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poker game play Meta has unveiled Llama 3.3, a 70-billion-parameter AI model that combines advanced capabilities with a focus on cost efficiency. This model is specifically designed to handle complex tasks such as long-context understanding, instruction following, and mathematical . By offering a balance between high performance and affordability, Llama 3.3 provides developers with a powerful tool that minimizes operational expenses while requiring specialized hardware for optimal deployment. Llama 3.3 is a 70-billion-parameter AI model by Meta, offering advanced performance in tasks like long-context understanding, instruction following, and mathematical problem-solving, while being cost-effective. The model supports an extended context length of up to 128,000 tokens, allowing efficient processing of large datasets or lengthy documents in a single pass. Llama 3.3 outperforms competitors like GPT-4o in mathematical tasks, instruction following, and comprehension, achieving a higher Artificial Analysis Quality Index score (74 vs. 68). It dramatically reduces costs, with input costs at $0.10 per million tokens and output costs at $0.40 per million tokens, making it highly affordable compared to alternatives. Optimized for text-based applications, Llama 3.3 requires specialized hardware but is accessible via platforms like Hugging Face, with strong adoption by hosting providers and benchmarks validating its performance. Llama 3.3 distinguishes itself by achieving a unique balance between size and performance, rivaling models with significantly larger parameter counts. Trained on a vast dataset of 15 trillion tokens with a knowledge cutoff of December 2023, it supports an extended context length of up to 128,000 tokens. This extended context capability enables the model to process and analyze large datasets or lengthy documents in a single pass, making it particularly well-suited for applications that demand detailed and nuanced long-context understanding. The model’s design emphasizes cost-effectiveness, allowing for local deployment on developer workstations equipped with specialized hardware. This accessibility ensures that developers and businesses can use its capabilities without incurring the high costs typically associated with large-scale AI models. By combining efficiency with accessibility, Llama 3.3 positions itself as a practical and versatile solution for a wide range of AI-driven applications. Llama 3.3 delivers competitive performance across multiple domains, showcasing its versatility and advanced capabilities. Key highlights include: Demonstrates superior reasoning abilities, outperforming GPT-4o in mathematical tasks. Excels in tasks such as code generation, document summarization, and conversational AI, making sure accurate and context-aware responses. Achieved a notable score improvement from 68 to 74, reflecting enhanced comprehension and accuracy in diverse applications. These performance metrics place Llama 3.3 among the top-performing AI models, competing directly with other advanced systems such as Gemini and Google’s latest offerings. Its ability to deliver high-quality results across a variety of tasks underscores its value as a reliable and efficient AI solution. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to Llama 3 that you may find helpful. One of the most compelling aspects of Llama 3.3 is its affordability, which sets it apart from many competitors. The model significantly reduces both input and output costs, making it an attractive option for businesses and developers seeking high-performance AI solutions without prohibitive expenses. Key cost metrics include: $0.10 per million tokens, a fraction of GPT-4o’s $250. $0.40 per million tokens, substantially lower than GPT-4o’s $10. This dramatic reduction in operational costs makes Llama 3.3 a practical choice for organizations of all sizes, allowing them to integrate advanced AI capabilities into their workflows without exceeding budgetary constraints. By prioritizing cost efficiency, Meta has made innovative AI technology more accessible to a broader audience. While Llama 3.3 offers numerous advantages, it does come with specific technical requirements. The model is optimized for text-only applications, focusing on areas such as natural language processing, document analysis, and conversational systems. To achieve optimal performance, developers must use specialized hardware capable of handling the model’s computational demands. Despite these requirements, accessibility is enhanced through its availability on popular hosting platforms such as Hugging Face and AMA. These platforms allow developers to easily download and experiment with the model, fostering innovation and allowing a wide range of use cases. This combination of technical sophistication and accessibility ensures that Llama 3.3 remains a practical choice for both research and commercial applications. Llama 3.3 has undergone rigorous independent benchmarking, demonstrating strong performance in key areas such as instruction following, code generation, and text-based tasks. These benchmarks validate its reliability and utility across a variety of applications. Additionally, several prominent hosting providers, including Deep Infra, Hyperbolic, Gro, Fireworks, and Together AI, have adopted the model, further highlighting its effectiveness and industry relevance. The model’s ability to meet the demands of modern AI applications while maintaining cost efficiency makes it a valuable asset for businesses, researchers, and developers. Its adoption by leading hosting providers underscores its potential to drive innovation and streamline workflows across diverse sectors. The success of Llama 3.3 is rooted in Meta’s advancements in alignment processes and reinforcement learning techniques. These innovations enhance the model’s ability to follow instructions accurately and perform complex tasks with precision. By focusing on alignment, Meta has ensured that Llama 3.3 delivers reliable and consistent results across a wide range of applications, from academic research to commercial deployments. The integration of advanced alignment techniques also improves the model’s capacity for nuanced understanding and context-aware responses. This focus on precision and reliability makes Llama 3.3 a versatile tool capable of addressing the challenges of modern AI applications while maintaining a high standard of performance. Llama 3.3 represents a significant advancement in AI development, combining a 70-billion-parameter architecture with extended context understanding and competitive performance. By bridging the gap between high capability and affordability, it sets a new benchmark for efficiency and accessibility in the AI landscape. Its ability to deliver advanced functionality at a fraction of the cost of competing models positions it as a fantastic tool for developers and businesses alike. With its focus on cost efficiency, technical sophistication, and practical applications, Llama 3.3 paves the way for more innovative and accessible AI solutions. As the demand for advanced AI technology continues to grow, Llama 3.3 stands out as a reliable and cost-effective option, driving progress and allowing new possibilities across industries. Media Credit:NBA hand out suspensions after fracas in Phoenix

When Katja Vogt considers a Jaguar, she pictures a British-made car purring confidently along the Italian coastline — a vision of familiarity that conveys "that dreaming, longing feeling we all love." She's not sure what to think about Jaguar now after the 89-year-old company announced a radical rebranding that featured loud colors and androgynous people — but no cars. Jaguar, the company says, will now be JaGUar. It will produce only electric vehicles beginning in 2026. Bad attention is good attention, Jaguar execs would appear to believe. The car brand has prompted mockery online for posting a glitzy ad without a single car in it. Say goodbye to British racing green, Cotswold Blue and black. Its colors are henceforth electric pink, red and yellow, according to a video that sparked backlash online. Its mission statement: "Create exuberance. Live vivid. Delete ordinary. Break moulds." "Intrigued?" @Jaguar posted on social media. "Weird and unsettled" is more like it, Vogt wrote on Instagram. "Especially now, with the world feeling so dystopian," the Cyprus-based brand designer wrote, "a heritage brand like Jaguar should be conveying feelings of safety, stability, and maybe a hint of rebellion — the kind that shakes things up in a good way, not in a way that unsettles." Jaguar was one of several iconic companies that announced significant rebrandings in recent weeks, upending a series of commercial — and cultural — landmarks by which many modern human beings sort one another, carve out identities and recognize the world around them. Campbell's, the 155-year-old American icon that artist Andy Warhol immortalized in pop culture decades ago, is ready for a new, soupless name. Comcast's corporate reorganization means there will soon be two television networks with "NBC" in their name — CNBC and MSNBC — that will no longer have any corporate connection to NBC News, a U.S. legacy news outlet. CNBC One could even argue the United States itself is rebranding with the election of former President Donald Trump and Republican majorities in the House and Senate. Unlike Trump's first election in 2016, he won the popular vote in what many called a national referendum on American identity. Are we, then, the sum total of our consumer decisions — what we buy, where we travel and whom we elect? Certainly, it's a question for those privileged enough to be able to afford such choices. Volumes of research in the art and science of branding — from "brandr," an old Norse word for burning symbols into the hides of livestock — say those factors do contribute to the modern sense of identity. So rebranding, especially of heritage names, can be a deeply felt affront to consumers. "It can feel like the brand is turning its back on everything that it stood for — and therefore it feels like it's turning its back on us, the people who subscribe to that idea or ideology," said Ali Marmaduke, strategy director with the Amsterdam-based Brand Potential. He said cultural tension — polarization — is surging over politics, wars in Russia and the Mideast, the environment, public health and more, creating what Marmaduke said is known as a "polycrisis": the idea that there are several massive crises converging that feel scary and complex. Campbell's soups "People are understandably freaked out by that," he said. "So we are looking for something that will help us navigate this changing, threatening world that we face." Trump's "Make America Great Again" qualifies. So did President Joe Biden's "Build Back Better" slogan. Campbell's soup itself — "Mmm Mmm Good" — isn't going anywhere, CEO Mark Clouse said. The company's new name, Campbell's Co., will reflect "the full breadth of our portfolio," which includes brands like Prego pasta sauce and Goldfish crackers. None of the recent activity around heritage brands sparked a backlash as ferocious as Jaguar's. The company stood as a pillar of tradition-loving British identity since World War II. The famous "leaper" cat Jaguar logo is pictured in 2019 at the Auto show in Paris, France. Jaguar said its approach to the rebrand was rooted in the philosophy of its founder, Sir William Lyons, to "copy nothing." What it's calling "the new Jaguar" will overhaul everything from the font of its name to the positioning of it's famous "leaper" cat. "Exuberant modernism" will "define all aspects of the new Jaguar world," according to the news release. The approach is thought to be aimed at selling fewer cars at a six-figure price point to a more diverse customer base. The reaction ranged from bewilderment to hostility. Memes sprouted up likening the video to the Teletubbies, a Benetton ad and — perhaps predictably — a bow to "woke" culture as the blowback intersected with politics. