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Oncology meets marine biology: When mussels spill the secrets of their environment

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INRS oncology experts use liquid biopsy to investigate the quality of marine ecosystems.

LAVAL, QC, July 23, 2024 /CNW/ – How can a team of oncology specialists provide insight into the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems? This is the challenge that a team from the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) brilliantly tackled under the supervision of Professor Yves St-Pierre and doctoral student Sophia Ferchiou, applying the principles of liquid biopsy—a technique used in early cancer detection—to the mussels of Quebec.

Medicine on call for biodiversity
By their very nature, mussels act as filters within their environment. As such, they are excellent bioindicators for assessing marine ecosystems. The research team therefore applied principles of liquid biopsy to the mollusks in order to investigate their ecosystem.

In humans, liquid biopsy involves analyzing DNA circulating in the bloodstream for evidence of cancer. It provides valuable indications of the type of cancer the patient has, the stage to which it has progressed, and the mutations generated by the disease. Since mussels retain traces of everything that enters their environment, liquid biopsy can provide significant insight into the ecological situation.

“The innovation lies in the use of new technology, i.e., multi-omic analysis, with which we can detect mutations, genetic and epigenetic changes, as well as DNA derived from organisms such as viruses, parasites, bacteria, and even certain species of fish in a given ecosystem,” explained Professor Yves St-Pierre, INRS oncology specialist. The researcher, who is based at the Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie Research Centre in Laval, observed: “We are at the junction between biomedical science and marine biology.”

The liquid biopsy consisted of analyzing the hemolymph—a fluid analogous to blood in vertebrates—of several thousand mussels, providing a veritable treasure trove of environmental data and information.

“We are following the same course as we would with a cancer patient,” Professor St-Pierre stated. “We diagnose the disease, prescribe treatment, and then follow up on developments. The sooner we can detect signs of cancer or, in this case, environmental problems, the sooner we can intervene. With liquid biopsy, we are applying the same methodology and even the same philosophy to biodiversity.” 

A collaborative approach rooted in fieldwork
This project is currently at the heart of the work led by doctoral student Sophia Ferchiou at INRS. “My research consists of using mussels as a sentinel species, i.e., a species highly sensitive to changes in its environment, to assess the health status of marine and coastal ecosystems,” stated the marine biology student, who studies under the joint direction of Professor Yves St-Pierre and Stéphane Betoulle of the University of Reims.

The team conducts its research in close collaboration with Parks Canada biologists at four Quebec sites: Moulin-à-Baude, Cap-de-Bon-Désir and Pointe-à-John on the coast of Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, and Parc national du Bic, managed by Sépaq. Each site has its own distinctive features, such as proximity to domestic and agricultural wastewater disposal or a discovery and observation centre. Key differences have already been observed between these locations.

“By applying medical techniques to marine ecosystems, not only can we make a diagnosis, but we can also observe warning signs for future issues that are likely to affect an ecosystem. Are there traces of chemicals or signs of a viral outbreak? We can therefore apply early corrective measures, which we will monitor regularly using liquid biopsy,” Sophia Ferchiou highlighted.

Initially led by the doctoral student once a month since 2019, these sample collections now take place on a weekly basis thanks to the participation of Parks Canada biologists across the different sites, providing a unique opportunity to regularly monitor the ecosystems. “This partnership has enabled us to collect an extraordinary number of samples,” Sophia Ferchiou exclaimed. “Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-omic analysis of liquid biopsies sampled from mussels to observe their biological response to environmental stress.”

“One of our conservation team’s mandates is to determine and monitor the health of the ecosystems in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park. The approach proposed by INRS is part of a series of scientific monitoring projects carried out by our team and various partners to gain a better understanding of the changes and threats to the marine park’s ecosystems. Not only is the method innovative and promising, but it is also non-invasive and relatively simple to apply in the field. We are very pleased to be able to work with the team and rely on their expertise.”

About the study
The article entitled “Assessing marine ecosystem health using multi-omic analysis of blue mussel liquid biopsies: A case study within a national marine park” published in the journal Chemosphere, was coauthored by Sophia Ferchiou, France Caza, Kumardip Sinha, Janelle Sauvageau, and Yves St-Pierre. DOI:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142714.

