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Elsevier partners with American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics to publish Genetics in Medicine

Elsevier

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG), the only nationally recognized US medical professional organization solely dedicated to improving health through the practice of medical genetics and genomics, and Elsevier, a global leader in research publishing and information analytics, are delighted to announce a new partnership to publish ACMG’s official journal, Genetics in Medicine ( GIM ). The journal will also offer authors an open access option and will be hosted on Elsevier’s leading online platform, ScienceDirect, beginning January 2022. ACMG was founded in 1991 and currently has a membership of more than 2,300 clinical and laboratory geneticists, genetic counselors, and other healthcare professionals. ACMG’s decision to partner with Elsevier directly supports its mission to improve personal and public health through the clinical and laboratory practice of medical genetics; advocacy, education, and clinical research programs; and the safe and effective integration of genetics and genomics into all of medicine and healthcare. ACMG Chief Executive Officer Maximilian Muenke, MD, FACMG, said: “We welcome Elsevier as our new publisher and look forward to taking advantage of their publishing expertise and commitment to innovation, as we continue to increase the visibility and influence of Genetics in Medicine together. “Medical, scientific and research professionals in a broad range of specialties turn to ACMG’s official journal for the very latest research and clinical practice in medical and laboratory genetics. Together with our new trusted partner, we will continue to publish cutting edge original research, appropriate reviews, as well as recommendations and guidelines from our ACMG committees.” Medical genetics is becoming increasingly important in the wider medical practice. GIM ’s eminent editorial board under the continued leadership of Editor-in-Chief Robert D. Steiner, MD, FAAP, FACMG, ensures that this high quality, peer-reviewed journal will continue to be an authoritative resource for the dissemination of medical genetic knowledge to providers both within and outside of the genetics community. “We are tremendously excited for the opportunity to partner with Elsevier to publish ACMG’s official journal, Genetics in Medicine beginning in 2022,” said Dr. Steiner. “Elsevier is one of the worldwide premier publishers of journals devoted to biomedical research. It is clear from our early interactions with Elsevier staff and leadership that this will be a partnership in the truest sense of the word. “I have every confidence that support from the Elsevier team will foster even greater success in our ongoing efforts to publish novel, transformative, and clinically relevant genetic and genomic science. On behalf of GIM ’s editors, editorial staff, reviewers, and authors, I want to welcome our trusted and capable new partner, Elsevier.” Elsevier is committed to the continuity of the journal’s rigorous editorial process and accessibility of content, and further solidifying GIM ’s reputation for publishing papers based on the quality of the science and its substantial contributions to advancements in the field. “We are delighted ACMG has selected Elsevier as its publishing partner. By combining their expertise in medical genetics with Elsevier’s outstanding author, editor, and reader outcomes, we will ensure the best possible support for ACMG’s mission and community,” stated Neil Appleton, Senior Vice President, Society Business Development, Elsevier. About Genetics in Medicine ( GIM ) Genetics in Medicine is the official journal of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. The mission of the journal is to enhance the knowledge, understanding, and practice of medical genetics and genomics through publications in clinical and laboratory genetics and genomics, including ethical, legal, and social issues as well as public health. As genetics and genomics continue to increase in importance and relevance in medical practice, the journal will continue to be an accessible and authoritative resource for the dissemination of medical genetic knowledge to all medical providers through appropriate reviews, discussions, commentaries, recommendations, standards, and guidelines. About American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) Founded in 1991, the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) is the only nationally recognized medical professional organization solely dedicated to improving health through the practice of medical genetics and genomics, and the only medical specialty society in the US that represents the full spectrum of medical genetics disciplines in a single organization. The ACMG is the largest membership organization specifically for medical geneticists, providing education, resources and a voice for more than 2,300 clinical and laboratory geneticists, genetic counselors and other healthcare professionals, nearly 80 percent of whom are board certified in the medical genetics specialties. ACMG’s mission is to improve health through the clinical and laboratory practice of medical genetics as well as through advocacy, education and clinical research, and to guide the safe and effective integration of genetics and genomics into all of medicine and healthcare, resulting in improved personal and public health. www.acmg.net About the Editor-in-Chief Robert D. Steiner, MD, FAAP, FACMG, served as a section editor for GIM beginning in 2006, became deputy editor in 2011, and took charge as Editor-in-Chief starting in 2019. He is Professor (Clinical) of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin (UW) School of Medicine and Public Health and chief medical officer for PreventionGenetics. He is also medical consultant for the Newborn Screening Program for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. After obtaining his MD from UW, he completed a residency in pediatrics at The University of Cincinnati/Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. Following residency, Dr. Steiner trained in medical genetics at The University of Washington/Seattle Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center. He is board certified in Pediatrics, Clinical Genetics and Clinical Biochemical Genetics. About Elsevier and society partnerships Elsevier has long partnership records with over 600 learned scientific societies, working in partnership to realize societies’ missions and inspire and support their communities. Our own mission is to help deliver outstanding publishing outcomes, widespread use of research, reliable finances, embracing Open Science and Open Access and championing you and your community. www.elsevier.com/societies About Elsevier As a global leader in information and analytics, Elsevier helps researchers and healthcare professionals advance science and improve health outcomes for the benefit of society. We do this by facilitating insights and critical decision-making for customers across the global research and health ecosystems. In everything we publish, we uphold the highest standards of quality and integrity. We bring that same rigor to our information analytics solutions for researchers, health professionals, institutions and funders. Elsevier employs 8,100 people worldwide. We have supported the work of our research and health partners for more than 140 years. Growing from our roots in publishing, we offer knowledge and valuable analytics that help our users make breakthroughs and drive societal progress. Digital solutions such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, SciVal, ClinicalKey and Sherpath support strategic research management, R&D performance, clinical decision support, and health education. Researchers and healthcare professionals rely on our 2,500+ digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell; our 40,000 eBook titles; and our iconic reference works, such as Gray's Anatomy. With the Elsevier Foundation and our external Inclusion & Diversity Advisory Board, we work in partnership with diverse stakeholders to advance inclusion and diversity in science, research and healthcare in developing countries and around the world. Elsevier is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. www.elsevier.com Contact Details Kathy Moran, Senior Director, Communications and Public Relations American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics kmoran@acmg.net Jonathan Davis, Elsevier Communications, Europe j.davis.1@elsevier.com newsroom@elsevier.com

