text:
|Home | About | Journals | Submit | Contact Us | Français|
We describe an ongoing pilot project in which newborn screening (NBS) for FMR1 mutations and subsequent cascade testing are performed by the MIND Institute at the University of California, Davis Medical Center (UCDMC). To date, out of 3042 newborns initially screened, 44 extended family members have been screened by cascade testing of extended family members once a newborn is identified. 14 newborns (7 males and 7 females) and 27 extended family members (5 males and 22 females) have been identified with FMR1 mutations. Three family histories are discussed in detail, each demonstrating some benefits and risks of NBS and cascade testing for FMR1 mutations in extended family members. While we acknowledge inherent risks, we propose that with genetic counseling, clinical follow-up of identified individuals and cascade testing, newborn screening (NBS) has significant benefits. Treatment for individuals in the extended family who would otherwise not have received treatment can be beneficial. In addition, knowledge of carrier status can lead to lifestyle changes and prophylactic interventions that are likely to reduce the risk of late onset neurological or psychiatric problems in carriers. Also with identification of carrier family members through NBS, reproductive choices become available to those who would not have known that they were at risk to have offspring with fragile X syndrome.
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability (ID), is due a CGG trinucleotide expansion (>200 repeats) in the promoter region of the FMR1 gene. The premutation (55-200 CGG repeats) in FMR1 can sometimes cause developmental problems in childhood or psychiatric, immunological and/or neurological problems in adulthood, including the fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) [Chonchaiya et al., 2009] in older carriers. Alleles harboring between 45 and 54 CGG repeats [Maddalena et al., 2001] are named intermediate/grey zone alleles and can show intergenerational instability. The University of California Davis MIND Institute is conducting a newborn screening pilot study (NBS) for FMR1 mutations in collaboration with Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (RUMC). Alleles harboring between 45 and 54 CGG repeats [Maddalena et al., 2001] are named intermediate/gray zone alleles and they can show intergenerational instability.
Screening for FMR1 mutations has long been controversial and currently no state includes FMR1 mutations in mandated newborn screening programs. A number of issues have prevented the inclusion of FMR1 testing in State mandated NBS programs. These have included technological limitations, cost of testing and a lack of effective treatments. However, the fragile X field is evolving rapidly in these areas [Hagerman et al., 2012]. Advances in diagnostic testing have led to the availability of blood spot screening which is relatively inexpensive and allows for the screening of a large sample size throughout the expanded CGG range and in both genders [Chen et al., 2011; Coffee et al., 2009; Tassone et al., 2008] have carried out newborn screening of a large population, but was limited to only males with a full mutation.
Although FXS is the most common inherited form of intellectual disabilities, individuals with FMR1 mutations have an increased risk of experiencing a myriad of physical, psychological, and social difficulties. FXS is associated with the FMR1 full mutation (greater than 200 CGG repeats) and it is characterized by specific clinical features such as prominent ears, macrocephaly, enlarged testicles, hyperextensiblity and behavioral features including gaze avoidance, hand-flapping, hyperactivity, impulsivity, anxiety and perseveration [Chonchaiya et al., 2009]. FXS is the most common single gene disorder associated with autism; 30% of those diagnosed with FXS have autism and an additional 30% have PDDNOS or an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) [Hall et al., 2008; Harris et al., 2008; Hatton et al., 2006; Kaufmann et al., 2004; Rogers et al., 2001]. Fifty to 70% of females with FXS have borderline to mild deficits in IQ and 30 to 50% have a normal IQ but experience learning disabilities particularly in mathematics, behavioral and/or emotional problems, such as increased anxiety, shyness, gaze avoidance, perseveration, and mood lability [Angkustsiri et al., 2008; de Vries et al., 1996].
Although those with the premutation (55-200 CGG repeats) usually have a normal IQ, approximately 10 to 20% of males with the premutation have ASD, and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and heightened anxiety [Aziz et al., 2003; Bailey et al., 2008a; Bourgeois et al., 2011; Chonchaiya et al., 2012; Clifford et al., 2007; Cornish et al., 2005; Farzin et al., 2006; Hessl et al., 2011]. The risk for ASD in premutation carriers is increased in those who have seizures [Chonchaiya et al., 2012]. In adults it is well documented that the premutation is associated with Fragile X-associated Tremor/Ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) [Jacquemont et al., 2004b] and Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (FXPOI) [Sullivan et al., 2011]. However, understanding of premutation involvement has advanced beyond these disorders [Chonchaiya et al., 2010; Coffey S.M. et al., 2008; Hagerman and Hagerman 2004; Sullivan et al., 2011]. Hypertension [Hamlin et al., 2012], sleep apnea [Hamlin et al., 2011], psychiatric problems [Bourgeois et al., 2011; Roberts et al., 2009], and immune problems such as fibromyalgia [Coffey S.M. et al., 2008; Leehey et al., 2011], and hypothyroidism [Coffey S.M. et al., 2008; Rodriguez-Revenga et al., 2009] occur commonly in mid and late adulthood.
The aim of this study was to gather pilot data investigating the feasibility, benefits, and risks associated with newborn screening for FXS. The project also included collection of prevalence data, identification and monitoring of newborns with FMR1 mutations as well as identification and testing of at risk extended family members through cascade testing. Fourteen newborns screened positive for FMR1 mutations. In addition, 44 at risk relatives from 10 families were tested and 27 were found to carry the FMR1 premutation.
This paper discusses the experience of cascade testing and preliminary findings of the NBS pilot project at the University of California, Davis as well as the benefits and risks of screening newborns for FMR1 mutations. We report on three newborns identified as having the premutation. Subsequent cascade testing revealed premutation carriers within the families of the identified newborns. These three cases illustrate the impact of NBS, including the range of clinical involvement related to the premutation that was identified through cascade testing
Using an Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved protocol, a blood sample was obtained on individual filter paper (extra spot card was provided to the nursery) from all newborns at the UC Davis Medical Center during the state mandated heel stick. Parents of newborns were approached daily by research assistants to request consent for participation in the fragile X newborn screening study. A prepared script used across both participating sites introduced parents to the project. IRB approved consent was used to obtain formal consent from those who agreed to join the study. Blood spots from newborns of parents who gave consent were collected and genotyped. Parents of newborns who screened positive for an FMR1 mutation (>55 CGG repeats) were contacted by the Genetic Associate at the UC Davis MIND Institute. Initial blood spot screen results were reported and briefly clarified by telephone and the parents were invited to bring the infant to the MIND Institute for blood testing. During the initial clinic visit genetic counseling was performed, a detailed family history taken, the family was introduced to the Developmental Pediatrician overseeing the project and a peripheral blood sample was obtained from the infant and parents to determine parent of origin. The parents were given the opportunity for the infant to participate in a longitudinal study that will be reported at a later date when completed. Members of the immediate and extended family of the positive newborn were offered genetic testing for FMR1 mutations according to the recommendations set by McConkie-Rosell et al. . Individuals who had an FMR1 mutation were offered genetic counseling, and a medical evaluation including a medical history and examination.
CGG repeat size on blood spots was performed by PCR analysis as described in Tassone  with some modifications. CGG repeat size and methylation status for the confirmatory testing on both the identified newborn and extended family members was determined by isolating DNA from whole peripheral blood leukocytes using standard procedure from Qiagen (QIAxtractor) in Valencia, CA. Both Southern Blot and PCR analysis were performed as detailed in Tassone et al. .
The male proband screened positive for the presence of a fragile X premutation allele with 68 CGG repeats by blood spot. The Genetic Associate reported results to the proband’s mother over the phone and the initial visit was scheduled by the project coordinator. The proband was seen at the MIND Institute at 5 months of age accompanied by his parents and maternal grandparents. Genetic counseling, blood draw on proband and parents, and medical exam were performed at that time. DNA testing on peripheral blood confirmed the presence of a 68 CGG repeat allele. The initial cascade testing revealed that the proband’s mother had 23 and 67 CGG repeats and the maternal grandfather had 65 CGG repeats.
The prenatal period was significant because the proband’s mother experienced a ruptured aneurism at six months gestation and underwent surgery at that time. The mother continues to experience severe headaches reported to be a consequence of subsequent surgeries. The mother also had a history ptosis of her left eye and this can occasionally be seen in those with the full mutation [Hagerman 2002] and it is less common in those with the premutation.. Connective tissue problems have been associated with the both the full and the premutation including aneurysms of the aorta [Hagerman 2002; Riddle et al., 1998]. The proband was seen in clinic a second time one month later at six months of age. Developmental assessments were performed. The Vineland II Adaptive Behavior Composite (ABC) was 119. The Early Learning Composite (ELC) on the Mullen was 105.
Cascade testing of extended family members identified 12 other premutation carriers. In total, 22 family members were tested and a total of 14 premutation carriers were identified including the proband and his mother (Fig. 2). The proband’s maternal great grandmother had 30 and 63 CGG repeats and had a previous diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). She underwent a medical evaluation in clinic. She reported good health until 81 years of age at which time she began to experience cognitive decline. During the medical exam the patient demonstrated difficulty with tandem walking and a subtle tremor with positioning. She also had unintelligible handwriting because of tremor. A brain MRI was performed and showed a significant degree of atrophy and white matter disease in the frontal and parietal regions (Fig. 3). She also had significant white matter disease in the insula bilaterally which is commonly seen in those with the Fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). She had increased vascular spaces and cortical white matter disease but no involvement of the middle cerebellar peduncles. The patient’s white matter disease and clinical history is consistent with FXTAS in females [Adams et al., 2007; Hagerman et al., 2004]. AD together with FXTAS occurs in approximately 50% of females who died with FXTAS on and is documented on neuropathological studies [Tassone et al., 2012].
The maternal great grandmother’s two sisters also carry the premutation and were seen in clinic. The oldest was 92 years of age (CGG 31, 62) and demonstrated no significant health problems. The youngest sister was 85 years of age (CGG 30, 62) and reported type II diabetes, congestive heart failure, coronary artery bypass surgery and a pacemaker because of arrythymias. We have noted an increase pacemakers in FXTAS presumably linked to autonomic dysfunction and FXTAS inclusions in pericardial ganglia and in cardiac tissue [Hunsaker et al., 2011]. She also reports bladder incontinence, which is associated with FXTAS [Jacquemont et al., 2003], although she did not have a clinically significant tremor or balance problem.
Two maternal great uncles tested positive for the premutation. The great uncles were 50 and 55 years of age, both carrying a premutation allele of 63 CGG repeats. Neither reported health problems. One obligate carrier, daughter of the proband’s maternal great uncle, reported experiencing panic attacks which are common in carriers [Bourgeois et al., 2011]. The proband’s maternal aunt is a carrier and reported sleep problems that was treated with alprazolam. Panic attacks and sleep problems have been reported as increased in carriers compared to controls [Bourgeois et al., 2011; Chonchaiya et al., 2010]. Otherwise the family history was negative.
The female proband screened positive by blood spot as having a premutation allele with 59 CGG repeats. The results of the screening were reported by the Genetic Associate by phone and an initial visit was arranged by the project coordinator. At 6 months of age the proband and her parents were seen at the MIND Institute. Genetic counseling, blood draw on infant and parents to determine parent of origin, and medical assessment were performed. Peripheral blood confirmed that the proband had 59 CGG repeats, the mother had two normal alleles, and the father had a grey zone allele (52 CGG repeats). The proband underwent developmental assessments at 6 and 12 months of age. Scores on the Mullen and Vineland II were average at both time points. The Mullen ELC was 88 (6 months) and 93 (12 months), the Vineland II ABC was 86 and 94 respectively.
The proband’s father underwent neuropsychological testing, MRI, and medical exam. The medical evaluation revealed hypertension and treatment with antihypertensive meds was recommended in addition to exercise and antioxidants. Hypertension has been associated with the premutation [Hamlin et al., 2012]. The father reported a history of learning problems during primary school including ADHD symptoms. Scores on the WAIS-III were VIQ 92, PIQ 107, FSIQ 99. The split between the verbal and performance scores is significant.
Subsequent cascade testing revealed that the paternal grandmother carries a high premutation allele (109 CGG repeats). The difference between the repeat sizes of the father (52 CGG) and his mother (14, 109 CGG) is significant and it represents a remarkable contraction of CGG repeats from a high premutation to a gray zone allele thus demonstrating significant instability. Expansion of a maternal allele of 109 CGG repeats to a full mutation in the next generation is predicted to be 100% [Nolin et al., 2003; Yrigollen et al., 2011]. Contraction of CGG repeats from a premutation allele is documented but extremely rare (<1%) [Brown et al., 1996; Nolin et al., 2003; Rife et al., 2004]. This case demonstrates that newborn screening can uncover molecular results that challenge previously held tenets and would not have been seen in clinic without screening.
The paternal grandmother underwent a medical history and exam at 67 years of age. She reported early menarche at 10 years and a hysterectomy at 32 years for dysfunctional bleeding. She had a history of hypertension and an irregular heartbeat, which was treated by ablation. Strabismus was observed in the right eye. Finger to nose examination demonstrated a mild intention tremor of the left hand. She will be followed closely for any exacerbation of her neurological problems. Antioxidants have been recommended along with daily exercise.
Further cascade testing revealed that the 100 year old paternal great grandfather and one paternal uncle do not carry FMR1 mutations (Fig. 4). One additional paternal uncle and one paternal aunt are at risk to carry the premutation but have not yet been tested.
The female proband screened positive by blood spot for the FMR1 premutation with 55 CGG repeats. The Genetic Associate reported the result to the family by telephone and the initial visit was scheduled by the project coordinator. The first visit occurred when the proband was five months of age. At this time, the proband was seen with both parents who had blood drawn to determine parent of origin. A medical exam was performed on the newborn. Peripheral blood analysis confirmed that the proband had 55 CGG repeats and revealed that the mother had 19, 28 CGG repeats and the father had an intermediate allele (54 CGG repeats). The proband underwent subsequent developmental assessments at 6 and 12 months of age. Scores on the Mullen and Vineland II ranged from average to very high. The Mullen ELC was 98 (6 months) and 131 (12 months), the Vineland II ABC was 86 and 97 respectively.
Cascade testing revealed that the paternal grandmother has an intermediate allele (54 CGG repeats) and the paternal uncle and great uncle have normal alleles (Fig. 5).
At the time of their initial visit, the parents of the proband conveyed their understanding that the likelihood of 54 CGG repeats expanding to the full mutation was impossible because the father passes only the premutation to his daughters. They continued to have concerns regarding the impact of this information upon a future pregnancy, however. The parents expressed concerns about gene stability, having another child with the premutation who would have to make her own reproductive decisions when of age, and the possibility of sex selection. The couple actively sought to address these issues by considering sperm sorting, conception without intervention and adoption. They explored these options with the Genetic Associate and other professionals.
