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National Cybersecurity Awareness Month: 5 Cybersecurity Strategies Research Universities Must Adopt to Lead in Global Research

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2 years ago

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Navigating Unique Cybersecurity Challenges from Sensitive Data Protection to Social Media Threats

JASPER, Ind., Sept. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — As National Cybersecurity Awareness Month approaches this October, PIER Group is drawing attention to the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by research-focused universities and institutions nationwide. With the rise of cloud computing and data sharing, safeguarding the sensitive research data, intellectual property, and high-value projects emerging from these academic hubs is more critical than ever. PIER Group, a leader in providing IT solutions and cybersecurity services to R1 and R2 universities, is at the forefront of helping these institutions navigate this complex cybersecurity landscape.

“At PIER Group, we see it as our responsibility to ensure that these institutions not only stay at the forefront of global research, but do so securely. We’re building the infrastructures that allow them to innovate without fear of compromise,” said Chad Williams, president of PIER Group.

“R1 and R2 universities are some of the most targeted institutions by cybercriminals due to the immense value of the research they conduct and their large attack surface. Their networks handle hundreds of thousands of devices and connect to other universities all over the world,” said Chad Williams, president of PIER Group. “At PIER Group, we see it as our responsibility to ensure that these institutions not only stay at the forefront of global research, but do so securely. We’re building the infrastructures that allow them to innovate without fear of compromise.”

During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, universities have the opportunity to assess their cybersecurity strategies and adopt solutions that will protect their campuses, students, and research for years to come. Williams and his colleagues at PIER Group have identified five strategies that top universities should be implementing now or planning for:

1. Adopt AI for Cybersecurity. For managing networks at the scale of major research universities, with thousands of devices connected to campus networks, AI is essential for detecting threats and responding quickly. AI-driven tools can analyze vast amounts of data to detect anomalies and provide automated threat responses.
● What Universities Should Do: Adopt AI-enhanced cybersecurity tools that provide proactive monitoring and fast response to cyber threats.

2. Implement Network Access Control (NAC) Systems. Modern access control solutions, often enhanced with AI, make it much easier for university staff to segment the university population so only authorized users can access sensitive information, applications and data.
● What Universities Should Do: Implement sophisticated NAC systems that use AI for smarter, more effective user management.

3. Combat Social Media Attacks. Cyber criminals are using social media apps like LinkedIn and Instagram to launch attacks on individuals, with an overarching goal of breaching a university network.
● What Universities Should Do: Universities should always follow the 3-2-1-1 rule – three copies of data at two different locations, one offsite and one immutable. They should also educate campus communities on social media risks and employ cybersecurity solutions that monitor and mitigate these threats.

4. Leave Legacy Equipment Behind. Most universities have older equipment, but even equipment that is just a few years old can leave universities vulnerable to cyberattacks. Transitioning networks and storage to the cloud is proving to be the most economical and flexible solution, adding greater security while allowing universities to quickly scale up or down.
● What Universities Should Do: Focus on phasing out older equipment as soon as possible and migrate those computing needs to the cloud.

5. Collaborate Securely with the Broader Research Ecosystem. Universities’ openness for collaboration complicates security. Real-time partnerships with research centers and external partners demand secure data-sharing, supported by networks like The Quilt. Strong security measures are crucial to protect sensitive research and intellectual property. Secure collaboration fuels innovation in medicine and technology while safeguarding valuable data.
● What Universities Should Do: Universities should ensure their networks are built to handle secure, high-speed collaboration with both internal and external research partners. PIER Group’s support and partnership with R1 and R2 research organizations help facilitate university-wide collaboration, enabling discussions on the best procedures and solutions to secure student, institutional, and research data necessary for innovation.

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, universities must implement strategies to protect their students, staff, and the integrity of their research. By doing so, they contribute to a safer global research ecosystem. For more information on how R1 and R2 universities can achieve technology leadership, visit http://www.piergroup.com.

About PIER Group 
PIER Group is a leading IT and cybersecurity solutions provider with decades of experience specializing in research universities and large academic institutions. They excel in securing and optimizing campus and research networks, demonstrated by their work with top national R1 and R2 universities from coast to coast including Indiana University, University of South Carolina and the University of Maryland. PIER Group’s expertise includes implementing robust security measures, such as Aruba ClearPass, to protect sensitive data and support national research networks like The Quilt. Their commitment helps universities navigate complex cybersecurity challenges and makes high-speed, high-stakes collaborations possible. For more information, visit piergroup.com.

Media Contact:
Beth (Brophy) Strautz
Vagus PR, Inc.
beth@vaguspr.com

Media Contact

Beth Strautz, Vagus PR, 773-895-5387, beth@vaguspr.com, vaguspr.com

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The Ultimate Send-off to Summer: CSTS Debuts Global Entertainment IP PremierX at New York’s Pier 17, Ushering in a New Era of Live Entertainment

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35 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (‘CSTS’), a New York-based sports, entertainment, integrated media and travel technology group, today announced the official launch of PremierXTM, its flagship live entertainment brand, with a landmark Halloween Weekend event “AFTER DARK” at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York on October 30, 2026.