July 26, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Transplant equity efforts presented to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine

United Network for Organ Sharing

Increasing equity in the national transplant system was the focus of remarks made recently by United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) CEO Brian Shepard and Board President-Elect Jerry McCauley, M.D. at a meeting organized by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. Shepard and McCauley both spoke before the Committee on A Fairer and More Equitable, Cost-Effective, and Transparent System of Donor Organ Procurement, Allocation, and Distribution about the ongoing work UNOS is doing to ensure every transplant candidate has equitable access to life-saving organs through policy making and data. “UNOS is acutely attuned to issues of equity,” said Shepard, “Committees of experts from professional and patient communities review the anticipated impact on equity of new policies before they are approved, and once implemented, routinely monitor data to ensure that the policies have their intended effects and are not disadvantaging any candidates.” McCauley, chief of nephrology at Jefferson University Hospitals in Philadelphia, spoke in particular about the efforts of Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network’s Minority Affairs Committee (MAC), and their charge to monitor, identify, and help correct racial and ethnic disparities in transplantation. UNOS is the mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves as the OPTN under federal contract. “As [organ allocation] policies are being developed, those policies come to the [Minority Affairs Committee] and we get to look at whether or not there are obvious disparities,” McCauley said. “These things are being vetted before the policy is rolled out.” He also referenced how the committee has championed changes to kidney allocation policy in recent years, leading to policies that, once on the waiting list, have made access for Black kidney transplant candidates equitable. A wide variety of this data is publicly available on the UNOS and OPTN websites. Additionally, UNOS researchers developed and launched the Equity in Access to Transplant Dashboard, which allows users to explore how different factors impact waitlist candidates. According to the dashboard, where a patient is listed has the highest impact on access. In his remarks, Shepard went on to stress the need to expand equitable access, and emphasized UNOS’ commitment to ongoing improvement as the high-performing, mission-driven non-profit serving as the nation’s transplant system. “The ultimate form of equity that is UNOS’ goal and the goal of the entire organ donation and transplant community, is to provide a transplant for every single patient that needs one,” he said. “We are looking for continuous improvement of what is already the world’s best donation and transplant system.” Learn more about our ongoing equity work: Workgroup to examine use of race-based adjustment to kidney calculation Data dashboard monitors equity in access to transplant The road to racial equity in kidney transplantation New kidney and pancreas allocation system will increase equity ### About United Network for Organ Sharing United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is the mission-driven nonprofit serving as the nation’s transplant system under contract with the federal government. We lead the network of transplant hospitals, organ procurement organizations, and thousands of volunteers who are dedicated to honoring the gifts of life entrusted to us and to making lifesaving transplants possible for patients in need. Working together, we leverage data and advances in science and technology to continuously strengthen the system, increase the number of organs recovered and the number of transplants performed, and ensure patients across the nation have equitable access to transplant. Contact Details Anne Paschke +1 804-782-4730 anne.paschke@unos.org Company Website https://unos.org

July 22, 2021 01:18 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Vietnam Government supports T&T Group in purchase of 40 million Sputnik V vaccine doses

