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The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Awarded $260K For Students

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology announced it has been awarded $260,000 as part of the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, a federal government initiative for colleges and universities to assist low-income, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities. The U.S. Department of Education earlier this month set aside $51.7 million in 189 new grant awards to institutions of higher education such as The Chicago School to provide disadvantaged college students effective preparation for doctoral studies. “We are excited to implement new programs that will further set up our students for success in school and in their chosen professions,” said Dr. Michele Nealon, President of The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. “We are deeply invested in enlarging the pipeline of mental health professionals who will go on to work in underserved communities where they are needed most.” Through McNair grant funding, The Chicago School will offer research or other scholarly activities, such as summer internships and seminars to students. McNair-funded initiatives also prepare students for doctoral study through tutoring, academic counseling, and assistance with securing admission to and financial assistance for enrollment in graduate programs. McNair projects may also fund financial and economic literacy of students, mentoring programs, and exposure to cultural events and academic programs not usually available to disadvantaged students. The Chicago School is a majority minority-serving institution serving more than 6,000 students, maintains campuses in six major metro areas and an online program. Two-thirds of its students identify as people of color. About The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Integrating theory with hands-on experience, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology provides education rooted in a commitment to innovation, service, and community for thousands of diverse students across the United States and globally. Founded in 1979, the nonprofit, regionally accredited university now features campuses in iconic locations across the country (Chicago, Southern California, Washington, D.C., New Orleans, Dallas) and online. To spark positive change in the world where it matters most, The Chicago School has continued to expand its educational offerings beyond the field of psychology to offer more than 30 degrees and certificates in the professional fields of health services, education, counseling, business, and more. Through its engaged professional model of education, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and an extensive network of domestic and international professional partnerships, The Chicago School’s students receive real-world training opportunities that reflect their future careers. The Chicago School is proud to be a part of TCS Education System, a nonprofit, integrated system of colleges and universities that work collaboratively to advance student success and community impact. To learn more, visit www.thechicagoschool.edu. Contact Details The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Vivien Hao +1 323-893-4743 vhao@thechicagoschool.edu The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Victor Abalos +1 818-321-5371 vabalos@thechicagoschool.edu

August 26, 2022 06:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Hong Kong Baptist University scientists develop versatile compound for treating Alzheimer’s disease

