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Simon Garnier
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- Assistant Professor, College of Science and Liberal Arts
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- New Jersey Institute of Technology
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The Rise of AI in Development Hey there! Have you noticed how AI is sneaking its way into just about every nook and cranny of our lives these days? From our kitchens to our cars, and now even our code! Yep, AI is making quite the splash in the world of software development. It's fascinating to think about how these smart systems are taking on tasks traditionally done by developers, from generating snippets of code to automated testing. But what's really on everyone’s mind is this: could AI start replacing human developers entirely? The Ethical Dilemma Let’s chat about the elephant in the room: the ethical implications. There's something deeply human about creating software. The logic, creativity, and uniquely personal touch that developers bring to their work is hard to imagine being truly replicated by AI. There’s a fear, too, about job loss and what that means for the future of work. Plus, we have to think about bias. If AI is trained on potentially flawed data or embedded with biased algorithms, the software it creates might just inherit these issues. Creating fair and unbiased systems is a challenge that’s gone from our brains to AI systems — and it’s a bit of a nagging worry. The Practical Upturn While the ethical aspects can be a bit heavy, let's not forget about the practical perks AI brings to the coding table. For one, it can take over mundane tasks like bug fixing or code review, letting developers focus on the more innovative parts of their job. It's becoming a bit of a sidekick, if you will. AI can also speed up the development process significantly, reducing time to market and helping tech companies rapidly iterate on their products. So, for companies trying to ramp up efficiency and output, AI is like a handy new tool in the toolbox. Collaboration Over Replacement A lot of people fear AI might replace developers, but should that be the narrative? Many tech enthusiasts argue that AI should be seen as a partner, not a replacement. By collaborating with AI, developers can push the boundaries of what's possible. Imagine an AI assisting you by predicting potential issues in advance or optimizing your code for better performance! The relationship could be symbiotic, with developers training AI systems to better understand and carry out software ideas. This partnership can spur creativity and innovation, rather than stifling the human touch. The Horizon Ahead As we look toward the future, the landscape of software development will undoubtedly continue to evolve. The key is ensuring that this journey remains ethically sound, productive, and inclusive. Tech communities and companies are already engaging in discussions about preserving digital ethics while maximizing AI’s potential. In the end, whether AI becomes a subtle assistant or a prominent player, it’s our responsibility to guide its growth in a way that benefits everyone. So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s watch how this exciting chapter in tech unfolds together! ```
Yosemite National Park receives more than four million visitors per year, attracting people from all over the world to take in the sights and sounds of the park. But sometimes there are unwanted guests that hitch a ride on luggage, clothing, vehicles or have made their way into the park due to climate change and other environmental factors. Lurking amongst the beauty of the rock faces, sprawling meadows, scenic waterfalls and majestic wildlife, are those familiar little pests that take a drink of blood from an unsuspecting human or animal and leave an itchy little bite in its place. You guessed it — mosquitoes. Typically, a mosquito bite is nothing more than an inconvenience – until it isn’t. Mosquitoes can carry vector-borne illnesses that can be deadly or cause permanent health complications, particularly in children. Yosemite National Park is located in central California in the Sierra Nevada mountains with more than 1,200 square miles (nearly 95% designated wilderness) of public land and a diverse ecology, making it a perfect vector habitat. Park geography and limited resources have historically posed barriers to extensive mosquito surveillance efforts, resulting in a survey not being done in more than two decades. WCU mosquito expert steps in For the past 15 years, Brian Byrd, professor of environmental health sciences and supervisor of the Mosquito and Vector-Borne Infectious Disease Facility in the School of Health Sciences at WCU, has been doing extensive research on vector-borne illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes. In 2022, alumnus George Carroll ’09, acting deputy epidemiology branch chief and regional public health consultant for the National Park Service, stopped by to see Byrd on his way back from a training in Asheville and shared the struggles he was having in terms of monitoring mosquitoes. “We got to talking and I shared the problems we were having with mosquitoes and the sheer size of the park, which is roughly the size of Rhode Island,” Carroll said. “He expressed interested in helping, and the rest is history.” Carroll’s sister attended WCU, so it was an easy and familiar choice for him. Initially a marketing major, Carroll stumbled into an into environmental health class where he learned about mosquito-borne diseases and bioterrorism and was immediately convinced that was the major for him. Carroll was one of Byrd’s first students when he came to WCU. Years later, the two have worked together to come up with a plan to conduct a multiyear mosquito survey in Yosemite. "Hantavirus and ticks have been the main focus of vector-borne illness monitoring,” Carroll said. “Three people died from a hantavirus outbreak in 2012 and ticks have tested positive for Lyme in the park and we also deal with rodents carrying plague. Mosquito monitoring has not been at the forefront of surveillance, coupled with lack of resources and manpower, has made it difficult to know exactly what types of mosquitoes are in the park.” The entire story of Byrd and his teams research and adventure are attached in the release below - and well worth the read. And if you are a journalist covering mosquitoes, vector-borne illnesses or just curious about the subject matter- then let us help. Brian Byrd's research focuses on domestic mosquito‐borne diseases. He is available to speak with media - simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
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LI Politicians Continue to Fight Gov. on Congestion Pricing
Lawrence Levy, associate vice president and executive dean of the National Center for Suburban Studies, was interviewed by WABC-TV Eyewitness News about Governor Kathy Hochul’s revived plan for congestion pricing, and the wave of local politicians who are fighting against it.
