CaniBrands premium CBD products with Nutraceuticals enhance fitness, wellness and sport lifestyles
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 16:47 EDT
Consumers take charge of their health using effective CBD products WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA - Next-generation CBD consumer packaged goods company, CaniBrands has developed a full suite of experiences and product choices to support consumers in their day-to-day wellness goals. CaniBrands products are fast acting and effective for specific outcomes such as energy, sleep, relaxation, full body relief, and workout recovery improvement. CaniBrands is on the leading edge of wellness by offering CBD-infused nutraceutical products across the US via wholesale distribution and direct-to-consumer online shopping at www.canibrands.com . CaniBrands products include CBD-infused body balms, skin creams, and vitamin-packed sublingual oils and oral sprays in four positive experiences: Can-i-Sleep, Can-i-Boost, Can-i-Mend, Can-i-Fresh, creating the most comprehensive selection of experience-driven CBD-infused products. Delivering the first line of true nutraceutical CBD fitness, wellness and sports products in the US, customers receive high-quality, experienced-based CBD products made with all natural and nutrient-rich, plant-based ingredients. In addition to CBD isolate formulations, the company uses a low heat oil-pressed extraction process to produce full spectrum CBD products that retain a more complete cannabinoid profile. "Our customers are incorporating CaniBrands into their everyday lives and are very pleased with their results," says Chris Lord, CEO of CaniBrands. "They are coming back to our e-commerce site and buying significantly more. It's a testament to our trusted, high-quality products and our focus on the consumer. " Since its launch in April 2019, CaniBrands e-commerce consumer insights have shown a very positive customer satisfaction rating of 93.5%, with a net promoter score of 61.2% which is double the industry average. In an industry known for its low brand loyalty, CaniBrands repeat consumers are increasing their total cart size demonstrating how they are embracing the products and extending into other experiences. CaniBrands continues to bring new and innovative consumer brands and products to market.
TDW Multiple Dataset Inspection Technology Earns Coveted TÜV SÜD Certification
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 13:37 EDT
TDW Multiple Dataset Inspection Technology Earns Coveted TÜV SÜD Certification Tulsa, OK July 16, 2019 - T.D. Williamson (TDW), the global pipeline solutions provider, has received TÜV SÜD certification for its Multiple Dataset (MDS) platform, which combines several in-line inspection (ILI) technologies on a single device. TÜV SÜD is an internationally recognized independent third-party validation organization with expertise in European Union (EU) requirements and expectations. Third-party endorsement of ILI systems is particularly important for pipeline operators in the EU market, who rely on it for independent verification of quality. Specifically, the MDS platform is certified to VdTÜV Code 1069: Guideline for the qualification of in-line inspection tools. According to Robert Mueller, TÜV SÜD Pipeline Application Certification Inspector, the significance of this achievement is to prove that under the objective and independent aspects of the VdTÜV Code 1069, the ILI tool is capable of fulfilling the specifications of the ILI tool vendor and is suitable for the intended purpose. Certification covers the entire MDS fleet, from 6-inch to 30-inch. The TÜV-certified MDS platform combines deformation (DEF), magnetic flux leakage (MFL), SpirALL® MFL, low field MFL (LFM) and mapping (XYZ) technologies on a single inspection vehicle. It can perform a complete inspection of the pipe body and long seam in one pass, detecting: Metal loss Metal gain Planar/crack-like anomalies (seam or pipe body) Dents with and without metal loss Mechanical damage Pipeline routing Bending strain TDW Senior Product Manager -Advanced Inspection Technology Matt Romney said the MDS completed a rigorous, multiphase certification audit. In addition to an extensive document, process and procedures review, TÜV SÜD conducted an onsite audit and in-depth assessment of the resultant data. The audit also took into consideration the requirements of the 2016 version of the Pipeline Operators Forum: Specification and requirements for in-line inspection of pipelines. Watch this video series to learn more about the MDS platform: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnc1d8VXhEMpx9uVJtjtRaiNvk7w11XI4 ### About T.D. Williamson Drawing upon a 99-year history of industry leadership, TDW delivers a comprehensive portfolio of safe pipeline system solutions for onshore and offshore applications, including advanced isolation and repair, integrated pigging and integrity assessment solutions. www.tdwilliamson.com For further information or imagery, contact: Corporate Communications T.D. Williamson Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A Phone: 918-447-5000 Email: corporate-communications@tdwilliamson.com Web: www.tdwilliamson.com
Winning Ideas could Revolutionise the Construction Industry - 2019 COINS Grand Challenge
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 10:53 EDT
Winning Ideas could Revolutionise the Construction Industry - 2019 COINS Grand Challenge Ideas which could revolutionise the Construction Industry were received from all over the world for the 2019 COINS Grand Challenge , a global competition organised by Construction Industry Solutions Ltd (COINS) which hopes to uncover innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders. The COINS Grand Challenge which consists of two competitions, Undergraduate and Open, aims to encourage people to come forward with new ideas and approaches to help improve or address challenges facing the construction industry. A Sri Lankan student's innovative solution for site-based soil testing won the Undergraduate Competition. Chathurangi Edussuriya is a final year student from the Department of Computer Engineering at the University of Peradeniya. Her idea to use the correlations between soil parameters and the electrical resistance of soil, and develop a mechanism which performs soil tests at the location of construction in a few minutes with the results fed into a smartphone, was also awarded the COINS Investment Prize, which goes to the entry that judges consider to be the most promising business idea. Chathurangi comments : "I think my idea could revolutionise the construction industry because usually soil tests are performed in laboratories, but with my method they can be performed at the construction site. The 'Soil Analyser' could save both money and time for the construction companies. The COINS Investment Prize will help me to develop my idea further as it's currently based on research. Taking part in the COINS Grand Challenge has been the best experience of my life!"
