Cogniteam raises $5.6 Million in Series A to enhance Nimbus, the low-code AI robotics platform

Cogniteam, a robotics development company that recently launched the Nimbus robotics AI operating platform, announced the closing of a $5.6 million in series A. The round of funding comprised the previous investors of Seabarn Management, (Andrew Owens) and UK-based Panthera family office members.

This round enables Cogniteam to boost product development and Nimbus sales further as the robotics revolution continues to show both consumer and commercial demand.

Developing a modern robotics system is traditionally a time-consuming process where software engineers yield their development to hardware engineers until they complete the build-out of physical systems needed to meet project specifications.

This requires the full robotics concept to deployment process to take up to 6 years. During this time, technological development moves forward, making hardware, software, and control systems obsolete by the time new robots are deployed commercially.

Dr. Yehuda Elmaliah, Co-Founder and CEO at Cogniteam

“We reimagined what is possible to accelerate and future-proof robotic development with the Nimbus platform,” said Dr. Yehuda Elmaliach, Co-Founder & CEO of Cogniteam. “Nimbus’ low-code approach is changing the programming landscape by offering a simulated environment where software developers can thoroughly test their capabilities before the prototype physical robot build-out has been completed.”

Alongside this virtual testing environment, developers can select pre-built software packages from the popular ROS operating system, NVIDIA’s ISAAC SDK GEMs toolset, and field-tested algorithms that were developed in-house by Cogniteam.

Once mobilized, Nimbus-operated robots are kept up to date throughout their life with the latest software developments and AI learnings through regular Cloud updates and lesson sharing.

These funds will enable Cogniteam to expand sales and support teams to onboard more companies who want to enable their robots with field-tested features. “We seized the opportunity to increase our investment in Cogniteam following the successful launch of Nimbus and the team’s demonstrated ability to surpass critical milestones,” said lead investor Andrew Owens. Cogniteam’s proven capabilities have generated exciting demand from the market, which the investors are excited to facilitate.”

In addition to the new round, Cogniteam has been handpicked to co-lead a $20 million Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) consortium, funded by the Israeli Innovation Authority. Together with other leading Israeli private and academic institutions, they are working on verbal and non-verbal communication gestures that robots can use to engage with society as they execute tasks.

In line with their mission of easy adoption of advanced capabilities, Cogniteam will open the consortium’s capabilities to their Nimbus platform for companies to utilize.

source https://www.jbklutse.com/cogniteam-to-enhance-nimbus/

54gene completes initial phase of the landmark Nigerian 100K Genome Project

54gene, the health technology company advancing African genomics research for improved global health outcomes, has through its non-profit initiative, the African Centre for Translational Genetics (ACTG), completed its first consortium-led publication on over 100,000 Nigerians as commissioned in 2020 at its launch.

The Non-Communicable Diseases Genetic Heritage Study (NCD-GHS) consortium has published a paper in the esteemed journal, Nature Genetics, entitled “Promoting the Genomic Revolution in Africa through the Nigerian 100k Genome Project”.

Through 54gene’s ACTG, the consortium operates as a unique public-private partnership involving leading African scientists guided by a team of global genomic leaders as the Scientific Advisory Board to achieve the mission of the ACTG.

The consortium, which is made up of scientists from 54gene, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, and the Center for Genomics Research and Innovation at the National Biotechnology Development Agency as well as researchers from multiple academic institutions in Nigeria and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, is built on a shared vision of positioning African populations to benefit from advances in genomic science.

According to the paper, as of January 2019, approximately 3% of genomic data being used for genome wide association studies (GWAS) came from people of African descent, with this statistic dropping to 1.1% in 2021. The paper details efforts in building an important resource that could significantly enable African populations to benefit from the global efforts at achieving precision medicine for various diseases.

