Candela, a Swedish innovator of electric speedboats, marks its Australian arrival by showcasing its latest offerings at the upcoming Sydney Global Boat Show.
While New Zealanders have revelled in the joy of E-bikes for two years, they’ve recently expanded their horizons across the ditch, courtesy of luxury yacht distributor Carbon Yachts.
At the upcoming boat show in Sydney, Carbon’s Mary Bickley will be offering daily, step-by-step inspections of “flights” on the C-8, the globe’s top-selling electric leisure boat, as it cruises on Sydney Harbour.
What sets Candela’s boats apart from their peers is their innovative use of foiling technology. Unlike traditional motorboats, underwater wings enable people to scale back their energy expenditure by an impressive 80%, resulting in a more serene and peaceful experience even in choppy waters, while also reducing wake disturbance.
The vessel, named ?, boasts a cruising velocity of approximately 22 knots (40.7 km/h), allowing it to cover a range of up to 57 nautical miles (105 km) in just over two hours. The sleek 8.5-metre vessel accommodates up to eight people, offering ample space for overnight stays in its spacious bow quarters.
As Candela’s fleet arrives simultaneously off the East Coast, a dozen vessels deliberately anchor themselves at D’Albora Marinas.
For decades, hydrofoils were a familiar fixture on Sydney Harbour, operating a 15-minute service between Manly and Round Quay from the 1960s to the early 1990s before being replaced by JetCats.
In New Zealand, a pioneering move has been made by embracing electrical hydrofoil ferries, designed to transport up to 30 passengers at a remarkable cruise velocity of 25 knots, while producing a wake that is an astonishingly low 15cm above the surface, thereby significantly reducing erosion on the banks of World Heritage-listed Lake Manapōuri.
New Zealand’s largest hydroelectric power station, situated in Aotearoa.
The P-12 bus entered service in Stockholm earlier this year as part of a nine-month pilot programme.
Halve operational costs compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels.
The hydrofoil is experiencing a resurgence within the electric boat era as a response to
Here is the rewritten text: The luxury yacht, priced at approximately A$750,000, is an ideal getaway for a recently ecstatic Canva investor or unicorn founder looking to “set sail” on their next adventure. The supply of this product is approximately six to eight months away?
When driving a Polestar, you might just find yourself in the company of a sleek new boat, thanks to the Swedish electric car manufacturer’s collaboration with Candela on their.
Extra from .
From Thursday to Sunday, August 1-4, the festival takes place at Darling Harbour, situated on the ICC and Cockle Bay Marina.
Garmin Pay functions similarly to Apple Pay, enabling contactless transactions without the need for a physical card or phone.
The inclusion of playing cards as a payment method and linking bank accounts for Garmin Pay is facilitated through the Garmin Connect mobile application.
Garmin’s array of devices supports Garmin Pay, which is currently available in multiple countries worldwide.
Wearables can initially be perplexing, especially within the realm of high-end fashion. The corporation tends to bundle numerous software program choices together, resulting in a cluttered landscape where it’s often unclear what each option actually accomplishes. It may take days, perhaps even weeks, for one to gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire scope.
While you may not want certain apps or devices to carry heavy loads, they will still provide significant assistance in many situations.
You’re probably familiar with the concept of Garmin Pay, but do you know how it actually functions? What’s more crucial to consider is where and how you can utilize this technology, as well as what devices it’s compatible with, so that you can seamlessly integrate it into your workflow.
Garmin
Garmin Pay is a mobile payment feature integrated into certain Garmin wearables and automobiles that enables users to make contactless payments for goods and services. It leverages tokenized credit or debit card information stored securely on the device, allowing seamless transactions at participating merchants. To initiate a transaction, users need only tap their compatible Garmin wearable or automobile on a supported payment terminal, authenticate with their fingerprint or face recognition, and confirm the purchase.
Garmin’s equivalent to Apple Pay and Google Wallet, enabling users to make contactless payments with their wearable devices. This technology allows you to perform transactions, including making credit or debit payments, seamlessly at participating merchants, without the need for physical cards, all from the convenience of your mobile device. While Garmin doesn’t currently offer a standalone phone or desktop app for Garmin Pay, the technology enables users to complete transactions on-the-go without needing physical cash. Will you be taking a longer commute halfway through?
You can add a card to Garmin Pay through the app, which synchronizes them securely with your watch. To enable or disable Garmin Pay on your smartwatch, navigate to the “Controls” menu and select an option. If it’s been more than 24 hours since you last used Garmin Pay, you’ll be prompted to enter a passcode; if not, simply select the option from your watch’s controls. When using this feature, ensure your watch is near an NFC payment terminal or swap cards if you don’t wish to utilize the most recently selected one initially?
To set up and use Garmin Pay on your device, follow these steps: First, ensure that your watch is connected to Wi-Fi. Then, open the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone, go to Settings > Garmin Pay, and toggle it On. Next, select the credit or debit card you want to link to your account from a list of supported cards. Enter the card information, including the expiration date and security code. Finally, verify the transaction with your bank.
While the process is straightforward with Garmin’s setup, its complexity increases depending on the banks linked to your credit cards.
Launch the Garmin mobile app on your iOS or Android device.
Visit our store to select your preferred timepiece.
Faucet .
Establish a secure password for your faucet system.
Observe on-screen prompts and add at least one card to proceed.
You’ll be asked to confirm your identity and verify your financial institution’s information. Prepare yourself for varying steps that may involve making a phone call.
Once your credit card has been successfully verified, don’t forget to synchronize your phone and smartwatch for seamless functionality.
Which gadgets assist Garmin Pay?
Fairly a number of do. As of July 2024, you may filter for compatibility on, with the following options being suitable.
Dell D2 Mach 1/Mach 1 Professional/Air X10: Revolutionizing Performance and Innovation in Small Form Factor Laptops
Which banks assist Garmin Pay?
The list of compatible banks is too extensive to provide in full; nonetheless, Garmin does offer a helpful filter feature that allows you to sort by region and card type (Visa, Mastercard, etc.). Available globally, the characteristic is present in numerous countries, including prominent markets such as Australia, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Which retailers assist Garmin Pay?
While there is no comprehensive record of compatible outlets, if Garmin Pay operates in your region and a contactless payment terminal accepts various NFC standards like Apple Pay, it’s likely that you’ll have a seamless experience. Can you locate the Wi-Fi Assist icon on your device to ensure seamless connectivity?
Utilizing Garmin Pay, users can seamlessly make payments for select public transit services. As of July 2024, this is the current record.
The Leagues Cup returns to MLS Season Pass on Apple TV on July 26.
The inaugural tournament brings together all 47 clubs from Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX in a thrilling, month-long showdown across North America.
The Leagues Cup, the premier in-season tournament in North American men’s professional sports, commences on July 26, with the MLS Season Pass serving as the exclusive platform for fans to access all matches.
The inaugural, month-long tournament pits all 47 teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) against their counterparts in Mexico’s Liga MX, mirroring the excitement of a World Cup format. The top-tier golf leagues suspend their usual schedules to participate in the Leagues Cup, culminating in the top three teams earning automatic berths for the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. The tournament features a total of 77 matches played across various stadiums in the United States? And fans in over 100 countries and territories worldwide can relish all the action with an MLS Season Pass subscription.
