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NSRI, MIT Lincoln Laboratory announce strategic partnership, results of student R&D

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OMAHA, Neb., July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska, a University Affiliated Research Center designated by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), has established a new strategic partnership with Lincoln Laboratory, the Federally Funded Research and Development Center of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Their aim: Launch a student research program that will tackle historical national security questions for the DOD with new and innovative approaches.

Partnership supports students to develop groundbreaking solutions to detect and neutralize emerging biological threats.

The joint initiative brings together the scientific expertise, cutting-edge capabilities and student capacity of the University of Nebraska System (NU) and MIT for critical issues within global health and agricultural security and aims to develop groundbreaking solutions to detect and neutralize emerging biological threats before they can endanger American citizens.

“In an era of rapidly evolving dangers, we must stay ahead of the curve through continuous innovation,” said David Roberts, NSRI research director for special programs. “This partnership harnesses a unique combination of strengths from two leading academic institutions and two research institutes to create new paradigms in biological defense.”

With funding from a DOD agency, the partners conducted a pilot project at MIT throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. The challenge: Current methods to rapidly screen for novel biosynthetic capabilities are limited by the lack of standardized, high-throughput devices that can support the culture of traditionally “uncultivable” microorganisms, which severely limits the cell diversity that could be probed for bioprospecting or biomanufacturing applications.

Led by Dr. Todd Thorsen, a technical staff member in the Biological & Chemical Technologies Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, MIT students created the project, “Bioprospecting Experimentation Apparatus with Variable Environmental Regulation,” which focused on developing simple high-throughput tools with integrated environmental control systems to expand the environmental testing envelope.

“This program, which emphasizes both engineering design and prototyping, challenges students to take what they learned in the classroom in their past undergraduate and graduate studies, and apply it to a real-world problem,” Dr. Thorsen said. “For many students, the hands-on nature of this class is an exciting opportunity to test their abilities to prioritize what is important in developing products that are both functional and easy to use. What I found most impressive was the students’ ability to apply their collective knowledge to the design and prototyping of the biomedical devices, emphasizing their diverse backgrounds in areas like fluid mechanicals, controls and solid mechanics.”

In total, 12 mechanical engineering students contributed to the program, producing and validating a gas gradient manifold prototype and a droplet-dispensing manifold that has the potential to generate arbitrary pH gradients in industry-standard 96-well plates used for biomedical research. These devices will greatly simplify and accelerate the microculture of complex mixtures of organisms, like bacteria populations, where the growth conditions are unknown, allowing the end user to use the manifolds to dial in the optimal environmental parameters without the need for expensive, bulky hardware like the anaerobic chambers typically used for microbiology research.

“This class was my first experience with microfluidics and biotech, and thanks to our sponsors, I gained the confidence to pursue a career path in biotech,” said Rachael Rosco, an MIT student in the program. “The project itself was meaningful, and I know that our work will hopefully one day make an impact. Who knows, maybe one day it will lead to cultivating extremophile bacteria on a foreign planet!”

The partnership will continue to target DOD research funding to create workforce development opportunities for top scientific talent and introduce students to long-standing DOD challenges. Projects will take place at several NSRI, NU, Lincoln Laboratory and MIT facilities nationwide.

“We are excited to combine forces with NSRI to develop critical biotechnologies that will enhance national security,” said Catherine Cabrera, who leads Lincoln Laboratory’s biological and chemical technologies group. “This partnership underscores our shared commitment to safeguarding America through scientific leadership.”

About the National Strategic Research Institute

Through the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska leading scientists deliver innovative national security research, technology, product and strategy development, training and exercises, and subject matter expertise to the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. One of only 15 DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Centers in the country, NSRI is sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command and works to ensure the United States’ safety and preparedness against increasingly sophisticated threats. nsri.nebraska.edu

About MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Lincoln Laboratory researches and develops advanced technologies to meet critical national security needs. What sets us apart from many national research and development laboratories is an emphasis on building operational prototypes of the systems we design. Learn more at ll.mit.edu.

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SOURCE National Strategic Research Institute

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In HelloNation, Veterinary Expert Dana Novara Highlights How Local Vets Support Pets and Their Owners

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The article outlines how veterinarians strengthen community ties through education, crisis response, and preventive care.

DENVER, Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How do local veterinarians support both pets and the people who care for them? HelloNation has published the answer in a HelloNation article that explores the broader community role veterinarians play beyond routine veterinary care.

The HelloNation article explains that while veterinarians are widely known for providing checkups, surgeries, and emergency treatment, their impact extends far beyond medical services. Veterinary clinics often serve as trusted community hubs where pet owners seek not only treatment, but also guidance and reassurance.

