Latest news with #AVA
Business Upturn
a day ago
- Business
- Business Upturn
Allsup Veterans Appeal Team Advocates For Veterans Amid Low Ratings, Denials, Greater Complexity In VA Appeals
Belleville, Illinois, Aug. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allsup, a nationwide disability benefits advocate, and its Allsup Veterans Appeals℠ (AVA) are committed to supporting veterans as they navigate low disability ratings, compensation claim denials, and increasing complexity in the VA appeals process. While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced it processed more than 2 million disability compensation claims in fiscal year 2024—the highest volume in its history—many veterans are receiving decisions that don't accurately reflect the severity of their service-connected conditions. Completing higher claims volume alone has not solved the deeper issues veterans face when seeking fair outcomes, according to Brett Buchanan, U.S. Army veteran and director of Allsup Veterans Appeals. 'Many veterans with multiple service-connected conditions are facing low ratings that fail to reflect the true severity of their disabilities,' Buchanan explained. 'This can result in veterans not receiving the compensation they deserve. We're here to guide them through the appeal process with the goal of a fair and accurate rating for their service.' AVA, a division of Allsup, focuses on helping veterans appeal their VA compensation claims and navigate the evolving VA disability system. While the VA's processing improvements mark important progress, the need for expert support during the appeals process remains critical. The Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) created three distinct pathways to appeal a decision, each with different timelines, evidentiary standards and review options. Despite gains in initial decision processing, veterans are often left frustrated and confused by the VA's complex appeals structure. Selecting the right path is essential to avoid delays and improve outcomes. 'Veterans need expert guidance to select the right appeal path, avoid common mistakes and ensure their cases are presented in the strongest way possible,' Buchanan said. 'The VA disability appeals process can feel overwhelming for veterans because of this variety of options and the critical value of these benefits for themselves and their families.' VA appeal paths include a Higher-Level Review, where a senior reviewer re-examines the existing record without new information; a Supplemental Claim, which allows veterans to submit new and relevant evidence; and an appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA), offering three options— Direct Review, Evidence Submission or a Hearing. AVA's VA-accredited Claims Agents provide expert support by: Explaining eligibility requirements and what evidence is needed to support a claim. Providing guidance on how to apply for disability benefits and what to expect after filing. Assisting with denials and appeals, including selecting the appropriate path: Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Clarifying how VA ratings work and what to do if a rating appears too low. Offering representation from VA-accredited claims agents with the proper credentials to advocate for veterans. Veterans pay nothing upfront—Allsup Veterans Appeals receives payment from retroactive benefits. With more 13 years of experience and a 97 percent success rate for those who complete the VA appeals process with us, AVA continues to provide strategic and personalized appeals support for veterans seeking the benefits they have earned. Veterans denied compensation or dissatisfied with a VA decision in the last year, can contact Allsup Veterans Appeals for a free consultation and expert guidance on how to proceed. If you or a veteran you know has questions about VA disability benefits, please call 888-372-1190 or visit ABOUT ALLSUP Allsup and its subsidiaries provide nationwide Social Security disability, veterans disability appeal, disability financial solutions, return to work, and healthcare benefits services for individuals, their employers and insurance carriers. Allsup professionals deliver specialized services supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible. Founded in 1984, the company is based in Belleville, Illinois, near St. Louis. Learn more at and follow Attachment Brett Buchanan, U.S. Army veteran and director of Allsup Veterans Appeals Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
ViruSure launches pioneering first-in-class viral contamination test for biopharmaceuticals using Oxford Nanopore technology
OXFORD, England & VIENNA, Austria--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ViruSure, a global leader in pathogen safety testing for biopharmaceuticals, and Oxford Nanopore Technologies ('Oxford Nanopore') (LSE: ONT), the company behind a new generation of molecular sensing technology based on nanopores, today announce the launch of the industry's first Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) validated adventitious viral agent (AVA) detection test using nanopore-based sequencing technology. The ViruSure test has been developed and evaluated under rigorous conditions and is powered by Oxford Nanopore's advanced molecular sensing platform. It will be used for the detection of viral contamination within the manufacturing process, providing biopharmaceutical teams with richer viral detection insights and faster time-to-result, accessibly and affordably. A rapid and sensitive test, it can detect AVAs regardless of virus type, to improve confidence in biomanufacturing safety. Viral contamination remains one of the most significant threats to biopharmaceutical manufacturing, causing production delays and potential biologic, vaccine