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Akamai First to Offer VPUs in the Cloud

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Akamai launches new category of cloud-based compute powered by NETINT video processing units

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., March 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akamai (NASDAQ: AKAM), the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online, today launched Akamai Cloud Accelerated Compute Instances, a new compute category built on specialized computer chips designed to perform specific tasks more efficiently than general-purpose processors. The new instances are powered by NETINT video processing units (VPUs), NETINT’s proprietary hardware for media transcoding. Akamai is the first and only cloud provider to offer VPUs in the cloud.

NETINT VPUs are designed for workloads where minimizing the cost of delivering high-quality video streams is essential or where reducing energy consumption is a priority. Akamai’s accelerated instances are powered by Quadra T1U VPUs, a single-chip solution that supports encoding resolutions up to 8Kp60 in industry-standard formats including AV1, HEVC, and H.264 with 8/10 bit support, including HDR. As the highest-density hardware encoder available, the Quadra T1U can encode 32 live streams at 1080p30 broadcast quality, with the capacity scaling linearly for resolutions above or below HD.

The rise in live and on-demand video streaming, user-generated content, and video-driven social media has driven companies to look for optimized hardware and cloud solutions to improve application performance. However, transcoding-optimized cloud computing resources are rare. Previously, the only way to deploy NETINT’s VPU hardware has been to purchase it outright and run it on-premises or in a colocation facility. Akamai Accelerated Compute Instances are designed for media companies that are delivering video on demand and live streaming services, providing the scalability needed without inflating IT budgets.

“By bringing traditionally hardware-confined power to the cloud, we’re removing barriers that have held businesses back. Companies can now cut costs, scale seamlessly, and deliver better streaming experiences — solving a major industry challenge that’s been overlooked for too long,” said Jon Alexander, Vice President of Product Management at Akamai. “Being the first cloud provider to offer VPUs gives Akamai a new competitive edge to expand our long-existing relationships with our media partners.”

NETINT VPUs allow companies to reallocate their application’s CPUs by offloading compute-intensive video processing tasks to the VPU. A VPU architecture offers up to 20 times greater throughput than CPU-only solutions. This frees the CPU to do other things like dynamic packaging, de-interlacing, real-time speech-to-text captioning, software decoding for standards not supported in the VPU, and run popular applications like FFmpeg and GStreamer.

“VPUs are the ultimate cheat code for video streaming profitability,” said Randal Horne, Chief Revenue Officer, NETINT. “The expenses to deliver massive volumes of video content using traditional software encoders are crippling. NETINT is proud to be the VPU engine inside Akamai Accelerated Compute Instances, bringing up to 20 times the throughput at a tenth of the cost compared with traditional industry platforms. With Akamai Cloud, NETINT helps media companies reduce equipment investment and cut OPEX to meet their growth and profitability targets.”

Akamai is making a play to be the cloud for media and to capture areas of the market overlooked by hyperscalers. Akamai media services, trusted by all top 10 video streaming services, include solutions for contribution, transport, transcoding, packaging, digital rights management, ad insertion, and content security. With the first-time cloud availability of VPUs, transcoding-optimized NVIDIA GPUs, and industry-low egress costs, Akamai enables seamless performance at scale. Its cloud platform is open by design, giving customers control over every aspect of their workflow and access to a vibrant and growing third-party partner network. Media companies can choose from multiple software and partner options across each workflow step to transport, prepare, process, deliver, secure, and monetize digital content. The scale of Akamai’s massively distributed cloud gives it the unique ability to minimize egress fees and offer generous allowances, providing unmatched price-performance.

Akamai will show its range of cloud-based media delivery, computing, and security capabilities at the 2025 NAB Show in Las Vegas, April 6–9. Akamai will host visitors at the Akamai Lounge, located in the Las Vegas Convention Center on the second level of the West Hall, room W234LMR.

About Akamai
Akamai is the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online. Our market-leading security solutions, superior threat intelligence, and global operations team provide defense in depth to safeguard enterprise data and applications everywhere. Akamai’s full-stack cloud computing solutions deliver performance and affordability on the world’s most distributed platform. Global enterprises trust Akamai to provide the industry-leading reliability, scale, and expertise they need to grow their business with confidence. Learn more at akamai.com and akamai.com/blog, or follow Akamai Technologies on X and LinkedIn.