The highly anticipated match marks the second milestone in Apple’s decade-long collaboration with Major League Soccer. More than 1.3 million fans witnessed live action at Leagues Cup matches during its maiden year, 2023, as Inter Miami CF triumphed over Nashville SC to claim the inaugural Leagues Cup title. Lionel Messi, whose maiden voyage in Major League Soccer came when he joined Inter Miami in last year’s Leagues Cup, claimed the top individual honors as Finest Player and Top Scorer, amassing a tournament-record 10 goals along the way.
Cucho Hernández, a member of the Columbus Crew, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Leagues Cup kickoff: As we move forward with this membership, we’re confident that the excitement will only grow, driven by a shared determination to achieve success together – every match counts, and we’ll leave everything on the field. It should be exhilarating for viewers to enjoy watching groups from farther away that they couldn’t previously experience live.
“LAFC’s Denis Bouanga expressed enthusiasm about upcoming Leagues Cup matches against Liga MX teams, stating they offer an enjoyable and entertaining experience for both players and fans.” “The match offers a fantastic opportunity to add another trophy to our collection, and we’re constantly striving to win more accolades as LAFC.”
“When evaluating teams, I prioritize competitiveness – an essential factor for me,” said Tigres UANL’s André-Pierre Gignac. “I’m thrilled to have seen the growth of the Leagues Cup, and I’m eager to take part in this year’s competition.”
“For us, competing against MLS teams in the Leagues Cup is a tremendous privilege,” said CF Monterrey’s Germán Berterame, emphasizing the prestige of the tournament. “I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming matches and hoping that this occasion will prove to be a favorable one for LMX.”
The MLS Season Cross will feature every live Leagues Cup match in one location, without any blackouts. Matches are likely to be available in English, Spanish, or French wherever you go. Subscribers enjoy exclusive, on-demand content and unparalleled access to an expansive programming lineup, featuring critically acclaimed titles in both English and Spanish, including and , as well as and.
With Multiview on Apple TV 4K devices and iPads, fans can simultaneously stream up to four live matches without lagging or buffering, ensuring they never miss a moment of the action.1 With the introduction of our innovative Catch Up feature, fans who join the action after kick-off can effortlessly relive the pivotal moments that unfolded before they arrived, greatly enhancing their overall viewing experience.2 When selecting the Catch Up option, fans are instantly transported into a series of critical plays, each carefully curated to include goals, penalty kicks, red cards, and thrilling saves. As each key play concludes, customers are automatically redirected to the next play in sequence, allowing for effortless navigation between performances with no disruptions.
MLS Season Pass is available across various platforms, including Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, gaming consoles, and online at mlsseasonpass.com. Fans can also access MLS Season Pass from the Apple TV app on Apple Vision Pro, allowing them to watch games alongside other apps in their physical space; within an environment that feels 100 feet wide; and in Spatial Audio for a more immersive viewing experience.
To delve into Leagues Cup statistics and standings, fans of professional soccer can download a complimentary app designed exclusively for iPhone users, providing an intuitive means to stay informed about their preferred teams and competitions. Users effortlessly explore schedules and forthcoming gaming events, gaining access to real-time details on play-by-plays, team statistics, lineup configurations, and live betting odds. With a single tap, they can seamlessly transition to the Apple TV app to watch live games from Apple and other integrated streaming platforms.3 Apple’s sports features effortlessly synchronize with favorite teams selected in the My Sports experience, including on the Apple TV app and through Apple News.
What’s a Leagues Cup without some added excitement?
We will introduce participant-specific warm-up playlists to enhance the selection process for matches throughout the Leagues Cup. The official League’s Cup anthem, now available for all Apple Music subscribers within the MLS Season Pass dedicated space. The curated playlists of Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX memberships might revitalize with the latest chart-topping tracks.
The highly anticipated series on [platform] is set to premiere dedicated episodes delving into the key players, facts, and narratives surrounding the Leagues Cup. Hosted by renowned analyst Taylor Twellman, this podcast serves as the ultimate companion for Major League Soccer’s players, coaches, and executives, featuring insightful discussions with top-tier guests from the world of international professional soccer. The weekly presentation is available to download for free on Apple Podcasts.
To stay up-to-date on the latest developments across Major League Soccer, fans can kick off their week by tuning in to MLS Season Cross on YouTube and TikTok.
Multiview is now available on iPads with an operating system of iOS 13 or later.
Apple’s new Catch Up feature mandates that users update their Apple devices to the latest software version, while also requiring updates to the Apple TV app on non-Apple platforms, including smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles.
Apple’s sports features are completely free to download and compatible with all iPhones running iOS 17.2 or later.
The technology industry’s leading players, including Apple, have committed to adhering to a suite of voluntary artificial intelligence security guidelines, as outlined by the Biden administration. The prominent companies – OpenAI, Amazon, Google, Meta and Microsoft – are united in their efforts to ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI systems.
The development of synthetic intelligence technology is subject to primary safeguards within the US authorities’ framework, ensuring oversight and regulation. Apple’s highly anticipated suite of intelligence-enhanced features is set to debut with the release of iOS 18 this autumn, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to further integrate artificial intelligence capabilities across its ecosystem.
The Apple Intelligence feature is now available in the beta channels for iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. Despite this, the corporation has committed to releasing certain Apple Intelligence features into a beta phase soon, with the initial set of capabilities expected to reach customers by year’s end.
Significant upgrades, including a comprehensive revamp of Siri leveraging in-app actions and personal context, are poised to debut in the spring of 2025.
Apple’s advanced intelligence capabilities are anticipated to be seamlessly integrated into the forthcoming iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, with a possible extension to include all iPhone 16 series devices launching this autumn. When using a Mac or iPad with an Apple Silicon processor, this feature is optimized to support Apple Intelligent computing.
The administration’s security guidelines outline specific commitments for businesses to ensure that their AI programs do not exhibit discriminatory behaviors or pose national security risks. The results of conducted checks must be disseminated to governments and academic institutions for thorough evaluation by peers.
For the time being, the White House’s AI guidelines lack regulatory teeth. Despite the absence of congressional action on AI regulation, major tech companies are nonetheless moving forward with voluntary measures in good faith.
Apple Intelligence will revolutionize personal assistance by integrating innovative features such as advanced proofreading tools, smart writing instruments, proactive notification systems, cutting-edge emoji and photo editing capabilities, and an even more intelligent Siri powered by a comprehensive semantic index of your device’s stored data. Apple’s Intelligence performance relies on a harmonious blend of on-device machine learning models and cloud-based processing capabilities that leverage the power of Apple’s remote servers.
Apple plans to integrate third-party AI providers into its software, starting with ChatGPT, this autumn.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts a significant year for travel, predicting that U.S. airlines will transport a record-breaking 271 million passengers worldwide throughout the summer months of 2024 – a 6.3% increase from last summer. Little questions that enhance our understanding are partially attributed to, kicking off on Fridays.
