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Sharps Technology's Global Expansion: Achieving Key Milestones To Strengthen Market Position

Benzinga

by Kenneth Adams, Benzinga Sharps Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: STSS), an innovative medical device and pharmaceutical packaging company, and Roncadelle Operations, an Italian-based driving force in the development of novel medical drug delivery devices announced a collaboration aimed at transforming the landscape of drug delivery systems worldwide. This strategic partnership encompasses a series of agreements and initiatives designed to enhance market access, drive collaboration and innovation and promote patient safety worldwide. The partnership commenced in mid-January with the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between Sharps Technology and Roncadelle Operations to enter into a sales and marketing agreement that would enable Sharps and Roncadelle to cooperatively sell and distribute each other’s products to their respective areas of influence and expand Sharps’ American-based product market into Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. By mid-February Sharps began working with Owens & Minor, a leading global healthcare logistics supplier, to establish a 3PL and distribution network across North and South America for both the Sharps and Roncadelle lines of smart disposable safety syringes. “We are excited about this opportunity to collaborate with Roncadelle, a premier manufacturer of smart safety syringes and a leader in the development of drug delivery systems, to expand both our solution offerings in the U.S. and our reach into the world market,” commented Sharps Technology CEO Robert Hayes. “This agreement is very beneficial for both of our companies.” Sharps Technology specializes in the development and manufacturing of innovative drug delivery systems. The company’s Securegard and Sologard product lines focus on low-waste and ultra-low waste syringe technologies that incorporate both active safety features and World Health Organization-accredited reuse prevention measures. Roncadelle’s SafeR Retractable Safety Syringe and needles offer a passive safety system with both auto-disable and reuse prevention features. “Sharing our product portfolio gives our healthcare customers, from large pharmaceutical companies to startup biologics, access to a broad range of solutions and price points to match even their most challenging requirements. This will open up a completely new level of service to the market,” states Ben Scheu, Sharps’ Senior Director of Sales. Sharps reports that the synergy between Sharps and Roncadelle will bring together more than 30 established distribution points with Sharps’ new Owens & Minor partnerships to deliver products to the world healthcare market that stand for simplicity of use and are unparalleled in safety and patient protection, setting new global standards to safeguard people from infection and disease. The business alliance additionally potentially creates a very important player in advancing syringe market opportunities through the development of unique technologies such as prefilled syringes, needle guard systems, auto-injectors and injector pen devices. “It is exciting to see how well our companies complement each other and how we can leverage our combined relationships, expertise, and resources to build out our distribution network, enhance syringe safety around the world, and introduce novel drug delivery solutions to the healthcare industry,” said Robert Hayes, Sharps CEO. On February 21, 2024, Sharps Technology. announced that it was preparing to make the first shipment of its 1mL and 3mL Securegard smart safety syringe line to the Latin American healthcare market. Tapping into the growing interest in safety syringe technology in Latin America, the collaboration will make the Securegard syringe line available to hospitals, pharmacies and direct points of sale and will give healthcare networks access to utilizing the technology and firsthand experience with its real-world benefits. “We are building strategic partnerships within the entire Latin American distribution network to support region-wide efforts to improve medical safety and healthcare outcomes. While implementing wide-scale change can be challenging, we are well positioned to introduce Securegard to healthcare agencies and facilities across the region,” comments Robert Hayes, Sharps Technology CEO. “Based on prior studies, we are confident that once healthcare practitioners use Securegard syringes, they will want to continue to use them in their practice, leading to ongoing purchase orders.” Securegard syringes provide clinicians with an ultra-low waste drug delivery technology that incorporates active safety features as well as World Health Organization-accredited reuse prevention measures. These features maximize the amount of drug therapy that is available to patients while both protecting frontline healthcare workers from life-threatening needle stick injuries and protecting the public from the dangers of needle reuse. Securegard syringes offer a promising drug delivery solution for healthcare markets, facilities and providers by incorporating safety and reuse prevention features into their design. Moreover, the use of ultra-low waste syringe technology ensures that the maximum number of doses of needed drug therapies can be made available to the people who depend on them. On March 7, 2024, Sharps Technology and Roncadelle Operations signed a sales and distribution agreement to cooperatively sell and distribute each other’s products to their respective areas of influence. The agreement lays the groundwork for further collaboration between Sharps and Roncadelle to develop and manufacture next-generation drug delivery products. “We believe that this is just the beginning of Sharps’ collaboration with Roncadelle. It expands our footprint as a premier manufacturer and a distributor of smart safety syringes as well as a collaborative leader in the development of drug delivery systems for the world market,” commented Sharps Technology CEO Robert Hayes. “Sharing our product portfolio gives healthcare customers one-stop access to a broad range of delivery solutions and price points to match their needs and strictest requirements.” As part of the cooperative agreement, Sharps and Roncadelle intend to collaborate on the development of new drug delivery products. The need for innovative injection solutions is expected to grow over the next several years as injectables are the first choice for therapies as diverse as vaccines, biologics, weight loss and maintenance, ophthalmics, gene therapies and diabetes management. The collaboration between Sharps and Roncadelle potentially creates a very important player in advancing these market opportunities through the development of technologies such as prefilled syringes, needle guard systems, auto-injectors and injector pen devices. In light of the recent FDA safety communications concerning the use of syringes manufactured in China, the company believes that the market for safer syringes produced in the U.S. and Europe will grow at an accelerated rate. Featured photo by LookerStudio on Shutterstock. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