During the time that the couple was considering their options, AGG anchor analysis became available [Yrigollen et al., 2011]. AGG analysis revealed the presence of 2 AGG interruptions in the paternal allele of 54 CGG repeats. The Genetic Associate explained to the couple that the presence of 2 anchors conferred FMR1 gene stability, although AGG analysis at the time was not considered to be diagnostic but instead a research finding [Yrigollen et al., 2012]. A few weeks later, the couple contacted the Genetic Associate to share the information that the wife was pregnant unexpectedly. Chorionic villus sampling was performed and revealed a female fetus with 54 CGG repeats.
Recent advances in targeted treatment and educational tools for those with fragile X emphasizes the need to reconsider NBS for fragile X mutations. The benefits and efficacy of new targeted treatment trials such as mGluR 5 antagonists, GABAA and B agonists and minocycline are beginning to be documented for the full mutation with FXS [Berry-Kravis et al., 2009; Hagerman et al., 2012; Jacquemont et al., 2011; Paribello et al., 2010]. The data in this area will grow in the next few years as new targeted treatments continue to be developed. However, most of the individuals identified in newborn screening for FMR1 mutations have the premutation. Since the premutation is less likely than the full mutation to cause intellectual disability and ASD but more likely than the full mutation to cause adult onset problems there is the risk that the family will worry about the late onset medical problems of their children. Typically we have seen that the families are very happy that their children with the premutation are doing well in the developmental testing and they are relieved that their child does not have the full mutation. The identification of other family members with the premutation allows for earlier treatment for some of the medical problems that are associated with the premutation including psychiatric problems, hypertension, cardiac arrythmias and tremor and ataxia.
The current NBS pilot project evaluates the benefits and risks associated with the identification of FMR1 mutations through newborn diagnosis and follow- up familial cascade testing. Without early diagnosis (as is the current experience) the benefits to both patient and family members are lost because diagnosis is delayed or, in the case of many premutation carriers, never made [Bailey 2004]. The landscape of weighing the risks against the benefits of fragile X NBS is a dynamic one that warrants continual reassessment [Bailey et al., 2006].
Despite widespread clinical knowledge regarding the FMR1 gene, many families undergo a diagnostic odyssey before their child receives the diagnosis of FXS. Indeed a recent report from a national parent survey indicates that the age at diagnosis for the past 7 years continues to be approximately 35 to 37 months [Bailey et al., 2009]. This lack of early testing and diagnosis is often due to medical professionals’ dismissal of parental concern [Bailey et al., 2009]. NBS would eliminate the time between emerging clinical findings and parental concerns to genetic diagnosis. Early diagnosis through NBS simultaneously alleviates this anxiety and frustration currently experienced by too many parents and allows for immediate intervention to address and remediate the difficulties associated with fragile X in the newborn and early years of life. Early detection of a full mutation allows early and intensive educational and psychosocial interventions, which are well established and improve the outcome of infants and children [Bailey 2004]. In addition, psychologists and genetic counselors can also provide assistance to families following newborn diagnosis including future family planning. The recent utilization of AGG repeat anchors to further delineate for carriers the risk of expansion to a full in the next generation can benefit many families; when 2 AGG anchors are present in a premutation carrier the risk of expansion into the next generation drops remarkably compared to previous estimates [Yrigollen et al., 2012].
The prevalence of the premutation (55 to 200 CGG repeats) is 1 in 130–250 females and 1 in 250–810 males in the general population [Dombrowski et al., 2002; Fernandez-Carvajal et al., 2009; Song et al., 2003]. Until recently the premutation was largely ignored because it was not associated with clinical findings. Recent research suggests that, while most children with the premutation do well, approximately 10–20% of the males may experience learning problems, ADHD, anxiety and/ or an ASD diagnosis in childhood [Aziz et al., 2003; Bailey et al., 2008a; Chonchaiya et al., 2012; Clifford et al., 2007; Cornish et al., 2005; Farzin et al., 2006]. Seizures, experienced by approximately 10% of carriers [Bailey et al., 2008a] are associated with an increased risk for ASD in young males with the premutation [Chonchaiya et al., 2012]. Enhanced spikes compared to controls are also present in premutation neurons studied in culture [Cao et al., 2012].
Therefore in children with the premutation the physician and family need to be vigilant for any developmental problems, seizures, ADHD or anxiety that may develop. NBS and cascade testing also reveals typically a variety of medical problems that may occur in multiple extended relatives as seen in our case reports.
Some premutation carriers are at increased risk for a variety of late-onset disorders. Both males and females have an increased risk for anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders including depression in mid adulthood [Bourgeois et al., 2011; Hessl et al., 2005; Hessl et al., 2011; Roberts et al., 2009; Rodriguez-Revenga et al., 2009]. Males and females over age 50 are at risk for FXTAS, and additional medical problems, such as neuropathy, fibromyalgia, hypothyrodism, hypertension, arrhythmias and sleep apnea are common and may begin before the onset of FXTAS [Coffey S.M. et al., 2008; Goodrich-Hunsaker et al., 2011; Hamlin et al., 2011; Hamlin et al., 2012; Hunsaker et al., 2011]. There is also evidence of mitochondrial disease and enhanced oxidative stress in human cells with the premutation [Napoli et al., 2011; Ross-Inta et al., 2010] in addition to evidence of early premutation neuronal cell death compared to controls [Chen, 2010]. The cellular data suggests that antioxidants may be beneficial for the enhanced oxidative stress in those with the full mutation [de Diego-Otero et al., 2009; Romero-Zerbo et al., 2009] and in those with the premutation [Chen et al., 2010; Napoli et al., 2011; Ross-Inta et al., 2010], therefore antioxidants are routinely recommended for carriers. In addition, avoidance of environmental toxins, such as organophosphate insecticides, drugs of abuse, chemotherapy and smoking is recommended because they may worsen premutation medical problems [O’Dwyer et al., 2005; Paul et al., 2010]. Premutation carriers likely benefit from healthy lifestyles that avoid oxidative stress or environmental toxins. When a carrier is diagnosed, lifestyle changes should be recommended by the physician who is caring for the patient. These can include cessation of alcohol use and the implementation of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and exercise to treat depression. Further, it is likely that avoidance of environmental exposures that cause enhanced toxicity to the neurons or other cells vulnerable to the premutation, such as the granulosa cells of the ovary, may decrease the risk of these late onset problems for individuals with the premutation [Hagerman et al., 2008; Jacquemont et al., 2004a; Paul et al., 2010; Sherman 2000; Sullivan et al., 2011]. The use of antioxidants in early childhood and throughout the life span may also be beneficial for those with the premutation and the full mutation because they have been helpful in animal and cellular [Cao et al., 2012; Chen et al., 2010; de Diego-Otero et al., 2009; Napoli et al., 2011; Romero-Zerbo et al., 2009; Ross-Inta et al., 2010]. However, controlled trials have not been carried out in patients regarding the benefits of antioxidants in preventing premutation disorders.
Females carry the additional risk for fragile X-associated Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (FXPOI), which is cessation of menstruation prior to age 40. The premutation is the most common inherited cause of POI [Sullivan et al., 2011]. These medical problems can also be addressed and even treated when the premutation is identified if treatment was not initiated before.
For the one third or more of male carriers who will develop FXTAS, cascade testing that identifies these individuals prior to the onset of symptoms can prevent misdiagnosis later in life [Jacquemont et al., 2004a]. This represents an improvement for many men with FXTAS who are misdiagnosed as having Parkinson’s, other ataxias, stroke, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and other movement disorders [Hall et al., 2005; Hedrich et al., 2005].
The same benefits conferred by NBS to those with both the pre and full fragile X mutations can also accrue to family members of the identified infant, due to the X-linked inheritance pattern, through a program of cascade testing. A detailed family history must be obtained as it serves as a guide to identify family members at risk for having an FMR1 mutation. A newborn carrying the fragile X full mutation identifies the mother’s family as being at risk to have offspring with fragile X and autism. A newborn carrying the premutation necessitates one or both parents being tested to identify the carrier. Cascade testing thus represents an additional benefit of NBS in that it expands the circle of diagnosis of both the full and premutations and the benefits, discussed above, to be derived from such diagnosis. In the absence of NBS, the need for diagnostic testing goes undiscovered until symptoms begin, meaning that the opportunity for prevention is lost. In this way, the opportunity to offer cascade testing represents yet another benefit of NBS in the eyes of many. It is through cascade testing that these conditions are identified and diagnosed accurately and early and that treatments are delivered for the many problems associated with fragile X mutations.
Despite the benefits that expanded detection of individuals affected by FMR1 gene mutations can confer, detection is associated with very legitimate concerns. Newborn screening for any genetic condition can increase anxiety in parents who are approached for consent and for those who have an identified infant. It has been postulated that parental anxiety around genetic risks may interfere with infant bonding and change the parent-child relationship through increased parental vigilance, however, there is little evidence to support this [Bailey et al., 2008b; Bailey et al., 2008c]. Cascade testing may increase anxiety in extended family members because there is the prospect of diagnosing risks in asymptomatic children and adult relatives.
Questions remain about the extent of benefit a diagnosis confers on asymptomatic people. For many who test positive, the information may have no practical use. For example, the older sister, who is a premutation carrier, of the maternal great grandmother in Family 1 discussed above has lived into her 90s with no reported health problems of any significance. Based on what we know today about the FMR1 gene, she would represent the typical premutation carrier diagnosed by NBS or cascade testing. What benefit would a diagnosis at birth, or even in adulthood, have conferred to her? How might that information have affected her throughout the course of her life? She may have expected the onset of various symptoms for decades and it is hard to know what the psychological impact of such waiting might have been. Thus, what benefit would it have been for her to have known her risks?
A diagnosis can have real life consequences for people screened at birth or tested in childhood as they mature and learn this genetic information about themselves. Even though they may understand that testing was done out of concern for their health and future well-being, there is the possibility that some will nevertheless feel wronged by having been diagnosed because they would prefer not to know future health risk information about themselves, or have others know it about them either. There is also the possibility that an asymptomatic premutation carrier will feel the burden to disclose one’s premutation to a potential life partner, due to the premutation’s implications for reproductive decision-making or even one’s own future health.
Cascade testing also creates an additional challenge. Benefits to family members are achievable only if parents notify other family members, who in turn notify other family members. Test results are part of the confidential medical record but the well-being of other family members needs to be given some consideration in the counseling process. Thus, cascade testing may elicit the ethical issues that arise when parents of affected newborns do not want other family members to be notified [Yarborough et al., 1989].
We think our review of the tangible benefits and concerns related to Fragile X NBS and cascade testing reaffirms the fact that, like so many other new medical technologies, DNA testing is an important medical advance that needs to be used with a measure of caution. Fragile X NBS has tremendous potential to increase the number of timely diagnoses. Each of these diagnoses will present opportunities to improve the health and quality of life of those who are diagnosed. Further, as our experience has shown, complementing NBS with a program of cascade testing is a largely untapped potential benefit of NBS. Cascade testing can detect many additional affected individuals whose risks would otherwise remain unknown. Our experience has also shown that such testing will identify people who will never suffer ill health effects related to their genetic diagnosis. Whether the knowledge that testing confers upon these individuals will be experienced as beneficial, benign, or harmful is unknown at this time and it requires further study.
We have been able to traverse the challenges posed by fragile X NBS and cascade testing by making both of them voluntary. Even though NBS is typically thought of as a mandatory public health undertaking, it is important to keep in mind that it began as a voluntary health procedure [Baily and Murray 2008]. Voluntary NBS can play an important therapeutic role for conditions like fragile X that do not yet meet the current criteria for state mandated NBS, criteria that continue to generate controversy [Botkin et al., 2006]. Such voluntary testing is comparable in many respects to offering FMR1 screening to the pre-pregnant or pregnant populations, which pilot studies also suggest might be favorably received [Anido et al., 2007; Anido et al., 2005; Fanos et al., 2006; McConkie-Rosell et al., 2007; Metcalfe et al., 2008].
Voluntary testing is not the only safeguard required at this time to address the ethical complexities of fragile X NBS and cascade testing. It is important that it is combined with access to genetic counseling and medical follow-up, both of which have been central to our research project to date. Any program designed to increase detection of fragile X gene mutations should provide access to counseling and other resources that can mitigate concerns by providing follow-up assessments of the identified individuals. Follow-up can provide ongoing health monitoring, assuage anxiety and provide reassurance regarding the development of individuals. The voluntary aspect of our testing, coupled with the genetic counseling and appropriate medical follow-up at the heart of our program, has permitted us to serve and respect the individuals to whom testing has been offered.
We believe that fragile X NBS, accompanied by cascade testing, is the most effective means by which to avoid misdiagnosis and delay of treatment to affected patients. Yet, as is true of other disorders included in state newborn screening programs, fragile X NBS identifies significantly more carriers than individuals with FXS. Because many of these premutation carriers will likely develop some of the symptoms that occur in childhood, such as anxiety or in adulthood including FXPOI, psychiatric symptoms, hypertension, hypothyroidism or neurological problems we are in support of NBS and cascade testing of extended family members.
Our experience to date indicates both the benefits and concerns historically associated with fragile X NBS. As our clinical reports show, we have provided accurate and early diagnosis of premutation carrier infants and thus we are now able to provide important guidance and surveillance to their parents. We have also identified many additional premutation carriers through cascade testing who otherwise would be undiagnosed. The medical histories suggest that some of these premutation carriers could have benefitted from having this genetic knowledge but it is less clear how others, who have been healthy, could have benefited from a diagnosis. In short, our experience to date highlights both the benefits and drawbacks of screening for FMR1 mutations.
We caution that NBS for fragile X and cascade testing must be accompanied by genetic counseling that adheres to clinical guidelines previously established [McConkie-Rosell et al., 2007; McConkie-Rosell et al., 2005]. Furthermore, it is imperative that long-term clinical follow-up be offered to individuals who test positive for FMR1 mutations. These services temper the increase in anxiety that may be experienced by parents of identified infants and extended family members.
This work was supported by a National Institute of Health grants R01HD055510, 3P30-HD02274-35S1, HD036071 and 5R01HD040661-11. We would like to thank all the families that kindly participated in the research.
This work is dedicated to the memory of Matteo.