As the sporting world gears up for its next big events, I had the privilege of sitting down with a decorated US Olympic medallist to glean valuable insights and expert advice for athletes and enthusiasts alike preparing for their own journeys. At the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, diver Nick Dorman, along with his partner Michael Hixon, claimed a silver medal in the men’s 3-meter synchronized springboard event. At the 2016 Olympics, Dorman secured a third-place finish in the individual springboard event, while at the preceding two World Championships, she claimed sixth and seventh spots in synchronized springboard competition. As the newly appointed Director of Enterprise Improvement at a leading manufacturer of diving boards, Dorman has earned this esteemed position due to their pioneering influence on Olympic diving regulations since the 1960s.
As a seasoned traveller, Dorman is no stranger to the thrill of flight, clocking up hundreds of hours in the air each year as he crisscrosses the globe. You don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to benefit from his suggestion underneath. Whether embarking on a work-related flight or planning a leisurely getaway, Dorman’s practical tips can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring a more comfortable journey while also helping to mitigate the effects of jet lag.
What’s jet lag?
When traveling across multiple time zones, individuals may experience a temporary sleep disorder known as jet lag. Disrupting this internal bodily rhythm, also known as the circadian clock, can confuse the body’s natural timing, causing confusion over when it’s time to sleep or stay awake.
Usually, symptoms of jet lag include fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, impaired cognitive function, memory lapses, increased irritability, and mental fogginess. As a seasoned traveler and frequent flyer, Dorman has likely become well-versed in navigating the challenges of jet lag. “When I’m hit with jet lag, my mental clarity falters.” “I find myself feeling utterly exhausted and irritable,”
After accumulating countless airline miles over several years, he has honed a set of reliable journey hacks and insider tips for ensuring a restful in-flight experience. While jet lag is inherently unavoidable at times, the following strategies can help Dorman achieve greater relaxation while on-the-go:
Journey suggestions and tips
Modify your sleep schedule
To adjust your sleep schedule as much as possible, start conforming to the local bedtime and wake-up times in the new time zone ahead of your travel. As he traveled to international competitions, Dorman began adjusting his sleep schedule before arrival to better adapt to the new time zones and minimize the disruption caused by jet lag. To truly get into the rhythm of our destination’s time zone, I made sure to acclimate before arriving, which allowed me to feel refreshed and ahead of the game upon arrival, as if I had a head start on everyone else.
To accommodate the local time zone during his vacation, Dorman would adjust his sleep schedule accordingly, determining whether he preferred an earlier wake-up time or a later one. Amongst frequent travelers, a common observation emerges: the need for adjustment increments that are neither too abrupt nor too slow, ideally spaced around 30 minutes or shorter intervals. For individuals to fully adjust to a new time zone or hour difference, it can take anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks to get their body accustomed to the change. Adapting to your destination’s time zone ahead of travel can yield a significant advantage, particularly for athletes preparing for events or competitions.
Sleep dietary supplements
The night before a competition, Dorman believes that achieving high-quality sleep is crucial in constructing psychological confidence, which is far more vital than physical preparation for optimal performance. “Among divers, there are countless individuals who excel physically.” While all those athletes have the potential to triumph, the question remains: which one will possess the mental toughness required to seize victory on that specific day? With a mindset that’s both resilient and confident, he possesses a distinct advantage.
Sufficient sleep plays a significant role in instilling psychological confidence. Once I’ve returned from a new travel destination, it’s essential for me to prioritize rest and ensure I’m getting sufficient sleep. To do this, I make sure to get a good night’s rest, allowing my body and mind to recharge after the excitement of exploring somewhere new. I can effortlessly alternate between a state of alertness and profound fatigue, yet I have the option to surrender to the promise of a tranquil night’s repose with the aid of a trusty slumbering aid.
It’s hardly surprising that securing sufficient rest time was crucial for Dorman’s Olympic training. He claims he strives to get nine hours of sleep each night, acknowledging he rarely achieves this goal. If I aim to hit 8 out of 10 times, I likely won’t reach that mark, so it’s best to aim higher.
After trying numerous sleep-enhancing dietary supplements over the years, Dorman has found this one to be his go-to choice for ensuring a smooth in-flight sleep experience. While what succeeds with one person may not have a similar impact on another, For occasional or short-term usage, consider employing sleep aids with caution, and always consult your physician before introducing novel nutritional supplements into your regimen.
Once airborne, he emphasized taking any prescribed sleep aids or dietary supplements. Do not take anything previously taken. I realized this from expertise. As you take the prescribed sleeping aid before boarding the plane, everything seems normal until a sudden anomaly arises, prompting an emergency deboarding and a fresh booking for a new flight, as its effects start to manifest.
Clothes
At an altitude of 35,000 feet, it’s not just the ambient air temperature outside the aircraft – which, interestingly, drops to around -51°C – that makes it chilly. By maintaining a consistent cabin temperature during flights, the system also assists passengers prone to hypoxia, whose susceptibility to fainting increases significantly in hot climates. If you’re unprepared, the discomfort and chill that often accompany a poorly planned flight may well disrupt your ability to sleep peacefully even when the plane is cold.
Wear loose-fitting clothing that fits comfortably without being too tight, and consider layering for optimal comfort and flexibility. When temperatures rise, consider shedding layers to cool down – simply repurpose them as a makeshift pillow for a refreshing rest. His trusty travel uniform typically comprises:
Wool socks
Joggers
Lengthy-sleeved shirt
Outsized hoodie
Beanie
Comfortable travel attire? Because my feet tend to get cold, I always wear wool socks, explained Dorman.
Studies have consistently shown that a warm bath may assist in regulating one’s body temperature, thereby simplifying the process of falling and staying asleep. Wool socks, especially those with merino wool properties, offer an excellent solution for keeping feet and toes dry by effectively wicking away moisture.
As opposed to delivering a mediocre snooze or a restless doze, Dorman has developed a unique strategy for catching some quality Z’s on an airplane. The moment he’s ready to rest, he dons a beanie, tugging it tightly over his eyes, and drapes his oversized hood over it, allowing him to recline comfortably beside the window.
For just $10, you’ll receive a cozy beanie. “You don’t have to break the bank to get something working,” he clarified.
Dorman, self-proclaimed aficionado of windows, advocates for splurging on a premium window seat, providing the opportunity to do so. While a long-haul flight may initially seem daunting, investing in a comfortable experience can prove to be a worthwhile expenditure for those seeking relaxation during their journey.
Headphones
While Dorman typically dons two units, he found that in-ear headphones, such as those from Anker, fit more comfortably when worn during sleep compared to larger over-ear models. AirPods stand out for their ability to stay securely in place, eliminating the frustration of loose or fallen headphones during use. “It’s always nice to have some sunny tunes to mask the sounds of tiny tantrums,” he quipped.
May also be awkwardly positioned for those seeking to rest their heads against the side or on a nearby companion’s shoulder.
Airport showers and further garments
Dorman advocates taking airport showers. Enjoy a rejuvenating bath without breaking the bank: simply venture into your local lounge to unwind and reap its rewards, no membership required. Many lounges offer day passes for sale at the door.
Depending on your budget, travel frequency, and destinations, numerous lounge entry membership options are also worth considering. offers access to a vast network of over 1,500 airport lounges globally, with three tailored membership tiers catering to diverse needs. This innovative app enables travelers to purchase eBook day passes for participating airport lounges, with prices ranging from $30 to $70.