April 03, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Accelerating New Molecule Discovery: Rakovina Therapeutics AI Integration

Rakovina Therapeutics Inc

Rakovina Therapeutics President and Chief Science Officer Mads Daugaard and Dr. Art Cherkasov from the Vancouver Prostate Centre and UBC joined Steve Darling from Proactive to unveil an exciting collaboration agreement between Rakovina and Dr. Artem Cherkasov, granting exclusive access to the proprietary Deep Docking AI Platform for DNA-damage response targets. Dr. Cherkasov, who was appointed to Rakovina's scientific advisory board in November 2023, brings unparalleled expertise to the table. The collaboration aims to leverage the cutting-edge capabilities of the Deep Docking AI Platform, powered by advanced AI algorithms, to revolutionize the discovery and development of targeted cancer drugs. By harnessing the power of AI-driven molecular analysis, Rakovina can rapidly evaluate billions of molecular structures to identify potential candidates for targeted cancer therapy. This innovative approach enables the team to focus on DNA-damage response-related vulnerabilities, which are prevalent across various types of cancer. The Deep Docking AI Platform plays a pivotal role in this process, facilitating the rapid screening of billions of drug candidates against validated DNA-damage response targets. Through predictive modeling, the platform can assess safety, efficacy, and pharmaceutical properties, enabling Rakovina to prioritize the most promising candidates for further validation. With access to the Deep Docking AI Platform, Rakovina can expedite the drug discovery process, accelerating the transition from preclinical research to human clinical trials and potential pharmaceutical partnerships. By combining AI-driven molecular analysis with established R&D infrastructure, Rakovina aims to spearhead the development of innovative therapies that target critical vulnerabilities in cancer cells. This collaboration underscores Rakovina's commitment to advancing precision medicine and delivering groundbreaking therapies to patients in need. With the support of Dr. Cherkasov and the cutting-edge capabilities of the Deep Docking AI Platform, Rakovina is poised to make significant strides in the fight against cancer, offering hope to millions of individuals affected by this devastating disease. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

April 02, 2024 12:49 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Cloud DX Achieves nearly 100 % Contract Renewals worth 1.5 million in revenue

Cloud DX

Cloud DX CEO Robert Kaul joined Steve Darling from Proactive to unveil some exciting developments as the company aims for a 100% renewal rate among its clients whose contracts are expiring in the first quarter of 2024. As of the current date, 11 out of 14 potential renewals have been secured, with the remaining 3 expected to follow suit. Cloud DX specializes in executing contracts with various healthcare providers, offering Connected Health Kits that include approved medical devices and customized tablet computers. These kits are prescribed to patients for chronic care management, post-surgical recovery, remote rehabilitation, or palliative care purposes. Kaul highlighted the diverse range of clients renewing their contracts in the first quarter, including Canadian hospitals, primary care clinics in Alberta, family health teams in Ontario, community paramedic services in Ontario, the Canadian Lung Health Foundation, and a Canadian Provincial health ministry. These clients collectively enrolled approximately 2,900 unique patients in 2023. With the renewal of these contracts, Cloud DX has received orders for Connected Health Kits valued at $96,000 CAD.Furthermore, recurring subscription revenues from these contracts are projected to increase to $575,000 CAD per year, amounting to a total contract value of $1.5 million CAD by December 31, 2025. It's worth noting that Cloud DX maintains a robust gross margin of approximately 77%, as indicated in the company's most recent Financial Statements. Overall, these developments underscore Cloud DX's commitment to advancing healthcare through innovative technology solutions, while also solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