About NETINT

NETINT is the creator of a new video processing solution called video processing unit, VPU, which is built on the company’s Codensity ASIC custom silicon. Designed to meet the needs of the most demanding video encoding workflows, the second-generation NETINT VPU, Quadra, received a Technical Emmy Award alongside Meta and Google in 2024 for its contribution to cloud video acceleration. Video engineers wanting to learn how VPUs can improve their platform, service efficiency, and cost are encouraged to visit netint.com.

Contacts
Akamai Media Relations
akamaipr@akamai.com

Akamai Investor Relations
invrel@akamai.com

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SOURCE Akamai Technologies, Inc.

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Purcell leads the way: First Irish contractor to adopt digital procurement

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Purcell adopts an innovative digital procurement solution ProcurePro, setting the pace for innovation in Ireland’s construction sector

DUBLIN, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Purcell, one of Ireland’s leading building contractors, is set to be the first in the country to implement ProcurePro, a modern construction procurement solution, digitising their procurement process end-to-end. Purcell is taking the lead in transforming how procurement is managed across the sector, setting a bold new precedent for the industry.

Ireland’s construction sector is in an ongoing struggle with outdated processes. When asked about the industry’s readiness to digitise back in October, PJ Rudden, chair of Construction Innovation and Digital Adoption, replied, “The industry is coming with us, but it’s slow.”

The truth is, digitalisation is happening across construction, onsite and offsite, but one area that hasn’t developed past 1995 is procurement. Most firms would freely admit they still rely on inefficient spreadsheets and fragmented communication methods. As the sector faces growing pressure to improve project delivery times and manage complex supply chains more effectively, Purcell’s move to digital procurement marks a pivotal shift towards greater efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness.

According to the Construction Industry Forecast (CIS), Irish construction project growth is projected to increase by 6% in 2025, with a total value of €850 million for projects under €100 million.

This growth presents both significant opportunities and challenges for Irish contractors, who must adapt to meet the rising demand for faster, more efficient project delivery. Purcell’s embrace of digital procurement technology positions the company to capitalise on these opportunities while streamlining operations and reducing risk.

“The construction industry in Ireland is at a crossroads,” said Tom Whelan, Commercial Director, Purcell Construction. “To remain competitive and deliver projects more effectively, we knew we had to embrace innovation. Digital procurement isn’t just a trend — it’s a necessity. We’re leading by example, showing that contractors can stay ahead by moving away from outdated methods to smarter, more streamlined solutions like ProcurePro.”

Purcell’s adoption of digital procurement technology improves operational efficiency, reduces risk, and enhances visibility over every step of the procurement process. This move brings procurement processes in line with the expectations of a modern construction industry — smarter, data-driven solutions that help contractors navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

Purcell’s leadership in digital procurement will likely serve as a catalyst for other Irish contractors, setting the stage for widespread adoption of digital tools across the sector. With project timelines shrinking and competition intensifying, the Irish construction industry is primed for a digital transformation, and Purcell is at the forefront of that change.

“Purcell’s decision to lead the way in digitising their procurement processes will undoubtedly inspire other Irish contractors to follow suit,” said Alastair Blenkin, Founder & CEO, ProcurePro. “This is a defining moment for the industry — innovation like this will drive efficiencies that benefit not just contractors, but also their clients, supply chains, and the wider economy.”

Purcell’s commitment to digital procurement is a crucial step in ensuring Ireland remains competitive in the global construction market.

As more contractors follow Purcell’s lead, digital procurement will surely become the standard across the Irish construction industry.

About Purcell

Purcell Construction is a leading Irish building contractor, delivering high-quality projects from its offices in Galway and Dublin. Known for its strong commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability, the company has earned a reputation for exceeding client expectations across sectors including commercial, education, healthcare, and residential.

About ProcurePro

ProcurePro is The Procurement Software for the Construction Industry, helping Head Contractors compare, select, approve and contract Subcontractors on a single platform.

Procurement is mission-critical to the success of a project, but current methods are inefficient and expensive. ProcurePro solves this by transforming the procurement process enabling consistency, early risk identification and enhancing project profitability – double the quality while saving more than 50% of time spent procuring.

Contact
Emily Broom,
emily.broom@procuerpro.co

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2664982/Purcell_ProcurePro.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2522492/5194338/ProcurePro_Logo.jpg

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/purcell-leads-the-way-first-irish-contractor-to-adopt-digital-procurement-302428643.html

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Six Leaders Recognized As 2025 SEAL Sustainability Leader Award Winners

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SEAL has announced the six winners of its 2025 Sustainability Leadership Awards, an ESG leadership award honoring the top executive leaders in Sustainability, EHS, and CSR.