When arriving at the airport with time to spare or facing an unexpected delay or layover, treating yourself to an airport lounge experience can significantly enhance your travel experience. Many establishments offer a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding and relaxation, featuring amenities such as nourishing meals, refreshing beverages, high-speed internet access, and bathroom facilities.
Air travel, in particular, presents a daunting challenge for those who obsess over cleanliness: airports and airplanes are petri dishes for germs to thrive. As passengers soar through the skies during their flight, they’re not the only ones airborne – potentially harmful pathogens are too. Living in close proximity to diverse individuals significantly raises your risk of contracting an illness. While traveling across long distances, it’s crucial to consider the impact on your circadian rhythm, as this disruption can increase your vulnerability to illnesses or infections – a compelling reason to adjust your internal clock in advance.
Taking a pre-flight bath is essential in killing germs picked up from shared airport surfaces, thereby significantly reducing the risk of illness – a crucial consideration for athletes traveling to distant competitions.
At all times, Dorman’s carry-on luggage contains a spare set of clothing and essential personal items such as deodorant. Taking a break to refresh can significantly enhance the overall comfort of your prolonged trip.
Flight manners
When sharing a confined space like an airplane with numerous passengers, politeness is crucial to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone. When navigating the skies, Dorman recommends considering two crucial elements:
Throughout the entire flight, except during taxi, takeoff, or touchdown when requested by the flight attendants to remain open, keep your window shade lowered. By installing blackout curtains, you can effectively block out any unwanted light, creating a more peaceful environment that fosters better sleep quality not just for yourself, but also for your neighbors who may be equally concerned about maintaining a restful atmosphere?
The passenger seated in the central position will have access to both armrests. All the time. Despite their indifference, Dorman stressed that they didn’t really care about it.
Breathwork
While it’s evident that Olympic athletes face immense pressure. The impact could be profound, extending to various aspects of their lives, including their mental health and overall wellness? As a regular practice following his grueling springboard sessions, Dorman found that free diving allowed him to effectively unwind and refocus on his goals.
“When it comes to cultivating serenity and self-control, I credit my experience with free diving coaching.” It is all breathwork. As he explained, mastering simple techniques allows you to slow down your heart rate, regulate your breathing, manage elevated carbon dioxide and decreased oxygen levels, and ultimately remain as composed as possible.
While few people can replicate Dorman’s exceptional observation skills through freediving, the fundamental principle of breathwork remains accessible to anyone, anywhere. “As I’ve discovered, several remarkable skills have seamlessly translated into various aspects of my personal and professional life,” he explained. When I’m experiencing a challenging day, I employ a calming technique: inhaling deeply for eight seconds, holding my breath for two, and exhaling for another eight, repeating the process until I feel thoroughly relaxed. “I find myself doing it even on airplanes.”
This observation is a diver’s adaptation of the widely favored device, designed by Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned advocate for mindful living and holistic wellness, often affectionately known as the “breath master”. Upon closer inspection, I found that Dorman’s 8-2-8 strategy proved to be significantly more effective in my own experiments. As I soared through the skies on my latest flight, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this calming aid had a profound impact on my anxiety levels, even during turbulent moments that would typically have me on edge.
Mastering a personalized breathwork technique can have a profoundly positive impact when dealing with overwhelming stress. By adopting a straightforward and practical strategy, you can effectively alleviate anxiety, quiet your mind, soothe your nervous system, and ultimately facilitate a restful night’s sleep.
Visualize and compartmentalize
In accordance with Dorman’s Olympic coaching philosophy, he underscored the importance of concentrating exclusively on internal management challenges. “All that’s truly within your control is what you fuel, rest, and hydrate with, so I consistently focus on these three essentials.” You don’t need to worry about the outcome; focus on what you have control over. As he put it, “You can’t overemphasize the fact when it’s outside your sphere of control.”
Rob Seifer, a renowned sports activities psychologist, previously worked with the Miami Marlins and the University of Miami Athletics department. He instructed me in effective strategies for compartmentalizing problems. I was overwhelmed by a multitude of concerns that seemed to swirl together in my mind, potentially leading to heightened anxiety. He instilled in me a practical approach to tackling complex tasks, advising me to focus on a single aspect at a time, ignore everything else, and only then move on to the next challenge.
Dorman’s psychological coaching sessions placed significant emphasis on visualization techniques. Visualization exercises could potentially involve a range of complex diving movements. I envision the dive’s essence, capturing its sensory quality and deciphering the codes for each descent. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed; instead, concentrate on mastering just one or two key skills at a time. As a potential obstacle on your path, you may encounter… Nothing is more crucial for me to ensure the dive does exactly what I wish it to do. Throughout my diving experiences, I maintained detailed notes on my cellphone, outlining specific tasks I wanted to accomplish during each dive. Following each dive, I would review and refine these notes to ensure continuous improvement. What other coping mechanisms would you employ if the strategy that previously worked for you suddenly ceased to function?
Visualization techniques are a powerful tool for everyday life. By vividly imagining yourself completing a task or achieving a goal through the activation of all five senses, you deceive your brain into perceiving it as an established reality. May also help alleviate anxiety, foster self-assurance, and reduce distractions as you navigate the process.
Sleep monitoring
His Workforce USA coach encouraged Dorman to tune in to calming sounds, much like white noise or nature sounds, using apps designed to monitor his sleep patterns. Initially, Dorman found that monitoring and tracking his sleep led to significant improvements, transforming what could have been a tedious experience into an enjoyable challenge as he worked to “optimize” his performance and marvel at the upward trend in his sleep scores. Despite its value, it was not always practical.
As Dorman donned the wearable device to track his slumber, he was hesitant to relinquish its insights when intense competitions loomed on the horizon. Without needing external validation to dictate my emotional responses. When experiencing a lackluster night’s sleep, the last thing you need is to confront unflattering statistics that could undermine your confidence, as if saying, “Oh no, I’m doomed to underperform from this moment on.” The mere sight of these numbers can have a profoundly negative impact on one’s mindset. To avoid such self-doubt, it’s often better to wait a week or so before confronting the reality of your physical state and how you feel about it.
Experts in the Journal of Medical Sleep Medicine term this phenomenon – where individuals become preoccupied or obsessed with monitoring and optimizing their sleep patterns. While pursuing “good” sleep scores might seem beneficial, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this pursuit can paradoxically yield opposing effects, much like instilling anxiety and stress regarding one’s ability to achieve those very same scores – thereby significantly impacting an individual’s overall emotional well-being. Monitoring sleep can be a valuable tool for tracking overall wellness and ensuring adequate rest, but as Dorman suggests, it’s crucial to recognize when monitoring becomes more detrimental than beneficial for your well-being.
As a decorated Olympic athlete whose travel schedule is a whirlwind of international destinations throughout the year, Dorman has acquired a treasure trove of expertly honed journey hacks and insider tips. Strive to master a few clever tactics to maintain efficiency, stay lean, and soar to great heights on your future endeavors.
By July 2023, our solutions empower organizations to fortify their cybersecurity posture and maximize the return on investment in their Microsoft expertise. One year ahead, more than 12,000 organizations have successfully integrated their Microsoft expertise into their Sophos Central platforms, leveraging the power of advanced cybersecurity insights and best practices.
