by Diontae Bussey | Sep 12, 2023 | Business News, Latest, Tech News |
The opioid crisis has been a perplexing issue, baffling scientists for nearly two decades as they have strived to comprehend the ever-changing societal and systemic reasons that induce people to misuse opioids and to pinpoint prospective overdose danger zones.
These painstaking and frequently imperfect endeavors unfold as healthcare providers endeavor to deliver secure, efficient therapy, and other resources to those grappling with addiction.
As both scientists and healthcare providers scrutinize the expansive and enduring influence of the opioid crisis, they are now inquisitively investigating AI (Artificial Intelligence) and pondering, Could AI be the key to ending the opioid crisis?
Tech Adoption in Healthcare: A Slow Process
Healthcare is not a sector known for swiftly adopting new trends; it’s notoriously slow in testing and incorporating novel technology. This hesitance has its repercussions. One study implies that the industry forfeits over $8.3 billion annually because of its reluctance or failure to adopt technology such as sophisticated electronic health records.
Public health scientists and biomedical engineers have been discreetly fostering an AI-driven revolution in medicine, with addiction prevention and treatment being the latest beneficiaries.
However, the costs of the opioid crisis extend beyond financial losses. Since 1999, over 1 million people have perished due to drug-related overdoses. In 2021, 106,699 drug overdose deaths were recorded in America, marking one of the highest per capita volumes in the nation’s history. Approximately 75% of all these overdoses were linked to opioid use, which includes prescribed analgesics such as Vicodin and Percocet, along with illicit drugs like heroin.
Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health investing billions of dollars into outreach, education, and prescription monitoring programs, the crisis has stubbornly persisted.
The Opioid Crisis: The Human Cost
For the past decade, I have been conducting research on the opioid crisis in rural and urban communities across America, including New York City and rural southern Illinois.
Most of my peers concur, albeit reluctantly, that there’s a considerable amount of speculation involved in pinpointing the complex risks faced by drug users. Which drugs will they acquire? Will they inject, snort, or smoke them? Who, if anyone, will they use around, in case they overdose and require assistance?
But that’s not all. Practitioners also regularly grapple with inconsistent federal and state guidelines on effective treatments for opioid use disorder, like suboxone. They also find themselves playing catch-up with increasingly unpredictable drug supplies contaminated with affordable, synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which is largely responsible for recent surges in opioid-related overdose deaths.
While AI advancements like ChatGPT have captured most of the public’s imagination, public health researchers and biomedical engineers have been quietly brewing an AI-infused revolution in medicine, with addiction prevention and treatment being the newest recipients.
AI Innovations in Opioid Crisis Management
Innovations in this space primarily utilize machine learning to identify individuals who may be at risk of developing opioid use disorder, disengaging from treatment, and relapse. For instance, researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology recently developed machine-learning techniques to effectively identify individuals on Reddit who were at risk of fentanyl misuse, while other researchers developed a tool for locating misinformation about treatments for opioid use disorder, both of which could allow peers and advocates to intervene with education.
Other AI-powered programs, such as Sobergrid, are developing the capacity to detect when individuals are at risk of relapsing — for example, based on their proximity to bars — then connecting them to a recovery counselor.
The most impactful advancements relate to the reduction of overdoses, often triggered by drug mixing. At Purdue University, researchers have developed and piloted a wearable device that can detect signs of overdose and automatically inject an individual with naloxone, an overdose-reversing agent. Another significant development has been the creation of tools to detect hazardous contaminants in drug supplies, which could drastically reduce fentanyl-driven overdoses.
The Potential Pitfalls of AI in Opioid Crisis Management
Despite the immense potential, there are concerns — could facial recognition technology be used to locate people who appear intoxicated, leading to discrimination and abuse? Uber has already taken a step in developing this kind of capacity in 2008, attempting to patent a technology that would detect a drunk passenger.
And what about dis/misinformation, a problem already plaguing chatbots? Might malicious parties embed incorrect information into chatbots to mislead drug users about risks?
The Fine Balance
Since Fritz Lang’s seminal silent film “Metropolis” in 1927, the public has been fascinated by the idea of new, humanlike technology making lives easier and richer. From Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” in 1968 to films like “I, Robot” and “Minority Report” in the early 2000s, though, these hopeful visions have slowly morphed into a kind of existential dread.