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.The landscape of artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly, driving unprecedented growth in the semiconductor industry. Nvidia and Broadcom stand at the forefront, capitalizing on the emerging opportunities within AI technology. These tech giants have seen their stock values surge past the S&P 500 as they venture into advanced chip architectures aimed at meeting the colossal demand for AI computing power. Nvidia , a well-known leader in the AI sector, has significantly influenced GPU technology, primarily through its groundbreaking Hopper architecture, considered a cornerstone for AI developments. Now, Nvidia is set to introduce the next-gen Blackwell chips, expected to surpass the standards set by its predecessors. This strategic move is anticipated to drive the company’s long-term revenue growth with expert predictions set at an impressive 38%. In parallel, Broadcom , recognized for its prowess in networking and connectivity, has made substantial inroads into AI technology. With a diverse portfolio spanning enterprise infrastructure software, Broadcom’s AI chip revenue hit $12.2 billion in fiscal 2024, marking a 220% jump from the previous year. The company is actively securing high-profile AI contracts, enhancing its market position, and projecting a $90 billion AI opportunity by 2027. For investors, choosing between Nvidia and Broadcom may revolve around their respective valuations. Nvidia boasts a favorable PEG ratio of 1.2 against Broadcom’s 1.8, suggesting the former might offer a more lucrative growth potential. Despite inherent risks in tech innovation, Nvidia’s dominance and strategic advances make it a compelling choice for those eyeing substantial returns in the AI sector through 2025. Unleashing the Future: AI’s Impact on the Semiconductor Industry The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the semiconductor industry landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities for tech giants such as Nvidia and Broadcom. As these companies lead the charge in developing cutting-edge chip architectures, they are set to redefine the standards of AI computing and capitalize on the growing demands of this booming sector. Nvidia’s Next-Gen Innovations Nvidia’s influence in the AI sector has been profound, especially with its groundbreaking Hopper architecture, which serves as a critical pillar for AI advancements. The upcoming introduction of Nvidia’s Blackwell chips is poised to set new benchmarks, expected to significantly outperform its predecessors. This move is not merely a technological leap; it is a strategic bet on sustaining long-term revenue growth. Market experts predict a stellar 38% revenue surge for Nvidia, underscoring its potential as a formidable player in the AI domain. Broadcom’s Strategic Expansion Broadcom has also made remarkable strides in the AI arena, particularly in the realms of networking and connectivity. Riding on a diverse portfolio, including enterprise infrastructure software, Broadcom’s AI chip revenue soared to $12.2 billion in fiscal 2024—an impressive 220% increase from the previous year. The company is strategically positioning itself by securing high-profile AI contracts, forecasted to reach a staggering $90 billion opportunity by 2027. Broadcom’s expansion in AI technology signifies a robust market presence that promises lucrative returns. Comparative Insights: Nvidia vs. Broadcom For investors eyeing the semiconductor sector, decision-making hinges on a comparative analysis of Nvidia and Broadcom based on valuation metrics. Nvidia’s Price/Earnings to Growth (PEG) ratio stands at an attractive 1.2, suggesting superior growth potential compared to Broadcom’s 1.8. Despite the inherent risks associated with technological innovations, Nvidia’s established dominance makes it an appealing choice for substantial returns up to 2025. AI Trends and Predictions The semiconductor sector is witnessing a transformative era as AI continues to drive demand for advanced computing solutions. Predictions suggest that AI-powered chip solutions will increasingly cater to diverse applications across industries, from autonomous vehicles to predictive analytics in enterprise systems. The ongoing innovation is likely to steer further investment in AI-focused semiconductor technologies, ensuring sustained growth for pioneering companies. Market Opportunities and Challenges The road to sustained AI integration into semiconductor solutions presents both opportunities and challenges. While the potential for market expansion is enormous, companies must also tackle technological limits and competition. As AI ethics and data security become pressing concerns, stakeholders will need to address these aspects to ensure a balanced and sustainable growth trajectory. In conclusion, the ongoing developments in AI are not just shaping the semiconductor industry but are setting the stage for the next wave of innovation. Companies like Nvidia and Broadcom are positioned to lead this charge, promising a future of robust growth and advancements. For more details, explore Nvidia and Broadcom .Akron routs Division III-SUNY-Brockport 101-48

2 AI Stocks to Buy in December and Hold for 20 Years - Yahoo FinanceWASHINGTON (AP) — A freelance photographer and local government official from Illinois has been arrested on charges alleging he joined a mob's attack on the U.S. Capitol and pushed against a police officer’s riot shield, according to court records unsealed on Friday. Patrick Gorski, 27, was arrested in Chicago on Thursday on charges including obstructing law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, a felony. A federal judge ordered him released on bond after his initial court appearance. Gorski didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. An attorney who represented him after his arrest declined to comment on Gorski's behalf. Authorities allege that during the attack, Gorski climbed scaffolding, breaching police lines, and took photos and videos inside the building. He yelled at officers, pushed against an officer's riot shield and was eventually forced out after being sprayed with a chemical irritant, authorities said. When the FBI interviewed him, Gorski did not claim that he was working as a photojournalist during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and said he didn't bring his professional camera to the Capitol. He told federal agents that he had worked as a photographer for the Chicago Fire Department and for Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign. He has not professionally published any photographs of the Capitol riot, according to the FBI. An FBI agent’s affidavit says some of Gorski’s sports photographs are available through Getty Images and have been “picked up” by The Associated Press and USA Today. Authorities said Gorski has continued to take photos at some local sporting events in Chicago but hasn't published any political photographs in the last five years. Gorski is not an Associated Press journalist and has never been employed by the news organization, said Lauren Easton, AP's vice president of corporate communications. "We have distributed some photos he took for AP’s photo partners and member news organizations," Easton said in a statement. Gorski's resume says he works as a building commissioner for the Village of Norridge, Illinois, and graduated earlier this year from Southeastern Illinois University with a master’s degree in public administration. He attended then-President Trump's “Stop the Steal” rally near the White House on Jan. 6 before he marched to the Capitol in a group of people that included conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and Owen Shroyer , who has hosted a show on Jones' Infowars website. On the west side of the Capitol, Gorski climbed up a wall onto stairs, helped another rioter onto the wall and removed a tarp covering scaffolding, according to the FBI. He climbed up and down the scaffolding before he helped pass a bike rack to other rioters, the agent's affidavit says. Gorski pointed and yelled at police officers outside the building. He also clapped and chanted, “Let us in!” After rioters broke through a police lines and sent officers retreating, Gorski hung a flag over the edge of a balcony. Gorski used his phone to take photos or videos inside a tunnel entrance that police were guarding, according to the affidavit. He screamed at the officers, “This is our house!” as he pushed against an officer’s riot shield, the FBI said. Gorski left the tunnel after several minutes and entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing door, taking more photos or videos inside the building, the affidavit says. An officer had to forcibly move Gorski from a doorway in another part of the Capitol, according to the agent. Gorski retreated after police sprayed him with a chemical irritant. Approximately one year after the attack, the FBI received a tip that Gorski had posted photos of the riot in a group chat with friends. More than 1,500 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the Capitol riot. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

In today's DNA, Zee News analysed a significant threats issued by authorities before Kumbh 2025 including potential terror plots targeting the festival, such as 'rail jihad' and rampant cyber fraud schemes. Prayagraj – As preparations for the grand Mahakumbh Mela 2025 gain momentum, concerns over security and emerging cyber threats are casting a shadow on one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world. Authorities have heightened security measures amidst fears of potential terror plots, including what is being termed as "rail jihad," while uncovering a large-scale cyber fraud targeting devotees. In today's DNA, Zee News analysed a significant threats issued by authorities before Kumbh 2025 including potential terror plots targeting the festival, such as 'rail jihad' and rampant cyber fraud schemes. DNA : सनातन का महासंगम.. सुरक्षा के पुख्ता इंतजाम! महाकुंभ से पहले 'रेल जिहाद' DECODE. कुंभ आने वाले ट्रेनों पर किसकी काली नजर? #DNA #DNAWithAnantTyagi #Mahakumbh2025 #Mahakumbh #Prayagraj #UPNews #UttarPradesh #IndianRailways #RailJihad @Anant_Tyagii pic.twitter.com/WpfHjvxWe7 — Zee News (@ZeeNews) December 28, 2024 The Mahakumbh Mela, an event of immense spiritual and cultural significance, is expected to attract over 450 million devotees, with the majority relying on trains to reach Prayagraj. However, intelligence reports and recent incidents have sparked fears of targeted terror activities on the railway network. Prashant Kumar, Director General of Police (DGP), Uttar Pradesh, has issued directives to ensure heightened vigilance: Surveillance on Social Media: Close monitoring of online activities to detect potential threats. Spot Checks: Inspections at hotels, dhabas, and crowded areas, including bus terminals and railway stations. Railway Security: Identification and monitoring of black spots along railway tracks. Investigations have also linked these incidents to an international toolkit allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan-based terror elements. A video intercepted from a known terrorist, Farhatullah Gauri, demonstrated tactics for rail sabotage. To counter the potential threat, mock drills involving NDRF, SDRF, and disaster management teams were conducted at Prayagraj Railway Station. The area has been fortified with heavy police deployment, increased patrolling, and advanced surveillance systems, including drones and CCTV cameras. While authorities are addressing physical threats, a digital menace has also surfaced. The Prayagraj Police recently exposed a cyber fraud network exploiting the Mahakumbh for financial gain. Fraudsters created fake websites offering attractive deals for accommodations, VIP services, and other facilities to deceive unsuspecting devotees. Stay informed on all the latest news , real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in india news and world News on Zee News.Phase 3 Study Results Demonstrated Three Year, Disease-Free Survival of 96% THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. , Dec. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen AMGN today announced new data demonstrating that adding BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) to chemotherapy significantly improves disease-free survival (DFS) in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) of average or higher risk of relapse. The data are from a Phase 3 study (AALL1731) conducted by the Children's Oncology Group. The results were simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine and will be presented during the plenary session on Sunday, Dec. 8 , at 2 p.m. PT at the 66 th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego . "Over the last decade, BLINCYTO has reshaped the treatment landscape for B-ALL, offering a critical lifeline for thousands of adult and pediatric patients," said Jay Bradner , M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development and chief scientific officer at Amgen. "These powerful new data leave us little doubt about the profound impact of this medicine for a large number of children affected by this disease. We are grateful to the Children's Oncology Group, along with the patients, families and clinical teams, for their dedication and partnership in advancing this critical study to improve the lives of children with cancer." Based on the results of the first pre-specified interim analysis for efficacy, the study met its primary endpoint of DFS and study randomization was terminated early based on the recommendation from the data and safety monitoring committee due to the benefit observed in the BLINCYTO arm compared to the chemotherapy-only arm. Overall, the 3-year DFS was 96.0% for patients treated with chemotherapy plus BLINCYTO compared to 87.9% for those treated with only chemotherapy. The hazard ratio (HR) was 0.