LiveU Matrix Gives Broadcasters Free Access to NASA TV's Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Live Feed
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 10:08 EDT
Content-rich video management & distribution service enables broadcasters to pick up live content over IP Hackensack, NJ - On Friday, July 19th, NASA TV will broadcast "NASA's Giant Leaps: Past and Future - Celebrating Apollo 50th as we Go Forward to the Moon," a live special highlighting the most-celebrated mission to the moon. Broadcasters will have the ability to pick up the official NASA live feed over IP for free via the LiveU Matrix content management and distribution service. "We're honored to help promote NASA's amazing Apollo 11 Anniversary event," said Mike Savello, LiveU's VP of Sales, Americas. "With LiveU Matrix, broadcasters can access high-quality live video and immediately distribute the content without sending a crew to cover the event. Instead, they can receive the official NASA feed and integrate components into their live newscast." Since launching in April 2019, LiveU Matrix has been adopted by major news organizations including CBS, CNN, Cox Media Group, Meredith Corporation, Quincy Media, Sinclair Broadcast Group, and others. NASA TV will broadcast live from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the historic, newly-restored Apollo mission control room at Johnson Space Center in Houston and the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The live special will tell the story of how NASA got there and how they will get there again. Plus, Apollo astronauts, alongside current and future astronauts, scientists, engineers, and others, will share some untold stories, quirky facts, and personal reflections about journeying to the lunar surface. The live show will take place at 1 p.m. EST (10 a.m. PDT). Audiences can watch it on the NASA Live [nasa.gov] page. To receive the NASA TV Live Feed via LiveU Matrix Contact LiveU support at least two days in advance of event at 1-877-885-4838 or matrix@liveu.tv to set up your feed.
Emergency Services Share Lessons Learnt from Frontline
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 10:06 EDT
A programme of free CPD seminars focusing on the lessons learnt from frontline operations will run at The Emergency Services Show this year at the NEC, Birmingham on 18 and 19 September. The Lessons Learnt Theatre, sponsored by UCLan, will feature case studies of major incidents including the Salisbury nerve agent incident, the recent wildfires on Winter Hill in Lancashire and the Ocado warehouse fire in Hampshire. Experts from across the emergency services community will detail findings from current research to enable best practice in prevention and collaboration. The Scottish Violence Reduction Unit for example will explain how Scotland has been so successful in dealing with knife crime. Another session entitled "Murder is Everyone's Business" will cover the criminal investigation into a gang-related murder where multi-agency collaboration led to many successful convictions. The Institution of Fire Engineers will present a session on the newly-formed Fire Standards Board: an international initiative to prevent firefighter fatalities; while the Road Rescue Recovery Association will explain how the whole industry is raising awareness of the rising number of serious injuries and fatalities taking place among roadside and rescue workers. It is currently lobbying to implement changes and regulations. Recommendations for improving pre-hospital burn care will be shared by the Katie Piper Foundation and National Fire Chiefs' Council. "The Lessons Learnt seminars are always a very popular educational aspect of The Emergency Services Show. Our emergency services are facing truly challenging times in terms of austerity, and the types of incidents they are dealing with, so it has never been more important to share learnings with others. We are very grateful to the speakers who are prepared to be so open about the reality of responding, in order to help the whole emergency services community plan and train for the future," said David Brown, Event Director for The Emergency Services Show. Three additional CPD-accredited seminar theatres will cover Emerging Technologies, IT and Health and Wellbeing (which will highlight the types of support available to responders dealing with stress, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental health conditions). This year's event also sees the return of the popular College of Paramedic Workshops, and West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service Extrication and First Aid & Trauma Challenges, which aim to develop proficiency levels in all areas of Road Traffic Collision Rescue. The Emergency Services Show exhibition features over 450 exhibiting companies including leading names in vehicles and fleet, communications, technology, medical and fire fighting equipment, search and rescue, extrication, water rescue, first response, protective clothing and uniforms, public safety, vehicle equipment, training, community safety and station facilities. Live demonstrations and simulated training will take place throughout the indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. In the networking hub of the show, The Collaboration Zone, over 80 emergency services, voluntary groups, charities and NGOs will be sharing details of the support they offer, and visitors can share ideas and best practice with other blue light services. The Emergency Services Show is free to attend including the exhibition and CPD Seminars. Parking is also free.
