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New Research Reveals Positive Associations Between Online Content Creators and Community Connection for LGBTQ+ Young People

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SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — New research from Hopelab, in collaboration with media psychology expert Dr. Bradley Bond, sheds light on the powerful role that social media and parasocial relationships play in the lives of LGBTQ+ young people. The study, Parasocial Relationships, AI Chatbots, and Joyful Online Interactions Among a Diverse Sample of LGBTQ+ Young People provides a nuanced understanding of how unique online connections with media figures, such as social media content creators, contribute to the positive experiences, community connection, and identity development for Queer young people. The study also features data on LGBTQ+ young people’s use of AI chatbots to engage in interactive conversations.

The findings suggest that parasocial relationships—one-sided relationships formed with media figures—are strong sources of support and connection for LGBTQ+ young people, a group that experiences loneliness and depression at significantly higher rates than their peers. The data suggest that parasocial relationships are also especially important for transgender and nonbinary young people.

“Conversations about the well-being of LGBTQ+ young people often focus primarily on harms, rather than ways to improve joy,” said Dr. Mike Parent, Principal Researcher at Hopelab. “Our data highlight that visibility matters and relatable content creators provide a pathway to the development of programs and policies that support Queer young people as they navigate an evolving technology ecosystem.”

Key Findings:

Transgender and nonbinary young people benefit most from parasocial relationships: These connections are linked to higher levels of transgender pride and community connectedness among transgender and nonbinary young people.Smaller-scale content creators resonate deeply: LGBTQ+ young people often identify with smaller, relatable creators whose content feels authentic and less curated. These creators frequently focus on personal growth and LGBTQ+ identity.High chatbot use among transgender and nonbinary youth: 40% of respondents report engaging with AI chatbots for ongoing conversations, with another 16% indicating openness to using chatbots in the future.Online interactions foster joy and connection: LGBTQ+ young people report finding joy through supportive online conversations, connecting with others who share similar identities, and experiencing relatability that helps them feel less alone.

Additionally, the report examines the use of social media and generative AI, highlighting that tools such as chatbots may lessen the impact of in-person isolation and loneliness for transgender and nonbinary young people. A greater understanding of the ways LGBTQ+ young people navigate emergent technology and leverage parasocial relationships is crucial to informing efforts that minimize harm while constructing social media literacy and developing policies and programs in support of Queer joy.

“In a hetero- and cisgender-normative society, it is essential for marginalized populations, such as transgender and nonbinary young people, to have access to resources as they develop their sexual and gender identities,” said Dr. Bradley Bond, media psychology and parasocial relationship expert. “Parasocial relationships and technology like generative AI can play a vital role for LGBTQ+ young people who are dealing with isolation and lack of in-person support.”

Data for this study was collected via a national survey of 1,715 U.S.-based LGBTQ+ teens and young adults, ages 13-22. To provide additional depth and context, Hopelab conducted co-distillation and sense-making sessions with nine LGBTQ+ young people, offering a fuller perspective on the findings.

Download the full report here.

About Hopelab
Hopelab envisions a future where young people have equitable opportunities to live joyful and purposeful lives. As a researcher, convener, and science translator, Hopelab is dedicated to fostering greater mental health and well-being outcomes for young people. Learn more at hopelab.org.

Bradley J. Bond, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Communication at the University of San Diego. His research examines the development and maintenance of parasocial relationships with media personae and the influence of media on identity and outgroup attitudes. Much of his current work focuses on the depiction of marginalized individuals in entertainment media and the effects of exposure on identity, stereotypes, and prejudices. He serves as a Research Associate with the Media and Diversity Center, on the Advisory Council for the Center for Scholars & Storytellers, and as Board President for FilmOut San Diego.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-research-reveals-positive-associations-between-online-content-creators-and-community-connection-for-lgbtq-young-people-302263271.html

SOURCE Hopelab

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SUS ENVIRONMENT has formally signed the agreement for Indonesian Makassar Waste-to-Energy Project

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October 1, 2024

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JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On September 24th, Shanghai SUS Environment Co., Ltd. and the Makassar City Government of Indonesia formally signed the Concession Agreement for the Makassar Waste-to-Energy Project. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Ridha Yasser, Assistant Deputy Minister of Energy of Maritime and Investment Coordination Ministry, as well as leaders from the Makassar Environmental Department, KPPIP, Finance Department, Government Procurement Policy Bureau, and Economic Coordination Department.