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24-0.64], indicating a 61% reduction in the risk of disease relapse, secondary malignant neoplasm or remission death with BLINCYTO. At 3 years, more patients remained alive and cancer free when treated with BLINCYTO plus chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. "The AALL1731 study results are truly practice-changing, further solidifying blinatumomab's role as the standard of care for a large number of children with B-ALL," said Sumit Gupta , M.D., Ph.D., FRCPC, co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study and oncologist and clinician investigator, Division of Haematology/Oncology at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Toronto . "These breakthrough data showing a significant improvement in disease-free survival are poised to bring substantial clinical value to children with newly diagnosed B-ALL." The addition of BLINCYTO to chemotherapy in standard risk patients resulted in outcomes similar to those previously achieved in only the most favorable pediatric risk subsets. Among SR-Average patients, 3-year DFS was 97.5% for patients treated with BLINCYTO compared to 90.2% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.33, CI 0.15-0.69). For SR-High patients, 3-year DFS was 94.1% for those treated with BLINCYTO compared to 84.8% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24-0.85). "Relapsed ALL remains a major cause of pediatric cancer mortality, with nearly half of the relapses occurring in children with standard-risk B-ALL," said Rachel E. Rau , M.D., co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study, pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Seattle Children's Hospital and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington . "These findings underscore the progress made with blinatumomab in preventing relapse and support its role as a critical addition to current therapeutic strategies." Safety results are consistent with the known safety profile of BLINCYTO. BLINCYTO has demonstrated a positive balance of benefits and risks, with only 0.3% of first courses associated with Grade 3+ cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and 0.7% with seizures. A higher risk of infections was observed in the BLINCYTO arm. These results provide the first evidence supporting BLINCYTO for use in the consolidation phase in newly diagnosed pediatric Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) B-ALL patients. This groundbreaking first-in-class Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) therapy is now backed by additional evidence reinforcing its role in redefining a standard of care for both adult and pediatric patients, starting from one month old, regardless of measurable residual disease (MRD) status. The findings further establish BLINCYTO as a versatile first-line consolidation therapy across all ages and treatment backbones. The NCI's Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), which sponsored the study will share data with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as part of their ongoing communications relating to the trial. About The Children's Oncology Group The Children's Oncology Group (childrensoncologygroup.org), a member of the NCI National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), is the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. The Children's Oncology Group unites over 10,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 200 leading children's hospitals, universities and cancer centers across North America , Australia , New Zealand and Saudi Arabia in the fight against childhood cancer. Today, more than 80% of the 15,000 children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States are cared for at Children's Oncology Group member institutions. Research performed by Children's Oncology Group institutions over the past 50 years has transformed childhood cancer from a virtually incurable disease to one with a combined 5-year survival rate of 86%. The Children's Oncology Group's mission is to improve the cure rate and outcomes for all children with cancer. About AALL1731 (NCT03914625) The AALL1731 study was a Phase 3 randomized trial to determine if two non-sequential cycles of BLINCYTO added to chemotherapy improved disease-free survival (DFS) in children with newly diagnosed pediatric National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The study enrolled 4,264 newly diagnosed NCI SR B-ALL patients, of whom 2,334 were risk stratified at the end of induction therapy as either SR-Average or SR-High. At the first planned interim efficacy analysis (data cutoff June 30, 2024 ), 1,440 of the eligible and evaluable patients had been randomized. The AALL1731 study was designed and conducted independently from industry. The Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) of the NCI sponsored the trial and provided funding to the Children's Oncology Group to conduct the study. NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In addition, Amgen provided BLINCYTO and support through an NCI Cooperative Research and Development Agreement. About Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) ALL, also known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, is a fast-growing type of blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and can sometimes spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and central nervous system. ALL is a rare disease, with an estimated 6,550 new cases, affecting both children and adults, diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024. 1 B-ALL begins in immature cells that would normally develop into B-cell lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that grow in bone marrow. 2,3 B-ALL is the most common type of ALL, constituting approximately 75% of cases in adults and approximately 88% in children, the most common cancer in children. 4,5 About BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) BLINCYTO is the first globally approved Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) immuno-oncology therapy that targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells. BiTE ® molecules fight cancer by helping the body's immune system detect and target malignant cells by engaging T cells (a type of white blood cell capable of killing other cells perceived as threats) to cancer cells. By bringing T cells near cancer cells, the T cells can inject toxins and trigger cancer cell death (apoptosis). BiTE ® immuno-oncology therapies are currently being investigated for their potential to treat a wide variety of cancers. BLINCYTO was granted Breakthrough Therapy and Priority Review designations by the U.S. FDA and is approved in the U.S. for the treatment of: Adult and pediatric patients one month or older with CD19-positive Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-ALL during the consolidation phase of multiphase therapy. CD19-positive B-ALL in first or second complete remission with MRD greater than or equal to 0.1% in adults and pediatric patients one month or older. Relapsed or refractory CD19-positive B-ALL in adults and pediatric patients one month or older. In the European Union (EU), BLINCYTO is indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of: Adults with Philadelphia chromosome-negative CD19-positive relapsed or refractory B-ALL. Patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive B-ALL should have failed treatment with at least two tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and have no alternative treatment options. Adults with Philadelphia chromosome-negative CD19-positive B-ALL in first or second complete remission with MRD greater than or equal to 0.1%. Pediatric patients aged 1 year or older with Philadelphia chromosome-negative CD19-positive B-ALL which is refractory or in relapse after receiving at least two prior therapies or in relapse after receiving prior allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Pediatric patients aged 1 year or older with high-risk first relapsed Philadelphia chromosome-negative CD19-positive B-ALL as part of the consolidation therapy. BLINCYTO ® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGICAL TOXICITIES including IMMUNE EFFECTOR CELL-ASSOCIATED NEUROTOXICITY SYNDROME Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), which may be life-threatening or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO ® . Interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO ® and treat with corticosteroids as recommended. Neurological toxicities, including immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) which may be severe, life-threatening, or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO ® . Interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO ® as recommended. Contraindications BLINCYTO ® is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to blinatumomab or to any component of the product formulation. Warnings and Precautions Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS, which may be life-threatening or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO ® . The median time to onset of CRS is 2 days after the start of infusion and the median time to resolution of CRS was 5 days among cases that resolved. Closely monitor and advise patients to contact their healthcare professional for signs and symptoms of serious adverse events such as fever, headache, nausea, asthenia, hypotension, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased total bilirubin (TBILI), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The manifestations of CRS after treatment with BLINCYTO ® overlap with those of infusion reactions, capillary leak syndrome (CLS), and hemophagocytic histiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Using all of these terms to define CRS in clinical trials of BLINCYTO ® , CRS was reported in 15% of patients with R/R ALL, in 7% of patients with MRD-positive ALL, and in 16% of patients receiving BLINCYTO ® cycles in the consolidation phase of therapy. If severe CRS occurs, interrupt BLINCYTO ® until CRS resolves. Discontinue BLINCYTO ® permanently if life-threatening CRS occurs. Administer corticosteroids for severe or life-threatening CRS. Neurological Toxicities, including Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome: BLINCYTO ® can cause serious or life-threatening neurologic toxicity, including ICANS. The incidence of neurologic toxicities in clinical trials was approximately 65%. The median time to the first event was within the first 2 weeks of BLINCYTO ® treatment. The most common (≥ 10%) manifestations of neurological toxicity were headache and tremor. Grade 3 or higher neurological toxicities occurred in approximately 13% of patients, including encephalopathy, convulsions, speech disorders, disturbances in consciousness, confusion and disorientation, and coordination and balance disorders. Manifestations of neurological toxicity included cranial nerve disorders. The majority of neurologic toxicities resolved following interruption of BLINCYTO ® , but some resulted in treatment discontinuation. The incidence of signs and symptoms consistent with ICANS in clinical trials was 7.5%. The onset of ICANS can be concurrent with CRS, following resolution of CRS, or in the absence of CRS. There is limited experience with BLINCYTO ® in patients with active ALL in the central nervous system (CNS) or a history of neurologic events. Patients with a history or presence of clinically relevant CNS pathology were excluded from clinical studies. Patients with Down Syndrome over the age of 10 years may have a higher risk of seizures with BLINCYTO ® therapy. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurological toxicities, including ICANS, and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO ® as outlined in the PI. Advise outpatients to contact their healthcare professional if they develop signs or symptoms of neurological toxicities. Infections: Approximately 25% of patients receiving BLINCYTO ® in clinical trials experienced serious infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, bacteremia, opportunistic infections, and catheter-site infections, some of which were life-threatening or fatal. Administer prophylactic antibiotics and employ surveillance testing as appropriate during treatment. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of infection and treat appropriately, including interruption or discontinuation of BLINCYTO ® as needed. Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), which may be life-threatening or fatal, has been observed. Preventive measures, including pretreatment nontoxic cytoreduction and on-treatment hydration, should be used during BLINCYTO ® treatment. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of TLS and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO ® as needed to manage these events. Neutropenia and Febrile Neutropenia, including life-threatening cases, have been observed. Monitor appropriate laboratory parameters (including, but not limited to, white blood cell count and absolute neutrophil count) during BLINCYTO ® infusion and interrupt BLINCYTO ® if prolonged neutropenia occurs. Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines: Due to the possibility of neurological events, including seizures and ICANS, patients receiving BLINCYTO ® are at risk for loss of consciousness, and should be advised against driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery while BLINCYTO ® is being administered. Elevated Liver Enzymes: Transient elevations in liver enzymes have been associated with BLINCYTO ® treatment with a median time to onset of 3 days. In patients receiving BLINCYTO ® , although the majority of these events were observed in the setting of CRS, some cases of elevated liver enzymes were observed outside the setting of CRS, with a median time to onset of 19 days. Grade 3 or greater elevations in liver enzymes occurred in approximately 7% of patients outside the setting of CRS and resulted in treatment discontinuation in less than 1% of patients. Monitor ALT, AST, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and total blood bilirubin prior to the start of and during BLINCYTO ® treatment. BLINCYTO ® treatment should be interrupted if transaminases rise to > 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or if total bilirubin rises to > 3 times ULN. Pancreatitis: Fatal pancreatitis has been reported in patients receiving BLINCYTO ® in combination with dexamethasone in clinical trials and the post-marketing setting. Evaluate patients who develop signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO ® and dexamethasone as needed. Leukoencephalopathy: Although the clinical significance is unknown, cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes showing leukoencephalopathy have been observed in patients receiving BLINCYTO ® , especially in patients previously treated with cranial irradiation and antileukemic chemotherapy. Preparation and administration errors have occurred with BLINCYTO ® treatment. Follow instructions for preparation (including admixing) and administration in the PI strictly to minimize medication errors (including underdose and overdose). Immunization: Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 2 weeks prior to the start of BLINCYTO ® treatment, during treatment, and until immune recovery following last cycle of BLINCYTO ® . Benzyl Alcohol Toxicity in Neonates: Serious adverse reactions, including fatal reactions and the "gasping syndrome," have been reported in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates born weighing less than 1500 g, and early preterm neonates (infants born less than 34 weeks gestational age) who received intravenous drugs containing benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Early preterm VLBW neonates may be more likely to develop these reactions, because they may be less able to metabolize benzyl alcohol. Use the preservative-free preparations of BLINCYTO ® where possible in neonates. When prescribing BLINCYTO ® (with preservative) for neonatal patients, consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including BLINCYTO ® (with preservative), other products containing benzyl alcohol or other excipients (e.g., ethanol, propylene glycol) which compete with benzyl alcohol for the same metabolic pathway. Monitor neonatal patients receiving BLINCYTO ® (with preservative) for new or worsening metabolic acidosis. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which serious adverse reactions may occur in neonates is not known. The BLINCYTO ® 7-Day bag (with preservative) contains 7.4 mg of benzyl alcohol per mL. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action, BLINCYTO ® may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with BLINCYTO ® and for 48 hours after the last dose. Adverse Reactions The safety of BLINCYTO ® in adult and pediatric patients one month and older with MRD-positive B-cell precursor ALL (n=137), relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL (n=267), and Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor ALL in consolidation (n=165) was evaluated in clinical studies. The most common adverse reactions (≥ 20%) to BLINCYTO ® in this pooled population were pyrexia, infusion-related reactions, headache, infection, musculoskeletal pain, neutropenia, nausea, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and diarrhea. Dosage and Administration Guidelines BLINCYTO ® is administered as a continuous intravenous infusion at a constant flow rate using an infusion pump which should be programmable, lockable, non-elastomeric, and have an alarm. It is very important that the instructions for preparation (including admixing) and administration provided in the full Prescribing Information are strictly followed to minimize medication errors (including underdose and overdose). INDICATIONS BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) is indicated for the treatment of CD19-positive B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adult and pediatric patients one month and older with: Philadelphia chromosome-negative disease in the consolidation phase of multiphase chemotherapy. Minimal residual disease (MRD) greater than or equal to 0.1% in first or second complete remission. Relapsed or refractory disease. Please see BLINCYTO ® full Prescribing Information , including BOXED WARNINGS. About Bispecific T-Cell Engager (BiTE ® ) Technology BiTE technology is a targeted immuno-oncology platform that is designed to engage a patient's own T cells to any tumor-specific antigen, activating the cytotoxic potential of T cells to eliminate detectable cancer. The BiTE immuno-oncology platform has the potential to treat different cancer types through tumor-specific antigens. The BiTE platform has a goal of leading to off-the-shelf solutions, which have the potential to make innovative T-cell treatment available to all providers when their patients need it. For more than a decade, Amgen has been advancing this innovative technology, which has demonstrated strong efficacy in hematological malignancies and now a solid tumor with the approval of IMDELLTRA. Amgen remains committed to progressing multiple BiTE molecules across a broad range of hematologic and solid tumor malignancies, paving the way for additional applications in more tumor types. Amgen is further investigating BiTE technology with the goal of enhancing patient experience and therapeutic potential. To learn more about BiTE technology, visit BiTE ® Technology 101 . About Amgen Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative medicines to help millions of patients in their fight against some of the world's toughest diseases. More than 40 years ago, Amgen helped to establish the biotechnology industry and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what's known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline that builds on its existing portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and rare diseases. In 2024, Amgen was named one of the "World's Most Innovative Companies" by Fast Company and one of "America's Best Large Employers" by Forbes, among other external recognitions . Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average ® , and it is also part of the Nasdaq-100 Index ® , which includes the largest and most innovative non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow Amgen on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , TikTok , YouTube and Threads . Amgen Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. 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Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, preclinical results do not guarantee safe and effective performance of product candidates in humans. The complexity of the human body cannot be perfectly, or sometimes, even adequately modeled by computer or cell culture systems or animal models. The length of time that it takes for Amgen to complete clinical trials and obtain regulatory approval for product marketing has in the past varied and Amgen expects similar variability in the future. Even when clinical trials are successful, regulatory authorities may question the sufficiency for approval of the trial endpoints Amgen has selected. Amgen develops product candidates internally and through licensing collaborations, partnerships and joint ventures. Product candidates that are derived from relationships may be subject to disputes between the parties or may prove to be not as effective or as safe as Amgen may have believed at the time of entering into such relationship. Also, Amgen or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with its products, including its devices, after they are on the market. Amgen's results may be affected by its ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing its products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of Amgen's products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, Amgen's research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. Amgen's business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, Amgen's business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If Amgen fails to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between Amgen and the U.S. government, Amgen could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while Amgen routinely obtains patents for its products and technology, the protection offered by its patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by its competitors, or Amgen may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. Amgen performs a substantial amount of its commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico, and also depends on third parties for a portion of its manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of its current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for Amgen's manufacturing activities, the distribution of Amgen's products, the commercialization of Amgen's product candidates, and Amgen's clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on Amgen's product development, product sales, business and results of operations. Amgen relies on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of its product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of its commercial products. In addition, Amgen competes with other companies with respect to many of its marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for Amgen's products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of Amgen's distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with Amgen. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of Amgen's products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on its business and results of operations. Amgen's efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology Amgen has acquired, may not be successful. There can be no guarantee that Amgen will be able to realize any of the strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities arising from the Horizon acquisition, and such benefits, synergies or opportunities may take longer to realize than expected. Amgen may not be able to successfully integrate Horizon, and such integration may take longer, be more difficult or cost more than expected. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach of Amgen's information technology systems could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of Amgen's systems and Amgen's data. Amgen's stock price may be volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Amgen's business and operations may be negatively affected by the failure, or perceived failure, of achieving its environmental, social and governance objectives. The effects of global climate change and related natural disasters could negatively affect Amgen's business and operations. Global economic conditions may magnify certain risks that affect Amgen's business. Amgen's business performance could affect or limit the ability of the Amgen Board of Directors to declare a dividend or its ability to pay a dividend or repurchase its common stock. Amgen may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to it, or at all. Any scientific information discussed in this news release relating to new indications for Amgen's products is preliminary and investigative and is not part of the labeling approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the products. The products are not approved for the investigational use(s) discussed in this news release, and no conclusions can or should be drawn regarding the safety or effectiveness of the products for these uses. CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Elissa Snook , 609-251-1407 (media) Justin Claeys , 805-313-9775 (investors) References National Institute of Health. Cancer Stat Facts: Leukemia — Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). Available at: https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/alyl.html . Accessed on October 28, 2024 . Terwilliger T, et al. Blood Cancer J . 2017;7(6):e577. American Cancer Society. What is Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)? Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/acute-lymphocytic-leukemia/about/what-is-all.html . Accessed on October 28, 2024 . Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Available at: https://www.lls.org/research/acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia-all . Accessed on October 28, 2024 . National Cancer Institute. Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (PDQ ® )–Patient Version. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/leukemia/patient/child-all-treatment-pdq . Accessed on November 19, 2024 . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blincyto-blinatumomab-added-to-chemotherapy-significantly-improves-survival-in-newly-diagnosed-pediatric-patients-with-b-cell-precursor-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia-b-all-302325381.html SOURCE Amgen © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