It will be up to not just researchers and clinicians, but also patients and the broader public to keep AI honest and prevent humanity’s biggest challenges, like the opioid crisis, from becoming insurmountable ones.
by Jesse Swindell | Sep 11, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Emerging from the vibrant landscapes of South Memphis, Key Glock has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop. On September 5, Glock introduced his fans to a new visual masterpiece for his track, “Penny.” The music video, a product of the combined efforts of producers Mannie iL and Swaeze, showcases Glock’s unflinching focus on wealth and the lifestyle it brings.
“Penny:” A Symphony of Swagger and Success
In “Penny,” Glock flaunts his financial prowess through his lyrics. He raps about his high-end lifestyle, including a shoutout to his dentist for the “20 pointers” in his mouth and his recent extravagant purchase that equates the cost of a Bentley. Glock’s lyrics echo his insatiable hunger for success, as he expresses his intention to turn down a 10 million dollar deal, aiming for a billion instead.
Through his lyrics, Glock underlines his unique style, turning heads with his Prada overalls that give him a “hillbilly” appearance. The song stands as a testament to Glock’s ability to juxtapose the commonplace and the extraordinary, getting the listeners hooked to his unique narrative.
The Visual Feast: Living the High Life
The music video for “Penny” complements the overall theme of the song. In the clip, Glock can be seen enjoying the high life, surrounded by his crew on a private jet. The video captures Glock’s carefree and extravagant lifestyle, with scenes of him being in the company of gorgeous women at an indoor basketball court.
Key Glock on Private Jet
The visual narrative of the music video aligns perfectly with Glock’s lyrics, creating a comprehensive portrayal of the rapper’s life and aspirations.
“Penny” is a part of Glock’s album, “Glockoma 2 (Deluxe),” which was released in February. The album, an extension of the original “Glockoma 2,” features eight additional tracks with zero features, staying true to Glock’s independent approach to his music.
The album boasts beats from some of the industry’s most renowned producers, including BandPlay, Tay Keith, Bankroll Got It, Hitkidd, Sledgren, Teddy Walton, DY Krazy, and more. These contributions have significantly enhanced the sonic landscape of the album, making it a well-received LP.
In an interview with “Big Facts,” Glock highlighted his determination to maintain his individuality in a competitive industry. He emphasized the importance of being oneself, irrespective of the environment or the people around.
“I try my best to not be like the next person. Whatever you do, no matter what room you in, no matter who in the room, just be yourself. Don’t try to adapt to the n**gas. Be you,” Glock commented.
This philosophy is evident in Glock’s work. His music videos, including “Penny,” showcase his unique style and approach to music, making him a stand-out artist in the world of hip-hop.
Final Thoughts
Key Glock’s latest music video for “Penny” is a testament to his unique aesthetic and his unwavering focus on success. The video, coupled with Glock’s infectious energy and catchy lyrics, offers viewers a sneak peek into the extravagant lifestyle he leads. It’s a reminder of Glock’s individuality in the music industry and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
To get a taste of Glock’s unique style and swagger, watch the music video for “Penny” below.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
On a somewhat ordinary Wednesday night, a rare celestial event took place, one that we won’t witness again until 2037. As the world looked upwards, a super blue moon illuminated the night sky, offering a breathtaking spectacle. In sync with this astral phenomenon, the fearless and talented Coi Leray launched her new EP, appropriately named “Blue Moon“. This EP was not just a musical offering, but a celebration of the rare lunar event, a soundtrack to the cosmic vibes that resonated globally.
“Blue Moon”: A Soundtrack to the Skies
Creating a perfect harmony between celestial occurrences and musical rhythm, “Blue Moon” served as a fitting tribute to the rare super blue moon event. Offering a collection of five tracks, the EP was a treat for Leray’s fans, establishing a unique connection between the music and the moonlit night.
Coi Leray: The Jersey-based Luminary
Hailing from New Jersey, Coi Leray’s musical prowess has been a beacon of talent in the industry. Her audacity and unapologetic approach to her music have garnered her a dedicated fan base. With “Blue Moon”, she once again proved why she is an artist to watch.