Hong Kong Baptist University

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 24 August 2022 - A study led by researchers from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has demonstrated that a multifunctional organic compound named F-SLOH has the potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD) at an early stage. The team found that it can inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-beta (Aβ), and reduce the hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins and neuroinflammation in the brain to improve the pathological features of AD. The findings have been published in the international academic journal Redox Biology. The study conducted by Professor Li Min (left), Professor Ricky Wong Man-shing (right) and Dr Iyaswamy Ashok (middle) provides the first in vivo evidence that F-SLOH is an effective agent that can target and treat multiple neurodegenerative changes in an AD mouse model. AD is the most common cause of dementia. It accounts for nearly 65% of dementia cases in elderly Hong Kong Chinese. It is pathologically characterised by the abnormal aggregation of Aβ, the hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins and neuroinflammation in the nerve cells in the brain, which cause progressive neuronal loss and cognitive impairment. Currently there is no cure for AD, and the available medicines can only relieve its symptoms. Inhibiting the abnormal aggregation of Aβ and the hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins is considered the primary and a promising therapeutic approach to treat AD. F-SLOH as theragnostic agent for AD In the search for novel therapeutic and diagnostic methods for AD, a research team comprising Professor Li Min, Professor of the Teaching and Research Division and Associate Dean of the School of Chinese Medicine; Professor Ricky Wong Man-shing, Professor of the Department of Chemistry of the Faculty of Science; and Dr Iyaswamy Ashok, Research Assistant Professor of the Teaching and Research Division of the School of Chinese Medicine at HKBU, demonstrated the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of a compound called F-SLOH in reducing the abnormal aggregation of Aβ, the hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins and neuroinflammation in the nerves cells in the brain, thereby improving the learning and memory functions of mice with AD. F-SLOH is a multi-functional cyanine probe synthesised by a team led by Professor Ricky Wong Man-shing for the detection of biological materials such as proteins and peptides. Its features include real-time visualisation of Aβ aggregation in brains, excellent permeability across the blood-brain barrier and low bio-toxicity. Previous studies showed that F-SLOH could inhibit the abnormal aggregation of Aβ species and provide neuroprotection against neurotoxicity induced by the abnormal aggregation of Aβ in vitro at the cellular level. F-SLOH improves pathological features in AD mice To determine the therapeutic efficacy of F-SLOH for AD, the researchers injected or fed F-SLOH to a group of transgenic AD mice. Histopathology and biochemical analyses showed that in mice treated with F-SLOH, Aβ oligomers (one of the Aβ species) and Aβ plaque deposits (the clumps of Aβ) were dramatically reduced in their hippocampus and their brains when compared with the AD mice in the control group who had not been fed F-SLOH. The researchers also found that F-SLOH can reduce the levels of an amyloid precursor protein that generates Aβ and tau protein hyperphosphorylation. In an immunoblot analysis of the transgenic AD mice brian, the F-SLOH treatment group showed a significant reduction in the levels of the amyloid precursor protein and its metabolites compared to the control group. In other experiments on the transgenic AD mice after F-SLOH treatment, the researchers separated the soluble and insoluble tau proteins in their brain tissue samples. The results showed that F-SLOH treatment significantly reduced the levels of insoluble tau protein in the brains of AD mice, which forms neurofibrillary tangles, one of the pathological features of AD. F-SLOH improves memory and cognitive functions in AD mice Aggregation of Aβ is closely related to the dysfunction of the links between nerve cells and memory decline. The researchers conducted two experiments to test the memory functions of AD mice. In the first experiment, mice were trained to swim in a water maze, reach a platform and remember its position. After the platform was removed, researchers observed whether the mice were able to recall and approach the original position of the platform. Compared to the control group, transgenic AD mice treated with F-SLOH spent more time swimming around the platform’s original position, showing that they can better memorise the platform’s location. In the second experiment, mice were placed in a chamber and exposed to an audio tone followed by an instant small electric shock to their feet from the floor of the chamber. On the following day, they were put back in the chamber but without any electric shock. When the mice were exposed to the same audio tone, they “froze” their body movements due to the fear of an electric shock. The transgenic AD mice treated with F-SLOH exhibited a longer freezing time than that of the control group. The results of the two experiments showed that AD mice treated with F-SLOH have better memories compared to the control group, suggesting that F-SLOH improved AD mice’s memory and cognitive functions. F-SLOH shows early potential for treating AD The researchers also revealed that F-SLOH degraded the abnormal aggregation of Aβ and reduced the levels of tau protein hyperphosphorylation, the amyloid precursor protein and its metabolites through the activation of the transcription factor EB. Transcription factor EB is the main regulator of the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, a major mechanism for degrading ageing intracellular macromolecular proteins, including the intracellular metabolites such as Aβ aggregates. Professor Li Min said: “AD patients lose their self-management abilities and require long-term care as the disease progresses. As the population is ageing in Hong Kong, the prevalence of AD is likely to increase. There is an urgent need to develop new drugs that can treat or slow down the progression of AD. The current study suggests that the compound F-SLOH has promising theragnostic potential for treating AD at an early stage.” Professor Ricky Wong Man-shing said: “The study provides the first in vivo evidence that F-SLOH is an effective agent that can target and treat multiple neurodegenerative changes in an AD mouse model. The research findings can drive advancements in AD diagnosis and treatment in humans.” Contact Details Communication and Public Relations Office at HKBU Christina Wu christinawu@hkbu.edu.hk

August 25, 2022 10:52 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Giving Metabolism A Boost? BioRestorative Uses Science Surrounding Brown Fat Cells To Provide A Possible Breakthrough In Metabolic Disorders

BioRestorative Therapies, Inc.