As we patiently waited with others for the elevator to arrive on the ground floor of the Nigerian Mission to the United Nations in New York on a September morning (only one of the elevators was working!), a few people who recognized him seemed to gasp as they realized that such an eminent global citizen and former head of the Mission was standing there unassumingly. That was Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, global diplomat, statesman, retired professor of International Relations, ex-Under Secretary-General (Political) of the United Nations, ex-External Affairs Minister, ex-Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, immediate past Chief of Staff to the President, Ilorin prince, gentleman extraordinaire, and one of the humblest (global) eminent persons you will ever encounter. We were at the Nigerian Mission House on Kudirat Abiola Corner, Second Avenue, New York, last September, the week preceding the United Nations General Assembly, to inquire about connecting with two visiting African heads of state. More precisely, Professor Gambari was with me at the Nigerian Mission to help facilitate an invitation for the two African leaders to visit my university. Since he left the Mission in late 1999, he had avoided, as much as possible, causing a “distraction” by visiting the imposing Mission house. But he did so that day for my sake. That’s the measure of the man. He would often go to any length to help anyone who needed his help. And he would do so as elegantly, smoothly, or inconspicuously as the occasion demanded. Indeed, Gambari’s modesty is legendary. Though the underlying aim of this tribute is to ask that the tireless, peripatetic, and newly minted octogenarian, who celebrated his 80 th on November 24, be put to further service, I would like to place my personal experience of the life and times of this immensely considerate man in some context to not only re-emphasize his global eminence but also to underscore his good-nature and generosity of spirit. Indeed, much more can be added to the glowing tributes already rendered. Yet, there is no need to repeat what they eloquently attested to in a late tribute as this. Still, it is necessary to contextualize the present request that comes in the guise of a tribute. Gambari’s accomplishments have already been exhibited, acknowledged, celebrated, and cataloged by the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS, and in Nigeria, South Africa, Myanmar, Sudan, etc. And he continues to be honoured for his contributions to global peace and security. Indeed, Gambari brought a calm intensity to the meticulous and often veiled art of diplomacy and international relations. As he worked in the halls of the United Nations and presidential palaces around the world, negotiating complicated or convoluted deals either with probable or improbable leaders, some of them wily and cruelly recalcitrant (like General Sani Abacha, the Myanmar Generals, and the ex-Sudanese dictator, Omar al-Bashir), some graceful or gracefully detached, and some others haughtily imperious or dismissive (like Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice), what he brought to bear on his multivarious tasks was not only deep knowledge and diplomatic savvy, but also personal convictions and refinement. He was not only part of that golden era of Nigeria’s foreign policy making and implementation when the nation, despite being under the reign of soldiers, exerted itself in the subregion, the continent, and the world at large, but he also translated and effectively deployed his experience when he joined the United Nations. Even in periods that were not his finest moments, such as defending Nigeria in the global forum under the homicidal regime of General Abacha, he tried not to be an obnoxious reflection of the despicable general he was representing. Over the last three decades, I have witnessed the respect he has attracted in his personal and professional life. For instance, when President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration replaced him as the Head of Nigeria’s Mission at the United Nations in late 1999, I was in New York on a fellowship at the New School for Social Research (briefly renamed New School University). Professor Gambari invited me to every one of the countless farewell cocktails or dinners held in his honour by his colleagues. Almost every head of the diplomatic mission manoeuvred to find a date to host Gambari. From the most exclusive dinner in the beautiful penthouse home of the Lichtenstein envoy to the UN, to which only about 12 of us were invited, including the Dean of UN Ambassadors and the ambassadors of the US, Canada, and Gambari’s most graceful and even more self-effacing wife to the larger dinner hosted by African permanent representatives to the UN, and another by the Nigerian Mission attended by the Secretary-General of the UN, Kofi Annan, the testimonies to Gambari’s effectiveness as Nigeria’s ambassador to the global forum, the depth and breadth of the relationships he cultivated, and his immense contributions to global peace and security were not only heartwarming, they made one proud to share his national identity. However, such was the high number of invitations to dinners and cocktails that Gambari received and to which he invited me along that I was afraid that my academic fellowship in New York ran the risk of turning into an excuse for gastronomical excursions – and excess. And that I might, at the end of the dinners, find it difficult to return to my more proletarian tastes. I found some excuses to miss a few, which Gambari diplomatically accepted. What is remarkable about the Ilorin prince is that he is as comfortable in the hallowed halls of the UN and among global leaders as he is in the world’s remotest parts and among everyday folks. Even those young enough to be his sons, Gambari calls “brothers” and not just “friends.” And he shares with his younger “brothers” some of his intriguing experiences around the world, the sweetest of which he sometimes narrates in his inimitable Ilorin-Yoruba accent. Such was the nature of his accomplishments that about 30 years ago, my friend, Laolu Akande, arguably Nigeria’s most effective education reporter and later editor and recently vice-presidential spokesman, embarked on a project of writing Gambari’s biography during our years as reporters. Recently, Laolu and I reflected that the man was “only” 50 when we were already persuaded that he deserved a biography. Since then, we have had the privilege to know the man genuinely. I recall an occasion around 1995 when he and his now late former student-turned-friend, Mr. Wale Adeeyo, stopped over to see Laolu and I at the Tribune house in Imalefalafia, Ibadan. The two were on a trip to some place outside Ibadan when we called to request a brief chat regarding our book project. When they arrived at the Tribune house, we couldn’t find a suitable space in Tribune to host them. He then asked that we get into the car to find a suitable space. A few minutes later, as we drove towards the back entrance of Liberty Stadium, Adeeko, who loathed wasting others or his own time, suggested that they shouldn’t drive us too far away from our office and that they stopped to find a place to chat briefly. Adeeyo, who knew the modesty of his former teacher too well, requested from a woman selling some odds and ends by the roadside if we could sit on her spare bench for a while. She obliged. Gambari sat there with us for a short interview. When we were done, Adeeyo gave the woman a generous gift. The woman could not have imagined that the man sharing her bench was Nigeria’s permanent representative at the United Nations. By the way, please do not ask me what happened to the book we were writing. As anyone who has worked in this line of business would attest, some of the most critical writing projects risk regretful abandonment. This brings me to the primary purpose of this tribute: a modest proposal. Given Gambari’s experience, unceasing readiness to serve his country, and the current state of Nigeria’s international reputation and diplomatic influence, President Bola Tinubu’s administration would be well-served to leverage these. For instance, the President can set up an Eminent Persons Foreign Policy Advisory Board comprising the three most distinguished Nigerian diplomats alive today: Professor Ibrahim Gambari, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi. These three can suggest the most transformative steps that can be taken to reinvigorate Nigeria’s international influence. Even without the attendant blessings of excess crude dollars of the past that helped in leveraging Nigeria’s regional, continental, and global influence, the President could restore the glorious years of Nigeria’s foreign policy if he listened to the counsel of these three great men. Meanwhile, in whatever part of the world this felicitation finds Gambari, here’s a belated happy 80 th birthday! Get real-time news updates from Tribune Online! Follow us on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive stories and interviews, and much more. Join our WhatsApp Channel now11,740 Shares in Urban Edge Properties (NYSE:UE) Purchased by Sanctuary Advisors LLC

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The tech entrepreneur and close adviser to Donald Trump Elon Musk has taken a stunning new public step in his support for the far-right German political party Alternative for Germany (AfD), publishing a supportive guest opinion piece for the country’s Welt am Sonntag newspaper that has prompted the commentary editor to resign in protest. The commentary piece in German was launched online on Saturday ahead of being published on Sunday in the flagship paper of the Axel Springer media group, which also owns the US politics news site Politico. Musk uses populist and personal language to try to deny AfD’s extremist bent and the piece expands on his post on the social media platform X that he owns, on which he last week claimed that “only the AfD can save Germany”. Translated, Musk’s piece said: “The portrayal of the AfD as rightwing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party’s leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please!” Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has classified the AfD at the national level as a suspected extremism case since 2021. Shortly after the piece was published online, the editor of the opinion section, Eva Marie Kogel, used the US tech mogul’s own platform to post on X that she had submitted her resignation. “I always enjoyed heading the opinion department at Welt and Wams. Today a text by Elon Musk appeared in Welt am Sonntag. Yesterday I submitted my resignation after printing,” she posted. She included a link to the Musk commentary article. The AfD has a strong anti-immigration stance and, like incoming president Donald Trump in relation to the US, is calling for mass deportations from Germany. Earlier in December, Musk not only posted in favor of AfD but the party’s hard line on immigration appeared to resonate with the incoming US vice-president, JD Vance, MSNBC reported . Senior Welt Group figures weighed in on Saturday. “Democracy and journalism thrive on freedom of expression. This includes dealing with polarising positions and classifying them journalistically,” the newspaper’s editor-in-chief designate, Jan Philipp Burgard, and Ulf Poschardt, who takes over as publisher on 1 January, told Reuters. They said discussion about Musk’s piece, which had about 340 comments several hours after it was published, was “very revealing”. Underneath Musk’s commentary, the newspaper published a response by Burgard. “Musk’s diagnosis is correct, but his therapeutic approach, that only the AfD can save Germany, is fatally false,” he wrote, referencing the AfD’s desire to leave the European Union and seek rapprochement with Russia as well as appease China. The AfD backing from Musk, who also defended his right to weigh in on German politics due to his “significant investments”, comes as Germans are set to vote on 23 February after a coalition government led by the German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, collapsed late this fall. The AfD is running second in opinion polls and might be able to thwart either a centre-right or centre-left majority, but Germany’s mainstream, more centrist parties have pledged to shun any support from the AfD at the national level.

