Latest news with #PAIR
Los Angeles Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Space-Age Sommelier DRINKS Brings AI Drink Recommendations ... and Boosts Sales
A survey conducted by L.A.-based DRINKS, a pioneering platform for alcohol e-commerce, revealed that 76% of consumers envision AI significantly shaping alcohol shopping within the next five years. This survey of 1,000 U.S. consumers, commissioned by DRINKS and conducted by Dynata, found that 31% of adults over the age of 21 have already used AI to aid in alcohol selection, and 71% would be interested in adopting the technology if offered by liquor stores and online retailers. While 44% of consumers currently believe AI can recommend a bottle of wine or liquor for personal enjoyment, the interest in AI-powered recommendations extends to social settings as well. Over 40% of consumers would trust AI-suggested drink pairings at a restaurant, 26% would let the technology determine a cocktail order at a bar and 39% would allow it to select drinks for a party or gathering. Meanwhile, only 30% of consumers find human expert advice 'very important' to alcohol purchases. 'Consumers are looking at how technology can make their lives easier, and in this case, the insights of an AI 'sommelier' can make alcohol less intimidating,' said Barry Collier, co-founder and head of R&D at DRINKS. 'For example, the 'rules of wine' might make someone hesitate to ask questions or try a new bottle. But AI that understands their individual preferences can help pick the 'right' drink for the occasion and give the buyer confidence that they'll enjoy their purchase.' DRINKS' patented AI-powered wine recommendation system is a step toward transforming the way people discover, select and purchase their favorite bottles. 'Our patented PAIR (Predictive AI Retailing) technology uses AI to dissect every wine label to analyze color palettes, fonts, imagery and dozens more elements of design. We use these features to predict the emotional response it will spark (like romantic, adventurous, elegant or perhaps quirky),' said Collier. 'By tailoring recommendations around these feelings, we've driven a 50-plus-percent lift in click-through rates over traditional 'You may also like' recommendations. And when you pair these insights with a virtual sommelier that allows the customer to describe their taste preferences or desires in natural language, you unlock the true power of conversational commerce.'
Malaysian Reserve
6 days ago
- Science
- Malaysian Reserve
PolyU launches advanced education programme, offering short courses to keep learners abreast of sci-tech developments
HONG KONG, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to promoting interdisciplinary research to provide solutions to pressing societal problems. In 2022, the University established the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) with an aim to facilitate interdisciplinary research, transfer technologies to stakeholders, inspire innovation across disciplines, and collaborate with top institutions in the world. To raise the community's understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration and its importance in driving positive transformations within societies, the Academy launches the PAIR Advanced Education Programme, to disseminate foundational and advanced knowledge in science and technology on topics that are closely related to daily living. The first course, focusing on 'Healthy Life and Smart Living', will start this fall. This thirteen-week course, designed by PolyU experts in related disciplines, covers six applied science disciplines including: food and nutrition, sports, smart ageing, mental health, sharp vision, and Chinese medicine. Through the course, learners will understand the overall landscape of some of the pressing problems currently facing the world, as well as PolyU-led innovations that aim to tackle these issues, and technology challenges in related fields. The course does not require learners to have relevant knowledge background and is particularly suitable to individuals who wish to broaden their understanding of interdisciplinary science and know about recent developments in science and technology. The course is offered in dual mode, that is, students can choose to attend classes in-person or online, providing flexible learning options to interested learners coming from Hong Kong and abroad. Learners fulfilling attendance requirement are eligible to apply for a certificate of completion. To encourage the community's active participation in sci-tech learning, the first course is offered free of charge to eligible members of the public. The course has received enthusiastic response since its launch. Quota for physical class attendance is now full, while quota for online attendance is available on a first come, first served basis. Course enrolment will close on 31 July. For enrolment or details, please visit the programme website:
The Hindu
15-07-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
ANRF unveils PM Professorships to bolster research in State universities
To tap into the expertise of retired scientists, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) — the newly constituted body for funding scientific research — has announced the Prime Minister Professorships. Each selected Professor will receive an annual fellowship of ₹30 lakh, along with ₹24 lakh as a research grant for consumables, domestic travel, contingencies, equipment and other expenses. An overhead of ₹1 lakh per annum has also been provisioned. The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), now subsumed under the ANRF, had earlier administered the SERB Distinguished Fellowship for retired scientists. That scheme offered a research grant of ₹20 lakh per annum and a monthly fellowship of ₹60,000. Unlike previous fellowships, the new initiative is also open to overseas scientists, including Non-Resident Indians, Persons of Indian Origin, and Overseas Citizens of India. Additionally, professionals from industry and experienced Professors of Practice with a 'distinguished record' of research and innovation are eligible to apply. A key distinction of the new programme is that recipients must be based at State universities that qualify as 'spoke' institutions under Category A of the recently introduced Promoting Advanced and Inclusive Research (PAIR) programme of the ANRF. The PAIR initiative links universities with nascent research ecosystems to top-tier institutions in a mentorship arrangement. Select Central Universities, National Institutes of Technology and Indian Institutes of Information Technology have been classified as 'spoke' institutions, while institutions ranked 25 or below in the National Institutional Ranking Framework are designated as 'hubs'. The selected Professors are expected to relocate, if necessary, to the host university and provide 'sustained academic and research support to faculty and students in institutions with emerging research capacity'. 