In 2017, 41.9% of Americans experienced some level of obesity. Adults experiencing obesity in 2019 spent an average of $1,861 more on medical expenses than people with a healthy weight. For people who experience obesity, the presence of excess fat is a legitimate concern that can cost money, cause additional health problems and be associated with psychological problems such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Some of the health concerns associated with obesity include high blood pressure, high bad cholesterol and low good cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease and osteoarthritis. Research has found that extreme obesity is associated with suicidal behavior and suicide attempts in adults. With growing data on the impacts of obesity, researchers at organizations like the National Institute of Health and Harvard Medical School have devoted resources to understanding new methods for combatting metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Both the National Institute of Health and Harvard Medical School reportedly made an exciting discovery. While fat has often been villainized, what many people may not know is that there are two types of fat cells — brown fat cells and white fat cells. Excessive amounts of white fat can be concerning and may lead to an increased risk for health issues such as heart disease, diabetes and numerous other metabolic diseases. On the other hand, brown fat cells have been found to potentially be an important tool for combating different metabolic diseases. When people with high brown fat activity are exposed to a relatively cold temperature, a protein (SLC25A44) is produced and used as energy in cells to generate heat, which results in burned calories and increased metabolism. When researchers blocked the production of this protein in mice, it was found to increase levels of obesity and signs of diabetes. Researchers found that boosting SLC25A44 activity is a promising strategy for potentially treating conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Companies such as Ember Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: EMBT), Adipo Therapeutics LLC and BioRestorative Therapies Inc. (NASDAQ: BRTX) are actively working to use these scientific studies to combat metabolic diseases. Promising New Treatments One of the treatments developed by BioRestorative Therapies designed to potentially target obesity, diabetes and other metabolic disorders is ThermoStem. BioRestorative says that the ThermoStem program uses brown adipose-derived (otherwise known as brown fat) stem cells to help increase metabolic activity. Previously published studies by BioRestorative have demonstrated that transplanting brown fat can increase metabolic activity and regulate metabolic dysfunction in diet-induced obese mice. BioRestorative Therapies reports it is working on Investigational New Drug Application (IND)-enabling studies to enter into first-in-man clinical studies. Using a cell-based approach to target metabolic disorders may potentially provide a disruptive solution to address a multi-billion market opportunity. While the fight against metabolic disorders such as obesity is far from over, it is hopeful that therapies based on the findings surrounding brown fat, such as ThermoStem may provide relief for many currently struggling. BioRestorative Therapies was founded by scientists and researchers committed to developing stem cell therapies to address unmet needs in patients with highly prevalent conditions.Our advances in stem cell biology and delivery protocols harbor great promise in conditioning our bodies’ own regenerative potential to treat major diseases more effectively than current interventions.Today, BioRestorative is actively developing programs that aim to dramatically increase quality of care for both (i) chronic back pain caused by disc degeneration, as well as (ii) metabolic disorders including obesity and diabetes. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Investor Relations ir@biorestorative.com Company Website https://www.biorestorative.com/

August 25, 2022 03:49 PM Eastern Daylight Time

This Company Reports Its Consumer Therapeutics Could Be A Game Changer For People With Skin Problems

Jupiter Wellness, Inc.