Capping off Seaport’s 2026 Summer Season in unforgettable fashion, the grand finale brings a powerhouse lineup of stars to the PremierXTM stage at Pier 17, featuring Lil Xan, Armani White, DJ Soda, Nate Wyatt, and surprise A-list guest headliners. Set against the iconic Manhattan skyline, the landmark eventing unites chart-topping hip-hop and high-octane electronic music for a festival-grade experience as The Rooftop at Pier 17 transforms into the city’s premier live music destination.

Building on the momentum of the PremierXTM After Party for the 2026 World Cup Final that took place in New York on July 19th, “AFTER DARK” signals the official debut of PremierXTM, a proprietary, New York – born global entertainment IP created by CSTS to deliver defining cultural experiences at the intersection of music, sport, art and lifestyle. Centred on the power of cultural crossover, PremierXTM serves as an international bridge connecting East and West, modern innovation and timeless classical, while uniting world-class artists, creators, performers and audiences through the universal language of entertainment and premium live experiences.

The launch also marks the beginning of a promising relationship with Pier 17, providing a world-class stage for PremierXTM to accelerate its growth in the U.S. and engage international audiences over the long term. By combining PremierXTM’s global entertainment vision with Pier 17’s iconic waterfront setting, the partnership aims to create a premier destination for live experiences, empowering both platforms to expand their global reach, deepen audience engagement, and drive sustainable growth.

As a key pillar of CSTS’ integrated ecosystem spanning entertainment, sports, travel, integrated media and marketing solutions, PremierXTM further strengthens the Group’s ability to create high-impact experiences that connect audiences, destinations and brand partners. With the global live entertainment market projected to grow from approximately US$203 billion in 2025 to US$270 billion by 2030[1], PremierXTM is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium, experience-led entertainment while creating long-term value to the Group through recurring audience engagement, tourism and brand partnerships.

“PremierX TM represents a significant milestone in CSTS’ evolution from a leading operator of global sports and hospitality platforms into a creator of world-class entertainment experiences,” said Abel Zhao, Group CEO and Executive Director at CSTS Enterprises. “The season finale at Pier17 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for CSTS as we expand our entertainment footprint and introduce a platform designed to deliver iconic live experiences and bring together artists and audiences from across the globe.”

“PremierXTM was built from the ground up as a bespoke platform to champion multicultural talent and visionary creative performers.” said Jason Liu, Regional Director of CSTS USA. “Starting from New York, we are building a scalable global brand that brings iconic live experiences to audiences worldwide while expanding our presence across key entertainment hubs in North America, Asia and Europe.”

Following its New York launch, PremierXTM plans to expand through a broader international rollout across North America, Asia and Europe, with future editions planned as part of a growing network of recurring live entertainment properties and flagship cultural events.

For ticket information on PremierXTM: “AFTER DARK”, visit
https://www.axs.com/events/1644912/after-dark-tickets

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is an integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. Headquartered in New York City, the company develops and partners with intellectual properties and brands to deliver compelling experiences that connect with audiences across the world. In addition to its own initiatives, including Generation CTM and PremierXTM, it collaborates with international IPs including FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Formula 1.

CSTS integrates experiential marketing, travel, data, and technology to deliver seamless end-to-end audience experiences. The company engages consumers across physical events and digital channels, executing at scale worldwide, turning complex activations into co-ordinated, measurable outcomes.

[1] Source: Industry research by Markets and Markets, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030.

 

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SOURCE CSTS Enterprises

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Swanson Vitamins Launches Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro to Champion Registered Dietitians and Licensed Nutritionists at Every Stage of Their Careers

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36 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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New network for health and nutrition professionals offers CPEU-accredited continuing education, profession-wide promotion, practicum support and exam scholarships

FARGO, N.D., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Swanson Vitamins today launched Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, a network for health and nutrition professionals. The new initiative champions registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists through every stage of their careers, from students to providers with decades of experience. Created by nutrition professionals for nutrition professionals, Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers educational resources, incentives and investments to support practitioners who share Swanson’s commitment to uncompromising integrity.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers tailored resources for both practicing professionals and students. For practicing registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists, the program provides CPEU-accredited continuing education, along with profession-wide promotion of the experts who guide consumers’ wellness decisions. For dietetics and nutrition students, Swanson is investing in the next generation of the profession through practicum support and scholarships toward licensing or credentialing exam fees.

As consumers take a more active role in their health, they are increasingly turning to registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists for accurate, science-backed guidance. Through Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, Swanson aims to help nutrition professionals strengthen their credentials and build expertise in areas where consumers are seeking trusted nutritional support.