and cell and gene therapy product shortages. Traditional viral detection methods can take months to provide the full panel of results, with each individual test often taking more than 14 days, and contaminants still going undetected or reported as false positives. This innovation addresses a critical need to streamline AVA detection within biomanufacturing, a rapidly growing market currently valued at $20 billion, of which at least $4 billion is related to AVA testing. Global regulatory authorities have also recognised the urgent industry demand for faster and more reliable solutions and actively encouraged the adoption of advanced sequencing-based testing methods. i Dr Andy Bailey, CEO of ViruSure, commented: 'The development of this cutting-edge test for adventitious agents marks a major advancement in the industry's ability to detect a wide range of contaminants with exceptional sensitivity. Offering significantly improved specificity compared to traditional short-read next-generation sequencing methods, this innovation sets a new benchmark in virus detection. Powered by Oxford Nanopore technology, the test produces datasets with minimal background noise, greatly simplifying the identification of potential viral signals. This crucial feature supports biopharmaceutical manufacturers in achieving faster product evaluation and release, enhancing both safety and efficiency.' Gordon Sanghera, CEO Oxford Nanopore, commented: 'Contamination during the biomanufacturing process can pose considerable risks to patient safety, as well as production delays and drug shortages, which is not wanted by biopharmaceutical companies – nor the patients and health systems they serve. With the introduction of this first-in-class test, ViruSure is directly addressing the industry's critical demand for rapid, information-rich, and cost-effective viral detection methods, and we're proud to have played a key role in its development.' ViruSure and Oxford Nanopore are also working together to introduce a Good Manufacturing Process (GMP)-validated solution, which they expect will follow shortly. About ViruSure ViruSure, an Asahi Kasei Life Science company, is a leading global Contract Research Organization specializing in virus and prion biosafety testing for the biopharmaceutical and life science industries, with more than 20 years of experience. Located in Vienna, Austria, ViruSure partners with industry to support their quality control testing needs and ensure the safety and purity of biopharmaceuticals, cell & gene therapies, and vaccines. ViruSure is an integral part of the Biosafety Testing Services Unit of Asahi Kasei Life Sciences. To learn more about ViruSure, visit About Oxford Nanopore Technologies Oxford Nanopore Technologies' goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. The company has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology for faster, information rich, accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The first application is DNA/RNA sequencing, and the technology is in development for the analysis of other types of molecules including proteins. The technology is used in more than 125 countries to understand and characterise the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer, plants, animals, bacteria, viruses, and whole environments. Oxford Nanopore Technologies products are intended for molecular biology applications and are not intended for diagnostic purposes. For more, visit:
Top Gear
29-07-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
A Tesla Model 3 has driven itself around a 'Magic Roundabout' in the UK
Electric Tesla debuts its 'Full Self-Driving (Supervised)' tech for the first time. Somehow deals with London Skip 1 photos in the image carousel and continue reading A 'self-driving' Tesla Model 3 has achieved a feat no human has ever been able to manage. It has successfully self-navigated around Swindon's ironically named 'Magic Roundabout'. Furthermore, this 'self-driving' Model 3 – equipped with Level 2 SAE autonomy – also managed to drive itself around London without much fuss. An endeavour practically unheard of. Advertisement - Page continues below Why is this particular Model 3 going on an impromptu self-driving road trip? Possibly because Tesla's so-called 'Robotaxis' might be planning a UK launch. That's right: driverless taxis are coming. It marks the UK debut for the carmaker's 'Full Self Driving (Supervised)' technology. As mentioned, it's actually akin to Level 2 SAE, so although it's packed with cameras and is able to drive itself, a human is required to pay attention at all times. You might like And Tesla's tech debut comes at an interesting time. The Department for Transport (DfT) has kickstarted a consultation about the development and deployment of self-driving cars ahead of the 'Automated Vehicles Act' (AVA) coming into force in 2027. 'Self-driving vehicles are one of the most exciting opportunities to improve transport for so many people, especially those in rural areas or unable to drive,' said the government's Lilian Greenwood. Advertisement - Page continues below "We want to work with passengers and industry to make this new form of transport safe and accessible, as we take our next steps towards adoption. This technology doesn't just have the potential to improve transport for millions of people, it will help stimulate innovation, create thousands of jobs, and drive investment to put more money in people's pockets." Indeed, self-driving cars look to be big bidness: it could generate as much as £42 billion for the UK, while creating some 38,000 jobs. Let's see if that self-driving Model 3 can make it around the M25 during rush hour in one piece, then we'll be impressed Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox.