From allergies and insect bites to sunburns and irritations, the human skin can succumb to several conditions, including acne, psoriasis, blisters, hives, actinic keratosis, rosacea, and carbuncle. Skin diseases are more prevalent than many think; they currently make up 1.79% of the global disease burden. Zooming in on the U.S., the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reports that 84.5 million Americans — 1 in 4 — are impacted by skin diseases. In addition to the debilitating physical and emotional impact, skin diseases can have on people, they can also be a financial strain. Skin diseases cost the U.S. healthcare system $75 billion in medical, preventative and prescription, and nonprescription drug costs. For every three Americans with skin disease, the AAD reports that a dermatologist saw only one. To make matters worse, the dermatology association also observed that acne has become a significant problem among teenagers — more than 85% of young people suffer from at least one form of acne. Demand for effective therapies is growing as cases continue to soar. Luckily, a large number of drugs from companies like AbbVie Inc. (NYSE: ABBV), GSK plc (LON: GSK), Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE: LLY), and Viatris Inc. (NASDAQ: VTRS) have been approved to treat various dermatologic conditions. These drugs are contributing to the growth of the global dermatology treatment market. The market size was $36.82 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $63.99 billion by 2027, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.9% during the forecast period. For a company like Jupiter Wellness Inc. (NASDAQ: JUPW), which is ramping up research, development, and trial of new therapies, the market's growth, and need could present opportunities. The company’s clinical pipeline of prescription skin-care therapeutics addresses health conditions such as eczema, burns, herpes, cold sores, and skin cancer. Founded in 2018, Jupiter Wellness is engaged in early-stage manufacturing, distribution, and marketing of consumer products. A Look At Jupiter Wellness’s Consumer Products The Jupiter, Florida-based company’s clinical pipeline includes JW-100, a novel topical formulation containing CBD and aspartame for treating eczema, dermatitis, and actinic keratosis. Also in the pipeline is JW-300, a prescription product for treating burns, and JW-400, a nonprescription lotion/lip balm for treating symptoms of cold sores. Eczema (JW-100): Topical treatment for atopic dermatitis (eczema) According to Jupiter Wellness, studies showed that JW-100 cleared or reduced eczema symptoms after two weeks of use. Results suggest that JW-100 may potentially prove superior to existing prescription drugs. A Phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial is underway to evaluate the superiority of JW-100 to Eucrisa a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved topical drug) in mild to moderate eczema. Female sexual wellness (RJ-101): Topical treatment for female libido loss The company’s studies showed that RJ-100 increased nipple erection, sensitivity, and genital lubrication in clinical trials conducted on normal patients and those with nipple neuropathy. Jupiter Wellness hopes to launch RJ-101 in 2023 and anticipates it will be sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for female sexual dysfunction and as a consumer product for general sexual wellness and pleasure. Hair Loss (Minoxidil Booster): Topical treatment designed to improve Minoxidil efficacy The company reports minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical drug for treating common hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). The company says clinical studies of Minoxidil Booster have shown it increases the enzymes needed for minoxidil to work, sulfotransferase enzymes, by up to seven times over a two-week period. Minoxidil Booster has been licensed to Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings, a $2.6 billion company and Japan’s leading seller of minoxidil products. It expects to launch the product commercially in 2023. It has also been licensed to India-based Cosmofix Technology and Sanpellegrino Cosmetics and is expected to be launched soon. Psoriasis and vitiligo (Photocil): Topical treatment for psoriasis and vitiligo Jupiter Wellness says Photocil safely and effectively permits phototherapy treatments at home by blocking harmful radiation and allowing the passage of therapeutic ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is anticipated that Photocil will be available online in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2022 as an FDA-approved over-the-counter product under a United States Pharmacopeia (USP) monograph for psoriasis and vitiligo. The company reports that clinical trial results showed that Photocil cream acts as a barrier to nontherapeutic radiation from the sun when skin is exposed to direct daylight. Burns (JW-300): Topical treatment of first-degree burns and sun exposure Jupiter Wellness reports that JW-300 was shown to significantly lower the incidence of burns in patients exposed to UV radiation. JW-300 is being evaluated for sale as an after-sun consumer product to complement the company’s NoStingz sunscreen — topical protection from jellyfish, sea lice, and ultraviolet A (UVA)/ultraviolet B (UVB) rays — and legacy sun care product lines. Cold sores (JW-400): Topical treatment for herpes labialis (cold sores) Jupiter Wellness revealed that phase 1, a double-blind placebo-controlled investigational study in Europe and Asia with FDA-similar protocols initiated in preparation for FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) filing. We support health and wellness through the research and development of over-the-counter (OTC) products and intellectual property. Our product pipeline addresses a range of conditions, including hair loss, eczema, burns, and sexual wellness. Revenue is generated through the sales of OTC and consumer products, contract research agreements, and licensing royalties. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details TraDigital IR- Camille Baptiste camille@tradigitalir.com Company Website https://jupiterwellness.com/