Sophos’ Managed Detection and Response solution safeguards more than 23,000 customers globally, a figure surpassing that of its peers in the industry. With a significant presence in these organisations, many have also opted to invest in Microsoft security solutions, utilising Sophos’ Managed Detection and Response (MDR) capabilities to effectively respond to Microsoft-driven security alerts and neutralise sophisticated threats that would otherwise evade detection by Microsoft’s technology alone.
Delivers comprehensive solutions, personnel, and specialized knowledge to identify, analyze, and effectively respond to security threats by harnessing insights from a diverse range of Microsoft tools.
Sophos continuously innovates and enhances its Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service to strengthen and extend Microsoft’s security defenses. With Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR), organisations leveraging Microsoft solutions reap the benefits of:
The Sophos MDR team comprises Microsoft-licensed safety operations analysts expertly focused on identifying and mitigating cyber threats through tailored application of Microsoft’s proprietary incident response frameworks. With over 500 threat detection and response experts globally, Sophos relies on the expertise of seven international Security Operations Centers (SOCS).
The certifications encompass Microsoft Security Operations Analyst (SC-200) and Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect (SC-100).
Sophos MDR and Sophos XDR leverage their own proprietary threat detection methodologies and unparalleled threat intelligence, allowing them to identify and neutralize sophisticated threats that may evade Microsoft’s security measures. Identify account takeovers and enterprise email compromises without requiring a Microsoft E5 or A5 subscription.
Our Sophos-proprietary detection capabilities, seamlessly integrated with the Microsoft Workplace 365 Administration Exercise, provide precise detection of malicious email protocols, unauthorized access patterns, and more.
Over 12,000 Sophos clients have successfully implemented our pre-configured Microsoft integrations. Incorporated at no additional cost with Sophos MDR and Sophos XDR, these seamless integrations provide comprehensive support across a wide range of Microsoft solutions beyond Defender for Endpoint. Real-time telemetry data from Workplace 365, Defender for Identity, Defender for Cloud Apps, and Entra ID Safety is aggregated, scrutinized, and hierarchically organized, empowering security experts to swiftly assess and respond to potential breaches.
Recently, our team successfully introduced a new initiative. The latest model provides enhanced data from Microsoft’s security features to expedite the detection, investigation, and response processes.
Sophos’ Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) solutions provide unparalleled compatibility with a wide range of environments and expertise stacks. As we strive for innovation, we’re expanding our offerings by integrating endpoint, firewall, community, email, cloud, ID, productivity, and backup capabilities, thereby enhancing visibility and thwarting attacks across the entire IT landscape.
Recently, we have expanded our portfolio to include a range of innovative cybersecurity solutions from respected brands such as Acronis, Barracuda, Cisco ID, F5, Forcepoint, Veeam, and Zscaler, among others.
Organisations persistently balance cybersecurity risks and investments against business value and outcomes. Develops a long-term strategy that harmoniously integrates security measures with promotional efforts, ensuring a stable and effective marketing program.
With Sophos MDR, our analysts collaborate seamlessly with your existing Microsoft and non-Microsoft security solutions to identify and respond to potential threats, alleviating the burden on your team.
Malicious actors employ sophisticated tactics to evade activating security measures that could prevent potential threats. Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR) proactively identifies and halts sophisticated threats that evade traditional security controls.
Sophos MDR staff provide around-the-clock visibility into your IT environment, empowering your internal teams to effectively address growing cybersecurity concerns.
Sophos MDR proactively mitigates threats, ensuring your organization meets critical cyber insurance requirements by providing 24/7 monitoring and advanced endpoint detection and response capabilities.
As of July 19, 2024, Sophos MDR boasts a stellar reputation, earning a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from the world’s most reviewed Managed Detection and Response service.
To deepen your understanding of Sophos MDR for Microsoft Defender and learn how it can support you, start exploring now.
Load testing determines an application’s performance under varying levels of traffic, simulating real-world usage to ensure reliability, scalability, and stability. It matters because identifying bottlenecks and optimizing for heavy loads prevents crashes, downtime, and user frustration – critical in today’s fast-paced digital landscape where even minor hiccups can impact business reputation and revenue.
Load testing is a crucial step in ensuring the scalability and performance of any database or information service, including those powered by Rockset. By conducting load testing, our goal is to assess the system’s performance under both normal and peak conditions. This course helps in evaluating essential metrics such as Queries Per Second (QPS), concurrency, and question latency. Sizing compute assets effectively hinges on a thorough comprehension of relevant metrics, ensuring that resources are adequately provisioned to handle projected workloads seamlessly. By doing so, organizations can effectively meet Service Level Agreement (SLA) targets and provide users with a seamless, unobstructed experience. It’s crucial to provide a seamless user experience in customer-facing applications where end-users expect a smooth and intuitive interface. Load testing is commonly referred to as performance or stress testing, rather than efficiency.
According to studies, a staggering 53% of website visitors tend to abandon their browsing sessions if webpage loading times exceed a mere three seconds.
Rockset computes assets, known as digital scenarios or Virtual Instances (VIs), are available in a range of sizes, from Small to 16XL, each with a pre-defined set of vCPUs and memory availability. Determining the optimal dimension selection depends on factors such as the complexity of the questions being asked, the dimensionality of the underlying dataset, and the selectivity of anticipated queries, taking into account both concurrent query variety and latency targets for efficient question answering. If your virtual interface (VI) supports ingestion, you should consider the types of assets required to handle both ingestion and indexing concurrently with query execution. Luckily, our platform offers two alternatives that might help.
– Leveraging its characteristic, Rockset seamlessly scales the VI’s performance up or down in real-time, dynamically adjusting to changing workload demands. When working with varying loads and utilising a vertical instance (VI) for each ingestion and querying process, this flexibility becomes crucial.
By allowing you to build VIs exclusively focused on processing queries, you ensure all available resources are optimized for efficient query execution. This allows for the potential isolation of queries from ingest or the segregation of disparate apps onto distinct Virtual Instances (VIs), thereby ensuring both scalability and efficiency.
We recommend conducting load testing in at least two distinct digital scenarios: one featuring primary VI-based ingestion, and another with ingestion taking place on a separate test VI. This decision is crucial in determining whether to opt for a standalone VI or a more comprehensive, modular approach.
Load testing enables us to establish the performance limits of a chosen Value-In-Use (VI) for a specific application, thereby informing our decision-making regarding an acceptable VI dimension that can effectively manage the desired workload.
Instruments for load testing
When evaluating load testing tools, several popular options include JMeter, k6, Gatling, and Locust? Each instrument boasts distinct advantages and limitations.
A versatile and user-centric tool featuring a graphical interface, particularly well-suited for diverse types of load testing scenarios, albeit potentially requiring substantial system resources.
Optimized for peak performance and scalable cloud infrastructure, leveraging JavaScript for dynamic scripting, ideal for agile developers, continuous integration, and DevOps pipelines.
Exemplary high-performance device crafted with Scala, ideally suited for tackling complex and sophisticated scripting scenarios.
Developed using Python, this tool excels in simplifying code development and accelerating script enhancement, making it an ideal choice for effortless testing endeavors.
