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Fusion Transport Drafts the Cargo Theft Playbook for the Shipping Industry

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Frank Matarazzo, Owner and CEO of Fusion Transport, envisions a “Cargo Theft Playbook” for vendors, retailers, and trucking companies to follow in order to win the game against an increasingly clever network of organized criminals. It’s time to take an offensive stance against a relentless adversary and fortify all defenses.

RUTHERFORD, N.J., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — A recent report suggests that cargo theft in the first quarter of 2024 increased 46% from the same period in 2023, with 925 reported incidents resulting in an estimated total loss of nearly $155 million. The top three targeted states are Texas (22% increase), California (72% increase), and Illinois (126% increase), with thieves zeroing in on high-value commodities like small appliances, liquor, and copper. (1) These thefts, ranging from complex fraud schemes to straightforward cargo thefts, highlight the urgency for enhanced offensive and defensive measures. Frank Matarazzo, owner and CEO of Fusion Transport, observes, “The sophistication of these thefts is alarming. Criminals are using advanced techniques like ‘strategic theft,’ where they impersonate brokers and carriers, rerouting freight to themselves. This kind of ingenuity requires a multifaceted response.”

“Instituting a cargo theft playbook will strengthen our industry’s defenses against the growing sophistication and ingenuity of today’s cargo thieves.” — Frank Matarazzo, CEO of Fusion Transport

The theft of high-value goods like solar panels, energy drinks, and virtual reality headsets results in millions of dollars in losses. Cargo theft is becoming more strategic and high-tech. Fictitious pickups are one strategy where criminals manipulate legitimate documents and pose as authorized truck drivers. International cargo theft rings are stealing freight virtually without having to be physically on-site. Most shipments are arranged via load boards, which are online freight-matching services that can facilitate identity theft. (2)

The National Retail Federation (NRF) notes that thieves are not limiting themselves to high-priced targets like electronics and pharmaceuticals; they are going after a broader range of products, including food and beverages, as long as they can make a profit. The NRF encourages partnerships between retailers, transportation groups, and law enforcement. (3)

In June 2024, Congressman David Valadao (R-CA) introduced the Safeguarding Our Supply Chains Act with support from the American Trucking Associations (ATA). This bill proposes the creation of a Supply Chain Fraud and Theft Task Force led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in collaboration with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney General. The task force will focus on addressing theft and fraud across rail, motor carrier, and intermodal systems, with a dedicated Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center for data analysis and crime detection. The legislation authorizes $100 million in funding over five years, aspiring to strengthen cooperation among motor carriers, law enforcement, and the government. (4)

From High Tech Solutions to Rigorous Vetting: The Ultimate Cargo Theft Playbook
Matarazzo insists that every driver and every truck must be verified. “You have to stop it before it starts,” he explains.
A possible way to achieve this is by cross-referencing the driver and truck VIN against the insurance policy. “When were the driver and the equipment added to the policy? If they were just added yesterday, that raises a red flag”, Matarazzo points out. “You need to ensure the company’s operating authority is legitimate and has not undergone suspicious ownership changes”.

To tackle this escalating problem, Matarazzo proposes a “Cargo Theft Playbook” that outlines several critical measures:

1. Real-Time Tracking: Implementing state-of-the-art GPS tracking systems allows for continuous monitoring of shipments, ensuring immediate detection of unauthorized route deviations.
2. Rigorous Vetting: Thoroughly vetting all cargo partners is essential. This includes verifying identities, checking backgrounds, and confirming the legitimacy of business practices to prevent fraudulent actors from infiltrating the supply chain.
3. Advanced Security Technologies: Utilizing advanced security measures such as tamper-evident seals, smart locks, and biometric verification can significantly enhance shipment security.
4. Continuous Staff Training: Provide ongoing training programs on the latest security protocols and fraud detection techniques. Ensuring that all employees are well-informed and vigilant helps identify potential threats early.
5. Multi-Layered Security Approach: Combining various security measures creates a resilient defense against theft:

Tailored Security Procedures: Develop customized security protocols based on the type of goods and their value.Technology Integration: Employ tools like identification scanners and thorough photographic documentation of shipments.Human Oversight: Ensure continuous in-person monitoring to help recognize red flags that automated systems might miss.

