Latest news with #MMT
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
If your phone's always on silent, you might have these hidden psychological traits
If you always keep your phone on silent, you might be sending a message to the world about how you live and think, not just avoiding noise. People who don't use their phones could be practicing a hidden form of mindfulness that changes how they live their lives, from better focus to stronger boundaries. How does silencing your phone affect your brain? A new study from Kyung Hee University says that turning off your phone could show that you have hidden mental strengths like mindfulness, self-awareness, and control. This shows how even a small change in environment can have a big effect on mood, focus, and social presence. Researchers investigated whether office workers' stress, burnout, and work engagement could be enhanced by a mobile mindfulness training (MMT) program. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cara Membantu Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma Limfoma Pelajari Undo 114 participants in total were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control groups for the study. For four weeks, the experimental group engaged in mindfulness exercises using the InMind app, while the control group followed suit. Before, after four weeks, and after eight weeks, assessments were carried out. According to the study, participants' focus and stress levels improved after using the mindfulness app. Participants who changed their lifestyles, like turning off their phones, showed the best results. Making the decision to turn off phones can have major psychological advantages, as per a report by Earth. Live Events What are the hidden habits of silent-phone users? Individual boundaries According to Adrian Ward, an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School of Business, having a smartphone nearby can drastically impair cognitive function. The mind can be captivated by even a silent phone. Muting devices can restore focus and a peaceful work environment. By removing the expectation of instant response, the lack of chirps conveys respect for individual boundaries. Friends and coworkers eventually learn to text first and wait, which strengthens the owner's sense of independence. The boundary transforms silence into courtesy rather than avoidance by acting as a gate that opens according to the owner's schedule rather than a wall that keeps people out. Seizing control of your time Silent phone users are eager to avoid interruptions since it can take them 23–15 seconds to regain complete focus. They reduce the number of hours in a week, group responses into predetermined blocks, and separate urgent from noisy interactions by managing notification windows. The brain can anticipate longer concentration arcs and complete projects in less time when notifications are muted. In creative or analytical work, where even a brief pause can shatter ideas, the cumulative effect resembles compound interest, with each saved minute expanding into longer productive stretches. ALSO READ: White House seethes as sculpture shows Trump dancing with Epstein - who are the artists? Practicing mindfulness Silent phones can promote calm and lessen external triggers, improving attention and vitality among Korean office workers, according to a four-week mobile mindfulness program. The phone enables deliberate breathing exercises in place of automatic swipes by muting alerts. The phone is still accessible in case of emergencies, but the silent setting lessens outside distractions before meditation starts. Silence and steady breathing are linked to relaxation, which makes people more present, relaxed, and less likely to shiver under duress. It has been demonstrated that this strategy works well to cut down on sounds that make people anxious. Alleviate tension Even when the message is unimportant, silent phones can lessen stress by lowering the volume of noise that sets the body up for action. Attentional distraction has been linked to increased stress, negative moods, and decreased productivity, according to research. By turning off the ringtone, you can protect your nervous system from the constant barrage of notifications, which keeps your heart rate and cortisol levels low for longer. This lessens the background stress that many employees take for granted and enhances sleep quality by preventing the temptation to check for one final ping at midnight. ALSO READ: Think 10,000 steps is the magic number? It might not be the best goal for you Surging for depth People who use silent phones participate completely in conversations, picking up on pauses and changes in tone that others might overlook. Stronger social support and trust result from this depth, which screen time metrics cannot measure. They are frequently described as "good listeners," which helps them in situations involving collaboration and leadership. As their presence becomes more valuable due to its rarity, stronger bonds are formed. Keeping up with the flow People, especially those who suffer from high levels of FOMO, frequently check their phones in silent mode. In order to break the feedback loop between anxiety and silence, seasoned muters combat this by hiding the phone. Additionally, they turn off lock-screen previews, eliminating visual cues that might entice them to return. Like noise-canceling headphones for the mind, they provide a multi-layered defense against distraction by coordinating sound, sight, and distance. In order to break burnout-prone workflows, the device cuts power once it is out of reach, enabling users to enter what psychologists refer to as "flow." Self-awareness Instead of depending solely on willpower, silent phone users prioritize self-awareness by establishing environments that support their objectives. They schedule introspective walks, establish bedtimes, and set aside time for screen-free reading. A greater message is conveyed by this little ritual: attention is limited, valuable, and best used consciously. They maintain intention and cultivate a more mindful way of living by setting their phone to silent mode. FAQs Does setting your phone to silent really reduce stress? Yes. According to studies, fewer interruptions can help lower cortisol levels and improve focus, sleep, and overall calm. Why do silent phone users appear to be more mindful? They intentionally set boundaries, control when and how they engage, and reduce mental clutter caused by constant pings.