This has been achieved through the production of a comprehensive catalog of human genetic variation, examining the characteristics of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in 100,000 adults in Nigeria seeking to understand the genetic basis of the highly prevalent illnesses such as cancers, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, chronic kidney and sickle cell disease, among others.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) kill more than 41 million people every year, accounting for 71% of all deaths globally. The prevalence of NCDs is projected to become higher than that of infectious diseases in Africa by 2030.

The study spans the breadth of the Nigerian population with data gathered from the 6 geopolitical zones in the country and sampling from the majority of the more than200 ethnolinguistic groups, with ethically consulted participants being recruited falling under two categories: disease cases recruited from disease specialist clinics, and community cases which are individuals with initially unknown diseases recruited from communities through household surveys.

54gene Founder and CEO, Dr. Abasi Ene-Obong, said, “Along with our partners, we are proud to be leading the new frontier of African genomics. Precision medicine goes against the one-size-fits-all approach to disease treatment as it is more inclusive, with people treated on their unique genetic makeup. With more than 200 ethnic groups and 500 different languages, Nigeria has one of the most diverse ethnolinguistic concentrations in the world. This pioneering study from the Nigerian population provides an excellent window into the representation of diversity across Africa. With recruitment nearly complete and the commencement of data generation and bioinformatics analysis, we are excited at how this study makes the promise of precision medicine more attainable to Nigerians, Africans and the global population.”

Dr. Segun Fatumo, co-lead NCD-GHS and the first author of the landmark paper said, “I am so proud of what NCD-GHS has achieved in only about two years. In our own eyes, 100K genomes of Africa are emerging from more than 300 diverse ethnic groups in Nigeria. The current lack of genomic diversity has resulted in significant missed scientific and medical opportunities, but NCD-GHS strategic vision to drive new large-scale studies with rich African genome datasets would help fill some gaps. I am deeply honoured to be a co-lead of this initiative. The NCD-GHS’s public-private partnership with 54gene pioneers a model to increase diversity in genomic studies, including capacity building and plan to develop more genomic leaders in Africa.”

Speaking on the publication of the research paper, Colm O’Dushlaine, Vice President, Genomics and Data Science at 54gene, said, “The 100k project supports 54gene’s core mission to equalize precision medicine, by building rich genomic datasets that will be used to generate powerful insights for the benefit of African, and other global populations. African populations are among the most diverse in the world. In the context of genome-wide association scans, more variation – more shots on goal – can help to provide new insights into the etiology of disease and drive novel therapeutic target discovery. The broader strategic objectives of the NCD-GHS are far-reaching. They include a focus on the creation of genomics leaders in Africa, efforts to increase the number of skilled African genomics scientists to help drive new studies and discoveries, initiatives that drive progressive health policy and practice, and the promotion of discourse and thought leadership on ethical, legal and social issues in genomics research and precision medicine. All of these are central to 54gene’s mission and values.”

Aminu Yakubu, VP Research Governance and Ethics, said, “Building on the legacy of the H3Africa project, the capacity building objective of the NCD-GHS in the 100K Genome Project is a strategic undertaking that would catalyse the future we envisage – of Africans with the skillset and knowledge, able to lead genomic insights generation and development to address health challenges faced by Africans over the long haul. It is a people-facing impact creation initiative that puts the social value of the work we do at the center, facilitated through the African Center for Translational Genetics. The focus of one of the NCD-GHS agendas on governance and ethics was deliberate to ensure that we are aligned with existing country-specific and international best practices. Our commitment to also support academic thought leadership on ethics and governance issues in genomics research would allow us to evolve as we learn of better ways to protect the welfare of research participants and ensure fairness in research collaborations.”

source https://www.jbklutse.com/54gene-genome-project/

Toptal: Freelance Senior Digital Product Designer (Remote)

We are seeking a Product Designer (independent contractor) with a passion for finding solutions that allow customers to intuitively use our products. The ideal candidate will be skilled at each stage of the design process but always focused on the needs of the customer. You will work with other designers and cross-functional team members and will rely heavily on both qualitative and quantitative data to make informed decisions.