August 25, 2022 03:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

The Legacy Group Joins Forces with AmeriLife’s Senior Market Advisors

AmeriLife

Senior Market Advisors (SMA), one of the fastest growing field marketing organizations (FMO) in the insurance space and an affiliate of AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), announced today that it has partnered with The Legacy Group, a St. Louis-based insurance advisory firm that specializes in distributing Medicare Advantage and retirement solutions to beneficiaries nationwide. Alongside longstanding relationships with some of the nation’s top carriers, the partnership expands SMA’s geographical footprint in the midwestern United States while affording The Legacy Group access to the combined scale, resources and support of SMA and AmeriLife’s industry-leading distribution network. Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Senior Market Advisors is excited to partner with The Legacy Group to further strengthen its footprint as a leader in the Medicare market across the nation,” said Jeff Pitta, founder and CEO of Senior Market Advisors. “The Legacy Group’s growth sits on a strong foundation of innovation and technology that has proven to simplify the agent sales experience and maximize long-term customer retention. We’re excited to combine our resources and capabilities to continue adding value to our distribution partners across the country.” The Legacy Group took shape with AmeriLife a decade ago, and over the last few years expanded as it forged a close relationship with SMA. Since then, both partnerships have contributed significant value to the firm. The formal merger with SMA, under the umbrella of AmeriLife’s leading, national distribution network, will help expand The Legacy Group’s scope of business, drive cross-company synergies, and create increased business efficiencies. “Successful mergers exploit the opportunity to exponentiate sustainable growth, and sustainability is accomplished by focusing on the main competitive advantage in any business: culture,” said Jason Buchheit, president and CEO of The Legacy Group. “Our company’s culture is its foundation – it fuels our innovation and growth. We’re excited to expand upon our culture with partners that promote both professional and personal growth while continuing to focus on excellence and empowering our people.” “The best partnerships often grow from longstanding relationships with shared values,” added AmeriLife Chief Distribution Officer Mike Vietri. “The addition of The Legacy Group, under the leadership of Jeff and SMA, is a testament to the care that AmeriLife takes to building its industry-leading distribution network the right way. We couldn’t be more excited to have Jason and his team officially join ours and look forward to helping them accelerate their growth.” The Legacy Group will continue to operate as a stand-alone organization out of its St. Louis headquarters and under the leadership of Buchheit, who will report to SMA’s head of finance and M&A Vincent (Vinny) Cardi. ### About Senior Market Advisors Senior Market Advisors (SMA) has been people over profits since 2007, by hard work and a commitment to “doing right” by the consumer. We have certainly knocked on our fair share of doors. We know the grit and determination involved in becoming a career agent. And as a result, we have become one of the fastest growing FMOs, doubling our business each year for the past five years. For more information, visit us online at SeniorMarketAdvisors.com. About The Legacy Group The Legacy Group is a leading insurance advisory firm established to provide an unmet need in the healthcare and capital markets. Our purpose is to help our customers navigate the constant changes in these markets, providing relevant, customize solutions that enable them to secure their legacy and protect future generations. For more information, visit LG-3.org. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as the leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and advisors and more than 100 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details AmeriLife - Public Relations Jeff Maldonado +1 321-297-1112 jmaldonado@amerilife.com AmeriLife - Partnership Inquiries Patrick Nichols +1 727-726-0726 pnichols@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/

August 25, 2022 10:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

AmeriLife Expands Career Agency Distribution with Openings of New Offices in Texas and Rhode Island