'Applicants with strong research credentials must be actively involved in research and innovation activities, and demonstrate a strong commitment to mentor faculty at the eligible State universities where research and innovation is still at a nascent stage,' stated a note from the ANRF announcing the fellowship.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Alectra marks Indigenous History Month with key achievement towards truth and reconciliation efforts
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alectra announced today its achievement of Phase 1 certification in the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program, marking an important milestone in its ongoing commitment to advancing Truth and Reconciliation. The announcement coincides with National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on the diverse cultures, contributions, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Offered by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB), PAIR is a progressive certification framework that evaluates and strengthens corporate performance in Indigenous relations. Completion of Phase 1 signals Alectra's commitment to building respectful, reciprocal, and meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities across its service territory. 'As an organization operating on the traditional territories of Indigenous Nations, we recognize that reconciliation is not a one-time act, but a continued responsibility that requires action, accountability, and partnership,' said Brian Bentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alectra Inc. 'Marking this milestone during National Indigenous History Month and approaching National Indigenous Peoples Day, reinforces our commitment to learning, listening, and engaging.' Key elements of Alectra's Phase 1 certification include: Alectra's Indigenous Relations Policy: A guiding framework that outlines Alectra's commitments across leadership, employment, business development, and community relationships. Leadership Statement: A formal affirmation of Alectra's support for reconciliation and its responsibility to promote equitable Indigenous relations. The PAIR Working Group: A cross-functional employee team focused on implementing a transparent and culturally aware approach to Indigenous engagement. Identifying Indigenous Communities: A respectful and collaborative process to identify Indigenous communities within Alectra's service area to support shared objectives. Cultural Awareness Training – Company-wide learning initiatives to build knowledge, understanding, and allyship among employees. Phase 1 certification lays the foundation for Alectra's broader Indigenous strategy. Work is already underway to advance toward Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the PAIR program, which will deepen Alectra's commitments and ensure its activities continue to align with the priorities of Indigenous communities. To learn more about Alectra's 2025 Community Support Plan, visit: About Alectra's Family of Companies Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario's Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow's energy future. X: Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: Bluesky: YouTube: Media Contact Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
PAIR grant for IIT-I to lead collaborative research network
Indore: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore was recognised as one of seven premier institutions in the country to receive the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) grant. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This substantial funding of Rs 100 crore, awarded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), aims to drive significant advancements in the fields of sustainability, healthcare, and materials science. The ANRF-PAIR initiative aligns with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on bridging the gaps in research capacity among Indian educational institutions. Its purpose is to cultivate sustainable research ecosystems through capacity building, resource sharing, research training, and infrastructure enhancement. Professor Suhas Joshi, director of IIT Indore, said, "This grant is a testament to IIT Indore's dedication to advancing interdisciplinary research and creating transformative academic partnerships. Through the SAKSHAM network, we aspire to nurture a collaborative, inclusive, and globally competitive research ecosystem that addresses real-world challenges." As part of this initiative, IIT Indore will spearhead the collaborative research network known as SAKSHAM – Scientific Advancements in Knowledge for Sustainability, Healthcare, and Materials. The network will operate on a mentorship-based hub-and-spoke model and will include six partner institutions: Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (Indore), Vikram University (Ujjain), IIIT Bhopal, Bundelkhand University, NIT Kurukshetra, and RTM Nagpur University. Through the SAKSHAM network, 165 faculty members across 56 departments will work together to conduct interdisciplinary research that aligns with national priorities. The focus areas of the network will include Advanced Materials, Environmental Sustainability, and Health and Medical Technologies.