Earn Free Cryptocurrency with your Mobile Phone
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 09:41 EDT
- find and scan QR codes and get rewarded with Bitcoin and alt coins - Geofaucets enable anyone to claim cryptocurrencies at real-life locations. The first-of-its-kind product from Online Blockchain plc's www.freefaucet.io allows both cryptocurrency novices and aficionados to collect and store digital money using their smartphone. Conventional cryptocurrency faucets are found online and 'drip' different types of cryptocurrencies. Visitors to sites with faucets can claim these for free with a click of a button. These small drips, when collected regularly, can accumulate into significant amounts of cryptocurrency. Geofaucets ( www.freefaucet.io/geofaucet ), unlike traditional faucets, are in physical form and are found in real-life locations. Claims are made by scanning a QR code at a designated spot. Geofaucets work like this: Go to a Geofaucet (locations are shown here: https://freefaucet.io/geofaucet ) Open your phone's camera Focus on the QR code (your phone knows where you are and tells FreeFaucet. This validates you are coming from that location via the QR code) This gives you a browser link Follow the browser link and automatically get cryptocurrency [*] Your cryptocurrency is safely stored in your FreeFaucet wallet (a cold storage solution) Additionally, anyone can set up their own Geofaucet, which will self-fund and attract people to its particular location. The owner of the Geofaucet is rewarded with 10% of all coins claimed and can claim from it themselves. A person can visit as many Geofaucets as they like and can claim from the same Geofaucet once every 12 hours for another reward - https://freefaucet.io/geofaucet/what_is_a_geofaucet The following cryptocurrencies are currently available to claim from Geofaucets: Bitcoin, Plusonecoin, Monero, Brazio, Litecoin, Bitcoin SV, Bitcoin ABC, Electroneum, Veggie, Ethereum, Buenos, Ravencoin and Dogecoin, with more cryptocurrencies being added monthly. "Interest in cryptocurrencies is ever-increasing and Geofaucets offer a novel, fun and easy way for anyone to get involved in this market risk free. It's a bit like Pokémon Go for cryptocurrencies," said Clem Chambers, CEO of Online Blockchain plc. "Furthermore, setting up your own Geofaucets is a great way to make a passive income. They are also a great marketing tool for businesses and events." Go to: https://freefaucet.io/geofaucet to find out more. - ends - NOTES TO EDITORS Press/media enquiries: Francesca De Franco - francescad@advfnplc.com / 0794 125 3135 For further information please contact: Online Blockchain PLC Clement Chambers +44 (0) 207 070 0909 About Online Blockchain plc (LSE: OBC) Online Blockchain (www.onlineblockchain.io) is a UK-based incubator and developer of businesses in internet and information-based technologies, including developers, administrators and custodians of blockchains and cryptocurrencies. The Company created ADVFN www.advfn.com and today still has a holding of 17.98% in ADVFN plc. Online Blockchain plc continues to consider new related opportunities and particularly crypto currencies and blockchain-based opportunities including incubating cryptocurrency start-ups and developing technical innovation in the blockchain space. Led by a team with over two decades of pioneering in tech, Online Blockchain focuses on innovation in cryptocurrency and decentralised ecosystems via various applications of blockchain: incubating cryptocurrency start-ups and developing technical innovation in the blockchain space. [*] If you don't have a FreeFaucet login it will take you through the short registration process and you will then get the cryptocurrency
Insight TV Launches on Delta Fiber Netherlands' Delta and Caiway Networks
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 08:27 EDT
Amsterdam - Insight TV, global content creator, channel and distributor has signed a distribution deal with Dutch telecoms operator Delta Fiber, which will see Insight TV launch on its Delta and Caiway networks. Delta and Caiway subscribers across the Netherlands will be able to enjoy Insight TV's portfolio of popular shows and series in HD, 24/7 from 17th June. This announcement further highlights Insight TV's continued growth in Europe and follows its launch on T-Mobile's popular Thuis (Home) service earlier this year and launch on KPN in 2018. Insight TV provides an enhanced and engaging viewer experience, creating shows around global super talents and trending topics. Graeme Stanley, Chief Commercial Officer, Insight TV adds, "We are delighted to announce this distribution deal with Delta Fiber Netherlands, which further strengthens our reach in the Netherlands. Our philosophy is to provide experiences through interesting, relatable, creative content anytime, anywhere, through any device and we look forward to seeing how the channel is received following this launch."