AmeriLife

AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), a national leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities and retirement planning solutions, announced today that it has opened two new Career Agency offices in Mansfield, Texas, and Cranston, R.I., expanding its presence in two strategically important regions and bringing its total number of Career Agency locations to 52 offices nationwide. “AmeriLife is excited to welcome two new agency office locations into the AmeriLife family,” said Frank Tebyani, president of AmeriLife’s Career Agency. “The Career Agency model is a critical component of AmeriLife’s distribution strategy, and today’s announcement reflects our continued pursuit of expanding to where our beneficiaries are living to help our agents deliver the solutions to meet their total health and retirement needs.” AmeriLife of Texas – Mansfield will operate under the leadership of Market Leader David Rainwater and the day-to-day management of Agency Manager Anthony “Tony” Burnley, representing the fourth AmeriLife office in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. As one of the fastest growing states in the country, Texas continues to be a priority market for AmeriLife, and the opening of the Mansfield office signals the company’s commitment to serving its high-growth and diverse communities. “Texas is becoming one of the largest retirement markets in the United States, and seniors here need quality representation to help them understand their Medicare options” said Rainwater. “I’m excited for Tony to deliver quality service to the Mansfield community and build a team of representatives that serve the senior population and help them with all their retirement planning needs.” AmeriLife of Rhode Island will operate under the leadership of Market Leader Michael Coombs, while Agency Leader Alice Supinski will provide day-to-day management of the office. Alongside its sister office, AmeriLife of the Northeast in Marlborough, Mass., the Cranston office represents AmeriLife’s ongoing push into the Northeast and New England as AmeriLife’s Career Agency distribution continues to expand its map nationwide. “The Medicare boom has hit our region hard, and new providers with direct relationships with some of the best hospital networks in the area have begun to take shape,” said Coombs. “We’re working hand-in-hand with these partners to get the message out to Medicare beneficiaries, and our new Cranston office – under the leadership of longtime Rhode Island resident Alice Supinski – will accelerate our efforts to help agents deliver the health and retirement options our growing community demands.” ### About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as the leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and advisors and more than 100 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details AmeriLife Jeff Maldonado +1 321-297-1112 jmaldonado@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/

August 22, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Millions Suffering From Diabetes May Soon See Relief From Some Of The Pain And Expenses Associated

Know Labs, Inc.

Americans with diabetes have been relying on insulin injections to manage their illness for decades. Those injections can be painful, expensive and inconvenient. The daily invasive testing regimen adds to that pain and inconvenience. But new developments from companies such as Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE: NVO), Rockley Photonics Holdings Ltd (NYSE: RKLY), Movano Inc (NASDAQ: MOVE) and Know Labs Inc. (OTCQB: KNWN) are reportedly on the verge of changing the game for those dealing with diabetes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved Rybelsus, also known as oral semaglutide, which controls blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes patients. Novo, which developed Rybelsus, has not revealed what the pill will cost. Still, the company claims it is committed to working with health insurance providers and pharmacy benefit managers to increase patient access. Novo is not yet done and is awaiting more guidance from the FDA on a second Rybelsus indication — reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues in Type 2 diabetes patients. The price of insulin products has been soaring with Novo, Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE: LLY) and Sanofi SA (NASDAQ: SNY) controlling most of the world’s nearly $30 billion insulin market. Ninety percent of commercially insured patients with Type 2 diabetes are prescribed newer versions of insulin that are more effective and more accessible to administer than the costlier versions. Insulin prices have risen more than 15% across the board in the last 10 years. Newer versions of insulin retail for between $175 and $300 per vial, but several moves have been made in the commercial sector to address affordability. This includes insurance company Cigna Corp. ’s (NYSE: CI) pharmacy benefit Express Scripts division announcing a new program that caps out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes at $25 per month. Beyond the cost and availability of insulin is the issue of invasive or minimally invasive blood glucose diagnostics, which is also seemingly on the verge of change due to companies like Seattle-based Know Labs. The company says its Bio-RFID™ technology uses radio-frequency spectroscopy to direct electromagnetic energy through a substance or material to capture a unique molecular signature. The technology can be integrated into various wearable, mobile or bench-top form factors. That would make it possible to effectively identify and monitor biomarkers that could only previously be performed by invasive, expensive and time-consuming lab-based tests. Know Labs recently announced it was granted two new foundational patents for its proprietary Bio-RFID™ technology. The patents allow the company to protect its ability to create and use any database built with data captured through its noninvasive sensors. The Company believes this widens their technological gap to others pursuing non-invasive diagnostics, such as Movano and Rockley. Know Labs believes it could become the first company to bring an FDA-cleared noninvasive glucose monitoring device to market. It is conducting a 200-person internal clinical trial of Bio-RFID, which will help refine its algorithm and confirm its Bio-RFID accuracy. This could be a significant milestone towards regulatory clearance and ultimately product commercialization, potentially changing the lives of millions worldwide. For more information on Know Labs, Inc., visit www.knowlabs.co. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Know Labs Know Labs info@visualant.net Company Website http://www.knowlabs.co