According to the article, veterinary clinics regularly provide education on preventive care, nutrition, and behavior. These everyday conversations help families make informed decisions about their pets’ health. By offering clear advice and accessible information, veterinarians contribute to stronger long term outcomes for both animals and owners.

The article also describes how many veterinarians participate in local events that promote animal welfare and community engagement. Clinics may host vaccination drives, pet adoption events, and educational workshops. These efforts bring residents together around a shared interest in responsible pet ownership and community well being.

Veterinary Expert Dana Novara provides insight in the article into how veterinarians become consistent and approachable figures within their neighborhoods. The article notes that this accessibility fosters trust. Over time, relationships built during routine appointments strengthen confidence and communication between pet owners and veterinary professionals.

Beyond routine services, the article highlights the role veterinarians play during local disasters. In times of floods, wildfires, or severe storms, veterinary clinics often provide emergency medical care, temporary shelter, or coordination with rescue groups. Their expertise supports both pets and families during stressful and uncertain situations.

The HelloNation article emphasizes that these efforts reduce strain on communities facing emergencies. By safeguarding pets, veterinarians help relieve a major source of concern for owners. This dual focus on animal welfare and human reassurance reinforces the importance of veterinary professionals in local support networks.

Collaboration is another theme explored in the article. Many veterinarians work closely with rescue groups, shelters, and advocacy organizations. By offering discounted or pro bono services, they help rescued animals receive essential treatment before adoption. These partnerships improve adoption outcomes and promote preventive care throughout the community.

Veterinary Expert Dana Novara is featured in the article discussing how these collaborations benefit both pets and residents. The article explains that when veterinarians engage with rescue groups and educational programs, they help reduce the number of untreated animals and increase awareness of available resources.

The piece also points to the subtle but meaningful public health impact of veterinary care. By promoting vaccinations and preventive care, veterinarians reduce the spread of preventable diseases. Their educational outreach encourages responsible pet ownership and supports healthier environments for all.

Ultimately, the article frames veterinarians as community anchors whose influence reaches beyond clinical walls. Through education, collaboration, crisis response, and consistent care, they help create connected neighborhoods where both pets and people feel supported.

How Local Vets Support Pets and Their Owners features insights from Dana Novara, Veterinary Expert of Denver, Colorado, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation

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Beacon Communications Expands in Illinois with Acquisition of Low Voltage Solutions Inc., Broadening National Coverage to Chicago-Area Market

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DENVER, Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Beacon Communications LLC, a leading provider of critical communications and life safety systems, throughout the U.S., today announced the acquisition of Low Voltage Solutions Inc. (LVS), a Lockport, Illinois-based technology solutions provider. The acquisition bolsters Beacon’s footprint in Illinois – expanding its ability to serve healthcare, government, education, and commercial customers throughout Illinois and the greater Chicago region.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Low Voltage Solutions to the Beacon family,” said Brad Walsh, CEO of Beacon Communications. “Gary, Teresa, and the entire LVS team have built something truly special over the past two decades, with a strong reputation, exceptional customer relationships, and a culture that closely reflects our own. What excites me most is the opportunity to bring our talented teams together, build on the foundation they’ve established, and create new opportunities for our employees and customers. We’re proud to be part of LVS’s next chapter and look forward to everything we can accomplish together.”

Since 1997, LVS has evolved from a voice and data cabling contractor into a full-service provider of integrated technology solutions. Today, the company designs, installs, and supports a comprehensive range of low-voltage systems, specializing in voice, data and fiber optic cabling, electronic security, fire alarm, and audiovisual (AV) technologies. LVS delivers integrated solutions to prominent customers across a variety of industries, including Northwestern University, University of Illinois Chicago, Morris Hospital, Silver Cross Hospital, Chicago Public Schools, Shedd Aquarium, Argonne National Laboratory, and Verizon.

As part of Beacon, LVS clients will gain access to Beacon’s national resources, including added support company-wide and amplifying strategic partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers of advanced security technologies, nurse call, access control, intercom, infant protection, RTLS, AV, and managed services, along with 24/7 customer support. Beacon customers will also benefit from LVS’s local expertise and established regional relationships.

“LVS has always been built around our people, the relationships we’ve developed, and the commitment we bring to every customer. This partnership with Beacon gives us the opportunity to build on that foundation while bringing additional resources and capabilities to the table. I’m especially confident in our General Manager, Nick Siwak, and the leadership team as they guide LVS into this next chapter. For our customers, that means the same people, relationships, and commitment they have come to expect, backed by the added strength and opportunities of Beacon. I’m excited about what this means for our team and the future of LVS,” stated Gary St. Cin, President of Low Voltage Systems, Inc.