Investigation needed into AstraZeneca's Bristol redundancy scandal
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 08:16 EDT
Unite, the UK and Ireland's largest union, is calling for an inquiry into the sale and subsequent collapse of the AstraZeneca site in Avonmouth Bristol. In December 2016 the site and the workforce were transferred to the start-up pharmaceutical company Avara for just £1. As part of the deal Avara continued to supply AstraZeneca's branded drugs to the company. When the transfer was completed the 230 staff at the site, the vast majority of whom are members of Unite, were given "cast iron guarantees" verbally and in writing that if the plant closed in the first three years, then AstraZeneca would honour the enhanced redundancy rights of the transferred staff. In February this year the site went into administration, however despite the previous assurances on redundancy payments from AstraZeneca, the multibillion pound conglomerate has refused to pay the affected staff the enhanced redundancy payments which are estimated to be £14 million. Due to the failure of Avara to inform and consult the workforce before making them redundant, Unite has taken legal claims for a protected award on behalf of the workers. If the claim is successful, due to Avara being in administration, the taxpayer will have to pick up the bill. Any financial awards will be substantially less than the workers would have received if they had remained employees of AstraZeneca. Unite is also concerned about the future of the site which is estimated to be worth in excess of £100 million. Unite regional secretary for the South West Steve Preddy said: "AstraZeneca's sale of the site to Avara needs to be fully investigated, either by the relevant parliamentary body or a financial regulator. "Unite's members have been treated appallingly and so called 'cast iron guarantees' have been proved to be entirely worthless. "AstraZeneca is a multi-billion conglomerate and £14 million is small change for the company but it makes a huge difference for our members, many of whom have spent their working lives at the site. "The workforce are the latest victims of bandit capitalism. The powers that be are allowing these practices to continue unchecked and have learned nothing since the Carillion scandal. "Questions also need to be answered about who now owns this piece of prime real estate and what plans there are for this site." Ending bandit capitalism: Learning the lessons following Carillion's collapse
POCKET COMPANION TO THE COUNTRYSIDE By Mark Turley
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 07:56 EDT
There are plenty of books on the UK's diverse flora and fauna, but they usually only concentrate on just one aspect, such as wild flowers, fungi, birds or trees. This new guide, perfectly sized to fit the pocket, covers all of these subjects and more, so it is always on hand to help identity and explain the countryside around you. However, the Pocket Companion does not stop with natural flora and fauna, it goes on to give an informative insight into the working countryside by explaining various aspects of farming, as well as helping identify popular breeds of livestock and different crops. To keep it truly pocket-sized, the Companion has been compiled to cover the species you are most likely to come across, rather than over-complicating things and listing every single plant, mushroom or bug. This also makes it easier to use because you are not faced with wading through pages of excess information to find what you want. The often tricky business of identifying plants is helped by the innovative 'leaf-finder' table on the inside back cover, which lists plants by the shape of their leaves, giving a useful short-cut to the relevant pages. Identification is further helped by grouping similar looking plants for easy comparison, and their main distinguishing features are highlighted on the vivid, colour photographs. Soft bound with a protective plasticised cover, the Companion readily fits the pocket, whether you are a seasoned rambler or Sunday stroller, adding to the enjoyment and understanding of our fascinating and varied countryside. Notes Proceeds from the sale of the Pocket Companion, priced £13.95 inc p&p, are going to Compassion in World Farming, which campaigns for improved farm animal welfare in the UK and worldwide. To purchase, go to www.ciwf.org/pocketcompanion 260 pages and 800 photos, covering wild flowers, common grasses, trees and shrubs, fungi, insects, birds, mammals and reptiles, plus an informative section on arable, market-garden and livestock farming. Size: 175ml x 105ml (7in x 4in)
Aurecon comes 4th in the 2019 top graduate engineering employer survey
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 07:55 EDT
The South African Graduate Employers Association (SAGEA), a not-for-profit professional association dedicated to advancing graduate employment, recently released its 2019 Candidate Insights Report. Based on this year's survey, global engineering, design and advisory company, Aurecon, came fourth among the top engineering employers in the country.
Texon develops new material to deliver enhanced structural support in vulcanised shoes
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 07:13 EDT
HONG KONG - Texon, a market leader in the development of eco-friendly, structural materials for the global footwear industry, has launched Texon Vulcan - an exciting product that can provide extra shape and enhanced levels of support in vulcanised shoes, and contains up to 50% recycled fibre content. An excellent alternative to traditional rubber heel reinforcements, Texon Vulcan is a non-woven polyester felt with strong performance properties. Designed to create sturdy yet comfortable heel counters, this lightweight material was developed as a result of in-depth research into the key issues associated with vulcanised shoes. Impregnated with a special thermoplastic that increases its shape-retention and firmness, Texon Vulcan delivers exceptional structural support at a significantly thinner gauge - helping footwear manufacturers achieve a slimmer heel profile and deliver a tighter topline that fits neatly around the wearer's heel.
Globecast brings The Total Africa Cup of Nations to the world in 4K alongside VOD content creation
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 06:26 EDT
Paris - Globecast , the global solutions provider for media, is extending its relationship with the organisers and rights holders of the Total Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, bringing the 2019 event to the world. The tournament began on June 21st with the final taking place on July 19th. Globecast is working in partnership with the Egyptian Local Organising Committee (LOC), Lagardère Sports, managers and marketers of sports rights across Europe and Africa, and the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF). For additional on-the-ground logistics support, Globecast has partnered with local specialists KAR Technology, who have provided logistical expertise and liaison with the LOC. Globecast has also collaborated closely with Iris Media, who have provided SNGs as well as additional technical support.
CEDIA News: Atlona Puts the Focus on Opus for Cost-Efficient Residential AV Distribution
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 05:56 EDT
Atlona Puts the Focus on Opus for Cost-Efficient Residential AV Distribution at CEDIA Expo 2019 New competitive price point brings benefits of premium 4K HDR matrix switching to a much broader customer base SAN JOSE, CA - Atlona returns to CEDIA Expo with Opus™, its series of three HDMI-to-HDBaseT matrix switchers and one receiver built for high-performance 4K/HDR and Dolby® Vision™ signal distribution and extension in residential AV environments. Opus products are engineered with a comprehensive range of control and audio matrixing features, making the series ideal for a wide range applications requiring multi-zone AV distribution. Atlona will demonstrate the Opus series all week at Booth 2947during CEDIA Expo 2019, which takes place September 12-14 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. Atlona is also pleased to announce a price reduction for the series, easing the budgeting burden for custom installers and end users with a thirst for premium 4K HDR-ready matrix switching solutions. The Opus family includes the AT-OPUS-46M (4x6); AT-OPUS-68M (6x8); and AT-OPUS-810M (8x10) matrix switchers, all of which feature HDBaseT outputs for transmission of HDMI, Ethernet pass-through for data network and IP control, bidirectional IR, and RS-232 control signals up to 330 feet (100 meters). Each Opus model enables routing to HDBaseT outputs plus two additional HDMI outputs to support surround sound decoding, providing exceptional flexibility for the custom installer. All three switchers can be managed and configured via Atlona's IP-based, cloud-enabled Velocity™ AV control platform or the Atlona Management System ( AMS 2.0 ) software.