August 18, 2022 07:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time

GROUNDWORK BIOAG RAISES $18 MILLION TO ACCELERATE DECARBONIZATION OF MAINSTREAM AGRICULTURE

Groundwork BioAg

Groundwork BioAg, a leading producer of mycorrhizal inoculants with broad benefits for mainstream agriculture, has completed an $18 million Series B raise. The round was led by Climate Innovation Capital (ClimateIC) with participation from HSBC Global Asset Management (HSBC), BASF Venture Capital, and Edaphon (a climate-focused fund), as well as individual investor John Abele, Co-Founder and former CEO of Boston Scientific. All previous investors, including MoreVC, Middleland Capital, and Ibex Investors also participated in the round. This new round, which follows rapid global market expansion after Groundwork BioAg’s $11 million raise in 2021, underscores the demand for biologicals that increase yield while providing carbon mitigation, sequestration, and regenerative solutions. “Building upon our proven science and trusted network of distributors, Groundwork BioAg’s Mycorrhizal BioPlatform, which delivers ROI to both conventional and regenerative farmers while permanently sequestering carbon in their fields, is uniquely positioned to help farmers around the world manage mounting economic and environmental pressures,” said Dr. Yossi Kofman, Co-Founder and CEO of Groundwork BioAg. The company has established commercial operations across the world’s major breadbaskets, including the United States, Brazil, China, India, Canada, Ukraine, and other countries in Europe, Asia and Africa, to improve the efficiency of major crop production, including corn, soybean, grains, fruits and vegetables. “We search for commercial solutions that can deliver the greatest amount of decarbonization in the shortest period of time, and Groundwork BioAg fits that profile squarely,” said Nelson Switzer, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of ClimateIC. “Groundwork BioAg has the technology, team, expertise, and network to help farmers leverage a cost-effective solution to reduce fertilizer use, increase crop yield and restore soil health while mitigating and sequestering an extraordinary measure of carbon.” Based on naturally robust strains of mycorrhizal fungi that are symbiotic with 90% of plant species, Groundwork BioAg ’s Mycorrhizal BioPlatform can easily integrate into local planting regimes and fertility programs. “As demand for nature-based, climate solutions accelerates, investing in businesses with a strong potential climate impact is aligned with HSBC sustainability goals,” said Idan Mor, Investment Director, Climate Technology Ventures for HSBC. “Groundwork BioAg offers a compelling net-zero alternative to a critical area of the global economy – our food supply.” "AgTech is one of our key global investment priorities. Groundwork BioAg's founders have developed a highly effective product for widespread use in agriculture that can substantially reduce fertilizer dependency by making phosphorus available to the plant roots. Furthermore, it has the potential to convert and store CO2,” said Markus Solibieda, Managing Director of BASF Venture Capital GmbH. About Groundwork BioAg Groundwork BioAg, a global bioagriculture company, leverages the natural power of mycorrhizal fungi to improve the productivity, sustainability and profitability of commercial agriculture and expand regenerative agriculture practices. Groundwork BioAg is the first to use innovative techniques to solve challenges inherent in high-volume mycorrhizal inoculant production. We will not rest until every hectare of arable land is protected by mycorrhizae and every farmer benefits from higher crop yields while preserving our soils and permanently sequestering carbon. For more information, visit www.groundworkbioag.com. About Climate Innovation Capital Climate Innovation Capital (ClimateIC) is a growth fund investing in technology and service businesses focused on climate change. We find, fund and grow climate innovations with the highest projected financial returns and the greatest decarbonization potential – delivered in the shortest period of time. We leverage our strong network and our extensive experience as operators, climate advisors and investment professionals to source attractive opportunities and enhance the growth prospects of our investments. Visit https://climateic.com/ Contact Details AgTech PR for Groundwork BioAg Jennifer Goldston +1 816-260-0040 jennifer@agtechpr.com Company Website https://www.groundworkbioag.com

August 18, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Urban Health creates world’s smartest wellness assistant as it secures $3.4m funding round