ExpertSpotlight: The True History of Thanksgiving in America
Thanksgiving is often seen as a time for gratitude and togetherness, but its origins tell a far more complex story that intertwines indigenous history, colonialism, and the reshaping of cultural narratives. Understanding the true history of Thanksgiving invites reflection on the ways history is remembered, celebrated, and taught. As the holiday approaches, uncovering its deeper meaning is vital to fostering awareness of indigenous perspectives, historical accuracy, and the evolution of American traditions. This topic presents rich opportunities for journalists to explore its broader societal implications, with story angles including: Indigenous Perspectives on Thanksgiving: Highlighting how Native American communities view the holiday, including the National Day of Mourning and efforts to preserve indigenous cultures and histories. The Pilgrim-Indian Narrative: Investigating the historical accuracy of the widely taught Pilgrim-Indian story and its role in shaping American identity and myth-making. The Role of Thanksgiving in National Unity: Exploring how Thanksgiving was solidified as a national holiday during the Civil War and its significance in fostering unity amid division. Food, Culture, and Tradition: Examining how Thanksgiving has evolved as a culinary and cultural tradition, including the blending of indigenous and immigrant foodways. Education and Historical Accountability: Analyzing how schools and institutions teach the history of Thanksgiving, with efforts to address inaccuracies and promote indigenous voices. Thanksgiving and Modern Social Issues: Investigating the holiday’s intersection with modern challenges, such as food insecurity, consumerism, and environmental sustainability. Revisiting the history of Thanksgiving offers a chance to deepen public understanding of American history, honor indigenous contributions, and spark meaningful conversations about cultural heritage and national identity. Connect with an expert about the History of Thanksgiving: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com
Fervo Energy (“Fervo”), the leader in next-generation geothermal development, along with Southern Utah University (SUU), an institution known for its personalized approach to learning, and Elemental Impact (“Elemental”), a non-profit investing platform that invests in climate companies and projects with deep local impact, today announced the launch of a geothermal apprenticeship program to help oil and gas workers and Southwest Utah residents join the rapidly growing enhanced geothermal industry. The first-of-a-kind geothermal apprenticeship program advances labor momentum spurred by the Inflation Reduction Act. The program, administered by SUU and funded in part by Elemental, will provide those seeking new skill sets with the opportunity to learn geothermal directional drilling and well completions, while combining on-the-job training with college-level coursework on geology and energy systems. This unique approach offers pathways for traditional college students as well as adult and working learners interested in careers in the geothermal energy industry. “Thousands of Americans work in upstream oil and gas, and with the right tools, they can easily apply their skill sets to geothermal production,” said Tim Latimer, Fervo CEO and Co-Founder. “We can harness the full potential of this existing talent pool and attract new talent beyond current fossil fuel workers by providing on-the-ground and in-classroom training opportunities. We believe that our apprenticeship program with SUU can ignite that process, supporting local job growth across Southwest Utah.” Already, 22 individuals working with ten different oilfield service providers operating in the area have registered for the geothermal apprenticeship program. By the end of 2024, the program aims to enroll at least 40 apprentices, providing them with an opportunity to fill an immediate workforce need upon completion of the apprenticeship. “Southwest Utah has the resource potential to become a national clean energy hub, and we have the human potential to make that vision a reality,” said Dr. Bill Heyborne, Dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Professor of Biology. “Our new apprenticeship program will prepare Utahns to drive much-needed energy innovation in the communities they call home.” Funding from Elemental Impact, a nonprofit investor in climate technology and community focused initiatives, enabled Fervo to offer this workforce training program. "Demand for electricity is surging and expected to double in the US by 2030; geothermal sources, like those being deployed by Fervo, have the potential to meet that demand while boosting local jobs,” said Dawn Lippert, Founder and CEO of Elemental Impact. “We are thrilled to support this geothermal apprenticeship program and help power the transfer of valuable skills from oil and gas professionals to the geothermal industry. This initiative, in partnership with SUU, is an essential bridge to building a local workforce and advancing the clean energy transition." Dr. Heyborne is available to speak with the media. For more information click on his icon to arrange an interview.