As a leader in tech-driven freight management solutions, Fusion Transport continues to advocate for stronger communication, cooperation, and cross-functional strategies to coalesce all players in the game in their fight against a common foe. –
Matarazzo asserts, “Instituting a cargo theft playbook will strengthen our industry’s defenses against the growing sophistication and ingenuity of today’s cargo thieves. Outlining concrete prevention measures like real-time tracking, rigorous vetting, advanced security technologies, continuous staff training, and strong law enforcement partnerships ensures all stakeholders are well-prepared and coordinated in their efforts to create a united front against a growing criminal enterprise.”

About Fusion Transport
Freight industry visionary Frank Matarazzo responded to the complex challenges of shipping logistics, consumer demands, and the need for advanced supply chain solutions by creating Fusion Transport. Emerging from two third-party logistics brokerages and based in Rutherford, NJ, Fusion Transport has become a pivotal force in retail consolidation and is now a leader in technology-driven freight management solutions. With over 40 years of expertise, the company is revolutionizing the North American less-than-truckload (LTL) network through a technology-based approach that not only meets market demands but also reduces the inefficiencies typically seen in traditional LTL carrier networks. This innovative strategy offers a more streamlined and cost-effective option for shipping merchandise in LTL quantities across the country, epitomizing the disruptive, customer-focused ethos of Fusion Transport. For more information, visit their website at https://www.fusiontransport.com/.

References:
1. “2024 First Quarter Supply Chain Risk Trends Analysis.” CargoNet, cargonet.com/news-and-events/cargonet-in-the-media/2024-q1-theft-trends/. Accessed 30 July 2024.
2. “Cargo Theft Rates Surge as Criminals Go High-Tech.” Business Insurance, businessinsurance.com/article/20240625/NEWS06/912365205/Cargo-theft-rates-surge-as-criminals-go-high-tech. Accessed 30 July 2024.
3. Jonathan Gold VP, et al. “Cargo Theft Trends and Lessons Learned.” NRF, 8 July 2024, nrf.com/blog/cargo-theft-trends-and-lessons-learned.
4. “Ata Applauds Introduction of Bill to Fight Cargo Theft.” American Trucking Associations, trucking.org/news-insights/ata-applauds-introduction-bill-fight-cargo-theft. Accessed 30 July 2024.

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Capital Advantage, Inc. Offers Tailored Financial Services for Kaiser Permanente® and TPMG Employees

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WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Capital Advantage, Inc., a trusted name in wealth management, is proud to highlight its specialized services designed to meet the unique financial needs of Kaiser Permanente® and The Permanente Medical Group (TPMG) employees.

At Capital Advantage, we understand the complexities of Kaiser Permanente® and TPMG benefit plans. Our team is dedicated to helping healthcare professionals navigate their robust and often intricate benefit options. With over 30 years of expertise and a deep understanding of Kaiser’s offerings, we craft personalized financial plans to help maximize the value of our clients’ benefits.

“We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that healthcare professionals face in managing their financial lives,” says Ian Castille, CFP®, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor at Capital Advantage, Inc.

Donna Zinman, CRPC®, Principal and Senior Advisor, adds, “Our goal is to educate our clients about their attractive benefit options and help them make the most of these opportunities.”

Key services for Kaiser Permanente® and TPMG employees include customized portfolio strategies and personalized guidance on retirement savings plans, identification of ideal pension options and annual open-enrollment benefit selections, advice on traditional vs. Roth 401(k) options, advanced tax-saving strategies (such as mega-backdoor Roth contributions), and simplification of retirement planning by working directly with Kaiser/TPMG’s benefits department. These services are designed to provide Kaiser/TPMG employees with peace of mind, confidence, and financial empowerment as they navigate their retirement and benefits planning.

About Capital Advantage, Inc.

Capital Advantage is a trusted, independently owned wealth management firm with over 40 years of experience helping individuals and families to achieve their financial goals. As a 100% fee-only fiduciary, Capital Advantage strives to provide financial peace of mind to each and every client, delivering large institution expertise with the personalized care and attention of a boutique firm. Our experienced advisors work closely with pre-retirees and retirees, women navigating unique financial journeys, and Kaiser Permanente® and The Permanente Medical Group (TPMG) employees to create strategies that provide clarity, confidence, and long-term success.