T&T Group

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 22 July 2021 - On July 12, the Government of Vietnam issued Resolution No. 73/NQ-CP allowing T&T Group to purchase Sputnik V vaccines from the Russian Federation without using funds from the State budget or Vietnam's COVID-19 Vaccine Fund. The Government's resolution stated that, at the request of the vaccine manufacturer, the Government agreed to a proposal from the Ministry of Health to sign an agreement that relinquishes liability for the use of the Sputnik V vaccine. The agreement is similar to the agreement signed by the Ministry of Health when Vietnam Vaccine Joint Stock Company (VNVC) purchased a supply of the BNT162 vaccine from Pfizer and AZD1222 vaccine produced by AstraZeneca. Vietnamese authorities will be responsible for licensing import, inspection, and quality control of vaccines, organize free injection of all 40 million doses of vaccines mentioned above under regulations. Implementing the Government's resolution, the Ministry of Health sent an official dispatch to the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) to introduce them to the T&T Group to negotiate to buy 40 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine. In the document, the Ministry of Health proposed RDIF give favourable conditions to T&T Group to purchase the Sputnik V vaccine in July 2021 to meet the urgent need to stem the spread of COVID-19 in Vietnam. Mr Do Quang Hien, Chairman and General Director of T&T Group, shared: "Being socially responsible and with the desire to bring a safer and better life to the Vietnamese people, we were very honoured and proud when the Government agreed to allow us to negotiate to buy 40 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine from the Russian Federation.” "With 28 years of experience, a strong reputation, and great financial potential, along with many member units that have been operating in the field of health and pharmaceuticals for many years, T&T Group will make every effort to implement this great mission successfully.” “At the same time, we look forward to a long-term, strategic relationship with the world's leading pharmaceutical corporations not only in importing vaccines but also in receiving and transferring vaccine production technology to Vietnam. " Established in 1993, T&T Group is one of the leading private multi-sector economic groups in Vietnam. It has over 80,000 employees working in Vietnam and representative offices in many countries such as the US, Russia, Germany, and Australia. Currently, T&T Group operates in several key sectors: Finance and investment, real estate, industry and trade, logistics, traffic infrastructure, seaports, energy, environment and minerals, agriculture, forestry and fishery, health, education, and sports. With outstanding business achievements and contributions to the community, T&T Group has been honoured twice to be awarded the First-class Labor Medal and many other noble awards. Mr Do Quang Hien was also honoured to receive the First Class Labor Medal in 2019 awarded by the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Asian Entrepreneur Award in 2017 awarded by Enterprise Asia - Asia's leading NGO. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, T&T Group and its member units have donated over $21.7 million for COVID-19 prevention and control activities in Vietnam. #T&TGroup Contact Details International Trade and Investment Promotion Department Ms. Nguyen Van Huong huongnv@ttgroup.com.vn

July 22, 2021 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NEW STUDY SHOWS NOVEL PERSONALIZED SYSTEMS NUTRITION PROGRAM IMPROVES DIETARY PATTERNS, LIFESTYLE BEHAVIORS AND HEALTH-RELATED OUTCOMES