MEDIA ALERT: THE ACCESS BANK UK - delivering more international business growth. Video News Release available now
Tue, Jul 16, 2019 05:19 EDT
The Access Bank - Video News Release Video Available on: AP MultiMedia , Bloomberg or Red Robot MediaGRAB Access: All Rights Free Video 15 Jul 2019 The Access Bank UK used its' annual Access Bank Polo Day at Guards Polo Club Windsor on Saturday 13 July to post results showing another year of outstanding international business growth. 2018 was the year that it joined the three key UK clearing systems, and collected the best African Trade Finance Bank Awards from both International Finance and CFI. All four strategic business units returned double digit growth and in only its second year of operations the importance of its investment in Dubai was demonstrated by a 200 per cent increase in income. For the eleventh year running it was able to report having no 'non performing loans.' With Corporate Responsibility and exemplary Corporate Governance playing a key role in the growth of the Bank. The Polo day is the culmination of a yearlong programme, part of its fund raising in partnership with UNICEF for education projects in northern Nigeria in particular. 350millian Naira (UD$970,000) were pledged during the day to build and equip 70 new classrooms, for children's education in Northern Nigeria. Since the UNICEF/Access Bank initiative was started in 2005 it has built schools in Kaduna and, kept more than 8000 students in continuous education. At the same time new school blocks and a computer literacy building all in a more secure and friendly school environment have been developed. The communities surrounding the schools are being supported with bore-holes for water, and sewing and grinding machines to secure employment and stimulate economic and social development. Kaduna State Governor, H.E. Nasir El-Rafai is committed to match the building programme which will see another 70 class rooms built in the coming year and another 2500 children in education. The annual event is the climax to the high-profile Access Bank/UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament, and celebrates reaching out to and highlighting the plight of vulnerable children and orphans and internally displaced persons. In partnership with 5th Chukker and based in Kaduna, Nigeria, the tournament is the biggest charity polo tournament in Africa and generates funds and stimulates support for the work of the UNICEF/Access Bank initiative across Africa. According to Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Jamie Simmonds "we are a bank where our growth has been fuelled by the strength of customer relationships. It enables us to develop innovative products and financial solutions with rather than just for our customers. "Becoming a UK clearer is a major landmark for us and differentiates us from many of our competitors in the market place. We also manage our retail deposit offering in-house for greater control with both initiatives forming part of our strategy to future proof the bank" " We have offices here in the heart of the City of London, Dubai and Lagos and are building our presence in China through a representative office there." "We invest significantly in attracting, retaining and developing professional staff in order to ensure customers always deal with an expert who is familiar with their business and personal financial needs. Herbert Wigwe, Chairman of The Access Bank UK Ltd, says "the successes in completing the first decade of trading for ACCESS Bank UK has been a major milestone." "Growth has been sustained at the same time as earning a reputation for innovation and flexibility. "Together our continuing support for the Fifth Chukker -UNICEF initiative is predicated on our view of our role as a change agent in Nigeria and Africa that can help institute socio-economic development through responsible business practice, social initiatives and environmental consideration." Wigwe added "we continue to look for ways through which more resources can be pooled towards supporting the children. We are part of the community and as such should support its wellbeing."