April 02, 2024 12:46 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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9 Home Remedies Backed by Science

Spark Metro

Many Home remedies are available to address a range of issues including colds, inflammation, and pain. While not all of these remedies are backed by scientific research, some have garnered support from scientists indicating their potential effectiveness. You've likely experimented with a home remedy before, whether it involved herbal teas for a cold, essential oils for a headache, or natural supplements for better sleep. Perhaps you heard about it from your grandma or stumbled upon it online. Regardless, you gave it a shot, and now you're contemplating its efficacy. The exact mechanism behind why home remedies work remains unclear. Is it due to a physiological change in the body, or is it simply the placebo effect at play? Fortunately, in recent years, scientists have delved into these questions within the confines of a laboratory. Their findings suggest that many of our traditional plant-based remedies hold genuine therapeutic value beyond mere folklore. So, for the skeptics seeking evidence beyond the power of suggestion, rest assured, there's scientific backing to validate the effectiveness of certain home remedies. Here are 9 Home Remedies Backed by Science: Turmeric for Pain and Inflammation: Turmeric, a golden spice used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, contains an active compound called curcumin. Research suggests that curcumin is effective in treating pain associated with inflammation. For example: A study found that curcumin was more effective in reducing arthritis pain than an anti-inflammatory drug called diclofenac sodium. Turmeric extract was as effective as ibuprofen in treating pain related to knee osteoarthritis. To benefit from turmeric, consider taking curcumin supplements (about 2 to 5 grams per day) along with a pinch of black pepper to enhance absorption Chili Peppers for Pain and Soreness: Capsaicin, the active component in chili peppers, has a long history in folk medicine. It’s now widely accepted for managing pain. Capsaicin works by causing a warming sensation on the skin, followed by numbness. You can find prescription capsaicin patches (like Qutenza) that contain a high concentration of capsaicin (8 percent) for pain relief. If you have sore muscles or generalized body pain, consider using hot peppers or cayenne pepper topically. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with nausea, especially during pregnancy or after surgery. You can consume ginger as a tea, in cooking, or take ginger supplements. Shiitake Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that support the immune system and may have antiviral properties. Incorporate shiitake mushrooms into your diet for overall health. Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus oil is commonly used for respiratory issues. It may help relieve symptoms of colds and congestion. Use eucalyptus oil in a diffuser or as a chest rub. Lavender: Lavender essential oil is known for its calming effects. It may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Use lavender oil in a diffuser or add a few drops to your bath. Mint: Peppermint oil can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including bloating and abdominal pain. Consider using peppermint oil capsules or drinking peppermint tea. Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and consume them in the morning. Magnesium: Magnesium supplements can help with muscle cramps, migraines, and sleep disturbances. Consult a healthcare professional before starting magnesium supplementation. Remember that while these remedies have scientific support, individual responses may vary. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new remedy or supplement. What other natural remedies can I try? Here are some additional natural remedies you can explore: Honey and Lemon for Sore Throats: Mix warm water with honey and a squeeze of lemon. Gargle this solution to soothe a sore throat. Honey has antimicrobial properties, and lemon provides vitamin C. Apple Cider Vinegar for Digestive Issues: Dilute apple cider vinegar in water and drink it before meals. It may help with digestion, bloating, and acid reflux. Peppermint Tea for Digestive Discomfort: Peppermint tea can ease indigestion, bloating, and gas. It also has a calming effect on the stomach. Chamomile Tea for Sleep and Anxiety: Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties. It can help with anxiety and promote better sleep. Garlic for Immune Support: Garlic contains compounds that boost the immune system. Incorporate fresh garlic into your meals. Aloe Vera for Skin Irritations: Aloe vera gel can soothe sunburns, minor cuts, and skin irritations. Apply it topically. Cranberry Juice for Urinary Tract Health: Cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. Oatmeal Baths for Itchy Skin: Add colloidal oatmeal to your bathwater to relieve itchy skin caused by conditions like eczema or insect bites. Ginger Tea for Nausea: Ginger tea or ginger candies can alleviate nausea, especially during pregnancy or motion sickness. Epsom Salt Baths for Muscle Relaxation: Dissolve Epsom salt in warm water and soak to relax sore muscles and reduce inflammation. Remember that individual responses may vary, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new remedy. What are some natural remedies for headaches? Here are natural remedies that you can try to alleviate headaches: Drink Water: Hydration is crucial. Dehydration can trigger headaches, so make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables also contribute to hydration. Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency has been linked to frequent migraines. Consider taking magnesium supplements or consuming magnesium-rich foods. Apply Cold Compress: Place a cold compress on your forehead or the back of your neck. Cold temperatures can help reduce inflammation and ease headache discomfort. Ginger Tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may relieve nausea associated with headaches. Brew ginger tea or chew on ginger candies. Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil applied to your temples or massaged onto your forehead can provide relief from tension headaches. Lavender Oil: Inhaling lavender essential oil can promote relaxation and reduce headache intensity. Use it in a diffuser or add a few drops to your bath. Stay Consistent with Meals: Skipping meals can trigger headaches. Maintain regular eating patterns and avoid extreme hunger or undereating. Limit Caffeine Intake: While caffeine can sometimes help with headaches, excessive consumption or sudden withdrawal can worsen them.Find a balance that works for you. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can reduce stress and prevent tension headaches. Get Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to headaches. Prioritize quality sleep to support overall well-being. What are some acupressure points for headaches? Acupressure involves stimulating specific pressure points on the body to alleviate headaches. While scientific evidence is limited, some people find relief through these techniques. Here are a few acupressure points to try: Third Eye (GV 24.5): Locate the third eye pressure point between your eyebrows, slightly above the bridge of your nose. Apply gentle pressure or massage it in a circular motion. This point is believed to help with headache relief. Back of the Head (Occiput): There are two points on the back of the head (occiput) that can relieve tension headaches. Apply pressure to these points to ease discomfort. Neck-Shoulder Junction: Focus on the area where your neck meets your shoulders. Massage this junction to release tension and reduce headache symptoms. Hands: The hands contain several acupressure points that may help with headaches. Explore the webbing between your thumb and index finger (known as Hegu or LI4 ). Apply pressure here to potentially alleviate headaches. Tell me more about acupressure for other conditions. Acupressure is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves stimulating specific pressure points on the body. While scientific evidence varies, many people find relief from various conditions through acupressure. Here are some areas where it may be beneficial: Insomnia: Acupressure can help manage sleep disturbances and promote better rest. Stress Management: Certain pressure points may alleviate stress and induce relaxation. Headaches: Massaging specific points can ease tension headaches and migraines. Menstrual Cramps: Acupressure may provide relief from menstrual discomfort. Motion Sickness: Applying pressure to specific points may reduce symptoms of motion sickness. Muscle Tension and Pain: Acupressure can target muscle knots and tension. Nausea and Vomiting During Pregnancy (Morning Sickness): Some pregnant individuals find relief through acupressure. Cancer Treatment Side Effects: Acupressure may help manage side effects of cancer treatments. Immune System Problems: It’s believed that acupressure can positively influence immune function. Infertility: While not a standalone treatment, acupressure may complement fertility therapies. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Some individuals with IBS report symptom improvement with acupressure. Menopause and Hot Flashes: Acupressure might help manage menopausal symptoms. Pregnancy Discomforts: From back pain to nausea, acupressure may offer relief during pregnancy. Repetitive Strain Disorders and Overuse Syndrome: Acupressure could be part of a holistic approach to managing these conditions. How can I use acupressure for stress relief? Certainly! Acupressure is a natural technique that involves stimulating specific pressure points on your body to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Here are some acupressure points you can try for stress relief: Hall of Impression Point: Located between your eyebrows, this point is said to help with both anxiety and stress. To use this point: Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Touch the spot between your eyebrows with your index finger or thumb. Take slow, deep breaths and apply gentle, firm pressure in a circular motion for 5 to 10 minutes. Heavenly Gate Point: Found in the upper shell of your ear, at the tip of the triangle-like hollow. Stimulating this point may relieve anxiety, stress, and insomnia. To use this point: Locate it in your ear (a mirror might help). Apply firm, gentle pressure in a circular motion for two minutes. Shoulder Well Point: Located in your shoulder muscle. To find it, pinch your shoulder muscle with your middle finger and thumb. This point helps with relieving stress, muscle tension, and headaches. Avoid using this point if you’re pregnant, as it can also induce labor. To use this point: Pinch the muscle with your thumb and middle finger. Apply gentle, firm pressure with your index finger and massage the point for four to five seconds. Union Valley Point: Found in the webbing between your thumb and index finger. Stimulating this point is said to reduce stress, headaches, and neck pain. Like the shoulder well point, avoid it during pregnancy. To use this point: With your index finger and thumb, apply firm pressure to the webbing between the thumb and index finger of your other hand. Final words on 9 Home Remedies Backed by Science In conclusion, these home remedies offer promising natural alternatives supported by scientific research for various health concerns. Turmeric's curcumin, capsaicin from chili peppers, and ginger showcase anti-inflammatory properties, while shiitake mushrooms and fenugreek contribute to immune health and blood sugar regulation, respectively. Essential oils like eucalyptus and lavender offer respiratory and calming benefits. Incorporating these remedies into daily routines, such as in teas or topical applications, can provide significant relief. Additionally, considering alternative remedies like honey and lemon for sore throats or apple cider vinegar for digestive issues broadens the spectrum of natural solutions available. For headache relief, acupressure presents an intriguing avenue, targeting specific pressure points linked to tension and migraine headaches. However, individual responses may vary, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before integrating these remedies. With a holistic approach, leveraging these home remedies alongside conventional treatments can empower individuals to manage their health effectively and naturally. Contact Details Medicoworlds Alex +1 302-597-6768 Apexreviews154@gmail.com Company Website https://medicoworlds.com/