Nlumn

The Habit PATH (Personalized Approaches To Health) Study demonstrates that a Personalized Systems Nutrition program in a workforce environment improves dietary habits, health markers, physical activity and other health-related outcomes. The Habit PATH Study helps validate a holistic approach to personal nutrition that: Introduces a new approach that customizes nutrition systems according to an individual’s phenotypic flexibility assessment, which measures health according to their ability to adapt to a temporary nutritional stressor or an environmental challenge. This technology can identify potential health concerns to allow for early intervention and treatment. Provides personal goal setting and motivational interviewing to affect behavioral change and improve an individual’s adherence to lifestyle intervention programs. The Habit PATH Study suggests that personalized nutrition programs may provide the tools and motivation to enable individuals to meet their unique needs, achieve public health recommendations and improve health-related outcomes that may help reduce the health economic burden of chronic disease. Nlumn, LLC, a personalized nutrition and health company, announced health outcomes from a study of a novel Personalized Systems Nutrition program in the June 2021 issue of Nutrients. The peer-reviewed Habit PATH Study is the first to incorporate phenotypic flexibility technology in Personalized Systems Nutrition programs to improve the dietary patterns, lifestyle behaviors and health-related outcomes of individuals in a workplace environment. “The Habit PATH Study shows that personalized science-based nutrition and behavior interventions have the potential to improve overall diet quality and health markers that could reduce the chronic disease burden and improve the overall state of health in the United States,” said Josh Anthony, Ph.D., Founder and CEO, Nlumn and co-author of the study. “The results suggest that a systems-based personalized nutrition approach, combining both biological and behavioral science, not only helps address an individual’s unique health needs, but also helps them achieve public health recommendations, including the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Consequently, personalized approaches may be more effective in motivating people to achieve public health recommendations compared to general guidelines.” Participants saw health changes that were consistent with public health recommendations including: Saturated fat intake was reduced more than 20%. Total sugar and sodium intake were reduced by almost 20%. These changes are consistent with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines Key Recommendations to limit specific nutrients. Key nutrients such as potassium, fiber, magnesium, vitamin C and beta carotene increased, suggesting increased intake of fruit and vegetables. While this was not designed to be a weight loss study, caloric intake decreased 13% and participants saw reduced body weight, BMI, hip circumference and a reduction in body fat. Physical activity also increased. The most unhealthy participants reported a 10% reduction in total cholesterol and a 15% decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol. “This study shows that assessing health status by using phenotypic flexibility to direct personal nutrition recommendations enables positive lifestyle changes and health outcomes regardless of an individual’s level of health,” according to Iris M. de Hoogh, scientist, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) and lead author of the study. “The application of TNO’s Phenotypic Flexibility Technology helps identify early health interventions that individuals can address with their healthcare professionals before the health concern becomes a significant issue.” Anthony continued, “At a time when the U.S. is facing a multidimensional, multigenerational health crisis, and consumer demand for more nutritious food is at an all-time high, this study also helps verify the ability to use personalized subcategories to tailor food and product innovation pipelines in a meaningful way – thereby increasing the potential for long-term positive health benefits from personalized nutrition for food and insurance companies.” As part of this study, Personalized Systems Nutrition algorithms provided the employer’s food service partner with recommendations used to tailor breakfast and lunch options to align with study participants’ individual health needs. HABIT Study Results: Results of the study show that personalized nutrition programs are more effective for improving diet quality, supporting improved health-outcomes and may enable healthier lifestyle behaviors, particularly among individuals who have compromised phenotypic flexibility, a measure of the body’s ability to adapt to nutritional or environmental stressors, such as physical exercise, infections or mental stress. During the HABIT Study 10-week personalized intervention, participants showed statistically significant results: Dietary Indicators: Notable dietary improvements were observed between the intervention. Including a decrease in total and saturated fat, sugar and sodium, while showing improvements in vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and beta carotene intake, suggesting a higher intake of fruits and vegetables. Notes: 73 participants were included in the per protocol analysis. Health Indicators: During the intervention, participants received personalized dietary recommendations, coaching and personalized meals. Several health improvements were observed for the overall study population. While this was not designed to be a weight loss trial, BMI (-0.6 kg/m2; p<0.0001), body fat (-1.2%, p=0.0192) and hip circumference (-5.8 cm; p<0.0001) showed a significant decrease. Subgroup Results: In reporting health measurements, the Habit Study’s automated Personalized Systems Nutrition algorithms assigned individuals to different subgroups based on their metabolic health status determined by phenotypic flexibility assessment at baseline. Groups A (n=48) and G (n=22) represented the most and least phenotypically flexible groups, respectively. Group G had a higher degree of adiposity, and a higher age than group A. However, there were no differences in baseline dietary intake and both groups were 82% compliant with personalized meal intake. Clinical Chemistry (fasting): For group G, significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol were seen during the intervention. There were 48 and 22 subjects in groups A and G, respectively. *p<0.01, **p<0.0001 Subgroup differences during the 10-week intervention. Anthropometrics: During the intervention period, body weight significantly decreased in both group A (most healthy) and group G (least healthy). Notes: At baseline, BMI, body weight, body fat, waist circumference and hip circumference were greater in group G compared to group A. Percentages were used to normalize differences between groups, but absolute changes were proportionately greater in group G given higher starting values. Statistically significant differences are noted in the last two columns for changes in the groups A or G respectively and in the first column for changes in the per protocol