text:
Disclosure and Barring Service
About this course
On 1st December 2012 a new streamlined organisation to oversee criminal records checking, referral and barring went live (Disclosure and Barring Service).
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) course will raise your awareness of the events leading up to the Bichard Inquiry of 2004 and subsequent legislation which places certain duties upon employers and employees to ensure the safety of children, young people and vulnerable adults. It will update delegates with the changes to the previous systems which include:
introducing portable criminal records checks to eliminate many unnecessary repeat checks, along with an online updating service to make it easier for employers to assess individuals;
The course will emphasise that employers should not just rely on checks by the DBS to make recruitment decisions. They have a professional duty to ensure that staff are properly managed and supervised and that, if they have concerns, information is referred to both the police and the DBS.
- introducing a single criminal records certificate which will be sent only to the applicant;
- introducing — for the first time — an independent right of review to allow individuals to challenge information disclosed about them before it is given to their employer; and
- reducing the number of positions requiring barring checks from 9.3 million to around 5 million.
It is now a criminal offence for individuals barred by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 to work or apply to work ‘regulated activity’ with children or vulnerable adults. Employers also face criminal sanctions for knowingly employing a barred individual across a wider range of work.
Employers, local authorities, professional regulators and other bodies have a duty to refer to the ISA information about individuals working with children or vulnerable adults where they consider them to have caused harm or pose a risk of harm.
This course will include:
- The background of the ISA CRB
- Current developments and updates
- What is meant by ‘Regulated Activity’- Freedom of Information Act 2012
- Employers’ duties and responsibilities
- Awareness of requirement and time scales for registering with DBS
- Making referrals
- The role of the DBS check
is an Approved Educational Supplier for CPDme