Each device offers a distinct array of possibilities, with the chosen configuration dependent on the specific requirements of the load test in question. Regardless of the device used, ensure that you thoroughly review the documentation to understand how it functions and measures latency and response times. When conducting load testing with JMeter, it’s essential to test each instrument separately to ensure reproducible and reliable results that can be effectively communicated to your team or stakeholders.
Rockset offers a robust REST API for executing queries, allowing seamless interaction with all the aforementioned tools which can be leveraged to access and utilize REST API endpoints seamlessly.
To accompany my blog post on load testing Rockset with Locust, I’ll also provide valuable resources for JMeter, k6, and Gatling users.
Can you successfully integrate Rockset with Locust to streamline your load-testing process? To do so, first ensure both tools are installed on the same machine. Next, create a new user in Rockset by navigating to its dashboard and clicking “Create User”. Note down the API key generated for this user; it will be used later.
Let’s optimize data ingestion into Rockset for pattern-based SQL queries efficiently. We typically begin by transforming the query into a RESTful API, making it easily verifiable and testable. The database schema can be parameterized and version-controlled, allowing for efficient management of SQL queries without requiring frequent updates to load testing scripts when changes are needed.
Establishing the question you wish to load checks involves defining a clear and concise query that can be efficiently processed by the system. This step is crucial in ensuring accurate results and minimizing potential errors. Therefore, it is essential to craft a well-structured and specific inquiry that effectively captures the intended data. For instance, when loading check questions into an assessment platform, you should formulate queries that are easy to understand, unambiguous, and relevant to the topic or skill being evaluated.
To identify the top-selling item on our online store for a particular date, What appear to be like words that describe our SQL questions :date Is a configurable option that users can specify when running the query.
SELECT s.Date, MAX(CASE WHEN p.ProductName IS NOT NULL THEN p.ProductName ELSE '' END) OVER (PARTITION BY s.Date ORDER BY s.Depend DESC) AS ProductName, MAX(s.Depend) AS NumberOfClicks FROM "Demo-Ecommerce".ProductStatsAlias s INNER JOIN "Demo-Ecommerce".ProductsAlias p ON s.ProductID = CAST(p._id AS INT) WHERE s.Date = :date;
Save your question as a well-defined and structured Question Lambda that accurately captures the essence of your inquiry.
The team’s data analytics strategy will revolve around a novel methodology we’ll develop and deploy, dubbed. LoadTestQueryLambda Which can subsequently serve as a REST endpoint:
To create an API key for your application, navigate to your project’s settings and select the “API keys” tab. From there, click on the “Create API key” button and follow the prompts to generate a new key. Be sure to save your new API key securely, as it will be used to authenticate your requests to the API.
Now, we’ll create an authentication mechanism that will be used as an approach in our Locust script to securely connect with Rockset and execute checks. You can obtain a simple API key through our console or via the API.
Create a digital scenario that mimics real-world usage patterns to simulate various loads and stresses on your application. This could include scenarios such as:
Please enter the ID of the digital event you would like to load and check. To validate the performance of our setup, we plan to conduct a load test in conjunction with a dedicated Rockset digital event focused exclusively on query execution. We launch a supplementary Medium digital event for this.
As soon as the VI is created, its identifier becomes accessible in the console.
Locate the downloaded directory of the Locust project and navigate to the folder named ‘locustfile.py’. This is where you will find your test script. Make sure that this file has the correct permissions by running the command “chmod +x locustfile.py”. Now, execute the file using the command “python locustfile.py -f locustfile.py –master” to start a master node for Locust.
We will subsequently set up and configure Locust. You are able to deploy this capability on either your native machine or a dedicated instance, such as an Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud.
$ pip set up locust
As you’re working through this exercise, remember that a well-crafted Locust test is crucial for ensuring the performance and scalability of your application. Here’s what you need to do in Step 6:
As soon as that’s accomplished, we’ll develop a Python script for the Locust load test, which anticipates a seamless integration with the existing infrastructure. ROCKSET_APIKEY The atmosphere variable should be set with our API key from step three.
We will use the script beneath as a template:
import os from locust import HttpUser, activity, tag from random import randrange class query_runner(HttpUser): ROCKSET_APIKEY = os.getenv('ROCKSET_APIKEY') # API key's an atmosphere variable header = {"authorization": "ApiKey " + ROCKSET_APIKEY} def on_start(self): self.headers = { "Authorization": "ApiKey " + self.ROCKSET_APIKEY, "Content material-Sort": "utility/json" } self.consumer.headers = self.headers self.host="https://api.usw2a1.rockset.com/v1/orgs/self" # change this along with your area's URI self.consumer.base_url = self.host self.vi_id = '<your digital occasion ID>' # change this along with your VI ID @tag('LoadTestQueryLambda') @activity(1) def LoadTestQueryLambda(self): # utilizing default params for now information = { "virtual_instance_id": self.vi_id } target_service="/ws/sandbox/lambdas/LoadTestQueryLambda/tags/newest" # change this along with your question lambda consequence = self.consumer.submit( target_service, json=information )
The load check process verifies that your data import was successful and accurately loaded into Power BI. This is done by running a quick analysis on the data to identify any errors or inconsistencies. If there are no issues, you will see a confirmation message indicating that the load check was successful.
As soon as you set the API key for the atmosphere variable, you’re able to run the Locust environment.
export ROCKSET_APIKEY=<your api key> locust -f my_locust_load_test.py --host https://api.usw2a1.rockset.com/v1/orgs/self
And navigate to: http://localhost:8089 Where can we start our Locust load test?
The moment our fingers make contact with the keyboard. Begin swarming button:
Locust initiates the creation of virtual consumers, up to the designated quantity, at a predetermined spawn price. The customers are instances of the Person class as defined in the provided Locust script. As we embark on this exercise, we start with a solitary individual and subsequently manually scale up to five and ten clients before decreasing back down to five and one again.
As programmed, every digital persona initiates its designated tasks in accordance with the predetermined script. In Locust, tasks can take various forms, including HTTP requests, but are also frequently implemented as custom Python code. Duties are typically selected at random or prioritized according to their pre-designated weights. What’s driving our success is having only one question that we’re actively pursuing? LoadTestQueryLambda).
Because digital customers execute tasks efficiently, Locust tracks and analyzes performance metrics to optimize outcomes. The metrics encompass a range of key performance indicators, including the volume of requests, the rate of requests per second, response times, and the number of failures encountered.
The Locust’s intuitive internet interface provides real-time updates, showcasing detailed statistics. The table comprises a diverse range of clients currently present, along with the requested price, failure rate, and response times.
Locust will continuously generate customers until it has reached the total number of customers requested. As the load increases incrementally, allowing for a gradual assessment of system efficiency modifications in real-time. As seen in the graph below, a notable increase in customer numbers becomes apparent, reaching peaks of five and ten before trending downward again.
Digital customers eagerly anticipate receiving notifications at unpredictable intervals, consistent with the schedule specified in our communication. wait_time within the script. This simulation of extra reasonable person conduct serves to encourage individuals to behave in a more considerate and thoughtful manner. While we may not have applied this approach to our specific scenario, it’s notable that Locust offers a range of advanced features, including customizable load shapes, which can facilitate the creation of tailored test scenarios.
The check will continue operating until you choose to stop it or reach the pre-set deadline if you’ve specified one.