study population; (*p<0.05; **p<0.001; ****p<0.0001). Subgroup population size may have limited the ability to detect differences in some measures that were observed in the overall study (per protocol) population. Dietary Indicators: When looking at subgroups A and G, the Personalized Systems Nutrition program not only improved adherence with population-based dietary guidelines, but also achieved better alignment with individual recommendations. For the unhealthiest group, G, different positive effects were seen with respect to dietary intake, consistent with their respective dietary recommendations. Protein and beta carotene intake increased in group G, but not in group A. The increase in protein intake can be directly related to the personalized advice for group G as they were recommended to consume a diet higher in protein relative to group A. The increase in beta carotene could be the result of a higher intake of fruits and vegetables. The results suggest that personalized nutrition programs may be more effective in motivating people to consume a diet that meets individual needs while moving them closer to public health recommendations overall. As such, personalized nutrition programs have added value as compared to general guidelines or one-size fits all recommendations. Physical Activity: The intervention resulted in an increase in physical activity within the study participants of more than 700 steps per day. This was accompanied by a small decrease in resting heart rate which could indicate improved physical fitness. This increase is interesting, since the intervention consisted only of dietary advice and participants did not receive recommendations on physical exercise. The increase in physical activity may be a beneficial side-effect of participating in a Personalized Systems Nutrition program. HABIT Study Trial Design The Habit Study enrolled 107 healthy men and women, aged 30 to 65 years of age, with a body mass index between 18.5 to 39.9 kg/m2, and who were recruited from a single workforce location. The intervention grouped individuals into seven diet types and created personalized recommendations based on their phenotypic, genotypic and behavioral data. The HABIT study was a single-arm, multi-phased, open-label exploratory trial designed to measure the effectiveness of personalized nutrition on changing lifestyle behaviors and health outcomes during four intervention periods. These four periods were classified as: Baseline (week 0) and run-in (week 0 - 10) Intervention Phase 1 (week 10 - 20) Intervention Phase 2 personalized coaching/advice (week 20 - 30) Follow-up (week 30 - 40) endpoint visit only. The publication focuses on the baseline through intervention Phase 1. As part of the study, participants received: An At-Home Phenotypic Flexibility Test and Sample Collection for collecting buccal cells, a series of three dried blood spots (DBS) and DNA (baseline only) samples. A Personalized Systems Nutrition Program designed by using individual on-boarding data, clinical measures and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants. Micronutrient recommendations were determined using onboarding, anthropometric and clinical measures. In addition, participants were provided with personalized recipes and meals according to their macro- and micronutrient recommendations. Three personalized coaching sessions by registered dietitian nutritionists (RDN) who were trained on coaching techniques and the algorithms supporting the Personalized Systems Nutrition system. These RDNs provided food and diet recommendations, helped motivated participants and coached them in setting and achieving personal goals. Study meals and compliance diaries. Starting at week 10, participants received tailored breakfast and lunch five days a week for nine weeks. Activity measurement. At the start of the trial, each participant was given a Fitbit® to measure and record their activity level. Approximately every five weeks participants would visit the study center to be tested and have data collected on: Clinical markers: Regular laboratory tests were conducted to track total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, C-peptide, and the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda indices measuring whole body insulin sensitivity. Dietary Intake: Using a standard dietary record methodology, participants tracked their food and beverages consumed for three days (two weekdays and one weekend day) prior to all visits. Anthropometrics and Vitals: During each visit, anthropometrics--height (first visit only), weight, fat mass, waist and hip circumference--and blood pressure were measured. Wellbeing and Lifestyle: Participants’ dietary behavior was assessed using the 34-item Adult Eating Behaviors Questionnaire and their Quality of Life using the 26-item World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire. Their daily activity and sleep were tracked with a Fitbit Charge 2 which monitored heart rate, number of steps and sleeping hours. About Personalized Systems Nutrition Personalized Nutrition is the use of individual-specific information, founded in evidence-based science, to promote dietary behavior change that may result in measurable health benefits. Personalized Systems Nutrition incorporates novel Phenotypic Flexibility Technology that customizes diets according to an individual’s phenotypic flexibility allowing them to measure their health according to their biological system’s ability to adapt to conditions of temporary stressors, such as a nutrition challenge, physical exercise, infections or mental stress. This technology helps identify potential early health interventions that individuals can address with their healthcare professionals before it becomes a significant health issue. By combining systems-based approaches to understanding a person’s biology and behavior science, Personalized Systems Nutrition programs are able to create significant and sustainable changes in a person’s health and wellness. About Nlumn Nlumn works with food, nutrition and health-based companies to translate nutrition science and technology to create new opportunities across the personalized nutrition marketplace. Our international, multidisciplinary team guides partners through all phases of strategy and development to accelerate the pace of innovation, from discovery to commercialization. Our mission is to make personalized nutrition accessible to help every individual make better choices and live a healthier life. For more information, visit www.nlumn.com. About TNO TNO (Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research) is a not-for-profit research organization with the mission to connect people and knowledge to create innovations that boost the competitive strength of industry and the well-being of society in a sustainable way. TNO’s Healthy Living unit develops social and technological innovations to help people lead healthier lives and reduce lifestyle-related chronic diseases. TNO developed the phenotypic flexibility technology that was instrumental in the Habit PATH study. For more information, visit https://www.tno.nl/en/focus-areas/healthy-living/. Contact Details AgTech PR for Nlumn Jennifer Goldston +1 816-260-0040 jennifer@agtechpr.com