About The Job

Toptal designers work with speed and efficiency to deliver the highest quality of work. We are looking for someone who is passionate about their client’s business, and ready to work on exciting projects with Fortune 500 companies and Silicon Valley startups, with great rates and zero hassles. If you are looking for a place to advance your career, enhance your skill set, and build connections around the globe, Toptal is right for you.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of professional experience as a Product Designer
• Proven experience in all phases of the design process including user research, copywriting, wireframing, prototyping, visual design, interaction design, and usability testing
• UI/UX/Interaction Design experience is required
• Experience with eCommerce or Landing Page Design is a bonus
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional team members is required
• Ability to collect and interpret both qualitative and quantitative feedback is required
• Experience with AR/VR is a strong advantage
• Full-time availability is a strong advantage

If you’re interested in pursuing an engaging career working on full-time freelance jobs for exclusive clients, take the next step by clicking apply and filling out the short form to get started.

About Toptal

Toptal is an exclusive network of top freelancers from around the world. Fortune 500 companies and Silicon Valley startups hire Toptal for their most important projects. Toptal is one of the fastest-growing fully remote networks and empowers freelance software developers, designers, finance experts, product managers, and project managers worldwide to grow and excel in their freelance careers.

Toptal clients vary in sizes and industries, from enterprise organizations and big tech companies to Silicon Valley startups and renowned universities. Once you enter the network, our matchers will contact you with project opportunities that fit your expertise and preferences. We have experts in over 120 countries who get to work remotely on projects that meet their career ambitions.

Deadline

Not stated

To Apply

To apply, click here.

source https://www.jbklutse.com/toptal-freelance-senior-digital-product-designer-remote/

6 Frequently asked questions about Delta 8 Flower

What is Delta 8 Flower?

Delta 8 Flower is a type of cannabis that is known for its high concentration of the cannabinoid Delta 8 THC. The fact that it can be used both for medical and recreational purposes makes it a popular choice.

Delta 8 Flower typically has a more mellow and relaxing effect than other forms of THC, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of marijuana without the anxiety or paranoia that can sometimes accompany it.

Delta 8 Flower is also known for its ability to help with pain relief, making it a popular choice for patients suffering from conditions like chronic pain or cancer. If you’re looking for a high-quality cannabis product that can offer you a wide range of benefits, Delta 8 Flower is a great choice.

Can Delta 8 Flower make you high?

Cannabis plants contain delta 8 THC, a cannabinoid. THC found in Delta 8 does not cause a “high,” such as those associated with marijuana. However, Delta 8 THC has been shown to produce some psychoactive effects, including increased anxiety and paranoia. The Delta 8 THC may also interact with other medications, so it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking it.

Currently, no research supports the use of Delta 8 THC for any medical condition. Get more information about delta 8 THC flower wholesale by visiting iDELT∆8.

What Is the Best Way to Consume Delta 8 Flower?

You can consume delta 8 flower in several ways. The easiest and most convenient way to get the benefits of this supplement is to consume it. You will find it available in a variety of different edible forms, including gummy bears, capsules, soft gels, and tablets. So if you are someone who prefers to have your supplements in an edible form, then you can simply consume these products and get the benefits of Delta 8.

But if you do not like eating any supplements or only want to take a small dose of this flower, then you can go for the other option. You can also vaporize it by using any vaporizer unit that is compatible with cannabis.

iDELTA8 is one of the best brands to buy delta 8 THC flower wholesale.  iDELTA8 offers a truly unique immersive experience on their products. A nod to the old school, using exotic hemp-legal cannabis terpenes to bring back some of the rarest flower strains.

Can Smoking Delta 8 Flower Be Addictive?

It has not been proven that delta 8 flowers are addictive. Delta 8 flowers can, however, lead to psychological dependence in some people. This means that they may feel that they need to use the delta 8 flowers in order to function normally. If you think you may have developed a dependence on the delta 8 flower, please speak to your doctor.