Urban Health

Digital wellness company Urban Health which helps people sleep better, relax and de-stress is today announcing a $3.4m seed funding round as they scale operations globally. Having grown quickly in the US with wide acclaim (4.8 star app rating) they will launch a more personalized service for users. The funding round was led by 3one4 Capital with participation from Venture Highway, Founder Bank Capital and Disney’s Ajay Arora. The Urban Health app smart wellness assistant tracks sleep, steps and mindful minutes while using psychology, personal text-based health coaching and premium recorded audio sessions, to create personalized wellness plans for users to de-stress, relax, improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Meditation and sleep sessions offer guided mindfulness, daily motivation, guided sleep meditations and coaching by world-renowned experts, personalized for the way users live their life. In 2020, Urban raised a $400K pre-seed led by Venture Highway, taking their total funds raised to $3.8M. Co-founders Kshitij Jaggi, Rishabh Sahu and Shivang were IIT Kanpur class fellows and established Urban in 2018 upon graduating. Kshitij was a keen user of fitness and wellness apps on his way to losing 20 kgs and Rishabh had been meditating since his teenage years. While Shivang was already coding tech for consumer products in less than a day, at record speeds. Their personal experiences led them to the problem of plenty: screen time, stress, information overdose, sugar, food, weight gain. The pandemic and customer feedback made them focus on stress, sleep and insomnia use cases and landed on wellness as a broader addressable market because it linked all the problems to each other. Urban operates in an estimated $1.5 Trillion wellness market. Addressing burning consumer wellness issues of anxiety, sleep and lack of mental health infrastructure. National Institutes of Health says nearly 1 in 3 of all adolescents ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder. Nearly half of the world’s population does not get enough sleep. In addition to the detrimental effect on health, sleep deprivation carries high economic costs, estimated at $680 billion a year in five OECD countries including $400 billion for the United States and $60 billion for Germany. Moreover, to better understand US mental health infrastructure: 40% of the US population live in a limited access area to such services and 60% of US counties have no psychiatrist. Demand outstrips supply by 25 times. Kshitij Jaggi, co-founder at Urban commented: “We made a deep dive into this space and realized every customer's journey is different and everyone needs different kinds of assistance. This is at the heart of what we’ve built until now and where we will continue to innovate. Addressing different customer wellness needs and assisting members based on goals is key to what we do. We assist with deep insights, nudging our members to take the right actions at the right time.” Urban Health analyzed user outcomes over a 4-week usage period and found 85% reported improvement in over well-being. Outcomes included better sleep, less stress and more relaxed state of mind in members. The company plans to further invest in efficacy and support clinical studies in this direction. “Just five minutes of mindfulness and meditation per day can improve your life through stress relief and improved sleep. By helping users stay calm and relaxed, it has increased self-awareness and their sense of perspective. Urban Health brings wellness to your pocket and on the go” added Kshitij Jaggi. Company became revenue generating in January 2021 having launched an annual membership service. Demand surged in the US and revenues have grown 20x since then. Urban will use the funds raised to scale its member base and to provide one-to-one professional help via audio and video calls from health coaches. In addition to this, the company plans to provide health and wellness plans for larger communities through partnerships with schools and companies globally. Anurag Ramdasan, Partner at 3one4 capital commented: “Urban health's adoption has taken off. Downloads are up and consumer spend is taking off. We're seeing a sentiment shift: globally people are prioritising their health and are open to invest in their personal wellness needs. Urban health has successfully scaled their reach globally and we are delighted to support the next phase of growth.” Neeraj Arora, Founding Partner at Venture Highway commented: “Proud to be associated with the team since day zero, true product builders at heart. We’re committed to solving the most urgent global health problem of our times with Urban Health.” About Urban Health Urban Health is the world's smartest wellness assistant. Members globally use it to stress less, relax more and sleep better. Platform offers personalized wellness plans for mind, body and sleep. It uses wellness tacking, psychology, personal text based health coaching and premium recorded sessions to help people lead a healthy life.For more information please visit https://urban.health/ Contact Details Urban Health Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://urban.health/

August 17, 2022 11:43 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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