Smart plastics from igus raise the bar on machine maintenance
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 15:43 EDT
Company will demonstrate new trends in predictive maintenance at EMO 2019 July 16, 2019 - Concepts such as "Industry 4.0", "Internet of Things" and "Smart Factory" are no longer a vague promise. Companies are already benefitting from the use of intelligent systems and products. At EMO 2019, one of the world's leading trade fairs scheduled for Sept. 16-21 in Hannover, Germany, igus will demonstrate how machine tool manufacturers and customers can drastically reduce their machine's maintenance needs while also reducing costs by using smart machine components. igus, which is based in Cologne, Germany, runs its North American operations out of Providence, R.I. Maintenance in the Industry 4.0 era has shown a clear paradigm shift. Instead of personnel carrying out maintenance at fixed intervals or reacting to a failure or fault, predictive maintenance allows workers to continuously monitor a machine's status. Repair or replacement is executed only when necessary and the timing of maintenance tasks can be planned precisely. The concept of smart plastics Unplanned shutdowns and the cost of equipment failure can be nearly eliminated by condition monitoring. igus has developed sophisticated smart plastics by using diverse sensors and monitoring modules for energy chains, plain bearings, linear bearings and slewing ring bearings. For example, sensors can measure abrasion or wear of the pin/bore connections of energy chains. Sensors can also detect breakages and the push/pull forces being applied. By networking with the new igus communication module (icom.plus), which igus will be showing on Stand E01 in Hall 8 at the EMO trade fair, the sensors are integrated into the customer's IT infrastructure. Flexible data integration with new icom.plus The icom.plus is programmed with initial service life algorithms based on igus configuration tools and, at the customer's request, can be operated offline without an update function after online installation. The user can therefore decide how the module is connected and how the data is managed, while establishing a balance between runtime maximization and IT security. If online connection of the icom.plus is chosen, the service life information is continuously compared with the igus cloud in order to enable maximum machine run times with a minimum risk of failure. The data in the cloud draws on the 10 billion annual test cycles of energy chains and cables performed in the company's 3,800 square meter test laboratory. Based on these tests, the results of which are incorporated into the service life calculator, customers can precisely predict how long an e-chain, for example, will work reliably in the respective machine tool application. With the isense components, service life is continually updated, giving the customer additional reassurance. Each update considers the current ambient conditions of the application. Thanks to machine learning and continuous improvement, precise information on the durability of specific components in real applications can be obtained. This information can be viewed on the screen of the machine control system and, if online connection is chosen, SMS or e-mail can provide critical details if unexpected operating states occur or maintenance is impending. At an early stage, users are informed if there is a need to procure replacement parts. A wide range of scenarios, such as automatic initiation of maintenance work or the ordering of replacement parts can be implemented. More information about igus smart plastics can be found on the igus website . More information about EMO 2019 is also online . Intelligent maintenance in the era of Industry 4.0: with igus smart plastics, customers can increase the reliability of machine tools, plan maintenance tasks and as a result, reduce costs. CONTACT: igus® Inc. PO Box 14349 East Providence, RI, 02914 Tel.: 800.521.2747 Fax: 401.438.2200 sales@igus.com www.igus.com PRESS CONTACT: Chris Dennen Marketing Manager PO Box 14349 East Providence, RI, 02914 Tel.: 800.521.2747 cdennen@igus.com www.igus.com igus®, energy chain®, drylin®, chainflex®, iglide®, readychain®, triflex®, and igubal® are registered trademarks of igus Inc. All other company names and products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Save the Date: The World Championship Horse Show begins August 17th
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 15:06 EDT
ANNOUNCING THE 2019 KENTUCKY STATE FAIR World's Championship Horse Show Thousands of the world's top Saddlebreds to compete in Louisville August 17-24.
Anatta's Unique Business Model Makes Social Impact
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 15:05 EDT
Press Contact: Thomas Renner Catalyst Marketing Communications trenner@catalystmc.com 203-348-7541 Anatta 's Unique Business Model Makes Social Impact NEW YORK, N.Y. - Anatta, Inc., a global online marketplace for natural, organic and raw products from farmers worldwide, has developed a new and unique business model that strives to make a social impact while also delivering high-quality products. The company began operations in early 2019 and allows customers to communicate directly with farmers that grow the plants used in its products. Anatta pays farmers upwards of 50 percent more than competitors, and assists in delivering social and medical services to help build strong communities and improve life quality for its suppliers. "The broker-to-broker supply chain meant most of the future of farmers was outside of their hands,'' said Thomerson, Anatta's Chief Executive Officer. He co-founded the company along with Victoria Dantcheva and Oscar Bueno. "Consumers purchase and farmers produce in small quantities, so it's of no value to the end customer or the farmer to send the product to different facilities and brokers." Anatta streamlines the process, allowing customers a direct link to farmers. "It allows customers to access pure quality at an affordable price while compensating the farmer tremendously more than in a broker market,'' Thomerson said. Thomerson said the idea for a new business model developed from years of experience working with farmers and producers. "I felt this complicated supply chain made it difficult for businesses and customers to get the quality they were trying to purchase,'' he said. Anatta's products are grown on farms in Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina , Bulgaria, China, Somaliland, Rwanda and Tasmania. More farms are being explored as potential partners, including some in the United States. One of the company's main goals is to help farmers with their farming techniques to ensure crops are grown under ecologically sustainable, environmentally responsible and conflict-free conditions. The process incorporates quality analysis, including an independent third-party evaluation. "Customers will always have two opinions that pass on the quality of any given lot,'' Thomerson said. "Once a lot has been purchased, the customer has access to all of the documentation from their dashboard. We make sure to include a professional's comment on each lot so that the results are easy to understand and give clarification on the quality." The New York-based business contributes an amount from every purchase