A delta 8 flower is a type of cannabis plant with high levels of delta 8 THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta 8 THC has a lower psychoactive effect than delta 9 THC, the main component in regular marijuana.

This means that smoking delta 8 flower may not cause you to feel as “high” as smoking regular marijuana. However, delta 8 THC can still produce some psychoactive effects, such as feelings of relaxation and euphoria. In addition, delta 8 THC may also have medicinal benefits, such as relieving pain and reducing inflammation.

Will You Fail a Drug Test if You Smoke Delta 8 Flowers?

If you’re a regular cannabis smoker, there’s a chance you could fail a drug test if you smoke Delta 8 flowers. Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that is similar to THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. However, Delta 8 is only about one-tenth as potent as THC. This means that it would take ten times the amount of Delta 8 as THC to produce a high.

That said, it’s still possible to fail a drug test for marijuana if you smoke Delta 8 flowers. This is because the majority of drug tests don’t actually detect THC in the body directly. Instead, they look for an enzyme known as carboxy-THC, which is produced when THC is metabolized by the body. Carboxy-THC can stay in the body for weeks or even months after THC has been consumed.

So, if you’re a regular cannabis smoker and you plan on smoking Delta 8 flowers, it’s best to assume that you will fail a drug test and take steps to avoid it. One way to do this is by abstaining from smoking marijuana for a few weeks before your drug test. This will help ensure that any trace amounts of THC are eliminated from your system, and you’ll be more likely to pass the test.

If you’re worried about failing a pre-employment or random drug test, then it’s best to avoid smoking Delta 8 flowers altogether. While they’re not as potent as regular marijuana, you’re still putting yourself at risk if you smoke them regularly. However, if your employer only performs random drug tests on employees in certain high-risk industries like transportation or construction, then it may be safe for you to smoke Delta 8 flowers occasionally without any issues.

Does Delta 8 Flower Contain CBD?

The simple answer is no, Delta 8 flower does not contain CBD. However, some companies may add CBD to their Delta 8 products, so it’s always best to check the labels and do your research before purchasing any delta 8 product.

Cannabis is a complicated plant that produces over 500 different compounds called cannabinoids, which are responsible for many of the medical and psychoactive effects of cannabis. CBD and THC are the two most well-known cannabinoids, but there are many others that have been identified, including Delta 8 THC.

Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid that is similar to THC, but it is less psychoactive and has different medical properties. Some people believe that Delta 8 can help with anxiety, pain, and nausea, but more research is needed to confirm these claims.

Delta 8 THC and CBD are both cannabinoids, they have different effects on the body. CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects that THC does, so it will not make you feel “high.” However, CBD has been shown to have some medical benefits, such as reducing inflammation and pain.

Delta 8 THC is a new cannabinoid that is just starting to be studied, so we don’t know much about its potential medical benefits yet. However, if you’re looking for a cannabinoid that can make you feel high, Delta 8 THC is the one you want!

source https://www.jbklutse.com/6-frequently-asked-questions-about-delta-8-flower/

Understand the facts about Kratom and the questions associated with it

You might have heard of Kratom ( Mitragyna speciose), a herbal supplement traditionally used across Southeast Asia for energy and to ease pains and discomforts. Kratom is an alkaloid compound found in evergreen trees, mitragynine, and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

While Kratom is a mild stimulant in small doses, it can trigger an opiate-like feeling when taken in large doses. Kratom is currently classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a “drug of concern” and is not cleared for use in medical settings by FDA. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

How to Identify Kratom

Kratom appears like dried or fresh leaves. They can be transformed into leafy powder dissolved into liquid gum or pills. They are usually labeled “not intended for consumption by humans.” Kratom is chewed by people who chew leaves, brew powdered or dried leaves as tea, eat the leaves in food items, or smoke the leaves.