Throughout this course, Locust leverages your machine’s resources to mimic customer behavior and issue simulated requests. The efficacy of the Locust test is contingent upon the resources available on the machine in operation.
Let’s now interpret the outcomes we’re actually seeing.
Validation of load testing results necessitates a meticulous approach to ensure accuracy and reliability. A thorough examination of the test’s objectives, scope, and methodology is crucial in deciphering the outcomes effectively.
Analyzing outcomes from a Locust run requires grasping essential metrics and deciphering their implications regarding the efficacy of the underlying system under scrutiny. Among the most crucial metrics provided by Locust lie a few key indicators that, when interpreted correctly, offer valuable insights into the performance of your application. These metrics include…
The diversity of simulated customers across all levels during the check process. Understanding this metric enables you to gain insight into the current performance of your system’s workload. As customer numbers increase, how does system efficiency decline?
The throughput of queries processed by your system each second? The Better RPS Indicates the Next Load. The system’s performance is thoroughly evaluated in terms of response time and error rates to determine its ability to handle concurrent requests and high traffic volumes effectively.
Typically presented in the form of common, median, and percentile formats (i.e., ninetieth, ninety-fifth, and ninety-ninth percentiles). You’ll likely consider examining median statistics, as well as the 90th and 99th percentiles, which will provide insight into the experience of most customers – only a small percentage, typically around 10% to 1%, may report worse outcomes.
Error Rate: The percentage of requests that failed to process successfully. An excessively high failure rate often indicates problems with the underlying system being tested. It’s crucial to delve into the nature and root causes of these errors.
Below, we present the aggregate Response Per Second (RPS) and response times under various user loads during our load testing, showcasing the performance metrics from a solitary individual to 10 concurrent users and back down again.
While our real-time processing system (RPS) peaked at approximately 20, it consistently maintained a median question latency below 300 milliseconds and a P99 latency of 700 milliseconds.
We will then correlate these information factors with existing digital event metrics within Rockset. Below, you may observe how the digital event manages the load through CPU, memory, and query latency. A noticeable correlation exists between the diversity of customers from Locust and the spikes observed in our VI utilization graphs. As you monitor the system’s performance, you’ll likely start to notice a surge in question latency, with metrics like requests or queries per second gradually increasing in tandem. The CPU usage remains below 75%, with memory utilization looking stable. Without vital queuing occurring in Rockset?
You can also interpret and analyze the precise SQL queries that were executed, including their individual performance, queue time, and more, beyond viewing these metrics within the Rockset console or through our API. Before proceeding, allowing for this will enable us to accurately calculate median run and queue times by determining the optimal order in which tasks should be executed.
SELECT query_sql, COUNT(*) as depend, ARRAY_SORT(ARRAY_AGG(runtime_ms)) [(COUNT(*) + 1) / 2] as median_runtime, ARRAY_SORT(ARRAY_AGG(queued_time_ms)) [(COUNT(*) + 1) / 2] as median_queue_time FROM commons."QueryLogs" WHERE vi_id = '<your digital occasion ID>' AND _event_time > TIMESTAMP '2023-11-24 09:40:00' GROUP BY query_sql
We’ll re-run this load test on our primary virtual instance to gauge its performance under heavy usage, evaluating its ability to ingest large data sets and handle concurrent query executions. The method remains unchanged; we would merely utilise a unique VI identifier within our Locust script in Step 6.
Conclusion
In abstract, load testing is a vital component ensuring the reliability and performance of any database response, including Rockset’s capabilities. By selecting the optimal load testing device and configuring Rockset effectively for load testing, you can gain valuable insights into how your system will perform under diverse scenarios.
While Locust is easy to get started with quickly, Rockset’s REST API support for executing queries and lambda functions makes it simple to integrate with any load testing tool.
The primary goal of load testing isn’t solely to ascertain the maximum load a system can withstand, but rather to understand its behavior under various levels of stress and ensure it meets the necessary performance criteria as well?
Shouldn’t performance testing of our website’s speedy loading commence before we even complete its development?
Before moving into production.
To simplify querying data in Rockset, you can easily parameterize, version-control, and even expose your queries as RESTful API endpoints.
To conduct load testing on a digital platform focused on query handling, utilizing your primary ingestion VI.
Rockset provides a robust feature set to maintain statistics of executed queries, empowering data analysts and engineers to make data-driven decisions with confidence.
You’re seeking high efficiency – if so, several straightforward approaches can help; we’ll explore them in a forthcoming blog.
Have enjoyable testing 💪
Helpful assets
Essential resources for load testing with JMeter, Gatling, and k6: The process is analogous to our collaboration on Locust; consider obtaining an API key, authenticating with Rockset, and subsequently invoking the lambda REST endpoint for a designated digital event.
The CCNA modified my life. This isn’t exaggeration or hyperbole. It started anew in 2001, precisely in Ottawa, Canada. As a seasoned educator, I had previously taught high school computer science and web design using Visible Fundamental! and Macromedia, respectively, when Cisco Networking Academy approached our college board with an opportunity to join their pioneering program.
Prior to this experience, I was unfamiliar with networking concepts. Fortunately, the experts at Cisco Networking Academy offered to provide me with access to educational materials and guided me through a course of study to achieve certification in a specific area called. I had no idea that this decision would set me on a path of unparalleled adventure with Cisco.
Cisco 2500 Collection Router*
I was dispatched back to high school to refresh my understanding of routing and switching fundamentals, including the functionality of routers and switches, Ethernet cable termination, subnetting principles, and the applications of ISDN and Frame Relay technologies. To prepare for CCNA certification, I studied Cisco Press materials, thoroughly reviewed the Networking Academy’s CCNA curriculum, administered practice exams, and built hands-on labs using the routers and switches available at my school. No way was I round again, to be honest!
In 2002, I successfully passed the CCNA examination after my thorough preparation. Despite initial jitters, I found the confidence to take a chance. As many of you embark on your CCNA adventure for the first time, I also took my initial plunge into the certification process.
The examination presented an overwhelming array of questions to answer within a concise timeframe, comprising multiple-choice, lab simulations, and drag-and-drop components. The frustration was palpable. As I finally clicked “Finish Examination” and was greeted with a radiant “Congratulations” message, I felt an overwhelming sense of shock, thrill, and pride wash over me.
Earning CCNA certification and completing Networking Academy teacher coaching enabled me to become a Cisco Licensed Academy Teacher (CCAI), granting me the authority to instruct my high school students on Cisco networking principles. This innovative approach surpassed traditional teaching methods.
In 2001, a pivotal moment opened numerous opportunities and possibilities for me. Two years after completing my certification, I achieved the designation of Cisco Licensed Methods Teacher (CCSI), authorizing me to deliver instruction in both CCNA and CCNP courses.
Throughout the past couple of years, I have had the privilege of presenting at numerous Cisco conferences, garnering recognition and acclaim at several Cisco Live events held in Melbourne, Amsterdam, and Las Vegas.
I’m now a Cisco Press creator, I’ve helped develop Cisco course content material like and , and I work for Cisco as an teacher and lead content material advocate in Studying & Certifications.
Though I couldn’t have foreseen the profound impact of my call to 2001, I’m certain I’m not the only one affected. With over two decades of enduring popularity, countless professionals have successfully leveraged the renowned CCNA certification offered by Cisco.