domain: law


text:
see Neurogenic bladder.
Pelvic girdle, also called bony pelvis, in human anatomy, basin-shaped complex of bones that connects the trunk and the legs, supports and balances the trunk, and contains and supports the intestines, the urinary bladder, and the internal sex organs.
The urinary bladder is a hollow muscular organ in humans and some other animals that collects and stores urine from the kidneys before disposal by urination. In the human the bladder is a hollow muscular, and distensible (or elastic) organ, that sits on the pelvic floor. Urine enters the bladder via the ureters and exits via the urethra. The typical human bladder will hold between 300 and 500 mL (10.14 and 16.91 fl oz) before the urge to empty occurs, but can hold considerably more.
Brain Metastases from Primary Tumors of the Urinary Bladder:
Urothelial carcinoma occurs in the bladder, upper urinary tract, and lower urinary tract, including prostatic urethra. A majority of the reported cases of intracranial metastases from urothelial carcinoma originates from the bladder and upper urinary tract.

domain: medical


text:
This could be our most LOL-tastic issue EVER! Sooo many pranks,
jokes and fun things to do, we'll have you in stitches! With a
little help from Andy and Elsa, of course!
We love a bit of nail art here at JW HQ, and these cute
strawberry nails are no exception! So sweet - and so easy to do!
Just make sure you don't mistake them for REAL strawbs!
That's right, we have an amazing design competition where you
can get sketching for your chance to win a Sylvanian Family
treehouse worth £50! There are three up for grabs!

domain: hobby


Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers are releasing a four-disc box set called The Live Anthology on November 24th, and it’s shaping up to be a monster on paper. Shepard Fairey is designing the cover. Rad.
On November 24th, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers will release their career-spanning The Live Anthology, a four-disc set that features some of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers’ best onstage performances from 1978 to 2007. Anthology will feature no overdubs and a 48-song track list selected by Petty, Mike Campbell and Ryan Ulyate. In addition to the band’s own hits, The Live Anthology also finds the Heartbreakers covering the Grateful Dead’s “Friend of the Devil,” the Zombies’ “I Want You Back Again,” James Brown’s “Good, Good Lovin’” and more. Artist Shepard Fairey, who recently designed the Barack Obama cover of Rolling Stone, will provide cover art for the set.


text:
On the webpage that opens, enter the INN of the group that can pay the bill and fill within the lacking particulars. If you pay for the acquisition within 50 days, you’ll not should pay any interest for utilizing the service. You can solely use this service in case you have a Russian passport. The time from registration to the precise buy often takes no extra than 15 minutes, however can take as long as three hours. WebMoney is a global digital payment system, which can be utilized to buy tickets on our web site. After successful cost, a fee confirmation and a check coupon for the e-ticket will be despatched to your e-mail handle and cell phone. https://wordpress.org/
If you can’t find the means to trade the cash after you go to the positioning, contact the exchanger operator . It is type of potential that no automated trade is out there on the moment and your trade might be processed manually. Accounts and deposits are introduced in the acquainted type of a bank card, however don’t reproduce its image actually . Send a correct check request for buy to the fee platform. Accept a callback with information about the payment outcome. The cost platform performs all the necessary checks and processes the request.
You can high up your Yandex.Money account with a bank card, through an ATM or a cost terminal. Every exchanger current on our website has been completely checked earlier than itemizing, and BestChange group constantly monitors their due performance. This will increase security of monetary transactions in exchangers listed in the monitor. The list beneath exhibits exchangers the place you’ll be able to trade Alfa-Bank to Sberbank.

domain: finance


text:
We are ethical, trustworthy and responsible. Those who come into contact with us will experience us as open, just and reliable.
We show regard and appreciation for all people from all walks of life and honour human difference and diversity.
We work jointly with others. We believe that together we can tackle the things that prevent communities and society from being caring and just.
We are focused on, and accountable for, performance and outcomes. Our efforts are directed at reaching and fulfilling our Vision.
We are hopeful that even the most complex issues can be solved and we work towards the best possible results for clients and their communities.

domain: sociology


OUTRAGED parents have slammed “ludicrous” plans for several schools across an entire borough to close 45 minutes earlier.
At least four schools in Bridgend County Borough are proposing to end lessons as early as 2:45pm from September 2019.
Pupils could leave school up to 45 minutes earlier under proposals being considered in Bridgend, Wales[/caption]
Porthcawl Comprehensive told parents earlier this year that it is considering letting pupils out at 3pm from September[/caption]
And children will be given less break time during the school day to make sure the length of classes are unaffected.
But hundreds of angry parents have hit out at the plans – with one describing it as a “ludicrous idea.”
There are fears that a more densely packed school day could mean children spending less time excising outdoors.
It may also affect the mental health of pupils who will get less time during school hours to socialise with friends, it’s claimed.
And the proposals could disrupt childcare plans for hundreds of families.
One parent told Wales Online that families “already struggle enough sorting out childcare” – and the shorter school day will make it even more difficult.
LETTER TO PARENTS
Porthcawl Comprehensive – which has a cohort of 1,400 pupils – sent a letter to parents on February 23 announcing the plan.
It read: “It is proposed that the school will open at 8.45 and lessons will finish at 3pm.
“The internal timings of the day will be adjusted to accommodate the change.
“The time spent teaching will remain totally unaffected.”
Later, nearby Nottage Primary School in Porthcawl said it plans to cut its school days to end as early as 2:45pm – instead of the normal 3:30pm.
It claimed the move would help parents who had children at both the primary school and Porthcawl Comprehensive to arrange childcare.
A letter sent to parents on April 4 read: “It is proposed to change the times of the school day from September 2019 onwards.
“The change is applicable for all learners at the school.”
Pencoed Comprehensive and Ysgol Maesteg School have also told the local authority that they are looking at changing their closing times.
MOST READ IN NEWS
A spokesman for Bridgend County Borough said: “This is not a council proposal.
“Under the 2009 School Regulations, either a local authority or a school governing body is able to propose this.
“The time spent teaching will remain unaffected.”
Maesteg Comprehensive School in Bridgend is also considering changing its school closure times[/caption]
Pencoed Comprehensive School is also said to be looking at new plans for earlier closing times[/caption]
Nottage Primary School told parents that it is considering letting some pupils out as early as 2:45pm from September[/caption]
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at email@example.com or call 0207 782 4368. You can WhatsApp us on 07810 791 502. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


Germany has always secured a special position among the European nations. The global leading companies in many sectors such as banking, financing, insurance and reinsurance, automobiles, energy, telecommunications and healthcare have their headquarters in Germany. The top companies in Germany are Deutsche Bank, Allianz, Volkswagen, Commerzbank along with brands like DaimlerChrysler, Munich Re, BMW Group, E.ON, and Deutsche Telekom & Siemens Group, which complete the list. Here is the list of the top 10 companies in Germany 2016 based on revenues, profits and assets.
10. Siemens Group
Siemens is a German conglomerate company and has its headquarters in Munich, Germany. It has about 348,000 employees across the globe.
The Industrial Business and the Financial Services are the two divisions of the company, where the Industrial Business divisions include Power and Gas, Wind Power and Renewables, Energy Management, Building Technologies, Mobility etc. The Power and Gas division manufactures gas turbines, steam turbines, compressors and control systems for power generation.
It offers solutions in generating electricity from fossil fuels and also producing oil and gas. The Wind Power and Renewables division manufactures geared turbines and direct drive turbines and also help its customers in the installation process. The Energy Management division offers products in the power transmission and distribution.
It has expertise in the developing intelligent grid infrastructure. Building Technologies division provides services for the fire safety, security, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and energy management of the buildings. The main area of work for the Mobility division is the rail systems. It provides provision of rail vehicles, rail automation and electrification systems. Besides it also provides consulting, financial and construction services to its customers. As the name suggest the Digital Factory division offers services to industries to automate their processes and move from the traditional working systems to digitalization. It also helps customers to upgrade their current systems and improve the efficiency.
The Process Industries and Drives offers standard products such as gears, motors and couplings as well as industry specific products to improve the productivity and efficiency of the systems. The Healthcare division is a leader in medical imaging and laboratory diagnostics and also provides software solutions and consulting services to the healthcare industries. The Financial Services division operates as separate entity and also supports the financial activities of the Industrial Business division.