This research was funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature and Technologies (FRQNT).

About INRS
INRS is an academic institution dedicated exclusively to graduate research and training in strategic sectors in Quebec. Since its creation in 1969, it has actively contributed to Quebec’s economic, social, and cultural development. INRS is first in Canada in research intensity. It is made up of four interdisciplinary research and training centres located in Quebec City, Montreal, Laval, and Varennes, which focus their efforts on strategic sectors: water, earth, and environment (Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre); energy, materials, and telecommunications (Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre); urbanization, culture, and society (Urbanisation Culture Société Research Centre); and health and biotechnology (Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie Research Centre). The INRS community includes over 1,500 students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty and staff members. 

SOURCE Institut National de la recherche scientifique (INRS)

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TELUS Acquires Additional Shares of TELUS Digital

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51 mins ago

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September 28, 2024

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VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – TELUS Corporation (“TELUS”) today announced that it has acquired, through a wholly owned subsidiary, an aggregate of 2,593,631 subordinate voting shares (the “Purchased Shares”) in the capital of TELUS International (Cda) Inc. (“TELUS Digital”) by way of market purchases over the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange. As a result of the acquisition of these subordinate voting shares, TELUS has acquired an additional 2.35% interest in the TELUS Digital subordinate voting shares since TELUS’ prior early warning report filed on August 16, 2024. When added to the 4,031,191 subordinate voting shares held prior to the last report, TELUS now holds approximately 5.99% of the outstanding subordinate voting shares.

“We continue to hold confidence in TELUS Digital and its long term profitable growth strategy,” said Darren Entwistle, President and CEO of TELUS. “In recognition of the considerable opportunities ahead, we are once again increasing our existing share ownership of the subordinate voting shares in the public market. These purchases are not part of a strategy to privatize the business, but rather, a reflection of our strong belief in the meaningful and sustainable value that TELUS Digital will create for stakeholders in the years to come.”

The purchase of the Purchased Shares is being made pursuant to the normal course purchase exemption set forth in section 4.1 of National Instrument 62-104.

Before giving effect to the purchase subsequent to our August 15th news release, TELUS held an aggregate of 152,004,019 multiple voting shares of TELUS Digital and 4,031,191 subordinate voting shares. These securities represented approximately 92.5% of the outstanding multiple voting shares and 86.9% of the outstanding voting rights attached to all shares of TELUS Digital and approximately 56.8% of the total shares outstanding, reflecting the conversion by Riel B.V. of multiple voting shares into subordinate voting shares. The 2,593,631 Purchased Shares were acquired at an average purchase price of C$4.90, representing a total additional investment, before trading commissions, of C$12,703,197. After giving effect to the market purchases, TELUS holds an aggregate of 152,004,019 multiple voting shares and 6,624,822 subordinate voting shares. The shares held by TELUS now represent approximately 92.5% of the outstanding multiple voting shares, 6.0% of the outstanding subordinate voting shares, 57.7% of the outstanding shares of TELUS Digital and 87.0% of the outstanding voting rights of TELUS Digital. The multiple voting shares of TELUS Digital may be converted into subordinate voting shares on a one-for-one basis at any time.

TELUS purchased the Purchased Shares for investment purposes and may or may not purchase or sell multiple voting shares, subordinate voting shares or other securities of TELUS Digital in the future on the open market or in private transactions, depending on market conditions and other factors. TELUS currently has no other plans or intentions that relate to its investment in TELUS Digital. Depending on market conditions, general economic and industry conditions, TELUS Digital’s business and financial condition and/or other relevant factors, TELUS may at any time develop other plans or intentions in the future relating to one or more of the above items. A copy of the early warning report to be filed by TELUS in connection with the acquisition will be available on TELUS Digital’s profile on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca. Alternatively, you may contact TELUS Investor Relations at 1-800-667-4871 in order to obtain a copy of the report.