“Isabel Morant”: A Visual Treat
Coi Leray didn’t just stop at the EP. She also released a stunning visual for the standout track “Isabel Morant”. The creative minds behind the video, Mathking64 and Rocketboy, captured Leray’s essence perfectly. The video showcases Leray’s unabashed expression of wealth, success, and the joy of outdoing her rivals.
“Yeah I’m on they a**, hop up on that couch and roll up Latto out the bag, I don’t need a stylist, they can’t f**k with Coi Leray, tried to count me out, and now I’m big as Trippie Redd, woo, I hope I don’t crash, scrapin’ up the rim up on that sidewalk, ride it fast, I can’t wait to pour up and cook up, up in that lab, this that brand new ring, Denim Tears, LV tags…”
The music video, directed by Michael Vincent, presents Leray in various settings, from a bathtub to deep waters, and even amidst a mob of her supporters. Each frame is a testament to her bold personality.
“COI”: The Sophomore Journey
Earlier in June, Leray released her second LP, “COI”. The 16-song album featured collaborations with renowned artists like David Guetta, Saucy Santana, Giggs, Lola Brooke, Skillibeng, and even the late James Brown. With tracks like “Players”, “Bops”, “My Body”, and “Run It Up”, the album was a resounding success.
Leray’s Recent Collaborations
Leray has also been involved in notable collaborations recently, contributing to tracks like Dave East’s “Sex So Good”, Roy Woods’ “Hate Me”, Metro Boomin’s “Self Love”, RAYE’s “Flip A Switch. (Remix)”, and OhGeesy’s “Better Together”.
Wrapping Up: A Celebration of Music and the Moon
The “Blue Moon” EP and the “Isabel Morant” video release are prime examples of Coi Leray’s bold approach to music. She is not just creating songs, but experiences, linking her art to the world around her. As we wait for the next super blue moon, we can enjoy the lunar vibes from Leray’s “Blue Moon”. Press play and let the music transport you to the night sky, under the light of the super blue moon.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Business News, Latest |
The United States, a global economic titan, seems to be treading water in the vast ocean of cryptocurrency regulations. Despite the tumultuous year for the crypto industry, marked by scam incidents, company collapses, and layoffs, it’s far from its end. However, the narrative that the US government could potentially obliterate the crypto industry persists, fueled by the media and public opinion. This narrative is not only misleading but also detrimental to the progress of blockchain technology in the country.
The Misconception: Crypto’s Apocalypse
The crypto industry’s recent turmoil has been largely attributed to its own failures. Major industry players had initially pledged self-regulation, but the actions of a handful of bad actors over the past year have extinguished any possibility of such a system. The remaining legitimate crypto companies, despite their resilience and continued operation, are often viewed with skepticism and doubt, likened to the living dead of the digital asset sector.
The Reality: Crypto’s Potential
Contrary to these bleak portrayals, the crypto industry is not dead nor dying. It’s merely undergoing a metamorphosis, navigating through the growing pains associated with any revolutionary technology. The potential of blockchain technology is vast, and it’s beginning to permeate various aspects of the global financial system.
Crypto is more than just a new form of currency; it’s a foundational layer for future global commerce, banking, communication, and individual ownership. This is reflected in its widespread adoption, with hundreds of millions of people worldwide using crypto for various purposes and believing in its potential.
The Regulatory Challenge: SEC’s Approach
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has been heavily criticized for its aggressive approach to crypto regulations. The SEC’s actions, heavily influenced by public opinion rather than a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology, have been seen as overreaching and heavy-handed, stifling innovation rather than fostering it.
Despite the high stakes, with crypto becoming increasingly integrated into the global financial system, the SEC’s approach remains largely unchanged. This regulatory approach not only undermines the potential of blockchain technology but also puts the US at a disadvantage globally.
The Global Perspective: Crypto Regulations Elsewhere
Other economic powerhouses, such as the EU, UK, Japan, Singapore, UAE, and even China, have introduced or are in the process of introducing comprehensive regulatory frameworks for crypto. The absence of the US from this list is conspicuous, highlighting the country’s lag in addressing this frontier technology at a federal level.