Kratom is, in essence, a natural opioid. As with most available opioids, it is possible for dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal. It is believed that mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine can help manage the pain of the opioid receptors. This could can, in turn, decrease the perception of pain. Kratom is gaining popularity as a substitute for opioid painkillers such as Vicodin ( hydrocodone) and OxyContin ( oxycodone). In many instances, Kratom alleviates chronic pain with arthritis and fibromyalgia.

What Do the Experts Say About Kratom

Kratom advocates believe that the plant could act as an alternative to the opioid problem as it offers another alternative for pain relief and also by helping those who are struggling to overcome addiction to opioids. Today, there are many types of Kratom products available on the market, including Kratom gummies, kratom extract capsules, and Kratom shots.

The Signs of Kratom Use

Suppose you know someone who is taking Kratom. In that case, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for common negative effects (such as increased talkativeness, social interaction and itching, and changes in appetite or sweating) and any other unusual or drastic changes in behavior, mood, appearance, and general health.

Common Questions Concerning Kratom

Many believe that since Kratom is a herbal supplement is safe to use. It’s crucial to remember that the FDA doesn’t monitor supplements before they enter the market. There’s no assurance that the supplement will include the ingredients mentioned on its label (or that the ingredients listed show up in the quantities listed). Adulteration and contamination with other herbs, drugs, or substances are likely. For instance, in 2018, around 199 Americans were sickened after taking Kratom, which was contaminated with Salmonella. 

Kratom Intolerant, Dependence and withdrawal

Kratom is a drug that can pose a risk of dependence, tolerance, or withdrawal. Once users stop using the drug, they may experience withdrawal symptoms as a result of building a tolerance or needing to continue using the drug to achieve the desired effects.

How Much Time Does Kratom stay in your system?

Kratom’s half-life can only be determined through further research. Like all substances, the length of time the time Kratom is within your body will depend on the following aspects:

• Age
• Body fat
• Frequency of usage
• Genetics
• Metabolic rate
• Kratom is a type of plant.
• Drinking water and eating food

Kratom Addiction

The DEA declares that Kratom can cause dependence and could cause psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and anxiety. 

It is not common for everyone to suffer from addiction in the same manner. However, many distinct symptoms and signs include dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal. Other typical signs of addiction are:

• Changes in friendships, changes in sleep patterns, changes in weight, and changes in activity levels
• Financial trouble
• The loss of interest in social, leisure, or hobbies or even at work or school
• Theft, secretiveness, or lying
• Storing up stashes of drugs or items of paraphernalia
• Problems scaling back or stop taking a
• A lot of time engaged in the process of obtaining, using, and then recovering from the use of the drug

Withdrawal

Patients who consume large doses of Kratom many times a day have an increased chance of developing moderate or severe withdrawal effects. However, in general, withdrawal symptoms tend to be less severe than opioid withdrawal and can include:

• Reduced appetite
• Diarrhea
• Sleeping difficulties
• Fever
• Hot flashes
• Pain and muscle spasms are increased.
• Mood disturbances
• Nose irritated and runny
• Eyes watery

What is the Best Way to Get Help Using Kratom?

Being in pain isn’t an easy task. If you’re suffering from discomfort, you might be well aware of its impact on your daily life. If you’re considering taking a kratom supplement, consult your physician first. For instance, mindfulness (and other practices that focus on the mind and body) can help certain people manage pain despite daily life stresses. You can visit Topps Kratom to know more about the Kratom and its products.

source https://www.jbklutse.com/understand-the-facts-about-kratom/

Instagram hosts its first creators event in Ghana, celebrating the country’s growing and innovative creator scene

Instagram held its first event in Ghana, gathering 20 of the country’s leading content creators to celebrate the growing abundance of creative talents using Instagram as a platform to share their talent, express themselves and inspire their communities.

During this exclusive dinner, which was hosted by regional leaders from Instagram and its parent company Meta, creators were treated to an evening of fine dining, great conversations, as well as insightful tips to help them unlock the full potential of their Instagram experience.