The headquarters and principal executive offices of TELUS Digital are located at Floor 5, 510 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6B 0M3

About TELUS

TELUS (TSX: T, NYSE: TU) is a dynamic, world-leading communications technology company with more than $20 billion in annual revenue and over 19 million customer connections spanning wireless, data, IP, voice, television, entertainment, video, and security. Our social purpose is to leverage our global-leading technology and compassion to drive social change and enable remarkable human outcomes. Our longstanding commitment to putting our customers first fuels every aspect of our business, making us a distinct leader in customer service excellence and loyalty. The numerous, sustained accolades TELUS has earned over the years from independent, industry-leading network insight firms showcase the strength and speed of TELUS’ global-leading networks, reinforcing our commitment to provide Canadians with access to superior technology that connects us to the people, resources and information that make our lives better.

Operating in 32 countries around the world, TELUS Digital Experience (TSX and NYSE: TIXT) is a leading digital customer experience innovator that designs, builds, and delivers next-generation solutions, including AI and content moderation, for global and disruptive brands across strategic industry verticals, including tech and games, communications and media, eCommerce and fintech, banking, financial services and insurance, healthcare, and others.

TELUS Health is a global healthcare leader, which provides employee and family primary and preventive healthcare and wellbeing solutions. Our TELUS team, along with our 100,000 health professionals, are leveraging the combination of TELUS’ strong digital and data analytics capabilities with our unsurpassed client service to dramatically improve remedial, preventive and mental health outcomes covering over 75 million lives, and growing, around the world. As the largest provider of digital solutions and digital insights of its kind, TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods enables efficient and sustainable production from seed to store, helping improve the safety and quality of food and other goods in a way that is traceable to end consumers.

Driven by our determination and vision to connect all citizens for good, our deeply meaningful and enduring philosophy to give where we live has inspired TELUS and our team to contribute $1.7 billion, including 2.2 million days of service since 2000. This unprecedented generosity and unparalleled volunteerism have made TELUS the most giving company in the world. Together, let’s make the future friendly.

For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com, follow us at @TELUSNews on X and @Darren_Entwistle on Instagram.

Investor Relations
Robert Mitchell
(647) 837-1606
ir@telus.com

Ian McMillan
(604) 317-8768
ir@telus.com 

Media Relations
Steve Beisswanger
(514) 865-2787
Steve.Beisswanger@telus.com

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SOURCE TELUS Corporation

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Observo AI, the AI-Powered Telemetry Data Pipeline, Joins the Azure Marketplace

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4 hours ago

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September 27, 2024

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Observo AI, the AI-powered security and observability telemetry pipeline is now available on Azure Marketplace.

FREMONT, Calif., Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Observo AI, a pioneer in creating security and observability data pipelines powered by Artificial Intelligence, today announced a partnership with Microsoft and the availability of Observo on Azure Marketplace. This will make it easier for Azure customers to quickly adopt Observo to help control costs, manage data sprawl, boost productivity, and identify and resolve critical incidents faster.

There is huge growth in data sent to analytics platforms by security teams. Costs for MS Sentinel are increasing at an untenable pace. Azure customers now have access to Observo AI through Azure Marketplace to optimize this data, route it to Sentinel, and save as much as 50% on SIEM costs.

Customers can now deploy Observo AI at speed while benefiting from Azure’s trusted and secure infrastructure, as well as its global commercial footprint. Availability on the Azure Marketplace will enable seamless purchasing and invoicing, with customers able to use their existing Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment (MACC) to purchase Observo AI.

“Many of our customers who have moved to Azure are experiencing a huge increase in telemetry data sent to analytics platforms by Security and DevOps teams. Expenditures on tools like Microsoft Sentinel are increasing at an untenable pace,” said Ricky Arora, Co-Founder and COO of Observo AI. “Azure Cloud customers now have access to Observo AI through the Azure Marketplace to optimize this data, route it to Sentinel or any other analytics tool, and save as much as 50% on security costs.”

“Observo AI, available on the Azure Marketplace, offers a solution for Microsoft Azure and Sentinel customers struggling with the relentless growth of security data,” said Jatinder Mann, CEO of Cetark, a cyber security services company specializing in Microsoft Security portfolio. “Observo AI empowers Security teams to optimize costs, speed incident response, and ensure robust security and compliance with a seamless, fast, and easy purchase option through the Azure Marketplace.”

