastewater, conserving increasingly scarce freshwater resources, but production costs may be high. Large-scale production also faces challenges in ensuring efficient nutrient use and minimizing ecological impacts, such as land use changes or potential disruptions to local habitats. Awareness can be created through transparent and informative labeling, as studies have shown that consumers value clear information on sustainable and safe production practices. To build consumer trust, strict research and monitoring of environmental and food safety concerns are also required. Conclusion Current research suggests that microalgal fermentation produces bioactive peptides, which can lead to significant health benefits, particularly for managing diabetes. Such peptides offer an innovative and sustainable approach to complementing conventional treatments to improve patient outcomes and metabolic health. However, consumer acceptance of microalgae products requires clear regulations, ensuring sustainability, improving sensory profiles, and increasing awareness. Advances in biotechnological tools, such as optimized bioreactors and novel microbial strains, are essential to reducing production costs and enhancing product scalability. Before integrating microalgae into mainstream dietary patterns, technological research, and innovation must address safety, taste, and production costs. Exploring the potential and challenges of fermentation in creating foods: a spotlight on microalgae. Bürck, M., Lemes, A.C., Egea, M.B., Braga, A.R.C. Fermentation (2024). DOI: 10.3390/fermentation10120649, https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5637/10/12/649

NoneBROOKFIELD, Conn., Dec. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Photronics, Inc. PLAB , a worldwide leader in photomask technologies and solutions, announced today the appointment of David Garcia to the company's Board of Directors on December 12, 2024. This election expands Board membership to nine members, seven of whom are independent. Mr. Garcia is currently a strategic advisor and previously spent approximately 30 years practicing law, most recently at Holland & Hart after starting his career at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati and Venture Law Group. His extensive experience spans mergers & acquisitions, venture capital financing transactions and securities offerings. He has counseled both publicly and privately held companies in their corporate and governance affairs and has additional experience in structuring corporate partnering transactions and technology development, distribution and licensing arrangements. "We welcome David to the Photronics Board of Directors," said Constantine ("Deno") Macricostas, chairman. "His extensive experience in financings, M&A, and other securities transactions will be valuable as the company evaluates a variety of business development opportunities." Mr. Garcia received an A.B. in Sociology with a concentration in organizational behavior from Stanford University in 1989, and a J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School in 1992. About Photronics Photronics is a leading worldwide manufacturer of integrated circuit (IC) and flat panel display (FPD) photomasks. High precision quartz plates that contain microscopic images of electronic circuits, photomasks are a key element in the IC and FPD manufacturing process. Founded in 1969, Photronics has been a trusted photomask supplier for over 50 years. The company operates 11 strategically located manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America. Additional information on the company can be accessed at www.photronics.com . Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" regarding our industry, our strategic position, and our financial and operating results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially. Please refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2023 and other subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents contain and identify important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those contained in these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. We are under no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release to conform these statements to actual results. For Further Information: Ted Moreau VP, Investor Relations 469.395.8175 tmoreau@photronics.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Jones, Mellott help Montana State run over Montana 34-11

Three people arrested after stolen BMW collided with TTC bus in Toronto: police