“Since 1969, we have been committed to uncompromising integrity in service of everyone’s journey to real wellness, and we believe real wellness starts with the experts who guide it,” said Erin Del Ponte, EVP Brand Marketing at Swanson Vitamins. “Registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists translate nutrition science into practical, personalized guidance that helps people make informed decisions about their health. With Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, we are proud to support these professionals at every stage of their careers, from students preparing for their credentialing exams to seasoned providers building expertise in the areas that matter most to consumers today.”

Swanson Nexus Pro program highlights

CPEU-accredited continuing education for registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsProfession-wide promotion of registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsPracticum support for dietetics and nutrition studentsScholarships to help offset licensing or credentialing exam fees

Applications for Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro are open and can be submitted HERE. Additional details, including scholarship award amounts and practicum support details, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro was introduced at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual conference, held Oct. 24-27 in San Antonio. This initiative builds on Swanson’s longstanding commitment to the nutrition and dietetics community and reflects the company’s continued investment in the professionals who help consumers make informed choices on their journey to real wellness.

Media Assets
Photos HERE

About Swanson Vitamins
Since 1969, Swanson Vitamins has offered high-quality, science-backed vitamins and supplements rooted in one simple belief: proof over promise. Nearly six decades before “wellness” became an industry, Swanson was pioneering trustworthy supplement offerings and upholding uncompromising quality standards through intentional sourcing, rigorous in-house and third-party testing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Today, Swanson is a Certified GMP Facility recognized by NSF, backed by an in-house team of nutritionists, dietitians, scientists, chemists and pharmacists with a combined 250-plus years of experience. With more than 1,300 products across 36 categories, Swanson doesn’t chase trends. It sets standards for integrity, quality and clarity in the supplement industry.

Swanson products are available at SwansonVitamins.com, Amazon and iHerb.com. Learn more at SwansonVitamins.com or follow @swansonvitamins on Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lauren Torrez, Crowe PR
ltorrez@crowepr.com 

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Technology Drives the Future of Travel: JETOUR Continues to Expand Its “Travel+” Ecosystem

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2 hours ago

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October 24, 2026

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WUHU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Expectations for travel are evolving: vehicles are no longer simply a means of reaching a destination, but travel companions that bring people closer to nature, serving as a “mobile third space.”

JETOUR continues to advance its “Travel+” strategy, integrating technological innovation, product development, and ecosystem building into real travel scenarios. From October 20 to 23, the 2026 JETOUR Global Technology Experience Day, themed “Future Travel Starts Now,” takes place across Wuhu, Anhui and Moganshan, Zhejiang, featuring technology experiences, on-road driving, outdoor living, and conservation activities.

Technological Innovation: Expanding the Possibilities of Travel

Backed by the Group’s expertise in AI, intelligent driving, smart cabins, and AiMOGA Robotics, JETOUR turns cutting-edge technology into experiences users can genuinely feel. The XWD Fully Automatic Intelligent 4WD, with 7+X one-touch modes, tackles mountain roads, gravel, and water crossings, while the GAIA All-Terrain Intelligent Architecture adapts to diverse terrain and C-DM hybrid technology balances performance with efficiency. On October 21, models with these technologies take on mountain-road test drives at Moganshan.

A Diverse Product Lineup: Enriching the Travel Experience

The G700 combines premium comfort with hardcore off-road capability, while the T1 and T2 suit both urban driving and light off-road adventures. Roof tents, onboard refrigerators, and other ecosystem equipment turn the vehicle into an all-round companion. JETOUR also hosts a camping market and a Starry Night Forum, bringing product features into real travel settings.

Ecosystem: Extending the Value of Travel

Travel is about understanding cultures and protecting nature as well as exploration. Participants visit Xiazhu Lake in Zhejiang for a crested ibis conservation initiative. Globally, JETOUR supports cheetah conservation in Africa, turtle conservation in Malaysia, harpy eagle conservation in Panama, and protection of Pakistan’s national animal, the markhor.

JETOUR has also partnered with Chile’s Colo-Colo, FIBA, and the Malaysia Marathon, broadening engagement with local culture, sport, and communities — giving “Travel+” an ever richer meaning.

JETOUR now joins travelers worldwide across city, mountain, and wetland, exploring new possibilities through the deeper integration of technology and travel.

ABOUT JETOUR

Launched in 2018, JETOUR follows the “Travel+” strategy and has entered over 100 countries and regions, with 2,000+ sales and after-sales outlets. Its lineup includes the T Series for light off-road and the G Series for the premium luxury off-road market, covering urban commuting, family road trips, outdoor camping, and long-distance journeys.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/technology-drives-the-future-of-travel-jetour-continues-to-expand-its-travel-ecosystem-302918650.html

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