Los Angeles Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Medical Manufacturing Technologies Acquires Comco
Medical Manufacturing Technologies (MMT), a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management and a leading global provider of automated, process-driven medical device manufacturing solutions, has announced the acquisition of Burbank-based Comco, a recognized leader in the micro-precision sandblasting sector. This strategic move is set to significantly enhance MMT's abrasive technology offerings while expanding its microblasting capabilities. Established in 1965, Comco is a leading company in the microblasting space, a technique utilized for deburring, texturing, cleaning and modifying part surfaces. As the creators of the award-winning MicroBlaster, Comco has gained the trust of industry professionals in medical manufacturing, microelectronics, precision machining and aerospace, positioning itself as the premier partner for microblasting solutions. Commenting on the acquisition, Robbie Atkinson, CEO of MMT, said, 'We are thrilled to expand our range of comprehensive manufacturing solutions with the acquisition of Comco. This new partnership will strengthen our position as a trusted end-to-end provider of medical and specialized industrial manufacturing services and solutions worldwide. Comco's commitment to quality products, exceptional customer support and outstanding technical assistance aligns perfectly with MMT's dedication to innovation and customer care, ultimately helping customers achieve success.' Comco's MicroBlaster operates by uniformly mixing clean, dry air with abrasive particles as small as 17.5 microns. The mixture is propelled through a nozzle tip at high velocity, resulting in a tightly focused and easily controlled abrasive stream. This state-of-the-art technology enables consistent microblasting parameters, ensuring a high level of repeatability and providing a cost-effective, environmentally friendly manufacturing method. 'We're thrilled to announce our collaboration with MMT, a trusted leader in automated, process-driven manufacturing,' stated Colin Weightman, president of Comco. 'By combining our unique strengths and expertise, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that will enhance the customer experience and propel the manufacturing industry towards new heights of success.' Weightman will assume the role of technical sales director, contributing to the growth of MMT's abrasive technologies while also strengthening partnerships and promoting ongoing innovation in microblasting to solve manufacturing challenges. Information was sourced from Businesswire. Learn more by contacting
Business Wire
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Medical Manufacturing Technologies (MMT) Enhances Abrasive Technology and Microblasting Capabilities with Strategic Acquisition of Comco
CHARLOTTE, N.C. & LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Medical Manufacturing Technologies (MMT), a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management and a leading global provider of automated, process-driven medical device manufacturing solutions, proudly announces the acquisition of Comco, a recognized leader in the micro-precision sandblasting sector. This strategic move is set to significantly enhance MMT's abrasive technology offerings while vastly expanding its microblasting capabilities. Established in 1965, Comco is a leading company in the microblasting space, a technique utilized for deburring, texturing, cleaning, and modifying part surfaces. As the creators of the award-winning MicroBlaster ®, Comco has gained the trust of industry professionals in medical manufacturing, microelectronics, precision machining, and aerospace, positioning itself as the premier partner for microblasting solutions. Commenting on today's acquisition is Robbie Atkinson, CEO of MMT, 'We are thrilled to expand our range of comprehensive manufacturing solutions with the acquisition of Comco. This new partnership will strengthen our position as a trusted end-to-end provider of medical and specialized industrial manufacturing services and solutions worldwide.' He continued, 'Comco's commitment to quality products, exceptional customer support, and outstanding technical assistance aligns perfectly with MMT's dedication to innovation and customer care, ultimately helping customers achieve success." Comco's MicroBlaster® operates by uniformly mixing clean, dry air with abrasive particles as small as 17.5 microns. The mixture is propelled through a nozzle tip at high velocity, resulting in a tightly focused and easily controlled abrasive stream. This state-of-the-art technology enables consistent microblasting parameters, ensuring a high level of repeatability and providing a cost-effective, environmentally friendly manufacturing method. "We're thrilled to announce our collaboration with MMT, a trusted leader in automated, process-driven manufacturing," stated Colin Weightman, President of Comco. "By combining our unique strengths and expertise, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that will enhance the customer experience and propel the manufacturing industry towards new heights of success.' Weightman will assume the role of Technical Sales Director, contributing to the growth of MMT's abrasive technologies while also strengthening partnerships and promoting ongoing innovation in microblasting to solve manufacturing challenges. MMT is committed to serving as the preferred partner in the medical device and precision manufacturing