Does Donald Trump Like Seniors?
At 78, Donald J. Trump already has 13 years of experience as a senior citizen. During his previous presidency, he occasionally referenced his senior status, particularly when discussing issues affecting older Americans. For example, in the 2020 election campaign, he acknowledged his age and addressed fellow seniors directly in his messaging, sometimes referring to himself as part of the senior community. Looking at his record, Trump appears to have a complex relationship with seniors. While expressing support for essential programs such as Social Security and Medicare, he often weaves the needs of seniors into his rhetoric. Yet some of his policy decisions have created mixed feelings among older Americans and advocacy groups. While pledging to protect these programs, he’s considered budget-cut proposals to reduce the funding of both these programs. Plus, his administration attempted to repeal the Affordable Care Act. While even the smartest of experts have learned it’s difficult to predict what Donald Trump will do on key policy decisions, there are some clues as to how his move back into the Oval Office will impact Canada and, more specifically, seniors. This topic got me wondering. Does Trump (a senior himself), like seniors? Let’s look closer at this demographic. Everyone knows that older people are the most reliable voters. The stats are compelling. According to Elections Canada - 75% of Canadians aged 65-74 voted compared to 48% of those aged 18-24. - The statistics for our US neighbours are similar, with 70% of Americans aged 65+ voting and 50% of Americans aged 18-29 voting. Knowing this voting power of the senior demographic, did Trump pander to this voting cohort? Yes, he most certainly did. He knew that as people age, their concerns narrow to a smaller list of critical topics such as Financial Security, Health, and Safety. During his 2024 presidential campaign, Donald Trump focused heavily on appealing to older voters, who historically make up a significant portion of the electorate and are more likely to vote. His campaign emphasized economic stability, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and national security—particularly relevant to older demographics. Let’s take a closer look at how the Trump administration could impact Canada's senior demographic in the following areas: Inflation Background: Inflation has a direct correlation to the cost of living. As the prices of goods and services rise over time, the purchasing power of money decreases – a challenge for many seniors. Critical expenses like housing, healthcare, food, and utilities could increase noticeably, putting pressure on limited retirement incomes and pensions. All this is stressful. According to a 2024 national survey of over 2,000 Canadians (conducted by Leger on behalf of FP Canada), money remains the top stressor for Canadians, with 44 percent citing money as their primary concern; That's up from 40 percent in 2023 and 38 percent in both 2022 and 2021. What This Means: Two of Trump’s biggest promises in his campaign (mass deportation of undocumented immigrants and more restrictive trade regulations) would have a "significant impact," according to an article by Ellen Cushing in the Atlantic. A domestic labour shortage plus double-digit import taxes would raise food prices on both sides of the border. Cushing goes on to say that “deporting undocumented immigrants would reduce the number of workers who pick crops by 40-50%.” While this rhetoric may have played well during the campaign, you can't fake the simple math here. Fewer workers means higher wages. That means higher prices. And the senior demographic will be hit hard because of their fixed incomes. Many will eat less of the expensive grocery store items like fresh meat, fruits and vegetables to make ends meet. Food prices will inevitably climb with these policies. The only question is when. According to a new poll conducted for CIBC and Financial Planning Canada on November 27, 2023, approximately 75% of working Canadians still need a formal financial plan for retirement. And many retirees face economic difficulties. A whopping 25% are still carrying debt into retirement. Many also report they have a substantial portion of debt and report that their retirement lifestyle isn't as comfortable as expected. The impact of inflation could be dire with few solutions; it is different for these older Canadians because they cannot re-enter the workforce. The only saving grace is that many of the hardest-hit Canadians are homeowners with equity options. Interest Rates Prediction: According to Beata Caranci, SVP & Chief Economist of TD Bank, the US is likely to raise interest rates to control growth. Canada is also expected to increase its rates, mainly to keep the Canadian dollar stable against the U.S. dollar. The Bank of Canada could be forced to rescind the projected planned interest rate reductions or at least reduce them. However, it's a delicate balancing act. Our economy could suffer if we don’t mirror the US increases in interest rates. Impact: Increasing Canadian interest rates will impact seniors by increasing mortgage carrying costs. At the same time, older Canadians with investment savings could see increased returns on these savings. A rise in interest rates would also impact housing prices and foreign exchange rates. House Prices Background: Economic, demographic, and policy-related factors influence home prices in Canada. The new Trump administration will undoubtedly impact these factors. To understand this area, let's examine some significant variables affecting housing costs. 