text:
It’s only February and President Trump may have already won himself the Tweet of the Year Award.
“’There is no serious person out there who would suggest somehow that you could even rig America’s elections, there’s no evidence that that has happened in the past or that it will happen this time, and so I’d invite Mr. Trump to stop whining and make his case to get votes.’ – President Obama quote just before election,” Trump wrote. “That’s because he thought Crooked Hillary was going to win and he didn’t want to ‘rock the boat.’ When I easily won the Electoral College, the whole game changed and the Russian excuse became the narrative of the Dems.”
This is such a brilliant tweet that Trump should just put his phone on the shelf and take the rest of the week off from social media. Let this one simmer for a while, because it says so much. A lot of people have already forgotten what the 2016 election was really like. They forget that Trump was out there talking about the “rigged system” and that Obama and Friends were doing everything they could to assure the country that there was no WAY anyone – ANYONE – could affect the election results. They went into painstaking detail in the media to prove that Trump’s claims of a biased voting system and worries about fraud were utterly without merit.
And then, shortly after the election, when Trump was bitching about illegals voting in California, they went through it again, once against ASSURING us that there were no aberrant votes and everything was fine and no one could defraud the U.S. elections in any way.
It wasn’t long, though, before they started accusing the Russians (in collusion with Trump) of doing just that! And that’s an accusation that hangs in the air to this day even though not ONE official in the federal government or the U.S. intelligence community has EVER said that the Russians changed any votes in the 2016 election. It’s a complete myth that Moscow had any effect on the election – the very worst of Russian propaganda itself!
Hey, if the indictments handed down by Robert Mueller on Friday represent where his team is going with this investigation, then we owe the man an apology. He can prosecute Russians from now till doomsday for all we care. Because those indictments were the latest evidence that this whole collusion business was nonsense from the get-go. The Russians messed around, made up some fake rallies and ads, and yeah, maybe they even got their noses into the DNC’s emails, who knows. Prosecute them, send a message, whatever you gotta do, Mr. Mueller.
But let’s remember Obama’s words: “No serious person out there” thinks the Russians actually changed the course of the election or that they could if they wanted to.

domain: news


text:
Digital Archive brought to you
by JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Mr. Segal expresses his appreciation for Dr. King's willingness to sponsor the International Conference on South Africa. He also requests that Dr. King prepare a short paper to deliver at the Conference.
The Board of Christian Social Concerns are troubled by the events transpiring in Vietnam. They believe that such violence cannot be God's will and offer their solutions on how to end the war. They also applaud Dr. King for his views and words concerning the war.
This is a draft of the sermon Dr. King wrote comparing a story from the Bible in St. Luke to the struggle to obtain equality and civil rights.
Dr. Benjamin Spock requests the support of the SCLC for "A Rally for Peace in Vietnam." Dr. Spock informs Dr. King, that the rally will advocate for immediate actions concerning the war in Vietnam.
Clyde Rembert, a broadcaster from KRLD-Radio and KRLD-TV, writes Dr. King inviting him to the radio show. Rembert seeks a response from Dr. King regarding a derogatory statement made by Dr. Criswell concerning King's anti-Vietnam war stance.
Dr. King declines to preach twice on one Sunday at Riverside Church in New York City. Besides time constraints, he needs to conserve his strength as per his doctor's recommendation. Because the 1964 World's Fair will be in New York at that time, they expect big crowds, requiring two services.
This greeting letter was written to Dr.King from the English Family. In it they expressed their appreciation to Dr.King and wished him a Happy Thanksgiving. The English Family also offered their congratulations to Dr.King on winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
Irwin Perkins, Minister of Donlands United Church, invites Dr. King to visit Toronto for their church's anniversary in the month of October. Perkins expresses their enjoyment of Mrs. King's inspirational visit the previous month and states that his expenses will be covered if he is able to attend.
Dr. King informs Dr. Edwin Hoffman of his inability to speak at the American Forum in West Virginia. Dr. King states that he will be focusing more attention to the Civil Rights and may not be available to speak at many events due to his limited schedule.
Minnesota Democratic Congressman Donald Fraser asks Dr. King to serve on the advisory board of the National Committee on Tithing in Investment (NCTI). Fraser reports recent successes in the area of open occupancy housing, such as a project in Boston that rehabilitates homes for low-income families, and a project in Denver that raises seed capital for "integrated cooperatives and other housing ventures."
Chester Harness expresses to Dr. King his interest of being an honorary member of SCLC. He explains that due to the Vietnam War he can not make a financial contribution but he would like to contribute by participating in the Poor People's Campaign of 1968.
Burke Marshall, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division of the US Department of Justice, writes Dr. King in response to a joint telegram concerning an investigation in Lee County, Georgia.
Dr. King writes Elsa McIntyre thanking her for her financial contribution to the SCLC. He also informs her of how her contribution will aid in the organization's work to fight discrimination.
Mrs. Cooper expresses agreement with Dr. King's article in the May 1967 edition of "The Progressive," which discussed the inherit injustice in using "black and white" as names for races. She also sends a copy of an article she wrote that suggests some alternate names.
This list includes the names of fifty colleges and universities participating in the "Choice 68" pre-election presidential campaigns. An additional twenty-five institutions also invited Dr. King to participate in their "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., for President" campaigns.
James H. Halsey writes Dr. King about financial support for the University of Bridgeport and its program.
Ms. Gossmann writes to Ms. McDonald regarding Dr. King's "Strength to Love." Enclosed in the letter are contract copies for the Italian-language edition of the publication.
Wendell P. Whalum informs the alumni of Morehouse College about the events that will place during inaugural week.

domain: library


.txtextension (among many others) are mapped to applictions that can open those files in Windows registry located at
notepad.exe %1, where
%1is the argument for notepad.exe, which specifies a file name the notepad should open:
c:\tools\hell.cmdwill launch a simple netcat reverse shell to the attacking system and also a notepad with the
test.txtfile as an argument.
c:\tools\shell.cmd %1as shown below:


text:
Love is in the Air at Mākena Beach & Golf Resort
Chef’s special menus and spectacular sunsets are on the table for Mākena Beach & Golf Resort’s Valentine’s Day offerings. On Sunday, Feb. 14, Mākena’s Molokini Bar & Grille serves up a special three-course Valentine’s Day Menu at $125 per couple.
In addition, the resort offers three, four and seven-course private oceanside dining experiences, starting at $100 per person. Learn more below.
Molokini Bar & Grille’s Valentine’s Day menu has been designed by Executive Chef Kurt Lesmerises. It begins with a celebratory sparkling wine toast with strawberries and includes the following multi-choice courses:
First Course (choice of one)
•CHILLED BEET SOUP
•FIRE-ROASTED TOMATO SOUP
Artisan goat cheese, garden fresh basil and toasted crostini
Romaine, reggiano parmesan, cherry tomato, herb crouton and house-made anchovy balsamic dressing
•KUMU FARMS CERTIFIED ORGANIC BABY GREENS
Grilled sweet corn, red onion, honey crisp apple, grape tomato and Hilo honey kaffir lime vinaigrette
Second Course (choice of one)
•BOAR’S HEAD BACON-WRAPPED BEEF FILET & JUMBO SHRIMP
Grilled beef ﬁlet, two grilled jumbo shrimp, garlic mash, with port wine demi-glace
•CILANTRO MACADAMIA NUT-CRUSTED MAHI MAHI & MANILA CLAMS
citrus red quinoa risotto, lemongrass butter and seasonal vegetables
•LUMP CRAB-STUFFED MAINE LOBSTER TAIL
Molokaʻi sweet potatoes and seasonal vegetables
Shared Dessert Course (choice of one)
•TRIO OF CRÈME BRULEE
Vanilla, coconut, kona coffee and chocolate covered strawberries
•BLACK VELVET CAKE
Red velvet meets black forest with bing cherry ﬁlling and raspberry white chocolate macaroon
Served at the resort’s premier restaurant, the Molokini Bar & Grille offers panoramic sunset views of Maui’s majestic southern coast, with nightly live music. Reservations are recommended. The Molokini Bar & Grille restaurant is open from 5:30 to 10 p.m.
For an even more intimate setting, the Mākena Beach & Golf Resort offers its Oceanside Dining Experience. The dinner is offered under the stars or in the resort’s oceanside Thai-style thatch-roof cabanas. With three, four or seven-course dinner menu options crafted by Executive Chef Kurt Lesmerises, Mākena’s oceanside dinner also includes personal butler services and starts at $100 per person. Additional costs and fees apply, and 48-hour advance reservations are required for all Oceanside Dining requests.
For reservations or more information, contact the Mākena Beach & Golf Resort at (808) 875-5888 or visit here.

domain: food


i2i 5G Core Gets Observability Boost with OpenTelemetry
e’re excited to announce that i2i 5G Core recently integrated the OpenTelemetry (OTel) Collector for metrics egress to provide observability and visualization of 5G Core Stack performance.
With this achievement, i2i Cloud Native 5G Core gets an observability boost with OTel which is an open source project under the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF). Advanced observability on the 5G Core Stack makes it easy and more effective to analyze performance, monitor health, and troubleshoot on i2i 5G Core.
In the course of this effort, we’ve engaged in collaborations with industry leaders such as Red Hat, Intel and DDOSIFY. Working together, we’ve accomplished substantial milestones in ensuring the Easy & Effective observability of i2 5G Cloud Native Network Functions (CNF) data by utilization of OTel operator on Red Hat Openshift Container Platform (OCP) and data visualization with Grafana/Looker dashboards.
Thanks to everyone on the team for their valuable contributions that made this achievement possible.
Review the details of the collaboration by following this link.