industry, focusing on predictability, reliability, yield, and throughput. MMT's portfolio of companies includes CATHTIP, Comco, Engineering by Design, FEPeeler, GenX Medical, Glebar, Interface Catheter Solutions, MMT Automation, MPT Europe, R&D Engineering, Somex Automation, SYNEO, and Tridex Technology. About Medical Manufacturing Technologies Medical Manufacturing Technologies (MMT), a leading global provider of medical device manufacturing solutions, is a single-resource solution for automated process-driven medical manufacturing—streamlining complex medical device solutions with an emphasis on precision and finely tuned efficiency. The company offers process development, applications and equipment, technical solutions, and after-market support. Web: About Comco Comco was established in 1965 to support the hybrid microelectronics industry, a critical partner in the development of early resistors. The technical expertise required for the early semiconductor industry was also well suited to challenges faced in the developing medical and aerospace markets. The capabilities of MicroBlasting make it an effective solution for manufacturing challenges that do not have an easy solution. Our team of engineers is instrumental in moving our partners' applications forward. Web: Arcline Investment Management is a growth-oriented private equity firm with $9.1 billion in cumulative capital commitments. Arcline seeks to invest in technology-driven, meaningful to the world industrial businesses that enable a better future. Web:
Fibre2Fashion
28-05-2025
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
India to operationalise 76 waterways by 2027, targets cargo surge
India's Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has announced plans to make 76 inland waterways operational by 2027 during a Consultative Committee meeting held in Mumbai. Cargo volumes through these routes are expected to increase by 156 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) by the end of fiscal 2026 (FY26). The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the nodal agency under the ministry, presented a comprehensive review of major projects, future projections, and the roadmap ahead. India aims to make 76 inland waterways operational by 2027, with cargo volumes expected to rise by 156 MTPA by FY26. Key initiatives include the Jal Marg Vikas Project, Maritime India Vision 2030, and a ₹5,000 crore (~$586.27 million) Northeast development roadmap. Major terminals and corridors are being developed on NW-1, NW-2, NW-16, and NW-31 to boost economic activity and transport efficiency. 'Inland waterways are emerging as the watershed moment in India ' s logistics and transport ecosystem. We are witnessing a transformational shift with policy interventions like the National Waterways Act, 2016, the Inland Vessels Act, 2021 and supplemented by multiple programmes like Jal Marg Vikas Project, Arth Ganga, Jalvahak scheme, Jal Samriddhi scheme, Jalyan and Navic among others. Through Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,' Indian Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal said in a press release. 'These roadmaps are not just policy documents—they are catalysts driving India toward becoming a global maritime powerhouse. Today ' s meeting with esteemed Members of Parliament reflects a unified commitment to boost infrastructure and unlock the immense economic potential of our rivers and coasts. With enhanced budgetary support and cooperative federalism, we are building a greener, more efficient, and future-ready waterway network across the country,' added Sonowal. The Regional Waterways Grid is designed to enhance economic activity by enabling seamless vessel movement along a 4,067 km corridor connecting Varanasi to Dibrugarh, Karimganj, and Badarpur via the IBP route. A traffic study and detailed project report (DPR) for the renovation of the Jangipur navigation lock are currently underway. The corridor is projected to handle cargo volumes of 32.2 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) by 2033. On National Waterway 1 (Ganga), a 1,390 km dedicated corridor is under development to facilitate smooth vessel movement and improve the efficiency of inland water transport. The capacity enhancement of NW-1 aims to support vessels of 1,500–2,000 DWT, alongside the establishment of key cargo terminals at Varanasi (MMT), Kalughat (IMT), Sahibganj (MMT), and Haldia (MMT). The Inland Waterways sector is also undertaking major infrastructure initiatives in the Northeast. A ₹5,000 crore (~$586.27 million) development roadmap has been laid out for the next five years. On NW-2 (Brahmaputra), four permanent terminals—Dhubri, Jogighopa, Pandu, and Bogibeel—and 13 floating terminals are being supported through fairway and navigation improvements. A ₹208 crore ship repair facility at Pandu and a ₹180 crore alternative road are slated for completion by 2026 and 2025, respectively. On NW-16 (Barak), the terminals at Karimganj and Badarpur are operational, while development of NW-31 (Dhansiri) is underway to support the expansion of Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL). Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)
Daily Maverick
27-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Now more than ever South Africa needs to practise fiscal prudence