1. Supply and Demand When housing supply is limited, and demand is high, prices rise. Conversely, when supply exceeds demand, prices stagnate or fall. Should the new administration adopt more restrictive immigration policies in the US, Canada might see an increased influx of skilled workers and families seeking an alternative place to live. Housing demand will likely increase in major Canadian cities—Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary- resulting in price increases. 2. Population Growth An increase in population or immigration boosts housing demand, particularly in urban centers, consequently increasing home prices. Canada welcomed 485,000 immigrants in 2024, many of whom settled in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. This influx has driven up demand for housing, contributing to price increases. The Canadian government has recently reduced the number of immigrants we allow into our country, dropping the number from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025. Current immigration numbers plus any overflow from the US should keep demand buoyant and we could see home prices continue to rise. However, Canada needs more housing, especially in high-demand urban areas. In addition to immigration, slow construction timelines and zoning restrictions are contributing factors. Canada's ongoing housing shortage and the potential impacts of Donald Trump's election win in the U.S. could exert upward pressure on home prices, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. These cities, already grappling with limited housing and high prices, will likely see further price increases due to increased demand. Without robust policy interventions to increase the housing supply, Canada’s housing prices, particularly in major centers, will likely continue rising. And there will be winners and losers here. This is great news for seniors wishing to sell and exit the market by finding other living arrangements, such as renting, moving in with family, or entering retirement homes. It is even better news for seniors wishing to age in place as they will have more equity to fund their retirement. But it’s disappointing news for those wishing to downsize and stay in the same communities. They may be able to sell high, but they could also be forced to buy high. 3. Foreign Currency Trump's policies, such as tax cuts and protectionist trade measures, have historically strengthened the U.S. dollar. If similar policies are reintroduced, the U.S. dollar could become more robust due to increased investor confidence and perceived economic growth in the U.S. That’s bad for Canadians traveling or living in the U.S. Trump's potential trade disputes, particularly with China, and his aggressive geopolitical stance could also create uncertainty in global markets. While this might temporarily strengthen the U.S. dollar as a haven, long-term concerns about trade wars and deficits could cause fluctuations, impacting the Canadian dollar's stability against the U.S. dollar. This volatility directly impacts Canadians, especially those with significant financial exposure to the U.S. dollar. A second Trump presidency will likely impact the exchange rate between Canadian and U.S. dollars, which is especially relevant for 85% of Canadian Snowbirds, who, according to Snowbird Advisor, spend winters in the United States. This number was estimated to be 900,000 in 2023. These seniors may face increased expenses for property taxes, utilities, and other daily living costs in the U.S. If exchange rate volatility persists, locking in more favourable rates or using specialized currency exchange services, US credit/debit cards with lower transaction fees, and using US dollar accounts might be wise - especially for more significant financial transactions. The Bottom Line One thing is certain. Trump's second term has the potential to impact many Canadian seniors if he implements the policies he discussed during his election campaign. While some could benefit financially from higher home equity and investment returns, many may need help with increased living costs, especially food and foreign exchange challenges, particularly Snowbirds and those on fixed incomes. While we are all watching this situation unfold, one thing is sure. It's difficult to predict if Trump’s second term will make Canadian or US seniors "great again."
