Greeting esteemed readers,
Wish you all very happy new year 2024. Welcome back to our 6th Dose of JAPRIZ
Journeying with Ambition, Purpose, Resilience, and Inspiring Zeal
Welcome to the January-24 edition of our Japriz Newsletter! I hope you find this edition informative and inspiring. Let's dive in!
Spotlight
Enter the domain of cancer-fighting CAR-T cells, a frontier where researchers are inching closer to an innovative paradigm: the in-situ generation of these therapeutic cells within the human body, kindling aspirations that the exorbitant and bespoke nature of current cancer therapies might undergo a transformative shift toward greater accessibility. Presently, CAR-T cell therapy stands as a beacon of hope for specific blood cancers, registering substantial efficacy in patients who found traditional treatments futile. However, a formidable obstacle persists—the exorbitant cost, rendering this therapy beyond reach for the vast populace.
In a groundbreaking revelation at a Hematology conference in San Diego, researchers have unveiled a pioneering approach. This avant-garde method aims to meticulously engineer CAR T cells directly within the human body through the auspices of a viral mechanism. This proposition carries the potential to streamline and curtail the financial burden associated with the treatment. The ramifications are profound: a simplified, minimally invasive therapeutic process that not only broadens the horizons for cancer treatment but also extends its utility to other ailments. The cost-effectiveness of this approach opens new vistas for targeting a myriad of cell types.
In conclusion, this trailblazing endeavor not only underscores advancements in cancer treatment but also serves as a harbinger of a paradigm shift in therapeutic modalities. The juxtaposition of financial feasibility and innovative methodology could usher in an era where the once-prohibitive CAR-T cell therapy becomes an inclusive and versatile solution for a spectrum of diseases.Cancer-fighting CAR-T cells could be made inside body with viral injection.
MarTech & Digital Experience
Innovations in Photoshop on the iPad: Introducing Generative Expand and Generative Fill in Versions 5.3 and 5.4
Embracing Progress: Generative Expand Unleashed in Photoshop on the iPad 5.4
Dive into the realm of boundless creativity as Generative Expand makes its debut in Photoshop on the iPad with the groundbreaking version 5.4. This transformative feature elevates your digital design experience, offering a plethora of possibilities to amplify your artistic endeavors.
Unleashing the Power of Generative Expand
With Generative Expand, Photoshop on the iPad empowers users to go beyond conventional design boundaries. This cutting-edge feature enables the creation of intricate patterns, dynamic textures, and visually stunning effects, all at your fingertips. Unleash your creativity as Generative Expand opens new doors for digital artists, allowing them to explore and experiment like never before.
Elevating Design with Generative Expand
Say goodbye to design limitations and embrace the unlimited potential of Generative Expand. Whether you're a seasoned graphic designer or a passionate hobbyist, this feature caters to all skill levels, providing a seamless and intuitive interface. Transform mundane projects into captivating masterpieces with the fluidity and versatility that Generative Expand brings to Photoshop on the iPad.
Transformative Innovation: Generative Fill in Photoshop on the iPad 5.3
In the earlier release of Photoshop on the iPad version 5.3, another groundbreaking feature takes center stage — Generative Fill. This innovative addition revolutionizes the way digital artists approach their creations, offering a dynamic and efficient approach to filling spaces with captivating elements.
Unraveling the Magic of Generative Fill
Generative Fill introduces a new paradigm for digital artists by simplifying the process of filling spaces with creative content. From intricate patterns to vibrant textures, Generative Fill breathes life into your designs, adding an element of unpredictability that sparks inspiration and uniqueness.
Streamlining Your Creative Workflow
Bid farewell to tedious and time-consuming design tasks with the streamlined workflow offered by Generative Fill. This feature is designed to enhance efficiency, allowing artists to focus more on their creative vision and less on mundane details. With Generative Fill, your designs come to life effortlessly, making every stroke of your digital brush count.
Embracing the Future of Digital Design
As we witness the integration of Generative Expand in version 5.4 and Generative Fill in version 5.3, Photoshop on the iPad paves the way for the future of digital design. These features not only cater to the diverse needs of digital artists but also position Photoshop as a frontrunner in the ever-evolving landscape of creative software.
In conclusion, the introduction of Generative Expand and Generative Fill in Photoshop on the iPad signifies a paradigm shift in digital design. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding artist, these features empower you to explore, create, and innovate with unprecedented ease. Embrace the future of digital design with Photoshop on the iPad — where creativity knows no bounds.
Artificial Intelligence
Apple Executives Johny Srouji And John Ternus Talk About Chips, AI And Innovation
Investment & Spinoff
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and Paramount Global are discussing a potential merger. This merger, valued with WBD at around $29 billion and Paramount just over $10 billion, could significantly reshape the media landscape, creating a formidable competitor to Netflix and Disney+. The discussions, still in early stages, could lead to the merging of key assets like Paramount+ and WBD's Max streaming services, as well as combining their news and sports broadcasting capabilities. Amid the increasing pressure of cord-cutting and competition from Big Tech, this potential merger, which is yet to be finalized, aims to strategically position both companies in a rapidly evolving media industry.
Adobe will no longer acquire Figma after pressure from European regulators made the deal appear unlikely. As a result of the termination, Adobe will be required to pay Figma a reverse termination fee of $1 billion in cash.
On 12th Dec’23 Adobe share was trading at $633.66, on 28th Dec’23 it is aroung $595.