March 30, 2024 06:28 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Next Wave Of AI? How Hailo’s Edge AI Chips May Help Transform The Industry

OurCrowd

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Artificial intelligence is no longer restricted to big data centers, crunching complex data sets to help businesses increase productivity and improve processes. It is becoming ubiquitous as more use cases for this transformative technology emerge. One only has to look to Microsoft Corp.’s (NASDAQ: MSFT) Copilot and OpenAI’s ChatGPT for evidence. Relying on a large language model, the chatbots enable users to research and write content in seconds. That’s just one example of how AI is becoming more mainstream. “We’re in the IBM mainframe era of AI, with the giant data centers representing a few giant computers that dominated the scene during the mainframe era,” George Gilder, the well-known investment advisor who has often been ahead of trends and predicted the world would shift to a decentralized model, said during a webinar for the community and the Gilder Private Reserve subscribers. “I think AI is going to be in every smartphone and every pocket, and it's going to be distributed through the Internet of Things. It's going to be ubiquitous. It's really a new IO for the new technology platform of the age.” Hailo Sits On The Edge That shift to decentralized AI where it no longer lives in the cloud or isolated in a data center, but rather on the edge, is where Hailo, the Israeli semiconductor startup, is operating. It sees a big opportunity for newcomers like itself to take advantage of the natural progression of AI. “AI is learning from examples, contrary to plastic computers which are just being given a very specific set of rules. It’s kind of intuition versus logic,” Orr Danon, CEO at Hailo, said during an interview portion of the webinar with John Schroeder of the Gilder Private Reserve. “It’s a huge pivot in the kind of technology you need to implement this. It’s an opportunity for a new player to come and emerge and take a significant market share. And that's exactly what we are doing in the company.” It is a big and growing market opportunity. Danon said the global chip market is about $600 billion today and is projected to cross the $1 trillion per annum mark at the end of the decade. Hailo makes AI vision processors and AI accelerator chips designed to accelerate embedded deep learning applications on edge devices. The company’s chips can be embedded in a variety of devices including autonomous vehicles, personal computers, smart cameras, robotics, industrial machinery, healthcare devices, drones and home appliances. Hailo Does It Cheaper While big chip companies like Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ: NVDA) are focusing on making AI chips for data centers and cloud computing, Hailo is seeing growing demand for AI chips that sit on the edge, processing the data locally for use with everything from in a variety of devices including autonomous vehicles, personal computers, smart cameras, robotics, industrial machinery, healthcare devices and drones. Hailo says its chips are cheaper, more efficient and only require a few watts for power consumption. In comparison Nvidia's chip requires up to hundreds of watts, Hailo said. “The apps that you run are local. Of course, you use data that is connected to the cloud, but the majority of data crunching is being done locally. And that's exactly what we believe in,” said Danon. “This is very beneficial in terms of power consumption of the communication requirements. If you're doing anything that requires a response quickly, like a car moving and needing to understand what's going on around it, you have to be local.” That means someday these edge AI chips will be able to make everyday devices even smarter whether it is a high-definition camera or a vacuum cleaner. Are you looking for an AI investment that won’t cost a fortune? Check out what the founders of Hailo are doing to revolutionize this transformative technology here. Cloud Will Always Have Its Role That’s not to say there won’t be a need for the cloud when it comes to AI, it’s rather that they will complement each other and evolve. For example, cloud and big data centers will always be needed to train the AI, but when it comes to processing or performing the tasks the AI was trained to do, Hailo believes it will happen locally or on the edge. Danon said since the company launched in 2017, Hailo has seen the majority of AI deployments occurring outside of data centers – and that’s also happening with large language models like ChatGPT. “Over the past few years, we've seen the first wave of AI, which is based on fundamentally machine learning models trained by massive amounts of data,” said Danon. “But now we're seeing the second wave emerge. And that is, generative AI, which we are seeing in things like ChatGPT.” AI is in its infancy, but it’s quickly moving outside of the big data center and into the devices we use every day. That presents a big opportunity for chip makers catering to this area of the market including Hailo. Interested in getting in on a startup before the second wave of AI takes off? Click here. Featured photo courtesy of Hailo. OurCrowd was started in 2013, driven by the idea that the business of building startups grows bigger and better when the global ‘crowd’ gains access to VC-level investment opportunities.Today, OurCrowd is a global venture and alternative investing platform that empowers institutions and individuals to invest and engage in emerging companies. OurCrowd vets and selects companies, invests its capital, and provides its global network with unparalleled access to co-invest and contribute connections, talent and deal flow. OurCrowd builds value for its portfolio companies throughout their lifecycles, providing mentorship, recruiting industry advisors, navigating follow-on rounds and creating growth opportunities through its network of multinational partnerships. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Lisa Graston lisa.graston@ourcrowd.com Company Website http://www.ourcrowd.com

March 28, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Algernon Pharmaceuticals Strikes Deal to Advance Ifenprodil in Chronic Cough Treatment

Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Algernon Pharmaceuticals CEO Christopher Moreau joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce a significant agreement regarding the company's drug, Ifenprodil with U.S. Based Seyltx. Originally discovered in Japan and not utilized in the US or Europe, Ifenprodil was initially developed to treat intermittent claudication but found application in Japan for vertigo post-stroke. Dr. Mark Williams, Algernon's co-founder, identified Ifenprodil's potential for repurposing in new markets, particularly for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) and chronic cough, a symptom associated with IPF. During the interview, Moreau disclosed that the company has entered into a transformative agreement with a private US firm, granting them rights to advance Ifenprodil through a Phase 2b study targeting chronic cough. This agreement provides Algernon with a 20% interest in the acquiring company and a $2 million U.S. cash infusion. This financial injection strengthens Algernon's financial position and enables it to focus on other projects, including a promising study on DMT for stroke treatment. The agreement represents a pivotal moment for Algernon, positioning Ifenprodil for further development in a market with significant potential. Moreover, it allows Algernon to concentrate on advancing its broader drug development pipeline, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. In summary, the agreement concerning Ifenprodil marks a significant milestone for Algernon Pharmaceuticals, underscoring its commitment to advancing novel treatments and maximizing shareholder value. With a strengthened financial position and a focus on strategic initiatives, Algernon is well-positioned for future growth and success in the competitive pharmaceutical landscape. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 28, 2024 08:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Medicus Pharma says U.S. FDA has provided comments on Phase 2 Clinical Protocol of SKNJCT-003