Business Standard
23-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Axis Trustee Services Launches Industry-First AI-Powered Chatbot 'AVA' to Transform Client Experience
PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 23: Axis Trustee Services Limited (ATSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Axis Bank and a leading name in corporate and fiduciary services in India, has announced the launch of AVA (Axis Trustee Virtual Assistant) - the first AI-powered chatbot in the Indian trustee services space. With AVA, Axis Trustee takes a significant step in its digital transformation journey, reaffirming its position at the forefront of fintech-led trustee solutions. AVA is designed to deliver real-time, intelligent, and seamless client support across key touch-points. By integrating AI into its service delivery model, Axis Trustee aims to redefine client experience through instant support, improved transparency, and enhanced operational efficiency. The virtual assistant is built to address three major pillars of client interaction: Product and Service Queries AVA provides instant responses to frequently asked questions and offers detailed information about Axis Trustee's diverse suite of products and services. Clients can access information 24/7, ensuring real-time support without delays. Service Request Management Existing clients can raise service requests through AVA seamlessly. All interactions are logged, tracked, and resolved efficiently within the defined turnaround time (TAT), ensuring reliability and transparency. Process and Transaction-Related Queries AVA offers instant support on all process and transaction-related queries across trustee services including documentation, compliance workflows, and regulatory protocols. It delivers guidance aligned with current regulations, and ensures clients receive structured responses. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Rahul Choudhary, MD & CEO, Axis Trustee Services Limited,said, "AVA marks a pivotal step in our journey towards becoming a digitally empowered, customer-centric trustee partner. In today's fast-paced financial ecosystem, the need for faster, more intuitive client interactions is more critical than ever. AVA goes beyond being a Chatbot - it reflects our commitment to innovation, transparency, and real-time client engagement. As we move forward in our fintech transformation, AVA will be instrumental in building trust and helping us deliver superior service experiences to all stakeholders." Over the past few years, Axis Trustee has consistently redefined trustee services in India through focused initiatives. With investments in automation, digital documentation, and now AI-powered customer service support, Axis Trustee is positioning itself as a next-generation Trustee - agile, responsive, and future-ready. About Axis Trustee Services Limited (ATSL): Axis Trustee, a wholly owned subsidiary of Axis Bank, is a leading provider of Trustee and Fiduciary services in India, offering a broad range of solutions across Debenture Trustee, Security Trustee Escrow Agency, Securitization, AIF, InvIT, REIT, Trustee for P2P lending platform and more. With a growing emphasis on digital solutions and client-centric innovation, ATSL continues to set benchmarks in the Trustee ecosystem. With a future-forward approach and deep domain expertise, ATSL offers a comprehensive portfolio including Debenture Trustee, Security Trustee, and Facility Agent services (covering both onshore and GIFT City jurisdictions). It also provides trustee solutions for Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), alongside tailored estate and succession planning services. ATSL supports diverse financial structures through Escrow and Payout Management, Trustee services for P2P lending platforms, TRA Agency roles, ESOP Trusts, and Orphan SPVs for aircraft leasing. Its securitization trustee solutions round out its robust offerings, underscoring its commitment to secure, transparent, and regulation-aligned fiduciary services.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Anthology Unveils Next-Generation AI and Immersive Learning Innovations in Blackboard, Maintains Position as the Fastest-Evolving LMS for the Fourth Year
BOCA RATON, Fla., July 15, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Anthology, the leading educational technology company, today announced a sweeping set of innovations across its award-winning learning management system, Blackboard®, and marked its fourth consecutive year as the fastest-evolving LMS. These advancements are designed to streamline instructional design, lighten educators' administrative load, and support student success at every stage of the learning journey. "We continue to lead the way in the responsible, ethical, and impactful use of AI, delivering real results where it matters most," said Bruce Dahlgren, CEO of Anthology. "By working closely with our customers, we ensure our solutions are solving the realities facing higher education today. These new powerful capabilities support faculty, strengthen student engagement, and advance institutional success." AI That Works for You: Supporting Student Success and Faculty Efficiency Anthology is expanding its AI-powered capabilities in Blackboard with the Anthology Virtual Assistant, AVA, a suite of tools designed to help instructors use their time more efficiently, enhance student support, and promote responsible, transparent use of generative AI. Complementing the existing AI Design Assistant, AVA features deliver meaningful, time-saving support for everyday teaching and learning tasks. AVA Automations are personalized nudges to keep students engaged and on track. With AVA Automations, instructors can set performance- or time-based rules to automatically send personalized messages to students—for example, to celebrate a high grade or remind them to log in. Messages are instructor-written, fully customizable, and logged for full transparency. This feature will be included in the core Blackboard license and available to all users at no additional cost. Instructors spend