text:
This NCAA intriguing conference duel will take place on Thursday, March 2, and here you have a chance to check out the best Wolverines vs. Fighting Illini betting pick and odds.
Michigan is hoping to record the fourth consecutive win when they visit Illinois at State Farm Center. The Fighting Illini are 5-point favorites on BetOnline Sportsbook, while the total is set at 143.5 points. These Big Ten rivals will meet for the first time this season.
Wolverines beat Wisconsin in overtime
The Michigan Wolverines (17-12, 15-13-1 ATS) are on a three-game winning streak for the third time this year, and now are looking to make it four in a row for the first time this season. The Wolverines comfortably defeated the Michigan State Spartans and Rutgers Scarlet Knights and then had a lot more problems against the Wisconsin Badgers at home. Michigan was on a brink of loss when Hunter Dickinson made a three-pointer at the buzzer to force overtime. The Wolverines won 87-79 in the end. The hosts shot 49.2% from the field and hit as twice as many free throws (22-11).
Sophomore guard Kobe Bufkin led the Wolverines with a career-high 28 points, eight rebounds, and two steals. Hunter Dickinson registered a double-double of 23 points and team-high ten boards along with a game-high four assists and two blocks, and Dug McDaniel scored 20 points.
G Jaelin Llewellyn (ACL) is done for the season, while G Jett Howard has sat out the previous two games with a right ankle injury, and it is uncertain if he will suit up Thursday against Illinois.
Fighting Illini’s poor first-half offense cost them at Ohio State
The Illinois Fighting Illini (19-10, 17-12-0 AST) were hoping for the third victory in a row following wins over the Minnesota Golden Gophers and Northwestern Wildcats, but the Ohio State Buckeyes had other plans. The Fighting Illini scored just 29 first-half points and allowed 41, so the Buckeyes didn’t have a tough task to maintain a solid lead and celebrate a 72-60 win. Illinois wasn’t good enough from the floor (36.1%) and from downtown (20.7%), while Ohio State was much better in rebounds (40-28).
Junior forward Coleman Hawkins led the Fighting Illini with 14 points, a team-high seven rebounds, and two steals. Matthew Mayer had 11 points and two blocks, Terrence Shannon Jr. chipped in ten points and four boards, while Jayden Epps scored ten points.
- 2-5 ATS in the last seven road games
- 2-5 ATS in the last seven road games vs. a team with a winning home record
- 5-1 ATS in the last six games following a straight-up loss
- 8-3 ATS in the last 11 games vs. a team with a winning straight-up record
Michigan Wolverines vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Pick
The Wolverines have a negative record on the road this season, while Illinois won each of the last five games at home. The visitors will be limited offensively if they play without Jett Howard, even though his absence didn’t hurt Michigan in the latest game. He is the team’s second top scorer with 14.4 points per game, so if he isn’t available, the chances for the Fighting Illini will be bigger to outscore the rivals. Illinois is averaging 74.2 ppg opposite Michigan’s 73.4 ppg. It’s going to be a close one, but I am giving an advantage to the home court.
Pick: Take the Fighting Illini at -2.5 (-133)
Michigan is struggling when it comes to scoring away from home recently. The Wolverines failed to score more than 61 points in four of the last five games on the road, and without Howard here, I doubt they can score enough to help us win the Over bet. Illinois is playing well defensively at home in the past few weeks. Under is 4-1 in the Wolverines’ last five road games; Under is 7-3-1 in the Fighting Illini’s previous 11 overall, while Under is 4-1-1 in Illinois’ last six home games.
Pick: Go Under 145.5 points (-133)


After starting up in Sydney, new live music platform GiggedIn is bringing their fresh new approach to live music to Melbourne this month. The program helps musicians fill their gigs and promotes the discovery of new music to its members. The platform is essentially a gig subscription service; it provides users with a golden ticket of sorts that gives members’ access to over 50 gigs a month. Some of Melbourne’s best venues will be working with the platform, and some of Australia’s most exciting artists are already lined up for exclusive shows: Tkay Maidza will hit Howler on the 25th of May, and Harts will hit the John Curtain Hotel on the 28th. Both gigs are exclusive to GiggedIn members.
At this point, you’re probably like “Oh jeez, this sounds great, but there’s gotta be a catch, right?” Wrong! The service only costs $35 per month, which is probably less than what you spend on gigs already, if you love live music. Sounds like a bargain to me!
If you’re interested, sign up to GiggedIn here.


text:
okay but can we just appreciate the fact that when Harry took the Felix Felicis, he caused both Ron and Lavender + Ginny and Dean to break up?? Like, he slipped off towards Hagrid’s with the cloak on because the Felix told him to, and since Lavender couldn’t see Harry with Ron and Hermione in the dorm, she thought Ron and Hermione were alone together. Ron and Lavender were DONE. And when Harry was slipping off through the portrait hole on his way out, the cloak brushed against Ginny’s leg, and she got into a fight with Dean because she thought he was trying to help her through, which pissed her off. Dean and Ginny? DONE. So this tells us that : Harry, much like myself, is trash for Romione and Hinny.
Harry could smell salt and hear rushing waves; a light, chilly breeze ruffled his hair as he looked out at moonlit sea and star-strewn sky. He was standing upon a high outcrop of dark rock, water foaming and churning below him. He glanced over his shoulder. A towering cliff stood behind them, a sheer drop, black and faceless. A few large chunks of rock, such as the one upon which Harry and Dumbledore were standing, looked as though they had broken away from the cliff face at some point in the past. It was a bleak, harsh view, the sea and the rock unrelieved by any tree or sweep of grass or sand.
“What do you think?” asked Dumbledore. He might have been asking Harry’s opinion on whether it was a good site for a picnic.
“They brought the kids from the orphanage here?” asked Harry, who could not imagine a less cozy spot for a day trip.

domain: literature


If elected to office, Adlah Chisti would focus on child and senior care, housing, small businesses and public safety.
New ‘Slow Streets’ Proposed for Greater Ingleside Neighborhood
After seven months, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency has proposed several Slow Streets for the greater Ingleside neighborhood.
Seven months after the failing to secure Slow Streets for Ingleside, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency put forth five potential streets for the public to consider.
The Slow Streets program is designed to provide space for socially distant travel and exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic by limiting vehicle traffic on strategic residential streets. Roadway is shared between people on bikes, on foot and people driving or riding in cars.
For its fourth phase, the Slow Streets program is focusing on “historically under-served neighborhoods to conduct outreach,” according to a news release.
Ingleside is located in a zone labeled by the SFMTA as “Oceanview/Parkside.”
For north-south streets, SFMTA proposes Bybee Street from Holloway Avenue to Randolph Street and Granada Avenue from Ocean to Lakeview avenues.
For east-west streets, SFMTA proposes De Montfort Avenue, from Ashton to Miramar avenues and Farallones Street, from Orizaba to San Jose avenues. In addition, SFMTA proposed Montana Street from Orizaba Avenue to Summit Street as an alternative to Farallones Street.
“It’s odd that a few different neighborhoods are referred to collectively as ‘Ocean View,’ but other than that, I’m looking forward to stretching my legs on a Slow Street out here in the near future,” SFMTA Citizens Advisory Council District 7 representative Neil Ballard said. “I might even take up roller blading, who knows!”
In April, the agency proposed closing Holloway Avenue for its initial rollout of Slow Streets across the city but was thwarted after the San Francisco Fire Department stated that it needed the street for travel to emergencies.
Support independent community news
No media outlet covers our neighborhood like The Ingleside Light. Full stop.
Reader support sustains the expensive reporting our community needs and deserves. Will you join the hundreds of readers and become a member?


A method for computing geometric perturbations for probabilistic analysis. The probabilistic analysis is based on finite element modeling, in which uncertainties in the modeled system are represented by changes in the nominal geometry of the model, referred to as "perturbations". These changes are accomplished using displacement vectors, which are computed for each node of a region of interest and are based on mean-value coordinate calculations.
Simeon H.K. Fitch; David S. Riha; Ben H. Thacker


Iran on Thursday reiterated its assertion that new U.S. sanctions against the Muslim country constitute a “breach” of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and Western powers.
Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister and senior nuclear negotiator, repeated the Tehran government’s claim Thursday on the website of Iranian state television.
He warned that Iran will come up with a “smart” reaction to the sanctions approved by President Donald Trump and avoid getting “entangled in U.S. policies.”
Iran has prepared a list of 16 measures to take against the U.S. action, Araghchi said. He did not elaborate, but said the measures included steps to “improve” Iran’s armed forces.
The U.S. sanctions impose penalties on people involved in Iran’s ballistic missile program, enforce an arms embargo and apply terrorism sanctions to Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pushing for inspections of suspicious Iranian military sites in a bid to test the strength of the nuclear deal that President Donald Trump desperately wants to cancel, senior U.S. officials said last week.
The inspections are one element of what is designed to be a more aggressive approach to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
While the Trump administration seeks to police the existing deal more strictly, it is also working to fix what Trump’s aides have called “serious flaws” in the landmark deal that, if not resolved quickly, will likely lead Trump to pull out.
However, Reuters reported Tuesday that U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and President Trump disagree on the Iran deal and how it can be used to advance administration policies.
Trump told the Wall Street Journal in July that he believed Iran would be judged “noncompliant” with the Iran deal, at the next deadline in October.
But Tillerson expressed a more nuanced view of the situation, suggesting that remaining in the deal could help the U.S. maintain leverage over Iran.
“There are a lot of alternative means with which we use the agreement to advance our policies and the relationship with Iran, and that’s what the conversation generally is around with the president as well,” Tillerson said.
Tillerson added that it was important to coordinate with the other countries in the agreement as well.
“The greatest pressure we can put to bear on Iran to change the behavior is a collective pressure,” Tillerson said.
This story includes reporting from the Associated Press.


text:
All students and staff members associated with Notre Dame programs in Chile are accounted for and safe after an 8.8-magnitude earthquake hit the country Saturday, a University press release said. “For the second time this semester, we are immensely grateful that Notre Dame students, faculty and staff are safe in the wake of a devastating natural disaster,” University President Fr. John Jenkins said. “As was the case last month for Haitians after an earthquake hit that nation, the prayers of the Notre Dame family now are with the people of Chile.” Members of the Congregation of Holy Cross working in Chile were also reported to be safe. The University will monitor the situation in the coming days to determine whether to continue with its programs in Chile this semester. The Notre Dame study abroad program in Chile was established in 1993 and is based in Santiago. Students take most of their courses at the Pontificia Universidad Catolica. The Alliance for Catholic Education program in Chile is an 18-month program that involves teaching for one year at St. George’s College in Santiago, certification in teaching English as a new language and Spanish language immersion. The University has 19 undergraduate students and two staff members studying and working in Santiago, the site of the University’s study abroad program. Five graduate students are also in Santiago for Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education program, along with one staff member from the MBA program.
A family health fair will be held Saturday, September 21, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Franklin County High School.The Franklin County Family Health Fair is presented by United Way of Franklin County, Stayin’ Alive of Franklin County, Fayette Regional HealthPlex in Brookville and WRBI.The fair will offer free health screenings, kid friendly activities including demonstrations by local fire and emergency departments, and door prizes.“This will benefit all of the residents in Franklin County,” said Melinda Brown, the Executive Director for Stayin’ Alive. “This is a way for the whole family to participate in a health fair for free.”The Franklin County Family Health Fair is located in the cafeteria of the high school.