Medicus Pharma

Dr. Raza Bokhari, Executive Chairman and CEO of Medicus Pharma joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share significant updates regarding the company's interaction with the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Medicus Pharma has received comments from the FDA, pertaining to its recent study findings and regulatory submissions. The FDA's feedback regarding the study results is considered exploratory, with specific requests directed towards providing additional data from clinical studies to support the doses of 100μg and 200μg of micro-array needles containing doxorubicin. Additionally, the FDA has requested an updated investigator brochure, incorporating insights from the clinical studies SKNJCT-001 and SKNJCT-002, focusing particularly on adverse events and dose-limiting toxicities at each dose level. Dr. Bokhari conveyed to Proactive that the SKNJCT-001 study successfully met its primary objective of assessing safety and tolerability. The investigational product, D-MNA, demonstrated favorable safety profiles across all dose levels among the thirteen participants enrolled in the study. This encouraging outcome underscores the potential of D-MNA as a safe and well-tolerated therapeutic option. In response to the FDA's requests, Medicus Pharma is committed to making a comprehensive submission in the second quarter of 2024. This submission will include the requested data and an updated investigator brochure, meticulously incorporating insights from the SKNJCT-001 and SKNJCT-002 studies. Furthermore, the submission will encompass Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) stability data, ensuring a comprehensive and robust dossier. Dr. Bokhari reiterated Medicus Pharma's dedication to adhering to regulatory guidelines and fostering transparent communication with regulatory authorities. By addressing the FDA's queries and providing comprehensive data, the company aims to facilitate the regulatory review process and advance the development of D-MNA towards potential regulatory approval. In summary, Medicus Pharma remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing innovative therapies while upholding the highest standards of safety and efficacy. The company's proactive engagement with regulatory agencies reflects its dedication to bringing impactful treatments to patients in need. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 28, 2024 08:21 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NeuroOnes’s Innovative Electrode Brain Monitoring Seeks To Provide Insights Into Neurological Disorders