For more information on Capital Advantage’s services visit: Kaiser/TPMG Employees – Capital Advantage, Inc. or call (925) 299-1500 to contact one of our advisors for a no-cost initial consultation.

Disclaimer: Capital Advantage, Inc. is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Kaiser Permanente® or TPMG (The Permanente Medical Group)

Limitations: No amount of experience, recognition, or past success, nor the achievement of any professional designation, certification, degree, or license should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if Capital Advantage is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. Please see Important Disclosure.

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NASA Sets Coverage for Firefly First Commercial Robotic Moon Launch

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WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Carrying NASA science and technology to the Moon as part of the agency’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative and Artemis campaign, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Mission 1 is targeting launch Wednesday, Jan. 15. The mission will lift off on a SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Live launch coverage will air on NASA+ with prelaunch events starting Monday, Jan. 13. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media. Follow all events at:

https://www.nasa.gov/live/

After the launch, Firefly’s Blue Ghost lander will spend approximately 45 days in transit to the Moon before landing on the lunar surface in early March. The lander will carry 10 NASA science investigations to further our understanding of the Moon’s environment and help prepare for future human missions to the lunar surface, as part of the agency’s Moon to Mars exploration approach. 

Science investigations on this flight aim to test and demonstrate lunar subsurface drilling technology, regolith sample collection capabilities, global navigation satellite system abilities, radiation tolerant computing, and lunar dust mitigation methods. The data captured could benefit humans on Earth by providing insights into how space weather and other cosmic forces impact Earth. 

The deadline has passed for media accreditation for in-person coverage of this launch. The agency’s media accreditation policy is available online. More information about media accreditation is available by emailing: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov.

Full coverage of this mission is as follows (all times Eastern):

Monday, Jan. 13
2:30 p.m. – Lunar science media teleconference with the following participants:

Chris Culbert, CLPS program manager, NASA’s Johnson Space CenterMaria Banks, CLPS project scientist, NASA Johnson

Audio of the teleconference will stream live on the agency’s website:

https://www.nasa.gov/live/

Media may ask questions via phone only. For the dial-in number and passcode, please contact the Kennedy newsroom no later than 1:30 p.m. EST Jan. 13, at: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.

Tuesday, Jan. 14
1 p.m. – Lunar delivery readiness media teleconference with the following participants:

Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA HeadquartersJason Kim, CEO, Firefly AerospaceJulianna Scheiman, director, NASA science missions, SpaceXMark Burger, launch weather officer, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s 45th Weather Squadron

Audio of the teleconference will stream live on the agency’s website:

https://www.nasa.gov/live/

Media may ask questions via phone only. For the dial-in number and passcode, please contact the Kennedy newsroom no later than 12 p.m. EST on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.

Wednesday, Jan. 15
12:30 a.m. – Launch coverage begins on NASA+ and the agency’s website.

1:11 a.m. – Launch

NASA Launch Coverage
Audio only of the media teleconferences and launch coverage will be carried on the NASA “V” circuits, which may be accessed by dialing 321-867-1220, -1240, or -7135. On launch day, the full mission broadcast can be heard on -1220 and -1240, while the countdown net only can be heard on -7135 beginning approximately one hour before the mission broadcast begins.

On launch day, a “tech feed” of the launch without NASA TV commentary will be carried on the NASA TV media channel.

NASA Website Launch Coverage
Launch day coverage of the mission will be available on the NASA website. Coverage will include live streaming and blog updates beginning no earlier than 12:30 a.m. EST Jan. 15, as the countdown milestones occur. On-demand streaming video and photos of the launch will be available shortly after liftoff. For questions about countdown coverage, contact the Kennedy newsroom at 321-867-2468. Follow countdown coverage on our launch blog for updates.

NASA Virtual Guests for Launch
Members of the public can register to attend this launch virtually. Registrants will receive mission updates and activities by email, including curated mission resources, schedule updates, and a virtual guest passport stamp following a successful launch. Print your passport and get ready to add your stamp!