At the signing ceremony, Dr. Ridha Yasser, Assistant Deputy Minister of Energy, stated, “The implementation of this project represents a pivotal advancement in Indonesia’s transition to a clean energy future. The introduction of advanced waste treatment technology will not only help Indonesia address its municipal waste issues but also contribute to optimizing the country’s energy structure.”

Mr. Jiao Xuejun, Chief Technology Officer of SUS ENVIRONMENT, stated, “The Makassar Waste-to-Energy Project is not only a crucial component of SUS Environment’s global strategic blueprint but also a significant milestone in Indonesia’s march towards a green energy era and the innovation of its waste management system.” 

He further emphasized that SUS would leverage its technological and managerial strengths to ensure the simultaneous achievement of environmental, social, and economic benefits, working alongside various sectors in Indonesia to promote environmental protection and contribute to the well-being of local communities and global environmental improvement.

The waste-to-energy project, located in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi Province in Indonesia, has a construction scale of 1,300 t/d and is equipped with 2 x 650 t/d incineration lines and a 1 x 35MW turbine & generator. 

The project is expected to commence construction in 2024 with an estimated total investment of approximately USD 200 million, with operations scheduled to begin by the end of 2026. With a total investment of approximately USD 200 million, the project is expected to commence construction in 2024 and commence operations by the end of 2026. The project will address Indonesia’s urgent waste management challenges while also significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

During construction, it will create numerous job opportunities for the local community and drive the development of related industries in Indonesia, reinforcing the country’s commitment to carbon neutrality goals and sustainable development efforts.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/sus-environment-has-formally-signed-the-agreement-for-indonesian-makassar-waste-to-energy-project-302262361.html

SOURCE Shanghai SUS ENVIRONMENT Co.,Ltd.

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Panasonic Holdings to Keynote at CES 2025

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57 mins ago

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October 1, 2024

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Yuki Kusumi, Group CEO, will take the stage

ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Emphasizing how technology touches all facets of our lives, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® announces Yuki Kusumi, Group CEO, Panasonic Holdings Corporation, as an opening keynote speaker for CES® 2025. Mr. Kusumi and Kinsey Fabrizio, CTA President, will share the news and discuss what to expect at CES 2025 during an event in Tokyo, Japan today.

“WELL into the Future is our theme for CES 2025,” said Mr. Kusumi. “The Panasonic Group’s legacy of social contribution – informed by our seven founding principles – continues to drive our actions as we work to fulfill our Founder’s vision of making today better than yesterday, tomorrow better than today.”

“WELL into the Future” embodies the idea that the Panasonic Group, through innovations and a commitment to addressing social issues, is leading the development of a wave of cutting-edge solutions to help achieve this vision for a better future.

The Panasonic Group, in collaboration with an ever-growing array of strategic partners who share its values and aspirations, continues to pursue the realization of this vision, not only through its products, technologies, and services, but also through its business activities – including the development of green energy technologies and circular economy practices to help address the urgency of the climate crisis.

With a long and distinguished career in research and development (R&D) and company management, Mr. Kusumi is passionate about innovation, digital transformation, and combatting environmental issues for a better, brighter future for everyone.

“Panasonic and CTA thrive on our abilities to recognize and drive trends in innovation and society,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO, CTA. “Under the leadership of Mr. Kusumi, Panasonic’s latest vision for a smart energy future and wellbeing is likely to move markets once again.”

During the keynote, the Panasonic Group will introduce new initiatives that focus on innovative technologies to enhance the sustainability of society, as well as the health, comfort and safety of families and individuals, and will demonstrate that the Panasonic Group is taking a new step towards realizing the future it aims for.

“As a participant in the first CES in 1967 and each one since then, Panasonic has built decades of innovation that prioritize people,” said Fabrizio. “With a keen eye for the future, we know that Mr. Kusumi will offer insights on how technology will affect many facets of our lives.”

Mr. Kusumi speaks following the CTA State of the Industry Address at 8:30 a.m. PT on January 7, 2025, in the Palazzo Ballroom at the Venetian. Dive into comprehensive wellbeing for us and our planet. For the latest information on CES 2025, visit CES.tech and register here.