To paraphrase Ronald Reagan, 'this time is different' are the four most dangerous words in economics. And yet, in a recent op-ed for Business Day, Ziyanda Stuurman invokes precisely this logic. She argues that while 'budget cuts have become conventional wisdom in South Africa in the past decade… we are no longer living in conventional times.' Surely however, it is exactly during turbulent and unpredictable economic conditions such as those we are living through that — particularly for emerging markets like South Africa — fiscal discipline becomes more critical, not less? Stuurman makes an impassioned plea to the National Treasury to break from economic orthodoxy and embrace the principles of Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) — essentially, spend freely in the hope that growth and welfare dividends will follow. However, her central claim — that countries across Africa like Kenya are successfully applying this approach — is not only misleading, but is also just wrong. Across the continent, governments are conversely tightening their belts in response to severe economic pressure. In the past week alone, Kenya, Mozambique and Botswana have all announced plans to reduce spending. Ghana made similar announcements in March. The reason for these draconian cuts to expenditures is the darkening economic outlook. Kenya, for example, has announced austerity programmes to drastically shrink its budget deficit by June 2026 as it negotiates a new bailout programme with the International Monetary Fund. The government intends to make 'substantial revisions' to its previously expansionary budget of 4.3-trillion shillings ($33-billion), in an effort to drastically cut its deficit. Clouding it all is a gloomy growth outlook, with the economy expanding in 2024 by 4.7%, its slowest since the pandemic. 'The cabinet has resolved to implement significant budget realignments in line with the government's policy of fiscal consolidation and commitment to living within its means,' read a statement from the Kenyan presidency. Post-election unrest In Mozambique, post-election unrest and a slump in the price of coal, the nation's biggest export, have led to job losses and a financing crunch. The government slashed its 2025 budget by 9%, approving a 512.75-billion meticais ($8bn) spending plan, down from 567.86-billion in 2024. Yet, the budget deficit is still expected to reach 8.2% of GDP. With debt servicing and a ballooning state wage bill consuming state resources, Mozambique faces mounting fiscal strain amid political instability and falling growth projections. The worst election-related protests the country has yet seen — after opposition presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane disputed the October election outcome that placed him second — have also hit growth and revenues, exacerbating the situation. Meanwhile Botswana — the world's leading diamond exporter by value — is suffering from a prolonged drop in global demand for the gems. It previously relied on precious stones for most of its exports and about a third of its fiscal revenue. Collapsing diamond demand has led to dwindling government revenue streams and reserves, with its budget deficit projected to widen to 9% of GDP. The country is also forecasting a 3% economic contraction this year. Compounding Africa's challenges is a shifting global environment. The abrupt end of billions in dollars in aid and a major reordering of global trade under US President Donald Trump are already having ripple effects. Reduced demand for key commodities and diminished preferential access to the US market will worsen the economic downturn for many of Africa's poorest countries, precisely when they need it least. It is with this backdrop that South Africa's Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana last week calmed a months-long political crisis that had threatened the stability of its governing coalition, presenting a fiscally cautious Budget that won praise from lawmakers and investors alike. In his third stab at getting the Budget signed off by Parliament, Godongwana announced cuts to spending, lowered growth forecasts, and acknowledged a slightly higher debt peak than before. Markets cheered the Budget. Despite the fraught meeting between presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump in the White House that happened to be on the same day, the rand surged toward its sixth consecutive weekly advance, hitting a five-month high against the dollar on Friday. It is now trading at well under R18 to the greenback, which has seen general weakness against major currencies. South African bonds have also barely moved this year, shrugging off the volatility incurred by the debates over the Budget. The 10-year yield is under 10.5%, its lowest since February (bond yields move inversely to prices). Instead of using this moment to supposedly question economic orthodoxy, we should commend the National Treasury and coalition government for their firm stance on either raising taxes or cutting expenditure. As previously argued in this column, any worsening of the outlook for the US economy will have major repercussions on emerging markets such as South Africa. Aid cuts and higher tariffs will hurt, regardless of whatever kind of slightly improved deal may be forthcoming from the meetings in the White House. The National Treasury and indeed the South African Reserve Bank are right that this is a time for maximum prudence and caution. Sadly, beset with State Capture and energy crises, South Africa did not make the most of the amenable conditions for emerging markets over the past few years. Yet, that is not an argument to jettison the sensible economic policy that has been the one thing keeping South Africa from going the way of Venezuela and Zimbabwe over the past few decades.