SAN DIEGO, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — SEAL has announced the six winners of its 2025 Sustainability Leadership Awards, an ESG leadership award honoring the top executive leaders in Sustainability, EHS, and CSR.

“Sustainability leaders continue to push boundaries despite the challenges they face—from evolving regulations to resource constraints. Our 2025 honorees exemplify the innovation, resilience, and impact that define excellence in ESG leadership today.”

“Sustainability leaders continue to push boundaries despite the challenges they face—from evolving regulations to resource constraints,” said Arabella Solaybar, Executive Producer of SEAL Awards. “Our 2025 honorees exemplify the innovation, resilience, and impact that define excellence in ESG leadership today.”

Driven by a record number of peer/employee nominations, the 2025 Sustainability Leader Award Winners were selected based on their track record of achieving ESG goals, leadership skills, and ability to attract and retain talent.

Additionally, Employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS)-like data points were incorporated along with each executive’s specific accomplishments.

SUSTAINABILITY LEADER AWARD WINNERS

Dr. Roger Achkar — Global Waste Cleaning Network (GWCN)Jose Ricardo Aguilar — First Citizens BankSandeep Chandna — Tech Mahindra LimitedNick Doman — Ocean BottleChris Kemper — PalmettoEnrique Perez — Chef Works

SELECTED SUSTAINABILITY LEADER AWARD WINNER PERSPECTIVES

“I am deeply honored to be recognized as a winner of the SEAL 2025 Sustainability Leader Award. This accolade is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Global Waste Cleaning Network (GWCN) team and our collective commitment to environmental stewardship. Our mission to combat global environmental challenges is more crucial than ever, and this recognition fuels our resolve to drive impactful change. Together, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable world.” — Dr. Roger Achkar, Founder of the Global Waste Cleaning Network (GWCN)

“I’m honoured to be recognised as a SEAL Sustainability Leader alongside such inspiring changemakers. At Ocean Bottle, we believe business has a vital role to play in creating lasting impact for both people and the planet. This award reinforces our commitment to tackling ocean plastic at its source while empowering coastal communities with social and economic opportunities. It’s a powerful reminder that collective action can drive real change.” — Nick Doman, Co-Founder and CEO, Ocean Bottle

“I am excited and honored to be among the six leaders recognized with the prestigious Sustainability Leader award. At Tech Mahindra, we have been relentlessly working towards advancing our sustainability initiatives. We believe in driving transformative change and setting industry benchmarks through our sustainability efforts, not just within our organization but also by empowering our clients to accelerate their own ESG transformations. This recognition is a reflection of the collective efforts of my team and our shared vision of making a significant impact towards a more sustainable future.” — Sandeep Chandna, Chief Sustainability Officer at Tech Mahindra

For companies interested in entering our 2026 SEAL Business Sustainability Awards, please RSVP below:

2026 SEAL Business Sustainability Award

2026 SEAL Sustainability Leader Award Nominations:

Nominations for 2026 can be submitted at: https://forms.gle/LXL5bYbnCy4kp1Kq8

ABOUT THE SEAL AWARDS

SEAL (Sustainability, Environmental Achievement & Leadership) Awards is an environmental advocacy organization that honors leadership through our business sustainability awards & environmental journalism awards while funding research and pursuing our own environmental impact campaigns.

The SEAL Awards’ core pillars are:

Business Sustainability Awards – honors the most sustainable companies in the world, like Adidas, AMD, Cisco, and TideEnvironmental Journalism Awards – representative past winners include journalists from Guardian, New York Times, and GristImpact Campaigns – representative campaigns include “#UpTheCup” and “Eco RewardsEnvironmental Research Grants – we funded a researcher in Ethiopia for 2022.

Media Contact

Matthew Harney, SEAL Awards, 5889574226, operations@sealawards.com, www.sealawards.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/six-leaders-recognized-as-2025-seal-sustainability-leader-award-winners-302427285.html

SOURCE SEAL Awards

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myTomorrows and Scout Clinical Partner to Provide Cross-Border Patient Recruitment for Clinical Trials

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This innovative tech collaboration addresses emotional, logistical and financial challenges associated with international clinical trial recruitment, accelerating access to groundbreaking treatments globally.