valuable time each week responding to common student questions. AVA Responses serves as the first line of support by providing students with instant, AI-generated answers based on course content. Whether it's a question about deadlines or grading criteria, responses are linked to the original source and shared with the instructor, who can review and confirm as needed—saving time while keeping students informed. The AVA Feedback Assistant helps instructors deliver high-quality, student-friendly feedback in less time. Summarize Feedback auto-generates a clear summary based on rubric selections and grading criteria. Rewrite Feedback turns informal notes or fragments into polished, constructive messages. With both features, instructors save time on grading tasks while still delivering clear, personalized feedback to students, all while maintaining full oversight of AI-suggested responses before sharing. AVA Playground gives all students equitable access to a range of generative AI models within Blackboard—at no cost to them, and without needing external accounts or tools. This secure, opt-in environment supports AI literacy by allowing students to explore and experiment with emerging technologies in context. All activity is logged for transparency, giving instructors visibility into how AI is being used to support learning. All of the Anthology Virtual Assistant capabilities will be offered as a free trial to current Blackboard customers through June 30, 2026. Driving Student Success Through Recognition and Results New features in the Blackboard experience help institutions recognize student achievement and track learning progress—boosting engagement, driving continuous improvement, and strengthening institutional identity. Blackboard Achievements: AI Badge Creator. Educators can easily design achievement badges within their courses, helping motivate learners and reflect institutional branding. This capability will be part of the core license of Blackboard. Outcomes. The new outcomes functionality for Blackboard helps institutions easily measure, manage and showcase student learning. Faculty will be able to align assignments to learning outcomes and track student achievement over time within the flow of their courses. At the same time, institutions are empowered to assign and relate outcomes across the institutional hierarchy, disciplines, and programs, making it easier to support accreditation, highlight areas of strength, and guide continuous launch builds on Anthology's ongoing investment in mastery and competency-based learning, including tools like the Mastery Gradebook, which helps educators evaluate performance against defined skills and standards. Anthology Outcomes is a Core feature available to Blackboard customers in Canada and the United States. Bringing Learning to Life: Immersive Video Tools That Drive Student Engagement Launched last year, Video Studio was created to help instructors easily create, upload, and share engaging video content without the need for external tools or licenses—and without worry over storage or streaming limits. Today, Video Studio has advanced to support 360-degree video and immersive video experiences through VR-handoff compatibility—giving instructors powerful new ways to engage learners. Whether simulating lab environments or fieldwork, this innovation brings learning to life and prepares students and those continuing their professional development for real-world challenges. Powerful Tools for Efficient Teaching and Streamlined Content Management The AI Design Assistant for Documents expands upon the AI Design Assistant capabilities and makes it easier than ever for instructors and instructional designers to craft engaging, high-quality course materials directly within Blackboard. With a single click, the AI Design Assistant analyzes an existing document and recommends optimized layouts, inserts relevant royalty-free visuals, and suggests formative knowledge checks—each aligned with instructional design best practices. Instructors can review, refine, or regenerate these suggestions, ensuring full control while accelerating the content creation AI Design Assistant for Documents will be available as part of the core Blackboard license and released globally in July 2025. Learning Object Repository (LOR). The Learning Object Repository (LOR) helps institutions save time and ensure consistency by centrally managing key course content across Blackboard. Whether it's a syllabus used by multiple instructors, an academic integrity policy, or student support information, the LOR allows administrators to create and maintain a single version of these important documents—ensuring accuracy and reducing duplication across courses and organizations. Together, these enhancements make it even easier to scale high-quality learning experiences and keep content aligned across the institution. Experience the industry's most modern learning management system with a free trial at About Anthology Anthology delivers education and technology solutions so that students can reach their full potential and learning institutions thrive. Millions of students around the world are supported throughout their education journey via Anthology's ecosystem of flagship SaaS solutions and supporting services, including the award-winning Blackboard® (LMS), Anthology® Student (SIS/ERP), and Anthology® Reach (CRM). Through the Power of Together, we are uniquely inspiring educators and institutions with innovation that is meaningful, simple and intelligent to help customers redefine what's possible and create life-changing opportunities for people everywhere. Note to editors: Blackboard is the fastest-evolving LMS. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Blackboard released more new features than any other major LMS—191 in the past 12 months alone, compared to 109 for D2L Brightspace and 79 for Instructure Canvas. This pace of innovation is publicly documented in each vendor's release notes: View source version on Contacts Erin MitchellSenior Director of Communications, Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