The most surprising thing about the anger flowing from Liberal moderates after the last election was that there really wasn't any. or signup to continue reading Vestigial "small-L" Liberals meekly agreed to double down on hardening up, drafting Peter Dutton to replace Scott Morrison in the full expectation of being dragged further rightward. Portentously, Dutton dispensed with the customary post-defeat nod to the collective good sense of Australian voters. Neither would there be an acknowledgement that the party's loyal base was rightly browned off by insulting attacks on renewables, flippant culture wars, defiant sexism, and tin-eared refusal to create an anti-corruption watchdog. Hell no. The new leader preferred to talk up the virtuous suburbs in a cartoon contrast with the "woke" sensibilities of propertied metropolitan elites and craven corporates. He could not have been clearer had he decreed Australia's business party was, henceforth, "the party of the worker". Which, by the way, he would get to before long. It was a characteristically bullish reaction to the seismic shift of 2022 which saw the arrival en masse of the community or "teal" independents in "safe" Liberal seats. Self-reflection was apparently too confronting, or just inconvenient. Since Tony Abbott, Liberals had fashioned themselves as metropolitan "Nationals" refusing point-blank to update their social thinking in line with the community. Little wonder then that their heartland voters went looking for actual liberals. Building on the successful model pioneered by , six articulate professional women wrested seats off the Liberals in 2022. Misinterpreting the policy wellsprings of this calamitous base erosion required some serious ideological blinkers. To be fair, Simon Birmingham, who had emerged as the leading post-Turnbull moderate, did speak out the morning after the defeat, acknowledging "obviously we've lost and we've been delivered a comprehensive message from parts of the community". Yet it was a message that left Dutton unmoved. Two-and-a-half compliant years later, Birmingham, the man who could've been just months from becoming foreign minister, has quit. Presumably, barracking for a cause you only half believe was a morale-sapping endeavour. His bombshell resignation, , leaves a gaping hole in the Dutton frontbench. It has deprived the "moderate" faction of its most persuasive force. Who is left now to fly the flag of Liberal progressivism? The pickings are decidedly slim among surviving Liberal centrists, who, despite losing moderate(ish) colleagues like Josh Frydenberg, Trent Zimmerman, Jason Falinski, and Dave Sharma in the party's cherished heartlands, held their tongues in 2022 as they jockeyed for promotion on Dutton's new frontbench. None would seriously critique the Queenslander's arid vision of an Australia reconceptualised, not as a new Jerusalem, but as a kind of unending Brisbanic sprawl. An Australia in which a deracinated industrial class becomes shallowly defined by what it consumes rather than what it makes. A materialist Australia whose inchoate resentments could be parcelled up to include migrants, corporate piety, and a simmering grievance over what Scott Morrison coined in 2021 as the policy agenda beloved in "cafes, dinner parties and wine bars" of the inner cities. Quelle surprise. Dutton's pitch is aimed at the "real" Australia - the treeless tundra of McMansions mortgaged to the hilt and jammed into their blocks like the super-sized utes in the streets outside. Save for the ubiquitous Stars 'n Stripes, it could be America, the place from . Rebranding the Liberal Party as the blue-collar party may feel less dramatic than the role-reversal achieved by Trumpism in the United States, but the first steps have brought nary a peep from moderates. In the US, the GOP has completely surrendered to right-wing populism and demagoguery. Traditional mainstream Republicans have been hounded to the margins, regarded as apostates to be publicly vilified and personally threatened. If the Liberals are a fundamentally different kind of party to the Republicans, or even indeed to the Nationals here, it is not outwardly obvious. Rather, the evidence points in the other direction. Whatever weak influence the moderates have exerted in the Liberal Party to date, is set to become undetectable in a hardening political vogue which rewards obedience over obligation, discipline over dissent. The apparent successor to the unflappable Birmingham is fellow frontbencher, Paul Fletcher. Like many nominal "moderates", he is a progressive by designation rather than through any particular action visible from the outside. And like Dutton and Morrison before him, Fletcher's starting point for the Liberal rout of 2022 is to blame the voters for being so feckless as to fall for "trickery" and a "green-left con job". Under threat in his Sydney electorate of Bradfield from second-time "teal" candidate Nicolette Boele, Fletcher's instinct is not to ask why middle-way Liberal voters are unhappy with his party, but to attack "teals" as "very much in the tradition of front groups established by left-wing political operatives which are designed to lure votes away from the Liberal Party by tricking voters about their bona fides". Not since Hillary Clinton's notorious " " sledge in 2016 has a senior front-running candidate so directly impugned the intelligence of his constituents. It says everything about the moderates that their absence of anger towards social conservatives in 2022, has finally erupted at their own voters and the "liberal" independents who show them up. Mark Kenny is The Canberra Times' political analyst and a professor at the ANU's Australian Studies Institute. He hosts the Democracy Sausage podcast. He writes a column every Sunday. Mark Kenny is The Canberra Times' political analyst and a professor at the ANU's Australian Studies Institute. He hosts the Democracy Sausage podcast. He writes a column every Sunday. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Advertisement AdvertisementThe alleged Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) question paper leak has sparked protests, with students rejecting negotiations with the Patna district administration and demanding talks with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh has warned against organizing demonstrations, such as the 'Chatra Sansad' called by Prashant Kishor, stating that gatherings near Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Gandhi Maidan are banned. Amidst the stalemate, authorities are monitoring coaching centers for any involvement, while political figures such as CPI (M-L) Liberation and Guru Rahman are facing scrutiny for allegedly inciting protesters. (With inputs from agencies.)

Fears for Gaza hospitals as fuel and aid run low

India to host WAVES Summit in February: PM Modi PTI Updated: December 29th, 2024, 18:19 IST in Entertainment , Home News , National 0 Pic- IANS Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Share on Linkedin New Delhi: India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) for the first time in February next year which will be a global platform for its creative talents, fostering collaborations and showcasing the country’s potential as a hub for world-class content creation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke extensively about the WAVES Summit in his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ Radio address Sunday. Also Read Investigations on in Sandhya Theatre stampede case: Telangana DGP 54 mins ago Sonakshi Sinha, Zaheer Iqbal hang out with ‘cool cats’ 57 mins ago Comparing the WAVES to global events like the World Economic Forum in Davos, Modi said the leaders from the media and entertainment industry as well as creative minds from across the globe will gather in Delhi for the Summit being held from February 5-9. “This Summit is an important step towards making India a hub of global content creation,” he said. The Prime Minister emphasised the pivotal role of young creators in the preparations for WAVES, reflecting the dynamic spirit of India’s creative community. He expressed pride in the enthusiasm of the country’s youth and their contribution to the burgeoning creator economy, a key driver as India advances toward becoming a five trillion dollar economy. “Whether you are a young creator or an established artist, associated with Bollywood or regional cinema, a professional from the TV industry, an expert in animation, gaming, or an innovator in entertainment technology, I encourage you to be a part of the WAVES Summit,” Modi said. He urged all stakeholders in the entertainment and creative industries to actively participate in the WAVES. “The WAVES Summit is poised to serve as a global platform for India’s creative talents, fostering collaborations and showcasing the country’s potential as a hub for world-class content creation,” Modi said. The Summit will also highlight India’s advancements in animation, gaming, entertainment technology, and regional and mainstream cinema, he added. Modi also paid heartfelt tributes to ace director Raj Kapoor and singer Mohammed Rafi on their 100th birth anniversaries. Raj Kapoor’s role in showcasing India’s soft power through his timeless films and Mohammed Rafi’s mesmerizing voice that continues to resonate with all generations, he said. Modi also recalled Akkineni Nageswara Rao’s contributions in elevating Telugu cinema while reflecting the Indian traditions. He also honored Tapan Sinha’s socially conscious films that inspired unity and awareness. Modi said these legends not only shaped the golden era of Indian cinema but also strengthened India’s cultural heritage, leaving behind an everlasting legacy for generations to admire and draw inspiration from. PTI Tags: India Narendra Modi WAVES Summit Share Tweet Send Share Suggest A Correction Enter your email to get our daily news in your inbox. Leave this field empty if you're human:Shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Inc. ( NYSE:BXMT – Get Free Report ) have earned a consensus rating of “Hold” from the eight ratings firms that are presently covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $20.07. Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on BXMT shares. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust from $19.00 to $22.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a report on Friday, September 20th. Wolfe Research upgraded shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust from a “peer perform” rating to an “outperform” rating and set a $20.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, December 11th. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on BXMT Blackstone Mortgage Trust Stock Down 1.2 % Blackstone Mortgage Trust Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, January 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of $0.47 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 31st. This represents a $1.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 10.50%. Blackstone Mortgage Trust’s payout ratio is -135.25%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Point72 Asset Management L.P. purchased a new stake in shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust in the second quarter worth about $10,656,000. Prevail Innovative Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Blackstone Mortgage Trust in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $3,061,000. Intech Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $821,000. Tidal Investments LLC purchased a new position in shares of Blackstone Mortgage Trust in the third quarter valued at $883,000. Finally, Natixis Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Blackstone Mortgage Trust in the third quarter worth $211,000. Institutional investors own 64.15% of the company’s stock. About Blackstone Mortgage Trust ( Get Free Report Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Inc, a real estate finance company, originates senior loans collateralized by commercial properties in North America, Europe, and Australia. The company originates and acquires senior floating rate mortgage loans that are secured by a first-priority mortgage on commercial real estate assets. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Blackstone Mortgage Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Blackstone Mortgage Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .As the Orlando Pride prepare to take the pitch in the NWSL final, it's a full circle moment for Marta. The only remaining player from Orlando's previous playoff run in 2017, the Brazilian is playing in her first NWSL final ever with a chance to cement her legacy. But at 38 and being out of contract at the end of the season, there are questions about what's next for her. Earlier in the season, Marta hinted that this could be her final season in Orlando, and reflecting on the season with CBS Sports, the subject came up again. "It's been eight years here with Orlando, and it's the first time that we go to a final. It's a coincidence, but I don't know. It's some answer for me, for myself. Why am I still here," Marta said. "Why am I looking to build something special for this team? I don't know if I'm going to be here next year , but I'm already so happy with what I have given to the club and the players." A post shared by Attacking Third (@attackingthird) Marta reflected on how special this season has been for Orlando with the club setting records left and right. Marta became the oldest goal scorer and oldest outfield player in club history. Barbra Banda became the team's record scorer in all competitions for NWSL with 16 goals. They set a record for the biggest win in club history, the longest shutout streak in club history and so much more en route to winning the NWSL Shield while they now look to do the double. "No matter what happens in the final, this season for me and for the team has been the best season so far. Orlando never had played a consistent game as we have done in this season from beginning to end," Marta said, as she began to hold back tears. If this is Marta's final season in Orlando, she'll be able to go out on top with a lasting legacy but first, there's another trophy in her sights to close out this season on the highest note possible.