Learn More

For more details on how Azure customers can take advantage of Observo AI’s AI-powered pipelines, read the complete announcement on the Observo AI blog. Visit the Observo AI Website at www.observo.ai Watch the Observo AI explainer video at https://vimeo.com/899662669

About Observo AI

Observo AI was created to help solve the biggest telemetry data problems. Observo helps reduce security costs by 50% or more while resolving incidents more than 40% faster. Our AI-Powered Observability Pipeline helps break-free from static, rules-based pipelines. Observo automates security and observability with a pipeline that constantly learns and improves. Minimize risks, enhance visibility, protect sensitive data, and stay in compliance with Observo AI.

Media Contact

Bryan Turriff, Observo AI, 1 5014129978, bryan@observo.ai, www.observo.ai

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/observo-ai-the-ai-powered-telemetry-data-pipeline-joins-the-azure-marketplace-302260671.html

SOURCE Observo AI

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VXI Global Solutions to grow Morrow, GA location with up to 300 new positions to support new clients

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4 hours ago

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September 27, 2024

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VXI Global Solutions announced today an expansion of their customer service center at 1000 Southlake Circle, adding over 300 new full-time positions to support multiple new clients.

MORROW, Ga., Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — VXI Global Solutions, a leading provider of customer experience (CX) and business process outsourcing (BPO) solutions, announced today an expansion of their customer service center at 1000 Southlake Circle, adding over 300 new full-time positions to support multiple new clients.

“We have an amazing group of people at VXI,” said Tommy Thompson, Director of Operations for VXI Morrow. “I am delighted to be able to bring meaningful job opportunities to this community. Over 85% of our leaders are promoted internally, so there are real opportunities for career growth.”

The state-of-the-art facility offers full-time positions where high performers can earn $40,000 per year with impressive weekly incentives depending on the client program they support. VXI is looking for applicants with experience in Customer Service, Sales, and Tax Preparation all with start dates throughout October and November 2024.

Local Head of Talent Acquisition, Chelsea Yancoskie, shared, “We are excited to welcome our new clients and offer these on-site positions to the local community, providing opportunities to share in our success. We’re not only looking for customer service professionals but also individuals with significant experience in sales and income tax preparation. Starting wages begin at $17 per hour, with some positions offering up to $19 per hour depending on the candidate’s qualifications.”

VXI provides paid training, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, 401(k) options, paid time off, and one of the industry’s best unlimited employee referral programs. VXI Morrow is located in Southlake Mall, so employees can easily access the Food Court and retail shops just steps away, offering convenience during breaks and before or after shifts. Team members are encouraged to “Stand Out & Fit In” by participating in the Visionaries & Passion4 volunteer programs focused on promoting an inclusive workplace and community support events. Additional perks include discounted cell phone plans, rewards programs, and frequent prize giveaways and free luncheons.

“We have an amazing group of people at VXI,” said Tommy Thompson, Director of Operations for VXI Morrow. “I am delighted to be able to bring meaningful job opportunities to this community. As one of the largest certified minority-owned businesses in the US, VXI was recently recognized as one of Newsweek’s Greatest Places to Work for Diversity and our culture is second to none. Over 85% of our leaders are promoted internally, so there are real opportunities for career growth.”

To learn more and apply, please visit the VXI Careers website or click the link: VXI Morrow apply

About VXI Global Solutions 

VXI Global Solutions is a BPO leader in customer service, customer experience, and digital solutions. Founded in 1998, the company has over 40,000 employees in more than 40 locations in North America, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean. VXI delivers omnichannel and multilingual support, software development, quality assurance, and CX advisory, automation, and process excellence to the world’s most respected brands.

VXI is backed by private equity investor Bain Capital and is one of the fastest growing, privately held business services organizations in the United States and the Philippines, and one of the few U.S.-based customer care organizations in China.

For more information, visit http://www.vxi.com.

Media Contact

VXI Corporate Communications, VXI Global Solutions, (213) 637-1300, comms@vxi.com, https://vxi.com/

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/vxi-global-solutions-to-grow-morrow-ga-location-with-up-to-300-new-positions-to-support-new-clients-302261560.html

SOURCE VXI Global Solutions

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