AMSTERDAM, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —  myTomorrows, a global health technology company connecting patients with all possible treatment options, has announced a new partnership with Scout, a leader in services and technology for the biopharmaceutical industry. Together, they aim to streamline and enhance cross-border patient recruitment for clinical trials. This will be achieved by addressing complex financial and logistical arrangements on behalf of patients, families, and caregivers, ensuring they are spared the challenges typically associated with accessing potential pre-approval treatments.

Cross-border clinical research faces significant hurdles, from fragmented information systems and regulatory differences to complex visa and data privacy processes. Coupled with linguistic and cultural barriers, these challenges can impact communication and create delays. For rare disease trials or studies with strict eligibility criteria, they often prolong recruitment timelines, raise costs, and limit patient diversity, hindering access to developing therapies.

Through this partnership, the patient journey is optimized by connecting trial matching to personalized domestic and cross-border support services. While myTomorrows’ Patient Navigator team supports patients with initial trial option identification and pre-screening, the Scout Clinical service line offers services such as travel arrangements, expense reimbursements, pre-funded debit cards for out-of-pocket costs, and accommodation support, including short-term lodging and long-term housing for relocated patients and families. Visa and entry and exit assistance further reduce the burden on patients, families, and caregivers.

“Our partnership with myTomorrows is a win-win for all stakeholders across the clinical trial ecosystem,” said Scout CEO Moisha Platto. “By addressing key barriers early, sites can efficiently manage international patient intake and expand their reach. Patients will benefit from a clearer understanding of the process and access to a wider range of potential treatment options. This approach simplifies enrollment and enhances the overall experience for patients and their families, improving retention rates and ensuring comprehensive support every step of the way.”

The partnership will deliver services that combine advanced logistics and precision AI to revolutionize recruitment outcomes. Scout expands global patient reach, diversifies enrollment pools, and streamlines trial operations, making it easier for researchers to meet recruitment goals.

Meanwhile, myTomorrows’ AI platform identifies potentially eligible trial options within seconds, delivering a 90% reduction in eligibility criteria checking time for physicians compared to manual processes—alleviating administrative burden and enhancing screening efficiency. Together, they deliver faster, more effective recruitment while upholding international data protection regulations.

“By removing barriers and overcoming the geographic silos of traditional trials, we provide every patient, regardless of location or personal circumstances, with a real opportunity to participate” said Michel van Harten, MD, CEO of myTomorrows. “By partnering with Scout Clinical, we aim to make clinical research more viable and accessible, by connecting to trial sites beyond their immediate proximity, whether across borders or within large domestic regions. Our inventive approach directly addresses the industry’s critical need to expand patient access whilst easing logistical burdens for patients and their families. By breaking down these barriers we materially improve the patient journey and accelerate clinical research.”

The collaboration between these two organizations marks a pivotal step in advancing global clinical research, ensuring that patients worldwide have greater access to potentially life-changing treatments.

About myTomorrows:

myTomorrows is a global healthtech company dedicated to breaking down barriers for patients seeking treatment options. To make this a reality, the company has built a unique and powerful proprietary technology that conducts a comprehensive and accurate search of clinical trials, and where appropriate, Expanded Access Programs, from global public registries. This functionality efficiently connects patients, physicians, trial sites and BioPharma to simplify and accelerate access to drugs in development. Headquartered in Amsterdam with an office in New York City, myTomorrows has helped more than 15,300 patients and 2,400 physicians across 240+ sites in over 128 countries.

mytomorrows.com

myTomorrows Media Contact: 
Kate Schoenstadt
Headline Media
kate@headline.media
+972 54 777 6684

About Scout:

Scout empowers the life sciences industry with people-first solutions: Scout Meetings, Scout Clinical, and Scout Academy. We specialize in face-to-face, virtual, and hybrid clinical meeting planning, patient payment, travel, and logistics support, and virtual collaboration and education. Since 1995, we’ve been a trusted partner in customer service, regulatory compliance, and project delivery for leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Our deep understanding of international regulations and adaptable network of resources is built on operational experience in 109 countries. With white-glove attention to detail and a customizable, comprehensive range of services, Scout makes the complex easier. Visit scoutclinical.com

Scout Media Contact:
Erin Deneckere
Scout
erin.deneckere@scoutclinical.com
+1 972 503 6119

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mytomorrows-and-scout-clinical-partner-to-provide-cross-border-patient-recruitment-for-clinical-trials-302427573.html

SOURCE myTomorrows and Scout Clinical

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