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday that he wants real estate developer Charles Kushner , father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as ambassador to France. Trump made the announcement in a Truth Social post, calling Charles Kushner “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker." Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a real estate firm. Jared Kushner is a former White House senior adviser to Trump who is married to Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka. The elder Kushner was pardoned by Trump in December 2020 after pleading guilty years earlier to tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. People are also reading... City officials admit Corvallis' flag is 'bad.' Will it change? 2 bucks illegally killed with crossbow in Corvallis The real reason Corvallis' Pastega Lights moved to Linn County OSU football: Three takeaways from Oregon State's loss at Boise State Commentary: Gulbranson shows he should be starter in thrilling win over Cougars Head-on crash on Highway 228 kills 1, injures 2 Linn County deputy resigns during menacing case Prosecutor: Driver on laughing gas caused double fatal in Sweet Home More allegations against ex-OSU coach Corvallis homes in on layout options for a new government center Corvallis man gets prison for armed robbery case OSU football: Boise State's pass rush is formidable A busy day: A series of crashes in Sweet Home OSU football: Preview and prediction for regular-season finale against Boise State OSU football: Game notes for the Beavers' win over Washington State Charles Kushner arrives July 20, 2022, for the funeral of Ivana Trump in New York. Prosecutors alleged that after Charles Kushner discovered his brother-in-law was cooperating with federal authorities in an investigation, he hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation. Kushner hired a prostitute to lure his brother-in-law, then arranged to have the encounter in a New Jersey motel room recorded with a hidden camera and the recording sent to Kushner's own sister, the man’s wife, prosecutors said. Kushner eventually pleaded guilty to 18 counts including tax evasion and witness tampering. He was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison — the most he could receive under a plea deal, but less than what Chris Christie, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey at the time and later governor and Republican presidential candidate, sought. Christie blamed Jared Kushner for his firing from Trump’s transition team in 2016, and called Charles Kushner’s offenses “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was U.S. attorney.” Trump and the elder Kushner knew each other from real estate circles and their children were married in 2009. Here are the people Trump has picked for key positions so far President-elect Donald Trump Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Marco Rubio, Secretary of State Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Pam Bondi, Attorney General Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Labor Secretary Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner, Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Chris Wright, Secretary of Energy A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. Linda McMahon, Secretary of Education President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Tulsi Gabbard, National Intelligence Director Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. John Ratcliffe, Central Intelligence Agency Director Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Elise Stefanik, Ambassador to the United Nations Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. Matt Whitaker, Ambassador to NATO President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Pete Hoekstra, Ambassador to Canada A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Mike Huckabee, Ambassador to Israel Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Steven Witkoff, Special Envoy to the Middle East Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Keith Kellogg, Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Mike Waltz, National Security Adviser Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Tom Homan, ‘Border Czar’ Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Dr. Mehmet Oz, Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to advise White House on government efficiency Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Additional selections to the incoming White House Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. William McGinley, White House counsel McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Mississippi State is back in the AP Top 25. The No. 19 Bulldogs (11-1) jumped into the rankings last week as they were preparing to face Bethune-Cookman on Monday night in Starkville, Miss. Mississippi State was unranked in the preseason poll and stayed in the rankings for just one week in both of its previous appearances. But it's coming off a performance that suggests it might have some staying power with the start of Southeastern Conference play looming. The visiting Bulldogs won decisively against then-No. 21 Memphis 79-66 on Dec. 21. Bulldogs coach Chris Jans said "it's too early to say" whether his team's most recent performance was indicative of what might be the norm going forward, but he was encouraged by it. "Our guys haven't played the same every time out," Jans said. "I mean no disrespect to anyone else we've played, but it's a different competition (against ranked teams). I've liked how we've played to this point, but who knows how it'll unfold." The Bulldogs routed another top-20 opponent when they defeated then-No. 18 Pitt 90-57 on Dec. 4 in Starkville. "We're certainly happy that we've played our best against the best competition because, in (the SEC), this is what we're going to face every night," Jans said. "It's been well-documented where the SEC is at compared to every other conference this year. Now, can we do it over the course of 10 weeks, where it's like this every single time?" The games against ranked teams are going to start coming with more regularity because there are 10 SEC teams in the current Top 25. "Heading into this season, we had a few goals," forward Cameron Matthews said. "One of them is to try and to compete for a (conference) championship. We felt like we could compete in the SEC. I think we were able to prove it (against Memphis)." The Bulldogs used a 13-0 run to grab an 18-5 lead at Memphis, and they never led by fewer than 10 points the rest of the way. Riley Kugel scored 19 points off the bench, and team leader Josh Hubbard (17.6 ppg) added 13. Bethune-Cookman (3-9) also is looking forward to seeing how it'll stack up in its conference -- the Southwestern Athletic Conference. "We've got a lot of depth and we have age and experience," head coach Reggie Theus said earlier this season. The Wildcats have seven active players averaging double-figure minutes and they feature two graduates, two seniors and three juniors. They are led by a high-scoring trio of guards Brayon Freeman (16.0) and Trey Thomas (12.3) and forward Reggie Ward Jr. (11.7). Ward and Freeman scored 14 points apiece and Thomas added 12 in the team's most recent game, a 76-63 loss at Davidson on Dec. 21. Bethune-Cookman has prepared for conference play with a series of games against power-conference opponents in Texas Tech, Nebraska, Minnesota, Virginia and West Virginia. Theus said "the difficult thing" about the pre-conference schedule has been molding 11 new players into a cohesive team. "That's the bottom line," he said. "We have everything else in place. I'm real excited about where we could end up." --Field Level Media

Phase 3 Study Results Demonstrated Three Year, Disease-Free Survival of 96% THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. , Dec. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced new data demonstrating that adding BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) to chemotherapy significantly improves disease-free survival (DFS) in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) of average or higher risk of relapse. The data are from a Phase 3 study (AALL1731) conducted by the Children's Oncology Group. The results were simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine and will be presented during the plenary session on Sunday, Dec. 8 , at 2 p.m. PT at the 66 th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego . "Over the last decade, BLINCYTO has reshaped the treatment landscape for B-ALL, offering a critical lifeline for thousands of adult and pediatric patients," said Jay Bradner , M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development and chief scientific officer at Amgen. "These powerful new data leave us little doubt about the profound impact of this medicine for a large number of children affected by this disease. We are grateful to the Children's Oncology Group, along with the patients, families and clinical teams, for their dedication and partnership in advancing this critical study to improve the lives of children with cancer." Based on the results of the first pre-specified interim analysis for efficacy, the study met its primary endpoint of DFS and study randomization was terminated early based on the recommendation from the data and safety monitoring committee due to the benefit observed in the BLINCYTO arm compared to the chemotherapy-only arm. Overall, the 3-year DFS was 96.0% for patients treated with chemotherapy plus BLINCYTO compared to 87.9% for those treated with only chemotherapy. The hazard ratio (HR) was 0.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24-0.64], indicating a 61% reduction in the risk of disease relapse, secondary malignant neoplasm or remission death with BLINCYTO. At 3 years, more patients remained alive and cancer free when treated with BLINCYTO plus chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. "The AALL1731 study results are truly practice-changing, further solidifying blinatumomab's role as the standard of care for a large number of children with B-ALL," said Sumit Gupta , M.D., Ph.D., FRCPC, co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study and oncologist and clinician investigator, Division of Haematology/Oncology at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Toronto . "These breakthrough data showing a significant improvement in disease-free survival are poised to bring substantial clinical value to children with newly diagnosed B-ALL." The addition of BLINCYTO to chemotherapy in standard risk patients resulted in outcomes similar to those previously achieved in only the most favorable pediatric risk subsets. Among SR-Average patients, 3-year DFS was 97.5% for patients treated with BLINCYTO compared to 90.2% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.33, CI 0.15-0.69). For SR-High patients, 3-year DFS was 94.1% for those treated with BLINCYTO compared to 84.8% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24-0.85). "Relapsed ALL remains a major cause of pediatric cancer mortality, with nearly half of the relapses occurring in children with standard-risk B-ALL," said Rachel E. Rau , M.D., co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study, pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Seattle Children's Hospital and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington . "These findings underscore the progress made with blinatumomab in preventing relapse and support its role as a critical addition to current therapeutic strategies." Safety results are consistent with the known safety profile of BLINCYTO. BLINCYTO has demonstrated a positive balance of benefits and risks, with only 0.3% of first courses associated with Grade 3+ cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and 0.7% with seizures. A higher risk of infections was observed in the BLINCYTO arm. These results provide the first evidence supporting BLINCYTO for use in the consolidation phase in newly diagnosed pediatric Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) B-ALL patients. This groundbreaking first-in-class Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) therapy is now backed by additional evidence reinforcing its role in redefining a standard of care for both adult and pediatric patients, starting from one month old, regardless of measurable residual disease (MRD) status. The findings further establish BLINCYTO as a versatile first-line consolidation therapy across all ages and treatment backbones. The NCI's Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), which sponsored the study will share data with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as part of their ongoing communications relating to the trial. About The Children's Oncology Group The Children's Oncology Group (childrensoncologygroup.org), a member of the NCI National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), is the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. The Children's Oncology Group unites over 10,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 200 leading children's hospitals, universities and cancer centers across North America , Australia , New Zealand and Saudi Arabia in the fight against childhood cancer. Today, more than 80% of the 15,000 children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States are cared for at Children's Oncology Group member institutions. Research performed by Children's Oncology Group institutions over the past 50 years has transformed childhood cancer from a virtually incurable disease to one with a combined 5-year survival rate of 86%. The Children's Oncology Group's mission is to improve the cure rate and outcomes for all children with cancer. About AALL1731 (NCT03914625) The AALL1731 study was a Phase 3 randomized trial to determine if two non-sequential cycles of BLINCYTO added to chemotherapy improved disease-free survival (DFS) in children with newly diagnosed pediatric National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The study enrolled 4,264 newly diagnosed NCI SR B-ALL patients, of whom 2,334 were risk stratified at the end of induction therapy as either SR-Average or SR-High. At the first planned interim efficacy analysis (data cutoff June 30, 2024 ), 1,440 of the eligible and evaluable patients had been randomized. The AALL1731 study was designed and conducted independently from industry. The Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) of the NCI sponsored the trial and provided funding to the Children's Oncology Group to conduct the study. NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In addition, Amgen provided BLINCYTO and support through an NCI Cooperative Research and Development Agreement. About Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) ALL, also known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, is a fast-growing type of blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and can sometimes spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and central nervous system. ALL is a rare disease, with an estimated 6,550 new cases, affecting both children and adults, diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024. 1 B-ALL begins in immature cells that would normally develop into B-cell lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that grow in bone marrow. 