About CES®: 
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2025 takes place Jan. 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social.

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.

About the Panasonic Group: 
Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, industry, communications, and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022 with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company and eight companies positioned under its umbrella. The Group reported consolidated net sales of 8,496.4 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2024. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/ 

 

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/panasonic-holdings-to-keynote-at-ces-2025-302263363.html

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Electronic Caregiver and Samsung Electronics America Join Forces to Reveal Transformational Chronic and Aging Care Solutions at HLTH 2024

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2 hours ago

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October 1, 2024

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Addressing the Challenge of Chronic Conditions with Addison Care and Samsung Electronics America

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, one in three people worldwide live with multiple chronic conditions, impacting 2.7 billion global citizens. In America, the situation is even more severe, with an estimated 42% of citizens affected. Common conditions include hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, and respiratory illnesses. These chronic illnesses often lead to depression and behavioral health challenges, placing a significant physical, psychological, and emotional toll on patients. Alarmingly, 50% of treatment failures are due to non-adherence to care plans, such as medication management, lifestyle changes, and vitals monitoring. This non-adherence predominantly occurs at home, away from clinical oversight. Until now, there has been no scalable way to identify and address this issue.

Electronic Caregiver introduces Addison Care, an AI-driven 3D Virtual Caregiver that operates 24/7 in the patient’s home. Addison monitors and improves treatment adherence, performs automated wellness checks and vitals monitoring, provides companionship, manages medication schedules, and assists with daily tasks and routines. Addison is now available on Samsung tablets, mobile devices, and other Samsung smart home devices. At HLTH 2024 in Las Vegas, Addison will be showcased on Samsung tablets and integrated with Samsung’s newest Galaxy Watch7, which features FDA-approved vitals monitoring.

Revolutionizing Digital Health and Connected Care

Together, Electronic Caregiver and Samsung are transforming digital health and connected care, not only at home but throughout the entire patient journey—from clinic to hospital to home. With the increasing number of chronically ill patients, 55 million aging adults in the U.S., and 53 million family caregivers, the combination of Electronic Caregiver’s Addison Care solution with Samsung’s hardware, software, and security is a groundbreaking innovation.

Comprehensive Care Solutions

The combined solutions improve care outcomes, reduce social isolation, support mental health, extend functional independence, and enhance the quality of life. Addison, powered by Samsung, applies a three-phase strategy:

Engagement and Assistance: Addison protects, serves, educates, and entertains with interactive engagements for daily care and tasks, including gamification.Continuous Health Monitoring: Addison provides continuous health monitoring, early identification of health changes, facilitates timely interventions, and optimizes care coordination.Companionship and Connectivity: Addison offers companionship, on-demand virtual primary care, 24/7 emergency response, auto fall detection, and features to improve memory, concentration, and motor skills. It integrates with a centralized TeleCare operation where care coaches and nurses provide additional support.

Tailored for Diversity and Personalization

Electronic Caregiver and Samsung are dedicated to patient-centric care solutions. Addison is designed to be reliable, easy to use, and highly effective, tailored to personal choices, ethnicities, cultural preferences, languages, and health circumstances. Configurations are available for home, hospital, clinical support, senior living communities, home care providers, and other key stakeholders.

Innovative Interactive Features

Addison features highly engaging scenes with interactive objects, creatures, toys, musical instruments, plants, and surprises. It celebrates holidays, faith-based events, birthdays, and sporting events with users, maintaining constant engagement with endless animations.

Statements from Leadership

Anthony Dohrmann, CEO of Electronic Caregiver, Inc., states, “Addison, enhanced by Samsung, is the most unique, advanced experience for human-technology interaction ever created. The world will be surprised by what we’ve achieved for both user engagement, and care.”

Cherry Drulius, Healthcare Director at Samsung Electronics America adds, “Samsung believes digital health and connected care are the future. With Addison and Virtual Care available on Samsung devices, we can improve health outcomes, support self-care, and enhance wellness for countless individuals.”

For more information about Addison Care and the partnership with Samsung Electronics America, visit www.electroniccaregiver.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/electronic-caregiver-and-samsung-electronics-america-join-forces-to-reveal-transformational-chronic-and-aging-care-solutions-at-hlth-2024-302263375.html

SOURCE Electronic Caregiver

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