July 21, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Kadimastem Patent for cell selection of beta cells to Treat and Potentially Cure Diabetes was Granted in Japan

Kadimastem LTD

Cell therapy company Kadimastem Ltd ( TASE: KDST ) has received its patent approval from the Japanese Patent Office for IsletRx, the company’s innovative treatment for diabetes. IsletRx comprises an expanded population of clinical grade pancreatic islet-like cluster (ILCs) cells, derived from human stem cells, that have the ability to secrete insulin when blood sugar is low and glucagon, a hormone secreted to prevent hypoglycemia, when blood sugar levels drop in response to varying sugar levels (glucose) in the blood. This particular function of IsletRX is similar to a "healthy" pancreas and functions to treat insulin-dependent diabetes, such as Type 1 diabetes also known as juvenile diabetes. The patent announced today protects Kadimastem’s cell selection and enrichment technology, that enables it to identify and fortify the best cells in the expanded population. The patent also covers the use of the company’s special production process, where it can remove cells that are not necessary or may impair the efficiency of the transplanted cells. These capabilities are important in achieving the maximum therapeutic effect for potential future insulin-dependent diabetic patients. In addition, this method of production and cell selection enables the ILCs to be transplanted using a variety of platforms, including very small devices that are more suitable and more convenient for patients. Kadimastem CEO Asaf Shiloni said, “Receiving the patent in Japan further strengthens our intellectual property position. The market, in Southeast Asia in general, and the Japanese market, are large and important for the company's future products. Registering the patent in Japan gives Kadimastem a much-welcomed priority status in this territory. We look forward to further developing business collaborations with key players in the pharmaceutical industry in Japan, both for our diabetes and ALS products.” The Japanese market is one of the most significant markets for stem cell-derived cell therapies. In Japan, 7.9% of the population is diabetic and there are more than 2.7 million insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Treatment of these patients is currently estimated at $ 29 billion. Japan has strategic importance in the field of stem cell therapy, as it is one of the world's most prominent countries in promoting innovation and products in the field of cell therapy. In November 2014, the Japanese Parliament approved a special law to facilitate clinical trials in the field of cellular medicine, with the aim of expediting approvals of intracellular therapies and quickly bringing them to market. Social Media: LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook Company Contacts: Asaf Shiloni CEO a.shiloni@kadimastem.com Press Contact: Marjie Hadad General Manager Must Have Communications 917-790-1178 marjie@mhc-pr.com About Kadimastem: Kadimastem is a clinical stage cell therapy company, developing and manufacturing "off-the-shelf", allogeneic, proprietary cell products based on its technology platform for the expansion and differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs) into functional cells. Kadimastem is focusing on two promising products, AstroRxÂ® and IsletRX. AstroRxÂ®, the Company's clinically advanced product, is an astrocyte cell therapy in clinical development as a treatment for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. IsletRx, is comprised of functional Stem Cell derived pancreatic islet cells intended to cure patients with insulin dependent diabetes. IsletRx demonstrated safety and efficacy in preclinical studies. Kadimastem was founded by Professor Michel Revel, CSO of the Company and Professor Emeritus of Molecular Genetics at the Weizmann Institute of Science. Professor Revel received the Israel Prize for the invention and development of RebifÂ®, a multiple sclerosis blockbuster drug sold worldwide. Kadimastem is traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE: KDST). Forward Looking Statement: This document may include forward-looking information as defined in the Securities Law, 5728 â 1968. Forward-looking information is uncertain and mostly is not under the Company's control and the realization or non-realization of forward-looking information will be affected, among other things, by the risk factors characterizing the Company's activity, as well as developments in the general environment and external factors affecting the Company's activity. The Company's results and achievements in the future may differ materially from any presented herein and the Company makes no undertaking to update or revise such projection or estimate and does not undertake to update this document. This document does not constitute a proposal to purchase the Company's securities or an invitation to receive such offers. Investment in securities in general and in the Company in particular bears risks. One should consider that past performance does not necessarily indicate performance in the future. Contact Details Asaf Shiloni +972 73-797-1613 s.herzl@kadimastem.com Company Website https://www.kadimastem.com/

July 21, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

R2 Technologies Receives Series C Investment to Fuel Business Growth, Expand Corporate Footprint and Tap into the Global Market

R2 Technologies

R2 Technologies Inc. ("R2") has received an additional round of $15 million in funding from its founding investor, Pansend Life Sciences, LLC, as a Series C equity investment which closed on July 20, 2021. The investment established a post-money valuation of $150 million for R2. The funds will be used to expand the company’s corporate footprint and US commercial acceleration of Glacial Rx™, its first-to-market revolutionary CryoAesthetic™ treatment, FDA-cleared to remove benign lesions and temporarily reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. The investment will also fuel global growth and development of R2 Technologies’ upcoming innovations that are currently planned for future rollout. “It is exciting to see our founding investor, Pansend, reinvest in the company. It is a testament to our business and the growth trajectory within the US and global markets,” says Tim Holt, R2’s Chief Executive Officer. “In fact, we will be one of the first global players in aesthetics who will have an East Coast office in Miami, Florida. This expansion will give us an unprecedented advantage especially as we expand globally and mobilize our growing sales force.” In preparation for the unprecedented growth expected in the upcoming year, R2 is accelerating its manufacturing process to meet the current pent-up and future anticipated demands from the professional market. Additionally, the team will be ramping up marketing efforts to further drive education and awareness across both the consumer and professional channels. R2 is doubling down on its presence in Silicon Valley with the expansion of its main office, while establishing a Miami-based satellite office. According to a recent article, Florida has been noted as one of the hottest new business hubs with Fortune 500 businesses and tech firms expanding into the flourishing market, leading to notable financial growth. Furthermore, RealSelf named Miami at the top of its list for the most aesthetic treatment providers and plastic surgeons per capita in 2018 and noted a strong correlation between tech hub hotspots and top medaesthetic markets, making it a prime marketplace for R2’s in-office treatments. Developed by the pioneers of CoolSculpting and Fraxel, Glacial Rx was named among ‘2021 Launches Doctors are Buzzing About’ according to RealSelf, the leading and most trusted source to educate on cosmetic procedures. Most recently, R2 was named winner of the 2 nd Annual Aesthetics Tech Summit LaunchPad SBDC, hosted by Octane, a company committed to making resources, capital and mentorship available to tech and medtech startups. R2 is actively taking orders from aesthetic providers who want to offer the new Glacial Rx treatment in-office. To learn more about R2 Technologies, treatment offerings and providers, visit glacialskin.com and follow the company on LinkedIn. About R2 Technologies: Headquartered in Silicon Valley, R2 Technologies is a world leader in CryoAesthetic™ medical devices. In 2014, Pansend Life Sciences, LLC and Blossom Innovations, LLC founded R2 Technologies and licensed exclusive intellectual property from Massachusetts General Hospital. In 2019, R2 brought on strategic partner, Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd. In close collaboration with these partners and the brand’s scientiﬁc founders and world-famous luminaries in aesthetic medicine, Drs. Rox Anderson, Dieter Manstein, and Henry Chan, R2 focuses on the development, engineering, clinical research, and commercialization of groundbreaking technologies for aesthetic providers and consumers. Since inception, R2 has raised $76 million in ﬁnancing led by a world-class team of experts within the aesthetics industry. Contact Details Linsey Tilbor Rubin +1 732-991-5294 ltilbor@rellmc.com Company Website https://glacialskin.com/