Understanding DeFi: How Decentralized Finance is Revolutionizing Traditional Banking
Understanding DeFi: How Decentralized Finance is Revolutionizing Traditional Banking Photo: Myself What is DeFi, Anyway? Hey there! If you've been dipping your toes in the world of cryptocurrency, you've probably come across the term "DeFi." Short for Decentralized Finance, DeFi is like that cool, rebellious cousin of traditional banking. Instead of relying on banks and financial institutions, DeFi uses blockchain technology to offer financial services. It's like the wild west of finance, but with more code and fewer tumbleweeds! How Does DeFi Work? Great question! At its core, DeFi leverages smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. Imagine that you and a friend bet on who will win the next World Cup. In the DeFi world, your bet would be written as a smart contract on a blockchain, so no one can cheat and everyone gets paid automatically. DeFi platforms provide similar services for lending, borrowing, trading, and even earning interest, all without a middleman. Pretty neat, huh? Why Should You Care? You might be thinking, "Okay, this sounds interesting, but why should I care?" Well, for one thing, DeFi opens up financial services to anyone with an internet connection. No bank account? No problem! This can be especially empowering for people in underbanked or unbanked regions. Plus, because it's decentralized, DeFi can offer better rates and lower fees than traditional banks, making your money work harder for you. Risks To Watch Out For Alright, before you jump in headfirst, let's talk risks. Just like any new technology, DeFi has its fair share of challenges. Smart contracts are only as good as the code they're based on, and bugs can happen. Plus, since the space is relatively new, regulations are still catching up. It’s like the early days of the internet—exciting but a bit wild. So, always DYOR (Do Your Own Research) and maybe start small before committing your life savings. The Future of DeFi The potential for DeFi is enormous and we're just scratching the surface. As the technology matures and more people get comfortable with the idea, we might see a future where DeFi and traditional banking co-exist. Imagine a world where you can seamlessly switch between a bank loan and a DeFi loan, zero paperwork required. So keep an eye on this space; it’s evolving faster than you can say "blockchain!"
Copy of: Understanding DeFi: How Decentralized Finance is Revolutionizing Traditional Banking
Understanding DeFi: How Decentralized Finance is Revolutionizing Traditional Banking What is DeFi, Anyway? Hey there! If you've been dipping your toes in the world of cryptocurrency, you've probably come across the term "DeFi." Short for Decentralized Finance, DeFi is like that cool, rebellious cousin of traditional banking. Instead of relying on banks and financial institutions, DeFi uses blockchain technology to offer financial services. It's like the wild west of finance, but with more code and fewer tumbleweeds! How Does DeFi Work? Great question! At its core, DeFi leverages smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. Imagine that you and a friend bet on who will win the next World Cup. In the DeFi world, your bet would be written as a smart contract on a blockchain, so no one can cheat and everyone gets paid automatically. DeFi platforms provide similar services for lending, borrowing, trading, and even earning interest, all without a middleman. Pretty neat, huh? Why Should You Care? You might be thinking, "Okay, this sounds interesting, but why should I care?" Well, for one thing, DeFi opens up financial services to anyone with an internet connection. No bank account? No problem! This can be especially empowering for people in underbanked or unbanked regions. Plus, because it's decentralized, DeFi can offer better rates and lower fees than traditional banks, making your money work harder for you. Risks To Watch Out For Alright, before you jump in headfirst, let's talk risks. Just like any new technology, DeFi has its fair share of challenges. Smart contracts are only as good as the code they're based on, and bugs can happen. Plus, since the space is relatively new, regulations are still catching up. It’s like the early days of the internet—exciting but a bit wild. So, always DYOR (Do Your Own Research) and maybe start small before committing your life savings. The Future of DeFi The potential for DeFi is enormous and we're just scratching the surface. As the technology matures and more people get comfortable with the idea, we might see a future where DeFi and traditional banking co-exist. Imagine a world where you can seamlessly switch between a bank loan and a DeFi loan, zero paperwork required. So keep an eye on this space; it’s evolving faster than you can say "blockchain!"