As a result, the crypto industry is rapidly shifting offshore. According to a recent report by Electric Capital, the US’s share of the world’s open source blockchain developers dropped from 42% in 2018 to 29% in 2022.
The Implications: Economic and Technological Consequences
The lack of a fully regulated financial market for crypto in the US contradicts the global economic interdependence observed in other major economies. The risk of losing crypto to other world powers is severe. Imagine if tech giants like Google or Twitter had been founded in a country like China. The internet, as we know it today, would look drastically different.
The Solution: A Path Forward
Despite the slow progress at the federal level, there are promising signs that a clear regulatory framework is on the horizon. A recent draft bill provides a pathway for digital assets that start as securities to eventually be regulated as commodities.
The proposed framework would allow tokens offered as part of an investment contract to remain under the SEC’s purview, while those qualifying as commodities would fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). There are also ongoing discussions about the classification of an asset as a commodity if it belongs to a decentralized blockchain network.
The Recommendations: Shaping the Future of Crypto
As the US navigates its way towards a comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto, several key considerations come to the fore.
The US government should actively invest in blockchain R&D. The country has a track record of incubating world-changing technology, and this should be no different.
Policymakers should familiarize themselves with the technology. Understanding the fundamentals of the technology they’re regulating is crucial. Other governments, including the European Commission, are already doing this.
The US government should establish a sandbox to experiment with compliant and mutually beneficial ways to engage with the private sector and the technology itself.
Conclusion: The Inevitability of Crypto’s Survival
Predicting the demise of crypto is a misguided narrative. The US, with its history of embracing and regulating frontier technologies, will undoubtedly adapt to the rise of crypto. The industry will only strengthen as meaningful regulations replace the current strong-arm enforcements. The future of crypto in the US is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when.’
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Business News, Latest |
Image Credit: Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash
In the vast crypto landscape, Kotani, a Nairobi-based startup, stands out with its ambitious vision to simplify cross-border payments for Africa’s enormous underbanked population. This two-year-old startup is specifically focusing on a use case that directly affects the lives of hundreds of millions of individuals in countries like Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, and South Africa.
Securing $2M Pre-Seed Funding
Kotani recently announced the completion of a successful $2 million pre-seed funding round. The funding was led by P1 Ventures, with significant contributions from other prominent investors, including DCG/Luno and Flori Ventures. This financial boost is poised to propel Kotani’s mission to promote financial inclusion through the use of cryptocurrency.
Aiming for Expansion
With this newfound capital, Kotani plans to amplify its operations and extend its reach to other African nations. The countries in sight for expansion include Rwanda, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, and Nigeria.
Remittances: The Lifeline of Sub-Saharan Africa
Remittances to the Sub-Saharan region are estimated to reach $55 billion this year, according to the World Bank. In certain African countries, remittances make up as much as 20% of the GDP, as reported by the United Nations. Despite playing a critical role in the African economy, remittances are plagued by high transfer fees.
High Transfer Fees: The Insurmountable Challenge
In some nations, transfer fees can gobble up to 20% of the transferred amount. The reasons for these exorbitant costs are multifaceted, ranging from a poorly developed banking system, lack of information, and currency volatility. Kotani aims to overcome these challenges by leveraging blockchain technology to facilitate remittances to Africa.
Stablecoins: The Solution for Remittances
Specifically, Kotani is utilizing stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to fiat currencies like the USD. The startup’s goal is to enable the transfer of money across borders using stablecoins, thus significantly reducing the cost of remittances.
Integrating with Local Payment Networks
To allow users to cash out their stablecoins and make payments in local currencies, Kotani has developed a middleware that connects blockchains to local payment networks. This system works with networks that enable users to send money on feature phones without internet connectivity, using a protocol known as Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD).
B2B Solutions and Partnerships
Kotani offers its technology as a B2B solution, connecting crypto platforms’ smart contracts on one end and mobile money APIs on the other. Some of its major crypto partners include Yellowcard, DCG, Fonbank, Celo’s Valora, Mercy Corps, UNICEF Crypto Innovation Fund, and Stellar.
On-Ramping: Converting Local Currencies
In addition to cross-border remittances, Kotani also enables users to “on-ramp,” i.e., convert their local currencies into USD. This service is primarily offered to businesses but could potentially be extended to retail users in the future.
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