July 21, 2021 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

American Kidney Fund Supports Emerging Researchers Through Two New Clinical Scientist in Nephrology Fellowship Awards

American Kidney Fund

The American Kidney Fund (AKF) today announced the newest recipients of research funding from its Clinical Scientist in Nephrology Program, which has been funding the most promising emerging clinical researchers in nephrology for over 30 years. Christine Limonte, MD, a nephrology clinical research fellow at the University of Washington, and Elizabeth Kermgard, MD, a pediatric nephrology fellow at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), have been awarded two-year AKF research fellowships which began July 1. Dr. Limonte and Dr. Kermgard join a distinguished roster of more than 40 top nephrology researchers who received early-career support from AKF through the Clinical Scientist in Nephrology Program. AKF’s program strives to improve the quality of care provided to kidney patients. Since 1989, AKF has funded researchers whose work is designed to improve diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for patients living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure. The fellowships announced today are funded by generous grants from Akebia Therapeutics, Kissinger Family Foundation, John and Maria Laffin Trust and an anonymous donation from a family foundation. “We are proud to award our newest AKF Clinical Scientist in Nephrology fellowships to two impressive women who are paving the way to advance clinical research and have a lasting impact on people with kidney disease,” said LaVarne A. Burton, AKF President and CEO. “We are grateful for the support of our funders for their generosity in helping to fund this important research program, which has made invaluable contributions to our understanding of kidney disease and improvements in patient care for more than 30 years.” Dr. Limonte’s research is utilizing novel analytics techniques to determine if blood vessel disease in the back of the eye, or retinopathy, can reveal information about kidney function and kidney disease. The goal of the investigation is to better diagnose and treat diabetic kidney disease. In a two-part study, Dr. Limonte will first use machine learning on medical record data from 10,000 patients to look at associations between kidney function and eye disease. In the second part, she will work with the Kidney Precision Medicine Project to analyze kidney biopsy samples from 75 people, using genetic data to help decipher mechanisms of kidney disease. “Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney failure in the U.S., and it disproportionately impacts people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. I want to get a better understanding of the biology of diabetic kidney disease, so that we can deliver better care to a group that desperately needs it,” said Dr. Limonte. “My research will begin the discovery process to determine the molecular pathways that link retinopathy and diabetic kidney disease. This will hopefully help with diagnosis, and ultimately, lead to the discovery of treatments that might work better in some patients.” Dr. Kermgard is studying the relationship between gut microbiome and CKD, and how the interactions of bacteria in our body may impact normal bone growth and turnover—the process of resorption followed by replacement of new bone with little change in shape that occurs throughout a person's life. Her research will enroll 48 pediatric dialysis patients between the ages of six and 21, who have not been on immunosuppressive drugs or growth hormones in the last four weeks and have normal bone turnover. Her team will collect blood and stool samples and utilize shotgun sequencing to look at the microbiome, conduct analysis of short-chain fatty acids and capture the levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) fragments, an important indicator of mineral and bone disease in CKD patients. “When you work in pediatric nephrology, you see children who are suffering from bone disease every day,” said Dr. Kermgard. “When these young patients with bone deformities are in front of you and you know that mineral and bone disease can lead to increased cardiovascular risk, it’s hard not to intervene. I hope my research one day leads to the finding of an intervention that can change the microbiome or SCFA production and improve bone growth in these pediatric patients.” Dr. Limonte graduated magna cum laude from Brown University and received her medical degree from University of Pennsylvania. She completed her internal medicine residency at Northwestern University. Now, as a Nephrology Clinical Research Fellow at the University of Washington, she is working with the Kidney Precision Medicine Project, a national, NIH-sponsored consortium established to develop a better understanding of the molecular pathways involved in kidney disease. The fellowship will support her work in bringing together biology with patient-centered care. Dr. Kermgard completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and received her Doctor of Medicine degree from Saint Louis University. After medical school, she completed her pediatric internship and residency at CHLA, where she is currently completing her first year of fellowship in pediatric nephrology. In parallel with her research, Dr. Kermgard will pursue a Master of Science in Clinical, Biomedical and Translational Investigations degree at the University of Southern California (USC). About the American Kidney Fund The American Kidney Fund (AKF) fights kidney disease on all fronts as the nation’s leading kidney nonprofit. AKF works on behalf of the 37 million Americans living with kidney disease, and the millions more at risk, with an unmatched scope of programs that support people wherever they are in their fight against kidney disease—from prevention through transplant. With programs that address early detection, disease management, financial assistance, clinical research, innovation and advocacy, no kidney organization impacts more lives than AKF. AKF is one of the nation’s top-rated nonprofits, investing 97 cents of every donated dollar in programs, and holds the highest 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. For more information, please visit KidneyFund.org, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Contact Details Stefanie Tuck 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300 Rockville, MD 20852 AKF@jpa.com Company Website http://www.kidneyfund.org/