Benzinga

by Meg Flippin, Benzinga When it comes to diseases of the brain, epilepsy is among the more common ones, affecting roughly 50 million people globally. This condition arises from various factors that disrupt normal brain activity, such as strokes, brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and infections of the central nervous system, with the annual cost of managing epilepsy approximately $28 billion. Current treatments, despite the availability of over 20 antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), fall short of effectively managing the condition for all patients. Approximately 36% of individuals with epilepsy experience uncontrolled seizures, which could have a significant impact on their quality of life and mortality. For many, the only solution is surgery. Better Outcomes With Electrodes NeuroOne Medical Technologies Corp. (NASDAQ: NMTC) is hoping to achieve better outcomes for patients suffering from neurological disorders with its high-definition, minimally invasive thin film electrodes used for intracranial monitoring. The electrodes are implanted inside the skull to record brain activity and the company says they may someday be able to treat diseases like epilepsy. NeuroOne’s Evo® Cortical Electrode portfolio consists of various configurations of strips and grid electrodes made with polyimide thin film, which reduce trauma to the brain. They are a less invasive implant because the material is flexible, thin and light. They can monitor brain activity for less than 30 days. NeuroOne’s Evo® sEEG Electrode technology enables the recording and monitoring of brain activity for less than 30 days. With the technology, the company says doctors can identify the right foci zones to determine the best treatment for patients. The company has said its technology provides new options for surgical placement and potentially smaller incisions, as well as for lower inflammation compared to the bulky electrodes currently on the market, while also enabling the pairing of diagnostic and therapeutics in one offering. With proven placement accuracy and enhanced signal quality, physicians can capture the vital data they need to support more confident diagnoses, according to NeuroOne. Thanks to NeuroOne’s partnership with Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc. (NYSE: ZBH), the company’s technology is already being used in the marketplace. Zimmer Biomet, which is the exclusive worldwide distribution partner for the NeuroOne Evo Cortical and sEEG electrode product lines, uses it for the recording, monitoring and stimulation of electrical signals at the subsurface level of the brain. That segment of the business is growing, and the company expects its revenue to increase with the addition of new accounts by Zimmer Biomet. Making Strides With Regulators More recently, NeuroOne received U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance to market its OneRF™ Ablation System, a stereoelectroencephalogram (sEEG)-guided tool that surgeons can use to record electrical activity and ablate nervous tissue under temperature-controlled environments. That, along with the electrodes, has the potential to revolutionize diagnoses and treatment of brain diseases, NueroOne says. Following 510(k) clearance, NeuroOne just announced that it has initiated a limited commercial launch of its OneRF™ Ablation System, which has FDA 510(k) clearance for creation of radiofrequency (RF) lesions in nervous tissue for functional neurosurgical procedures. "The FDA clearance of NeuroOne's OneRF system will provide neurosurgeons with an important new tool in the surgical management of epilepsy, with the ability to provide ablative therapy using already implanted depth electrodes used for diagnosing the epileptic focus as part of stereoEEG,” Robert E. Gross, MD, PhD, chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at New Jersey Medical School and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, said in a press release. “This may lead to improved outcomes for patients with potential for fewer interventions and an improved therapeutic window." In another recent press release, NeuroOne CEO Dave Rosa commented that the company expects “to start shipping systems this week to centers participating in our limited launch with cases already scheduled starting in April. We believe physicians and patients will benefit from our technology