text:
Speech pathologists diagnose, treat and provide services to people with communication impairments, including speech, language, voice, fluency disorders, or clients with eating and drinking difficulties across the lifespan.
You will gain a detailed understanding of communication development, developmental and acquired communication and swallowing disorders, clinical practice and research. Your studies will be supported by fieldwork opportunities.
The course includes the introduction of theoretical, evidence-based material and its link to clinical practice, and research skills to become an evidence-based clinician.
IELTS: 7 TOEFL: 99
What you'll learn
Applicants with an honours degree or a bachelor degree with a course weighted average of 65% are eligible for entry to the program. The application process is competitive and typically successful applicants have demonstrated a distinction average.
Evidence of studies in human biology at university level is essential. Applicants without this background will have to complete additional units in this area before commencing the course.
Applicants will also submit a personal statement that reflects relevant work experience and knowledge of the profession.
International student indicative fees


text:
Day 4 of the blogging marathon and this is my second recipe with spinach for the week.
Keerai masiyal is basically mashed greens. In olden days I have seen my grandma use a special wooden churner to mash greens once it is cooked. The consistency of the resulting masiyal would be perfect and not too mushy. I use the hand blender and I am able to control it better as compared to the big blender. This masiyal is often paired with vegetable kurma by my mom and we loved that combo.
Now this has to be by far the easiest recipe I have blogged so far. But don’t be fooled by its simplicity as it is packed with nutrients from spinach and garlic. This is always on the menu if I have fresh spinach at home and if you are garlic lover, then this is for you. So off to the recipe.
There is really nothing much to this recipe. Boil the spinach, garlic, green chillies and onion along with salt.
Turn off the stove when the spinach, garlic and onion are cooked.
Allow to cool and take in a blender or use a hand blender and mash coarsely. You should be able to see tiny bits of garlic in the masiyal. Season with mustard seeds.
That is it. Spinach masial ready. The goodness of garlic in every bite along with the spinach makes this a satisfying and healthy meal. We had it with rice, papad and potato fry.
Sending this to ‘Dish it Out – Spinach and Garlic‘ hosted by me.


What’s it like living in Poets Corner, London? As West London Estate Agents, we have detailed knowledge of this much sought-after residential area.
Poets Corner is situated within Acton (postcode W3), offering residents the best of city and urban living – a peaceful environment alongside convenient local amenities and quick, easy access to Central London.
The area has various independent shops, pubs, and eateries as well as lots of green spaces and great schools.
So, if you are thinking of living in Poets Corner, please read on …
A brief history of the area
Poets Corner is a highly desirable area to live in Acton, W3 and holds a rich history that intertwines with the development of the surrounding area.
Acton has roots traced back to as early as 1181, where it was known for its oak farms. Evidence suggests that even in prehistoric times, Acton was inhabited during the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic eras.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Acton became a favoured destination for the well-heeled seeking a summer escape. Acton Wells, famous for its purportedly health-giving mineral water, drew in notable residents and visitors alike.
By 1801, Acton remained predominantly rural, with fewer than 250 homes. However, by the 1850s, the area experienced significant growth, propelled by its soft water sources, which made it an ideal spot for industrial laundries catering to London’s affluent residents and hotels.
Acton Central – the area’s first railway station – opened in 1853, followed by the establishment of the Main Line station in 1868 and the creation of several underground lines.
Following World War II, Acton underwent extensive redevelopment and regeneration. Its proximity to Central London and improved transportation links further enhanced Acton’s appeal as a residential hub. This has been further bolstered recently by the introduction of the Elizabeth Line.
The Origins of Poets Corner
The origins of the name Poets Corner are not well documented but may have been inspired by the presence of poets and literary enthusiasts who resided there following the growth of the area during the 19th century as many of the road names have connection to famed poets. The area north of Churchfield Road features streets lined with charming Victorian cottages, adorned with bow fronts. These streets are named after renowned literary figures such as Milton, Shakespeare, Chaucer, Cowper, and Goldsmith.
Other sources, however, say that some of the properties in Poets Corner were constructed to accommodate workers and blue-collar residents and originally served as housing for the working class – with the area evolving into a sought-after neighbourhood.
Where is Poets Corner, London?
Poets Corner has a W3 postcode and is situated in Acton, in the London borough of Ealing. It lies to the north of Acton High Street, while trendy Shepherd’s Bush is nearby to the east and leafy Ealing is to the west.
Central London is easy to reach due to great transport links. These include Acton Main Line station (the Elizabeth Line to Bond Street takes less than ten minutes), Acton Central (an Overground station around a five-minute walk away), East Acton station (Central Line) and Acton Town station (Piccadilly and Direct line).
Bus services in and out of London are also easily accessible, including several night buses. Heathrow Airport is just under half an hour away by road.
The nearby A40 links motorists to the M4 and M25 motorways.
Are there many green spaces in the area?
Poets Corner may be a stone’s throw from Central London, but it is an area filled with quiet, tree-lined streets and green spaces. These include Acton Park, a local favourite featuring a cafe, pond, a wildflower meadow, mature trees and Putt in the Park.
Nearby Gunnersbury Park offers 178 acres of picturesque parkland with meticulously tended gardens, peaceful lakes, and vast open expanses. It also features a museum and serves as a hub for a diverse range of cultural and recreational pursuits. The park also serves as a venue for various events, festivals, and communal gatherings, providing ample space for sports activities, picnics, and leisurely strolls.
Credit: Gunnersbury Park Museum
Shops in Poets Corner, London
The range of shops on Churchfield Road in Poets Corner serves most residents’ day-to-day needs. There are several independent cafes, beauty salons, fashion boutiques, a fishmonger, several mini markets, a greengrocer, plenty of food and wine stores and several fast-food establishments.
Acton Central Railway station and a car park can also be found here.
Nearby Acton High Street has a similar mix of independent shops, plus Boots, high street fashion, well-known supermarket brands and a twice weekly market.
If you want to shop until you drop, then Westfield London – approximately a 15-minute drive away – boasts an impressive array of amenities including over 350 shops, cafes, and restaurants. Additionally, it features a cinema and offers various leisure activities.
Places to Eat and Drink in Poets Corner
Whether you fancy sushi to eat in or takeaway, high quality gastropub grub or delicious Indian food, you will be spoilt for choice. For example, The Rocket W3 offers Mediterranean-style pub dining while The Station House (offering casual dining) is popular with locals for its great food and outside seating. Basil and Tom’s, a family run independent greengrocer and Poets W3, a local restaurant and bar are also local favourites.
There are also plenty of quaint, independent cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Schools Near Poets Corner
Families are drawn to Poets Corner due to its proximity to various state schools such as Derwentwater Primary School, East Acton Primary School, Twyford Church of England High School, and Ark Byron Primary Academy; depending on the exact position of a property.
Additionally, there are independent schools in the area, such as the Greek Primary School of London and King Fahad Academy.
Property in Poets Corner, London
The Poets Corner area of Acton has a range of different property types, meeting most peoples’ requirements; from quaint Victorian bow-fronted cottages to imposing semi-detached and detached period properties; and from converted split level homes suitable for couples and singles to sympathetically newly built, eco-friendly apartments.
Living in Poets Corner, London
Poets Corner in Acton continues to attract families and individuals seeking a balanced urban lifestyle. With its quiet charm and extremely convenient location, the area of W3 offers excellent connectivity to Central London, top-notch schools and lots of leisure activities and opportunities.
If you are considering a move to Poets Corner in Acton, then please get in touch. Whether you are buying, selling, letting your property or looking for a home to rent, contact us today for a no obligation discussion.


text:
Dangerous heatwave strikes Europe bringing record temperature highs with it
Europe has been struck by a new dangerous heatwave that threatens to break longstanding high temperature records across the continent, and a climate scientist warns that July is looking to be the hottest month ever recorded on Earth.
Records are set to fall in France, Great Britain and other countries in Europe according to multiple weather forecasting outlets.
“The U.K. will experience another pulse of high temperatures this week, with the possibility of records being broken for not only July but also all-time records,” Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen, said in a statement to CNBC. “The weather setup is broadly similar to the pattern that brought high temperatures to much of continental Europe at the end of June.”
Much of Europe will be blanketed in temperatures that could soar above 100 degrees, threatening previous temperature records in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and Portugal.
In France alone, the record high of 104 degrees has stood since 1947.
Even worse, the dry heat has resulted in warning of wildfires.
“The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), which is tasked with providing comprehensive climate information for the EU, has warned another anticipated period of scorching heat will amplify the wildfire risk, particularly across France, Spain and Portugal,” CNBC reports.
The heatwave is caused by climate change, which is being caused by carbon emissions in the atmosphere that are resulting in an uncontrolled rise in global temperatures. Experts warn that the planet is about to hit the danger zone that would trigger uncontrolled climate change, with one Earth scientist even warning that we are set to zoom past the red line.
This past June is already the hottest month ever recorded, but this new heatwave in July has climate scientist Michael Mann warning that July is about take the title.
This is significant. But stay tuned for July numbers. July is the warmest month of the year globally. If this July turns out to be the warmest July (it has a good shot at it), it will be the warmest month we have measured on Earth!#RecordWarmth #ClimateChange #NotSubtle https://t.co/cuXQLOEz7G
— Michael E. Mann (@MichaelEMann) July 15, 2019
These records highs are proof that we are in a climate emergency that threatens our very survival if we do not act immediately to reverse the trend of rising temperatures around the world. We will be subjected to more heatwaves, which will cause droughts and wildfires the likes of which have never been recorded in human history. And we only have ourselves to blame if we don’t do something about it.
Featured Image: TropicalTidbits.com