Moon Baz, Head of Creator Partnerships, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, acknowledged the creative ways in which Ghanaian content creators are using Instagram to tell stories and act as drivers of inspiration within the Instagram community in Ghana and beyond. She also shared how creators can monetise by showcasing their talents to the world.

Speaking on Instagram’s investments in the country, Ali McInerney, Director of Communications, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Instagram emphasised that Instagram was committed to supporting content creators by providing the requisite resources and tips needed to share their talent and grow existing communities. She also stressed on how creators are integral to the future of Instagram and how their features & tools are developed with creators’ success in mind.

Creators inspire their communities and push culture forward. Whether they are just starting out or further along in building their business.

The exclusive evening was attended by Nadia Buari, Nana Aba Anamoah, Sika Osei, Laud Anoo Konadu, SDK Dele Sadik Sulley, Enoch Boateng, Zion Felix, Eugene Osafo-Nkansah, Kwadwo Sheldon, Afua Rida, Samera Buari to name a few.

In an evening filled with beauty, great entertainment and a seated three-course dinner, check out what some of your favourite content creators wore to the event.

source https://www.jbklutse.com/instagram-hosts-its-first-creators-event-in-ghana/

Softie, one of the most successful African political documentaries, comes to Showmax

Softie, the most successful Kenyan documentary ever, locally and internationally, and one of Africa’s best political documentary, is now streaming on Showmax. Directed by Sam Soko, who also co-produces alongside Toni Kamau, Softie follows Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi’s political pursuit and the pressures it puts on his family.

Known for his outspokenness against injustice and daring protests that have seen him constantly clash with the police, Boniface, who calls himself ‘The People’s Watchman’, is arguably Kenya’s most prominent activist of our time. Filmed for seven years, Softie traces Boniface’s love and commitment for his country through his early days as a photojournalist at the centre of the 2007 post-election violence, as a vocal activist, and as a politician looking to create a better Kenya for his children.

In the film’s 96 minutes, we follow Boniface on his new journey as he tries his hands in politics for the first time in the 2017 elections, hoping to change the system he’s so persistently fought from inside. “I’m going to topple the government,” he tells his young son. Softie offers a very intimate look at Boniface’s life that has never been seen before in his very public and bold activism, and especially, the toll that it takes on his family – wife Njeri Mwangi and their three young children, who at some point, are forced to flee to America when they start receiving death threats.

As he wrestles with his duty to country and to family, Boniface is faced with the ultimate question: Should country come before family? Lauded by critics, Softie has a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes with Roger Ebert calling it “a tense political thriller, gripping its audience’s attention as the events lead to the inevitable election day showdown”; The Film Stage “a compelling act of defiance”; and Shadow and Act “bold and emotionally visceral.” Softie also attracted praise from Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o, whose politician father has served as a government minister, a member of parliament, a senator and is now the current governor of Kisumu County.

Lupita tweeted, “As the child of a political activist who witnessed their father being harassed and injured, who wondered when and if he would come home at night, the documentary Softie moved me.” She added, “It is the incredible story about the activist Boniface Mwangi and his journey to uncover the truth behind Kenya’s disheartening politics and corrupt system. If you believe in governments for the people, by the people and of the people, this film is for you.”

Softie won multiple awards, including a Special Jury Award for Editing at Sundance Film Festival in 2020, with Boniface named one of The Unforgettables by Cinema Eye last year. Softie was also nominated for the News and Documentary Emmy Awards 2021 in the Outstanding Politics and Government Documentary category; Best Feature from the 2021 International Documentary Association Awards; 2021 Peabody Awards and the 2021 Producers Guild of America (PGA) Awards for Outstanding Producer of Documentary Motion Picture for Sam Soko and Toni Kamau, among other accolades.

Back home away from the global awards and festivals, Softie made history in 2020 as the first-ever Kenyan film to run in cinemas for seven consecutive weeks.
Watch trailer: https://youtu.be/C5CoueaGSho

source https://www.jbklutse.com/softie-comes-to-showmax/