About Beacon Communications
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, Beacon Communications is a national leader in mission critical communications and security solutions. Beacon delivers custom technology solutions, from design and engineering to installation and managed services for integrated electronic security and communication systems including nurse call, access control, intercom, infant protection, RTLS, fire alarm and life safety solutions, AV, and structured cabling.

Beacon helps healthcare, government, education, commercial, energy, and infrastructure organizations operate more safely and efficiently, and provides staff training to customers as well as 24/7 support. Learn more at beaconcom.com.

About Low Voltage Solutions Inc..

Low Voltage Solutions Inc. (LVS) is a Lockport, Illinois-based provider of structured cabling, security, fire and life safety, and audio-visual systems. With a mission to deliver the most comprehensive low voltage solutions for its customers, LVS serves healthcare, education, government, industrial, commercial, hospitality, and retail clients across the Chicago area.

LVS’s long-term success is built on its people: an extraordinarily experienced team of project managers, engineers, and union electricians who see each project through from design to installation. Learn more at lvsolutions.com.

Beacon Communications Media Contact: 
Dez King, Marketing Manager
719-355-9261 | 426357@email4pr.com 

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SOURCE Beacon Communications

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Register a Birth, Live: Secure Identity Alliance Hosts OSIA Live Interoperability Demo at TRUSTECH Paris

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Six identity technology providers will run a complete birth registration through the OSIA standard (ITU-T X.1281), with a different line-up of vendors each day, 1–3 December 2026

BRUSSELS, Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Secure Identity Alliance (SIA) today announced the OSIA Live Interoperability Demo, which will run throughout TRUSTECH Paris, 1–3 December 2026, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Six identity technology providers, DIGITECH, iDAKTO, IN Groupe, Mühlbauer, Thales and X Infotech, will connect their systems through OSIA, the international standard for interoperable identity management systems (ITU-T Recommendation X.1281). Together they will run a complete birth registration, from checking the parent’s identity to a birth certificate printed on a card and verified on the spot.

Join us at Trustech and drop in to get your birth certificate on the spot. Register free here!

The birth certificate is the first identity document a person receives, and the foundation for every credential that follows: national ID, passport, driving licence. Yet in many countries it is still a paper document that is easy to forge and hard to recover if lost. Modernizing means connecting many components, such as enrollment, biometrics, unique identification number generation and credential management systems and civil and population registries. These are often supplied by different vendors, and without a shared standard each connection is a costly custom integration that ties governments to a single supplier.

At the demo, visitors play the child whose birth is being registered. The parent’s identity is first obtained and checked, and the visitor gives their details and a live face capture. After data verification, the birth is registered and a unique identification number (UIN) is attributed to the visitor, playing the child. Visitors then receive their birth certificate on the spot: their data and portrait are printed on a card together with a visible digital seal (QR code). Finally, they present the QR code to a mobile app, which verifies their identity by collecting the data and portrait from the different OSIA-powered identity systems.

To protect privacy, visitors’ faces appear on screen and are stored only for the purpose of printing the birth certificate in the framework of the demo. No fingerprints are captured, and the child is fictional. All data is erased at the close of each day.

“Interoperability is often presented as a promise. At TRUSTECH, governments will see it work, from a child’s very first identity record to a credential that can be trusted anywhere,” said Debora Comparin, Chair of the OSIA Initiative. “Six independent companies that compete have built one seamless process together, and they swap places every day. That is what OSIA gives governments: the freedom to choose the best system building block for each step, without lock-in.”

The demo will also be presented on stage on Wednesday 2 December at 12:00 in the ID Conference Room.

Practical information
OSIA Live Demo Area, Alley D, between the Innovation Stage and the ID Conference Room, TRUSTECH Paris, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, 1–3 December 2026. Open drop-in during show hours. On stage: Wednesday 2 December, 12:00, ID Conference Room. More information: www.osia.io #OSIALiveDemo

About the Secure Identity Alliance
The Secure Identity Alliance brings together leading global providers of identity technology. SIA leads OSIA, eSEC, ADIA and co-leads SIDI Hub. SIA is a supporting organization of the ITU Focus Group TIDA. www.secureidentityalliance.org 

About OSIA
OSIA is the international standard for interoperable identity management systems, published as ITU-T Recommendation X.1281. It defines open interfaces between the building blocks of identity systems, so governments can combine components from different suppliers and avoid vendor lock-in. www.osia.io

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/register-a-birth-live-secure-identity-alliance-hosts-osia-live-interoperability-demo-at-trustech-paris-302931206.html

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