2,3 B-ALL is the most common type of ALL, constituting approximately 75% of cases in adults and approximately 88% in children, the most common cancer in children. 4,5 About BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) BLINCYTO is the first globally approved Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) immuno-oncology therapy that targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells. BiTE ® molecules fight cancer by helping the body's immune system detect and target malignant cells by engaging T cells (a type of white blood cell capable of killing other cells perceived as threats) to cancer cells. By bringing T cells near cancer cells, the T cells can inject toxins and trigger cancer cell death (apoptosis). BiTE ® immuno-oncology therapies are currently being investigated for their potential to treat a wide variety of cancers. BLINCYTO was granted Breakthrough Therapy and Priority Review designations by the U.S. FDA and is approved in the U.S. for the treatment of: In the European Union (EU), BLINCYTO is indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of: BLINCYTO ® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGICAL TOXICITIES including IMMUNE EFFECTOR CELL-ASSOCIATED NEUROTOXICITY SYNDROME Contraindications BLINCYTO ® is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to blinatumomab or to any component of the product formulation. Warnings and Precautions Adverse Reactions Dosage and Administration Guidelines INDICATIONS BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) is indicated for the treatment of CD19-positive B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adult and pediatric patients one month and older with: Please see BLINCYTO ® full Prescribing Information , including BOXED WARNINGS. About Bispecific T-Cell Engager (BiTE ® ) Technology BiTE technology is a targeted immuno-oncology platform that is designed to engage a patient's own T cells to any tumor-specific antigen, activating the cytotoxic potential of T cells to eliminate detectable cancer. The BiTE immuno-oncology platform has the potential to treat different cancer types through tumor-specific antigens. The BiTE platform has a goal of leading to off-the-shelf solutions, which have the potential to make innovative T-cell treatment available to all providers when their patients need it. For more than a decade, Amgen has been advancing this innovative technology, which has demonstrated strong efficacy in hematological malignancies and now a solid tumor with the approval of IMDELLTRA. Amgen remains committed to progressing multiple BiTE molecules across a broad range of hematologic and solid tumor malignancies, paving the way for additional applications in more tumor types. Amgen is further investigating BiTE technology with the goal of enhancing patient experience and therapeutic potential. To learn more about BiTE technology, visit BiTE ® Technology 101 . About Amgen Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative medicines to help millions of patients in their fight against some of the world's toughest diseases. More than 40 years ago, Amgen helped to establish the biotechnology industry and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what's known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline that builds on its existing portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and rare diseases. In 2024, Amgen was named one of the "World's Most Innovative Companies" by Fast Company and one of "America's Best Large Employers" by Forbes, among other external recognitions . Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average ® , and it is also part of the Nasdaq-100 Index ® , which includes the largest and most innovative non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow Amgen on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , TikTok , YouTube and Threads . Amgen Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements on the outcome, benefits and synergies of collaborations, or potential collaborations, with any other company (including BeiGene, Ltd. or Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd.), the performance of Otezla ® (apremilast) (including anticipated Otezla sales growth and the timing of non-GAAP EPS accretion), Amgen's acquisitions of Teneobio, Inc., ChemoCentryx, Inc., or Horizon Therapeutics plc (including the prospective performance and outlook of Horizon's business, performance and opportunities, any potential strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities expected as a result of such acquisition, and any projected impacts from the Horizon acquisition on Amgen's acquisition-related expenses going forward), as well as estimates of revenues, operating margins, capital expenditures, cash, other financial metrics, expected legal, arbitration, political, regulatory or clinical results or practices, customer and prescriber patterns or practices, reimbursement activities and outcomes, effects of pandemics or other widespread health problems on Amgen's business, outcomes, progress, and other such estimates and results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including its most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those Amgen projects. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, preclinical results do not guarantee safe and effective performance of product candidates in humans. The complexity of the human body cannot be perfectly, or sometimes, even adequately modeled by computer or cell culture systems or animal models. The length of time that it takes for Amgen to complete clinical trials and obtain regulatory approval for product marketing has in the past varied and Amgen expects similar variability in the future. Even when clinical trials are successful, regulatory authorities may question the sufficiency for approval of the trial endpoints Amgen has selected. Amgen develops product candidates internally and through licensing collaborations, partnerships and joint ventures. Product candidates that are derived from relationships may be subject to disputes between the parties or may prove to be not as effective or as safe as Amgen may have believed at the time of entering into such relationship. Also, Amgen or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with its products, including its devices, after they are on the market. Amgen's results may be affected by its ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing its products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of Amgen's products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, Amgen's research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. Amgen's business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, Amgen's business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If Amgen fails to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between Amgen and the U.S. government, Amgen could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while Amgen routinely obtains patents for its products and technology, the protection offered by its patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by its competitors, or Amgen may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. Amgen performs a substantial amount of its commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico, and also depends on third parties for a portion of its manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of its current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for Amgen's manufacturing activities, the distribution of Amgen's products, the commercialization of Amgen's product candidates, and Amgen's clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on Amgen's product development, product sales, business and results of operations. Amgen relies on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of its product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of its commercial products. In addition, Amgen competes with other companies with respect to many of its marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for Amgen's products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of Amgen's distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with Amgen. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of Amgen's products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on its business and results of operations. Amgen's efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology Amgen has acquired, may not be successful. There can be no guarantee that Amgen will be able to realize any of the strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities arising from the Horizon acquisition, and such benefits, synergies or opportunities may take longer to realize than expected. Amgen may not be able to successfully integrate Horizon, and such integration may take longer, be more difficult or cost more than expected. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach of Amgen's information technology systems could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of Amgen's systems and Amgen's data. Amgen's stock price may be volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Amgen's business and operations may be negatively affected by the failure, or perceived failure, of achieving its environmental, social and governance objectives. The effects of global climate change and related natural disasters could negatively affect Amgen's business and operations. Global economic conditions may magnify certain risks that affect Amgen's business. Amgen's business performance could affect or limit the ability of the Amgen Board of Directors to declare a dividend or its ability to pay a dividend or repurchase its common stock. Amgen may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to it, or at all. Any scientific information discussed in this news release relating to new indications for Amgen's products is preliminary and investigative and is not part of the labeling approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the products. The products are not approved for the investigational use(s) discussed in this news release, and no conclusions can or should be drawn regarding the safety or effectiveness of the products for these uses. CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Elissa Snook , 609-251-1407 (media) Justin Claeys , 805-313-9775 (investors) References View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blincyto-blinatumomab-added-to-chemotherapy-significantly-improves-survival-in-newly-diagnosed-pediatric-patients-with-b-cell-precursor-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia-b-all-302325381.html SOURCE AmgenSanctuary Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Limbach Holdings, Inc. ( NASDAQ:LMB – Free Report ) during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 3,456 shares of the construction company’s stock, valued at approximately $262,000. A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of LMB. Renaissance Technologies LLC lifted its holdings in Limbach by 6.4% during the 2nd quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 394,871 shares of the construction company’s stock worth $22,480,000 after purchasing an additional 23,700 shares during the last quarter. Wasatch Advisors LP lifted its holdings in shares of Limbach by 6.7% during the third quarter. Wasatch Advisors LP now owns 372,836 shares of the construction company’s stock worth $28,246,000 after buying an additional 23,360 shares in the last quarter. Corsair Capital Management L.P. boosted its position in shares of Limbach by 1.3% in the third quarter. Corsair Capital Management L.P. now owns 313,360 shares of the construction company’s stock valued at $23,740,000 after acquiring an additional 3,988 shares during the period. Royce & Associates LP grew its stake in shares of Limbach by 35.3% in the third quarter. Royce & Associates LP now owns 249,578 shares of the construction company’s stock valued at $18,908,000 after acquiring an additional 65,082 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in Limbach by 2.2% during the third quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 238,445 shares of the construction company’s stock worth $18,068,000 after acquiring an additional 5,093 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 55.85% of the company’s stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research analysts have issued reports on LMB shares. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on shares of Limbach from $108.00 to $110.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 11th. Roth Mkm raised their price objective on Limbach from $67.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Monday, November 4th. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Limbach from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 14th. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, Director David Richard Gaboury bought 531 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 10th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $94.51 per share, with a total value of $50,184.81. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 2,071 shares in the company, valued at $195,730.21. This represents a 34.48 % increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link . 10.20% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Limbach Price Performance LMB stock opened at $85.90 on Friday. The company’s 50-day moving average price is $90.86 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $73.91. The firm has a market cap of $968.35 million, a P/E ratio of 39.05, a P/E/G ratio of 3.10 and a beta of 1.09. The company has a quick ratio of 1.57, a current ratio of 1.57 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. Limbach Holdings, Inc. has a 12 month low of $35.24 and a 12 month high of $107.00. Limbach ( NASDAQ:LMB – Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 5th. The construction company reported $0.62 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.05. Limbach had a net margin of 5.08% and a return on equity of 20.16%. The business had revenue of $133.90 million for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $129.50 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.61 earnings per share. The firm’s quarterly revenue was up 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts anticipate that Limbach Holdings, Inc. will post 2.54 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Limbach Profile ( Free Report ) Limbach Holdings, Inc operates as a building systems solution company in the United States. It operates through two segments, General Contractor Relationships and Owner Direct Relationships. The company engages in the construction and renovation projects that involve primarily include mechanical, plumbing, and electrical services. Further Reading Five stocks we like better than Limbach Where Do I Find 52-Week Highs and Lows? Buffett Takes the Bait; Berkshire Buys More Oxy in December What Does a Stock Split Mean? Top 3 ETFs to Hedge Against Inflation in 2025 How Technical Indicators Can Help You Find Oversold Stocks These 3 Chip Stock Kings Are Still Buys for 2025 Receive News & Ratings for Limbach Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Limbach and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .No. 13 seed Tarleton State wins inaugural FCS playoff game, beats Drake 43-29