to partnership farmers to support their livelihoods and the means to maintain their lands with dignity and respect for the environment. "Anatta is a business driven by the desire to make positive change around the world," Dantcheva said. "Our goal is to create a direct connection between consumers and the people who produce the goods in order to foster a better understanding of these men and women, and their communities, so the world can successfully grow together in more ways than one." Initial products include a variety of essential oils such as Lavender, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Peppermint, Geranium, Blue Chamomile, Fennel and Lemon Ironbark as well as Rose and Lavender waters. Spices and teas are expected to become available later this year. Thomerson worked as the sourcing manager for one of the biggest multi-level marketing essential oil companies in the United States, sourcing over 100 oils from around the world and meeting with numerous hardworking women and men who earn their living by producing essential oils. Dantcheva, Anatta's Chief Operating Officer, developed roots in the essential oil industry through her family's work in her native Bulgaria. After relocating to the United States to earn degrees in business and marketing, she headed sales for Triglav-Edelvais, one of the major producers of Bulgarian essential oils. Dantcheva , and Thomerson as COO, launched the company's U.S. wholesale distribution arm in 2017. Bueno, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Anatta, has built his career spearheading high-value technology initiatives for world-leading media companies including Conde Nast's marketing arm, Scholastic, and Toca Boca. He brings his expertise of cutting edge data and platform technologies, as well as his experience in running successful startups to build out Anatta's strategy and platform. "Technology has made the world smaller and data abundant. We're at a time when you can talk to anyone around the world with a touch of a button,'' Bueno said. "With carrier, shipping, and distribution information largely digitized, there's no reason we can't be transparent and connect you to the people who are producing the products that you love." For more information, visit Anatta Market at: https://www.anattamarket.com/ --30-- About ANATTA Anatta is a new global marketplace challenging traditional business platforms by providing affordable pure and raw products directly from farmers worldwide to customers. Company founders Joshua Thomerson, Victoria Dantcheva and Oscar Bueno chose the word "Anatta" as a very loose interpretation of an ancient Pali word that refers to the impermanence and constantly changing state of humanity to serve as an inspiration of respecting nature, while building the foundation of change for a better world. Learn more at a nattamarket.com
Over 2000 pupils 'Connect with the Countryside' at the South of England Showground
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 12:38 EDT
Last week over 2,000 pupils from 52 primary schools across Sussex and Surrey were treated to a very special educational day out at the 13th Connect with the Countryside event at the South of England Showground. The free event, organised by the South of England Agricultural Society as part of their charitable educational remit, saw Year 5 and 6 pupils get hands on with a whole host of activities, challenges and displays focused around livestock, horticulture, food, wildlife and recreation. Split into various zones at the showground, 2019's programme focussed more than ever on the importance of farming and the countryside and how our food is produced.. In the livestock zone pupils were able to meet a range of farm animals from Sussex beef bulls, baby chicks and sheep to llamas, donkeys and ferrets - learning how the animals are bred and utilised for everything from providing the food on our plates to maintaining crop levels.. Across the showground, in the horticulture and food zone, pupils learnt about healthy food, focusing on how products they consume are made. It was hands-on a plenty with children making fresh fruit smoothies by cycling on a special smoothie bike, kneading dough to make bread, helping make cheese from scratch and even churning butter. Shared focus was also on teaching the children about the taste of our food today - highlighting the different taste and look of various tomatoes and pepper varieties and even how sausages are flavoured. In the wildlife and recreation zone, pupils experienced dolly making with corn, seed sowing, weaving and spinning, horse racing, gun dog training, fly fishing, hedge laying, forestry and conservation - even getting the chance to explore a gigantic combine harvester. Furthermore, they got to watch a fascinating show about the different breeds of sheep, a bird of prey display, as well as show jumping and pony polo demonstrations. Carole Hayward, Deputy President of the South of England Agricultural Society and chair of the charity's Education Committee, said: "Sadly, in today's technology-led society, there are still so many children that simply don't know where their food has come from, how their woollen jumper is made, or even how the world existed without the internet or computerised machinery. Some surveys even show that one in five children believe milk comes straight from the fridge or supermarket and that cows drink it rather than produce it, while cheese comes from plants, pasta comes from animals, tomatoes grow underground, and fish fingers are made of chicken1. "The whole point of our Connect with the Countryside event is to support the national curriculum and ensure we are doing whatever we can as an agricultural charity to build understanding among pupils and teachers. We offer this as a free event to primary schools across the South, giving their pupils an exciting and interactive educational day out where they learn through stimulating play and discovery, taking away vital information and inspiring them to actually connect with the countryside. "Our 13th event was a huge success and it was wonderful to see so many children at the showground exhilarated by all the things they were learning and experiencing with their peers. A big thank you to all our countryside exhibitors and volunteers who gave up their time so generously to help the future generation alongside us. Here's to 2020!" Schools wanting more information about Connect with the Countryside, or to register for free tickets to 2020's event, should visit www.seas.org.uk or email education@seas.org.uk. https://www.farminguk.com/news/survey-shows-a-third-of-british-children-don-t-know-where-milk-comes-from_46824.html Hi-res images available from https://spaces.hightail.com/space/GphEAO6OVq In 2019 the Society will host the following events and initiatives: Shows: Autumn Show & Game Fair - 5 and 6 October Winter Fair - 23 and 24 November Industry events: The South of England Farming Conference on 13 November. Awards and bursaries: Award of Honour, travel bursaries, and grants to land based colleges and postgraduate students. Educational events & competitions: Connect with the Countryside; Jim Green Challenge; Young Artisan of the Year Competition; The Student Assignment Competition; and showcasing Countryside Careers at the Big Bang Fair South East organised by STEM Sussex.