The latest evolution of this fundamental networking certification has arrived: the 200-301 CCNA v1.1 exam replaces its predecessors. The revised examination will debut on August 20, 2024, marking a significant overhaul after a four-year interval.
In April 2024, Cisco Studying & Certifications 200-301 CCNA examination replace. What was intended on the Cisco platform would have been preferable? Taught by our esteemed Studying Companions and aligned with the most current CCNA v1.1 examination requirements. For several months, I’ve had the privilege of leading this initiative, ensuring its successful completion before the new assessment goes live on August 20, 2024.
While we’ve been refining our content to harmonize with the latest developments, we decided to redevelop the CCNA Learning Path offered in Cisco University. The photograph below showcases the recently completed building project:
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 2.1 study path is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of network fundamentals, including routing, switching, and communication protocols.
New CCNA programs:
Introducing Community Programmability
Explaining Software program-Outlined Networking
What’s next for community operations?
The CCNA 2.1 study paths all feature transparent outlines of the exam topics covered within each program. For instance:
As per the revised CCNA exam guidelines for version 1.1, the updated CCNA v2.1 study path now comprises:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)?
Spanning Tree
Cisco Meraki
Cisco Catalyst Heart
Terraform
Cisco Modeling Labs (CML)
Cisco WebUI
We revamped the Automation and Programmability section for easier comprehension, streamlining its content and removing outdated information on Puppet and Chef.
We’re hosting a complimentary CCNA v1.1 webinar on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time.
Whether you’re currently studying for your CCNA or simply interested in learning how to get started, this is your chance to delve deeper into the new CCNA v1.1 exam topics, the new CCNA v2.1 Learning Path, and why the CCNA certification remains a vital, valuable credential to pursue, more than 25 years after its inception? (I’d know— I’m dwelling proof!)
The Android improvement crew is formally launching Collections, which is a brand new floor that teams collectively content material from a number of put in apps in themed widgets within the Play Retailer.
It was first introduced as a developer preview at Google I/O in Might, with Mekka Okereke, normal supervisor for Apps on Google Play, saying “this new floor will robotically manage the most effective and most related content material from throughout apps already put in by customers on their Android telephones.”
The content material is grouped into “intent-oriented areas,” which embrace Watch, Pay attention, Learn, Store, Meals, Social, Journey & Occasions, Well being & Health, and Courting.
Content material comprises deep hyperlinks to apps, in order that customers may be taken on to the app to finish a person journey, resembling making a purchase order by way of Store, listening to a lately performed album or audiobook in Pay attention, or reordering a current meal in Meals.
To offer app builders extra management over what content material is proven, they will create as much as 5 suggestion clusters that may be personalised based mostly on person conduct and arranged by themes, resembling new releases, value drops, or a person’s favourite subjects.
Collections may also spotlight hero content material in a featured cluster, which is a bigger UI ingredient, and can be utilized to show high promotions or offers.
Collections may also immediate customers to sign-in to an app whether it is put in however not logged into. As well as, it is going to additionally spotlight content material from uninstalled apps to encourage customers to obtain the app.
To get began with Collections, Android builders might want to combine their app with the Interact SDK. In response to the corporate, over 35 high apps have already built-in with it, together with Adidas, Amazon Prime Video, Audible, Greatest Purchase, iHeartRadio, Nextdoor, Spotify, Shopify, and Walmart.
A cutting-edge video-processing technique, pioneered at the University of Florida, is poised to revolutionize the diagnosis and monitoring of Parkinson’s disease by leveraging artificial intelligence capabilities. This innovation will enable neurologists to more accurately track the progression of the condition in patients, ultimately leading to improved care and a better quality of life.
Diego Guarin, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the University of Florida’s Faculty of Health and Human Performance, has developed a system that leverages machine learning to analyze video recordings of patients performing the finger-tapping test, a standard diagnostic tool for Parkinson’s disease that involves rapidly tapping the thumb and index finger 10 times.
“According to Guarin, linked to the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health, learning from these films could enable the detection of even minute hand action changes that may be indicative of Parkinson’s disease; a visual diagnosis clinicians are likely to find challenging.” “The innovative aspect of this technology lies in its ability to empower patients to record themselves conducting the test, with the software subsequently analyzing their movement patterns and providing clinicians with actionable insights, enabling them to make informed decisions.”
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder characterized by motor symptoms including bradykinesia, tremors, rigidity, and postural instability, which collectively compromise an individual’s overall mobility and quality of life. Typically, signs of a condition begin gradually and progressively deteriorate with time. While there is no single diagnostic test for Parkinson’s disease, a comprehensive clinical evaluation incorporating a series of assessments and examinations allows clinicians to establish a diagnosis and determine the severity of the disorder.
The score scale most widely utilized to track the progression of Parkinson’s disease is the Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS). While Guarin established a 5-point scale for scores, this restriction hampers the ability to capture subtle changes in progress and leaves it vulnerable to personal biases.
Researchers from UF’s neurology department, including Joshua Wong, M.D., Nicolaus McFarland, M.D., Ph.D., and Adolfo Ramirez-Zamora, M.D., developed a novel approach that leveraged machine learning algorithms to analyze video recordings of Parkinson’s patients, enabling the quantification of subtle motor signs and monitoring disease progression over time.
“We found that by employing a digital camera and computer, we can replicate the exact views clinical professionals aim to achieve,” said Guarin. “With AI assistance, the same examination process becomes faster and more streamlined for all parties involved.”
Gurain noted that the automated system had also uncovered previously unobserved details about motion, leveraging precise data gathered by the digital camera to reveal subtleties such as how swiftly patients open or close their fingers during movement, and the extent to which motion patterns shift between each tap.
According to Dr. Guarin, individuals with Parkinson’s disease exhibit a delayed opening motion when compared to healthy individuals, mirroring the same motion. “This cutting-edge data, only accessible through the video and laptop, significantly enhances our understanding of Parkinson’s disease by allowing for more precise characterization of motor impact, thereby providing valuable markers to gauge therapy efficacy.”
Researchers leveraged the University of Florida’s (UF) powerful HiPerGator supercomputer, initially designed by Guarin for facial recognition applications beyond Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, to train some of its AI models.
“Through the HiPerGator technology, we were able to create a machine learning model that condenses video data into a motion rating,” Guarin explained. “We leveraged HiPerGator to train, inspect, and fine-tune diverse models utilizing massive amounts of video data, ultimately enabling them to execute efficiently on a smartphone.”
Michael S. According to Okun, M.D., director of the Norman Fixel Institute and medical advisor for the Parkinson’s Foundation, automated video-based assessments have the potential to revolutionize medical trials and care.
“According to Okun, the finger-tapping examination plays a crucial role in monitoring Parkinson’s disease progression and assessing illness development.” Currently, interpreting results requires expertise; however, what’s groundbreaking is how Diego and three Parkinson’s neurologists at the Fixel Institute leveraged AI to quantify and standardize disease progression.
As part of a broader effort to empower healthcare professionals, including neurologists, Guarin is collaborating with UFIT to transform this knowledge into a user-friendly mobile application, enabling individuals to monitor and track the progression of their condition remotely from the comfort of their own homes.