given it may reduce hospital stays, number of surgeries, and adverse events, while offering significant clinical benefits including temperature control to enhance patient safety. Looking ahead, we plan to leverage the system for other targeted ablation indications by submitting additional FDA 510(k) applications.” Pinpointing Where Seizures Occur The company’s electrodes may help pinpoint the exact location in the brain where seizures originate, which today proves difficult to do. Epileptic seizures are caused by excessive electrical discharges in a group of brain cells. Since different parts of the brain can be the site of such discharges, getting them under control is hard. After all, seizures can vary from the briefest lapses of attention or muscle jerks to severe and prolonged convulsions. They can also vary in frequency from less than one per year to several a day. Armed with more precise information from NeuroOne’s technology, medical professionals can provide patients with more accurate diagnoses and determine the best course of treatment for patients with epilepsy, according to the company. That will be welcome news to sufferers around the world. As it stands, the risk of premature death among epilepsy patients is up to three times higher than non-suffers. Currently, NeuroOne is focused on improving epilepsy diagnoses, but in the future, the focus could shift to treating seizures. For example, the company says its electrodes could be used to deliver electrical stimulation to suppress seizure activity. If they are able to achieve this, it could be game-changing for patients. It is important to note that further clinical trials are needed to determine if its electrodes can be used in the treatment of epilepsy. Epilepsy affects millions of people, costing billions of dollars annually. As it stands, more than one-third of sufferers don’t get the relief they so desperately need. NeuroOne is determined to revolutionize the landscape of neurological disorders and is making strides thanks to its unwavering dedication to developing groundbreaking products for the medical community. Featured photo by Natasha Connell on Unsplash Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

March 28, 2024 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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BenevolentAI advances novel ulcerative colitis treatment through Phase 1a trial

BenevolentAI

BenevolentAI (OTC:BAIVF) chief scientific officer Dr Anne Phelan joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with positive safety data from the Phase 1a, first-in-human, clinical study of BEN-8744 in healthy volunteers. Phelan explained that BEN-8744 is a potent, selective PD10 inhibitor, uniquely designed to be peripherally restricted to mitigate CNS-mediated side effects associated with previous PD10 inhibitors. This design aims to ensure safety and tolerability, a primary goal in this phase of clinical research. She said the study successfully met its objectives, proving the hypothesis that peripheral restriction could eliminate adverse side effects, although it was not positioned to assess therapeutic value directly. Phelan further detailed the study's methodology, highlighting its role in estimating the pharmacologically relevant exposure and understanding the drug's exposure profile, which is critical for determining the efficacious dose for future patient trials. The interview also shed light on BenevolentAI's innovative platform that integrates diverse data types, including genomics and transcriptomics, through advanced AI and machine learning models. This platform identified PDE10 inhibition as a novel approach for treating ulcerative colitis, despite the lack of direct literature linking PDE10 to the condition, demonstrating the company's proprietary method in target discovery. Looking ahead, Phelan mentioned ongoing Biomarker Qualification studies and extended toxicology studies to pave the way for phase 1b and phase 2 studies, with an emphasis on ensuring longer dosing durations are safe for patients. This step is pivotal for moving BEN-8744 towards clinical efficacy trials, underlining BenevolentAI's commitment to advancing drug development through AI-enabled insights. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 28, 2024 08:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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