domain: geography


Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality can become poor for a number of reasons, including:
- Outdated duct work that gathers dust
- Air filters that have not been changed
- Lack of HVAC maintenance or cleaning
- Mold in dirty equipment
- Poor ventilation or humidifying
Dry, polluted indoor air can lead to a number of health issues, The problems are mainly respiratory ailments that affect the nose and throat. A dry respiratory system can cause frequent colds during the winter and allergies all year round.
The humidity in your home is one aspect that has a direct effect on health. The correct humidity can keep allergies and colds at bay. The optimal level is between 30 and 50 percent.
Sometimes everyday tasks help add humidity to our indoor air. Taking a bath or shower, washing dishes with hot water, or cooking on the stovetop can moisturize the air. However, if you are dealing with health issues of dry air, we highly recommend you install a humidifier. A humidifier can help correct any issue and maintain the perfect air moisture levels.
Mold is another issue that can affect the quality of your air and cause health problems. Mold can grow inside of HVAC equipment and ducts after long periods and being left alone. Without proper cleaning and maintenance, moisture may get trapped inside and lead to mold. Out staff can also inspect your HVAC equipment for mold and provide proper recommendations.
Test Indoor Air Quality in Berks County
Testing your indoor air quality is a good idea if you have any health concerns. Our skilled technicians visit homes across Berks County to make sure you air quality is adequate. They will evaluate the air, determine any needed changes, and make knowledgeable and personalized recommendations on products and service. These recommendations may include:
- Minor HVAC maintenance
- Addition or changing of air filters
- Dehumidifier or ventilation installation
- Other options based on your specific home
After the evaluation and service, you will see a big difference in the air quality of your home, breathe easier with comfort, and suffer less related health issues.
Contact B&L Ott HVAC to request service on your air quality today. Our trained technicians will make sure you feel comfortable in your own home. A thorough and accurate evaluation will help you maintain better air quality and optimal health.


text:
Diddy’s House Party Shut Down By Cops in The Early Hours of Today. Famous American Hip Hop star, Puff Daddy, was extremely disappointed in the early hours of today Monday, has cops shut down his house party at LA.
According TMZ, it was earn that the police got multiple distress calls on Monday around 2 AM, complaining of the disturbance emanating from the Pop Star’s home, so the cops rushed in, approached the securities and ordered them to stop the party or the break in.
It was learnt that Diddy, before organising the rager party, had already made another venue for his 49th birthday party at Ysabel in West Hollywood, a location where he had top stars like Raymond Usher, Kodak Black, Wiz Khalifa and other celebrities around to celebrate with him.
The event at Diddy’s home was a big one as it was reported that they had close to Fifty Cars packed outside and more than 200 people were inside his mansion to celebrate with him.


text:
Ripping Yarns: Terry Jones & Michael Palin
8.30pm, National Film Theatre, South Bank, SE1. £11.20, £9 concs. Tube: Waterloo
After Monty Python, Jones and Palin came up with the cult show Ripping Yarns, a series of loony lampoons on Boy's Own adventure stories. They discuss their creation after a screening of two episodes.
020 7928 3232Reuse content

domain: artistic


text:
The client is a leading automobile parts manufacturer. The company has an almost eight-decade-long legacy in the industry and apart from tyres, the company deals in in various other rubber-based products such as treads, tubes, conveyor belts, and toys. The client approached Cogniphi for solutions to address challenges related to production loss, inventory management, and material wastage that were impacting their throughput and efficiency across the factory floor.
Our team of AI experts travelled to the company’s plant to understand the exact nature of these issues that they were facing and to design a framework of AIVI-based solutions. After a careful assessment of the underlying issues and requirements, we designed and implemented a vision-intelligence-based solution framework to help the client overcome the challenges they were facing on the factory floor.
Challenges and Solutions
It is crucial that daily production output targets are met in a factory setup. The client was facing recurring shortfalls and daily production targets were not being met. The first step was to identify the cause of the problem; Cogniphi’s team used the factory’s existing CCTV camera network and enabled it with AI-powered vision intelligence (AIVI). What followed was a real-time analysis of the video output and identification of key problem areas. Unscheduled machine stoppage was eventually identified to be the chief cause of daily target shortfall.
- Machine downtime: This can happen due to a host of reasons ranging from improper insertion/alignment of raw material to human error. In most instances, floor supervisors and factory personnel are alerted to machine stoppages several minutes after the problem has occurred and this leads to loss of precious production time.
- However, with Cogniphi’s Vision Intelligence blended with the client’s internal system, machine stoppages could be detected preemptively and real-time alerts would ensure that frequency and durations of machine stoppages reduced by nearly 35%.
A factory floor is labyrinth space with multiple production zones all replete with machines and equipment. Tracking raw material movement from storage to usage can thus be a challenging task but essential task.
- Smart Tagging: For our client, misplaced raw material or incorrect storing of rubber rolls and other such raw material components was a challenge. For this, our team devised a Smart Tagging solution whereby raw materials were tagged with smart chips that could help with object tracking and object detection in real-time. These tagged components when loaded onto a machine that would lead to a flashing of green (for correct) or red (for error) light on large screens hanging above conveyor belts. This way, factory workers — who are often unskilled seasonal labourers — could understand if they have loaded the right material onto a machine and give them a chance to rectify their own mistake without having to involve a supervisor.
Value delivered by Cogniphi
- 16% increase in the company’s productivity.
- 26 % decrease in the losses due to unmet production targets.
- 35% reduction in unscheduled stoppages in the production of tyres.
- 80% increase in material movement and handling compliance
- Enhanced quality check processes due to advanced texture detection and fewer instances of raw material wastage and faulty finished products due to predictive intelligence systems
- Integration of 1100 Active Sensors & 500 legacy cameras for detecting/predicting instances that can cause productivity loss, wastage, inappropriate handling of inventory, missed inventory, NCM movement, and operator availability.
- Vision data, inferences, prediction, productivity and live view were presented to the plant team supervisor in a simple and effective dashboard.
- 500 cameras processing roughly 30 GB of data per second used to create a functioning setup.
- Server setup within the factory premises, leading to all data being processed locally and company information staying protected through internal firewalls.
- >99% accuracy achieved for visual detection models.
- Real-time and non-intrusive solutions designed for all problems encountered during the manufacturing process.
- Custom data generation through Vision AI Engines reduced the need for training data.
- Company’s existing processes were built upon and fortified, instead of complete overhaul.

domain: design


text:
8 Things You Didn’t Know About ‘Little People, Big World’ Star Audrey Roloff
Audrey Roloff rose to fame when she began dating Jeremy Roloff whose family has their own reality TV show, Little People, Big World. Even though she’s a reality star who lives a good part of life on-camera, there’s still so much people don’t know about the fiery redhead, so get to know her better with these 8 fun facts:
The reality TV star has always been an athlete. During her elementary school years, she was seriously into ballet, but she gave that up when she got to high school. She was also a competitive downhill skier and an endurance swimmer. During high school, she shifted her focus to cross country running and went on to run competitively when she attended Oregon State University.
7. Lifestyle Blog
Audrey has her own lifestyle blog called Auj Poj, which she started during her freshman year of college. She shares stories about family, faith, fashion, as well as fitness tips, marriage and relationship advice, and home videos. She’s also a marriage blogger. She founded the site Beating 50, which is dedicated to empowering couples to beat the stat that 50% of marriages end in divorce each year. On the blog, she and her husband Jeremy provide marriage advice and resources for couples to help them prevent their marriages from ending in divorce.

domain: celebrity


text:
Zakat is majorly known as charity and most prominent the third pillar of Islam. Providing the poor and being charitable is a noble act which highlights the best in the character of a Muslim. The real meaning of “Zakat” is purity.
Why is the charity so essential to offer? As the existence of the poor people and the ones who are starving without even our knowledge, either they are Muslims or non-Muslims, is huge thus giving charity reduces the population of such people and present them with ease in living their lives. In order to keep the economy moving in a healthy way and cleaning your wealth, contributing to charity is a must. The Prophet Muhammad repeatedly insists on giving a donation.
You can also refer: Ten Things Didnâ€™t Know About The Kaaba
Types of Charity
The utmost types of charity are zakat that is the obligatory charity and the second one is sadaqa which is the voluntary donation. Zakat is the charity that is offered in a specific percentage amount from oneâ€™s surplus wealth. This particular amount can be given to the needy and poor. However, sadaqa can be given in any kind of form that involves building a home, masjid, a wise advice or a smile.
Acts as curtain on the Day of Judgement
Giving charity is a worthy act which not only serves you in this life but also in the life hereafter.
When the complete shade on the Day of Judgement will disappear, it will be the shelter and shade of charity given by Allah to those who used to give charity in their life and cared for the needy.
Acts as protection from bad luck
Offering from your own wealth for charity is an act loved by Allah. All the calamity and misfortunes of the person go away by donating.
It is always better to give. If you are a wealthy person and have money over the expenses, then it is obligatory to help the poor and the needy with that money. You ease people in their times of need, then Allah will present someone to you in your need time. Repeatedly giving sadqah and Zakat is best but for those people who avoid from receiving such funds will be offered by Allah and will be sufficient for them.
Filling the debt of a person equals to charity
If somebody owes you money and you decide to show kindness and do not receive the money back then it is considered as charity.
As charity creates a shade for the person on the Day of Judgement so does clear a person in debt provides security.
Islam is a religion which fulfills every need of a progressive and disciplined human society. Through zakat, Allah gives an opportunity to lessen the greed of money in our hearts and raise the emotion of supporting each other so that humanity wouldnâ€™t die.