Watch, Engage on Social Media
Let people know you’re following the mission on X, Facebook, and Instagram by using the hashtag #Artemis. You can also stay connected by following and tagging these accounts:

X: @NASA, @NASAKennedy, @NASAArtemis, @NASAMoon

Facebook: NASA, NASAKennedy, NASAArtemis

Instagram: @NASA, @NASAKennedy, @NASAArtemis

Coverage en Español
Did you know NASA has a Spanish section called NASA en español? Check out NASA en español on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for additional mission coverage.

Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitar entrevistas en español, comuníquese con Antonia Jaramillo o Messod Bendayan a: antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov o messod.c.bendayan@nasa.gov.

For media inquiries relating to the launch provider, please contact SpaceX’s communications department by emailing: media@spacex.com. For media inquiries relating to the CLPS provider, Firefly Aerospace, please contact Firefly’s communication department by emailing: press@fireflyspace.com.
For more information about the agency’s CLPS initiative, see:

https://www.nasa.gov/clps

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nasa-sets-coverage-for-firefly-first-commercial-robotic-moon-launch-302348344.html

SOURCE NASA

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Universal Brain Announces Publication of Groundbreaking Depression Research Using Multiple Event-Related Potentials

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New findings support the company’s neuroscience-driven approach to precision psychiatry, offering actionable insights for personalized depression treatment

PALO ALTO, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Universal Brain, a pioneering technology company focused on transforming mental healthcare through neuroscience, today announced the publication of its latest peer-reviewed study, “Neurotyping depression using multiple event-related potentials (ERPs): Leveraging task-based variation to predict remission in depression,” the paper introduces a novel framework for detecting unique neurophysiological patterns that can help predict which depressed patients are most likely to achieve remission from depression.

“By combining several EEG paradigms with novel statistical analyses, we’re moving closer to a future where depression therapies can be precisely tailored to each individual,” said Kazu Okuda, Chief Executive Officer of Universal Brain. “In particular, we are poised to leverage a battery of EEG paradigms to better subtype depression – which will pave the way for more precision in treatment development and selection.  These functional measures of brain activity (i.e., neurotypes) will be used to determine what treatment works best for whom.”

Key Highlights of the Study

Multi-Task ERP Analyses
The study leveraged multiple cognitive and emotional tasks to capture a broader spectrum of brain responses, thereby enabling more robust classification of distinct depression subtypes.Predictive Neurotyping
Through comprehensive ERP assessment, researchers identified patterns linked to a higher likelihood of remission in depression, paving the way for more targeted clinical strategies. Combining ERPs from multiple tasks outperformed classifications based on more traditional single-task analyses.Implications for Precision Psychiatry
These findings underscore the potential of individualized treatment pathways—an approach backed by emerging research in the field of precision psychiatry, which calls for data-driven, personalized solutions to improve outcomes in mental health.

“This work is especially exciting because it bridges the gap between laboratory-based assessments and potential real-world clinical practice. We believe our new method can help physicians potentially select treatment but also help clinicians fine-tune therapeutic interventions to an individual’s unique neural signature,” commented Greg Hajcak, Chief Scientific Advisor of Universal Brain. “By leveraging multiple ERPs in varying tasks, we can aim to better predict who will respond to specific treatments, a key step in transforming how we approach depression management.”

Championing Precision Psychiatry

Universal Brain’s overarching mission is to integrate cutting-edge neuroscience with clinical insights to advance precision psychiatry—a transformative model of care that personalizes interventions based on individual biological, behavioral, and environmental factors. This focus resonates with emerging trends in psychiatric research to enhance treatment outcomes.

In close collaboration with academic institutions, research hospitals, and clinical partners, Universal Brain continues to drive neuroscience-based innovation that bridges the gap between academic discoveries and real-world patient care.

For more information on Universal Brain’s research and the company’s commitment to developing neuroscience-driven solutions for mental health, please visit universal-brain.com or email us at media@universal-brain.com.

About Universal Brain

Universal Brain is a science-driven technology company dedicated to revolutionizing mental healthcare by unlocking the power of precision psychiatry. Drawing on advances in neuroscience, data analytics, and engineering, Universal Brain develops innovative tools and platforms that personalize psychiatric treatment and improve patient outcomes. To learn more, visit www.universal-brain.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/universal-brain-announces-publication-of-groundbreaking-depression-research-using-multiple-event-related-potentials-302348351.html

SOURCE Universal Brain

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