China's gaming industry, the world's largest with 650 million users and $45 billion in annual revenues, faced significant market upheaval following new regulatory measures from the National Press and Publication Administration aimed at curbing excessive consumption. The regulations triggered a sharp decline in stock prices for major companies like Tencent, which fell 12.4%, its largest drop in 15 years, and NetEase, down over 24% in Hong Kong. This regulatory move, part of President Xi Jinping's "common prosperity" campaign, has shifted focus from restricting children's gaming exposure to limiting adult spending and in-game microtransactions. The impact was immediate, with the Hang Seng Tech index dropping 4.4% and affecting other gaming companies like Krafton in Seoul. Despite reassurances from Tencent, the new rules signify a major shift in China's approach to regulating its tech giants and the online gaming sector.
Book Review
"Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" is a captivating exploration into the ancient Japanese concept of "ikigai," which translates to "a reason for being." Co-authors Héctor García and Francesc Miralles delve into the principles behind the remarkable longevity and contentment of the people of Okinawa, known for their high number of centenarians. The book combines philosophical insights with practical advice to guide readers on a journey to discover their own ikigai.
The authors identify the convergence of four essential elements as the core of ikigai: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Through real-life examples, anecdotes, and interviews with individuals who have found their ikigai, the book offers a roadmap for readers to navigate their own paths towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
"Ikigai" emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, cultivating a sense of gratitude, and finding joy in simple pleasures. It encourages readers to pursue a balanced lifestyle that aligns with their passions and values. The book also explores the role of community, social connections, and a healthy lifestyle in contributing to overall well-being.
Ultimately, "Ikigai" serves as a guide to help readers unlock the secrets to a longer, happier life by discovering and embracing their unique purpose. It blends the wisdom of Japanese philosophy with practical wisdom for readers seeking fulfillment and meaning in their lives.
Some key takeaways from the book "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" presented in a point-wise format:
Ikigai Defined:
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that refers to "a reason for being" or the source of value in one's life.
It involves the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
The Four Pillars of Ikigai:
Discovering your passion and what brings you joy.
Identifying your vocation or profession that you excel in.
Recognizing what the world needs or what you can contribute to society.
Finding a way to sustain yourself financially through your pursuits.
Living in the Present:
Emphasis on mindfulness and being fully present in each moment.
Cultivating awareness and appreciating the small joys of everyday life.
Balancing Act:
Striving for a harmonious balance between work, family, and personal time.
Avoiding extremes and finding a middle ground in various aspects of life.
Community and Connections:
The importance of strong social connections and a sense of community for overall well-being.
Building and nurturing relationships with others.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
Adopting a healthy and active lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Connecting the mind and body for overall wellness.
Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures:
Appreciating the beauty in simplicity and finding joy in everyday activities.
Avoiding overcomplication and unnecessary stress.
Gratitude and Contentment:
Practicing gratitude for what you have and acknowledging the positive aspects of life.
Cultivating contentment in the present moment.
Purpose and Meaning:
The pursuit of a meaningful life by aligning personal values with actions.
Discovering and embracing one's unique purpose.
Learning from Longevity:
Examining the lifestyles of communities with high longevity, such as Okinawa.
Extracting lessons on diet, social connections, and mindset for a longer and happier life.
Continuous Self-Reflection:
The importance of self-awareness and continuous self-reflection to understand personal values and goals.
Adapting and evolving over time to align with changing circumstances.
These takeaways offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of wisdom woven throughout the book, providing readers with practical insights and inspiration for leading a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
You can read this book and get it from Amazon for more details.
Case Studies
Deep Dive on How Budget Airlines Like Ryanair Make Money
In the ever-evolving landscape of air travel, budget airlines have long been the subject of humor and skepticism. From the jests about their frugality to the quirky innovations, such as taping glow sticks to a Roomba, these carriers continue to capture attention. However, beneath the surface, the business of budget airlines is a serious matter, constituting almost a third of global airline capacity.
Ryanair, the Irish low-cost airline, has mastered the art of turning humor into a brand. Their success is part of a broader trend where budget airlines have proliferated globally, not only in Europe and the U.S. but also in Latin America and Asia. The strategy revolves around stimulating markets that were previously untapped, catering to a population that didn't consider air travel feasible.
Exploring the workings of budget airlines, lets delves into the experience of flying Europe's largest low-cost carrier, Ryanair. The journey reveals the meticulous cost-cutting measures employed, such as eliminating paper safety cards and focusing on operational efficiency. The concept of "unbundling," where passengers pay for add-ons like seat selection and luggage, is a central aspect of the low-cost business model.
The origins of the low-cost model trace back to Pacific Southwest Airlines in 1949, perfected by Southwest Airlines in the early 1970s. Today, this model is embraced by carriers like Spirit, Frontier, Easyjet, and Ryanair. Key to their success is the meticulous management of operational costs, emphasizing load factor, standardized fleets, and utilization of smaller, cost-effective airports.
The nuances of the budget airline industry come to light from the intricacies of add-on fees, taxation benefits, to the emphasis on single-class planes. Challenges, such as strict luggage regulations and unexpected expenses, highlight the trade-offs passengers make for budget-friendly fares.
Comparing the performance of budget airlines in the U.S. and Europe, a divergence is evident. While U.S. carriers like Spirit and Frontier face challenges, their European counterparts, particularly Ryanair and Easyjet, report robust numbers. The reasons behind this divergence include differences in capacity, demand, and competition, with Europe's market showing more resilience.
Despite challenges like potential recessions, rising costs, and congested airspace, the budget airline model seems poised to persist. As consumers increasingly seek affordable travel options, new entrants are adopting the budget-conscious approach. The legacy carriers, too, are adapting with the introduction of basic economy fares, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the aviation industry.
Important Days/ Upcoming Event
1st January New Year's Day
1st January Global Family Day
4th January World Braille Day
6th January World Day of War Orphans
9th January Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or NRI (Non-Resident Indian) Day
10th January World Hindi Day
26th January Republic Day Of India
26th January International Customs Day
29th January World Leprosy Day
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That’s all for this month. Will back in your inbox next month.