Study Says Hi-Tech Incentive Programs Can Cut Smoking, Drug Abuse
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 12:27 EDT
When It Comes to Preventing Risky Behaviors, 'Phone First' Continuing advances in mobile phones and other Internet technologies are enhancing and broadening rewards-and-incentives programs for monitoring and promoting abstinence from smoking, alcohol and other unhealthy behaviors. So, say scientists in a new report, Technology-Based Contingency Management in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders, which is now available online at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40614-019-00214-1 and is scheduled for third-quarter publication in the Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) journal Perspectives on Behavior Science. The term, contingency management, refers to use of "tangible rewards," such as food vouchers, cash and prize opportunities, for encouraging patients to adhere to addiction treatment protocols and avoid smoking and drugs of abuse. Literally hundreds of prior studies and clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of contingency management initiatives in substance abuse treatment, the study authors contend. "Contingency management is one of the most rigorously tested and broadly successful applications of behavior analytic principles." However, the reach of such programs in the past has been fairly limited because they have depended primarily on in-person monitoring visits from treatment centers to nearby patient homes. Primary features of technology-based contingency management are a monitoring procedure to detect drug use, a reinforcement delivery procedure and an authentication process to verify the end-user's identity - all performed remotely and all requiring connection to the Internet. Advancements in these information technologies are "expanding the geographical reach of contingency management from local to nationwide," while improvements in sensors are "permitting detection of cigarette, alcohol and cannabis use with mobile phones" and the latest software is automating all aspects of these programs, study authors say. In fact, several companies are even developing wrist-worn sensors for continuous alcohol monitoring, and at least one research group is considering an electrochemical tattoo for alcohol detection, making patients' adherence to incentive programs even easier to monitor technologically, writes lead study author Jesse Dallery Ph.D., of the Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville. Technology-based approaches also allow group contingencies that harness online communities and are useful for targeting a variety of risky health behaviors. Such "new tools have the potential to dramatically increase [patient] access [to contingency management programs] while maintaining high levels of treatment fidelity," says Dallery, who is joined in the study by co-authors: - Bethany Raiff Ph.D., associate professor, Department of Psychology, Rowan University; - Michael J. Grabinski, a computer scientist and systems engineer, who has led development of novel, technology-based therapeutic interventions - Lisa A. Marsch Ph.D., director of the Dartmouth Center for Technology and Behavioral Health and the Andrew G. Wallace professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College. Despite the advancements, "one critical missing ingredient" is evidence that technology-based incentive programs can be effective in managing and changing behavior over the long term. Technology-based programs of shorter duration might prove meaningful for preventing unhealthy behaviors during pregnancy, perioperative care or, perhaps, during critical periods of adolescence, but more evaluation of the results of longer-term programs is necessary, study authors say. That's because most applications of reward-and-incentive programs do not involve relatively quick fixes but address risky lifestyle behaviors that have persisted for 10 years, 20 years or more, writes Dallery. The scientists suggest that contingency management approaches with the greatest potential for long-term success may be those that do more than simply monitor smoking or drug use but offer a variety of "treatment components." As an example, Dallery cites reSET, the first digital therapeutic technology approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration. ReSET is a mobile phone-based program that delivers the skills-development component of Community Reinforcement Therapy; complements standard outpatient therapies for opioid, alcohol, cocaine, marijuana and stimulant abuse; and includes in-person contingency management monitoring. Pivot, a mobile, Bluetooth-enabled carbon-monoxide breath detector for smoking, also includes mobile phone-based therapeutic components and personalized coaching, study authors say. "A growing number of researchers are recognizing the important interactions between [negative] health behaviors," writes Dallery. Sedentary behavior, poor sleep quality, unhealthy eating, [problematic] alcohol consumption and smoking cigarettes - all have additive or interactive effects in increasing risk for disease, he says. By targeting multiple behaviors using contingency management, providers can have a greater impact in lowering a person's overall risk for disease, Dallery states. Concurrently, advances in technology may prove instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness of contingency-management approaches. "Technology can be employed unobtrusively and continuously to detect virtually all health-risk behaviors," with the one exception, for now, being unhealthy eating, he says. Although further, corroborating investigation is needed, technology-based contingency management eventually could make monitoring of some drugs like nicotine, alcohol and cannabis "relatively efficient for extended durations," while automation would mean fewer staff and less cost for program implementation and management, the scientists conclude. The group cautions, however, that developing and refining an effective maintenance intervention program to reduce or prevent risky health behaviors must be done with "careful application of the conceptually systematic principles of behavior analysis."
PR_European Commission launches Evolve Project to tackle big data processing
Mon, Jul 15, 2019 12:06 EDT
Launched in December 2018, EVOLVE is a €14 million Innovation Action comprising of 19 organisations from 11 European countries. Evolve is a project funded by the European Commission under the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation programme. It aims to take concrete steps in bringing the big data, high-performance computing, and cloud worlds in a unique testbed that will increase our ability to extract value from massive and demanding datasets. Evolve is part of European Commission's answer to the unprecedented data growth currently experienced. Evolve uses an advanced HPC computing platform [from ATOS/BULL], with large memory, accelerated processing, fast communication, and high-performance shared storage [based on DDN's Infinite Memory Engine (IME)]. Evolve designs a versatile software stack that employs existing data processing engines with proven flexibility and wide acceptance in data processing applications. Evolve's advanced testbed will be demonstrated through pilots in seven domains: agri-production, maritime surveillance, sentinel-2 satellite imaging, bus transportation, mobility services, predictive vehicle maintenance, and automotive services. In all cases, domain experts are working on models that provide accurate predictions and data processing and validation techniques over massive datasets, in an effort to improve substantially the efficiency of existing or introduce new services in the respective domains. Evolve's consortium is composed of 19 organisations from 11 European countries with expertise in several technological domains. Learn more about Evolve and its upcoming activities and events at www.evolve-h2020.eu For more information please contact info@evolve-h2020.eu