July 19, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

No Dogs Left Behind Now Sells Organic CBD Oils and Treats To Support Its Dog Meat Trade Survivors Rescued From Slaughterhouses, Dog Meat Trucks

No Dogs Left Behind

No Dogs Left Behind, a global animal welfare organization, now sells organic CBD oils and treats specifically designed for your dog. NDLB is offering these new products through a strategic alliance with Pawse, a company founded by four best friends with backgrounds in agriculture, hemp farming, thoroughbred training, business and engineering. Pawse plants, grows, harvests and extracts the CBD for its pet products all on its farm in Paris, Kentucky. “We were looking for a product that would be helpful for our survivors of the illegal dog meat trafficking trade in East Asia” says Jeffrey Beri, Founder and President of No Dogs Left Behind. “Product quality is paramount in an industry that lacks regulation and oversight. We decided to enter into this strategic alliance with Pawse because they meticulously control every step in the process, ensuring only the highest quality products are used. Perhaps most notable to us is they validate their products with ISO accredited third party lab results, which was something critical to us when deciding to enter into this alliance.” “It’s incredible how effective these all-natural products can be in helping calm and relax dogs and often improve their overall quality of life, especially as they age,” said Bradley Kerrick, a partner at Pawse, founded in 2019. Kerrick explains “there are studies that indicate that CBD may enhance immune system function, promote relaxation and calming, and helps maintain joint mobility. In essence, said Kerrick, “CBD from hemp is used to supplement a dogs existing endocannabinoid system, and leads to better cellular communication within their bodies, ideally, helping promote homeostasis and optimal function.” In addition to daily use for helping promote overall health and wellness, Kerrick notes many people find uses for these products during specific scenarios such as peak fireworks times, thunderstorms, road trips or visits to the vet, and for large crowds where dogs can quickly become overwhelmed. “We have seen that a lot of people have found use for CBD products for their dogs when they head back to the office and their pup is at home wondering why mom and dad are gone so much these days.” CBD treatment is especially helpful to dogs rescued from the dog meat trafficking trade, many of whom have experienced extreme stress and trauma. “There are so many things that trigger them because that’s what they went through,” he said, such as noises from lawnmowers, buses, snow blowers, motorcycles and vacuum cleaners. CBD products, notes Beri, can help your dogs “embrace the environment versus react in a fearful way.” These freeze-dried CBD treats and oil are available for purchase at http://www.nodogsleftbehind.com. NDBL is working with Pawse on additional products such as plant-based CBD treats and gravies. “We are excited to offer these products to our adopters and other pet lovers whose dogs can benefit from CBD on a daily basis and for additional help during stressful situations for their in dogs” says Beri. About No Dogs Left Behind: No Dogs Left Behind operates boots on ground in East Asia, fighting on the frontlines to rescue dogs from the illegal dog meat trafficking trade. We work hands-on with local activists through emergency response, pulling dogs directly from slaughterhouses, dog meat trucks, wet markets and traffickers. Our mission extends beyond borders, advocating for the creation and enforcement of animal welfare laws and raising awareness for a cruelty-free, sustainable world in which no animal is violated, exploited, tortured or slaughtered for commercial goods or profit. With nearly 500 survivors in our care, No Dogs Left Behind operates sanctuaries in Dayi and Gongyi, China. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok and Pinterest. Contact Details No Dogs Left Behind Sherry Chen +1 855-665-0888 sherry@nodogsleftbehind.com Company Website http://www.nodogsleftbehind.com

July 19, 2021 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Amazon and Microsoft Veterans Join Forces with the Allen Institute for A.I. to Launch MajorBoost

MajorBoost

Three tech and healthcare veterans collaborating at the Allen Institute for AI (AI2) today launched MajorBoost. The AI-based communication and decision support company is set to significantly improve efficiency in the healthcare system by reimagining how doctor’s offices and insurance companies communicate with each other. “Instead of spending more time on patient conversations and conducting health care follow-ups, medical providers are spending endless hours on the phone navigating the maze of health insurance call centers,” said Lekshmi Venu, co-founder and CEO of MajorBoost. “MajorBoost empowers providers to get their questions answered quickly, resolve insurance issues faster, and ultimately grow their patient service and human connection.” It’s estimated that medical providers lose $35B annually due to antiquated processes and inefficiencies in the insurance system, simply because they’re trying to confirm patient eligibility, claim status, and other administrative tasks. By serving the more than 2M medical billers, front desk staff and call center staff in the healthcare industry, MajorBoost has the potential to change lives and the nature of work. “The pain is real, and the younger generations aren’t going to put up with the current system,” said Ben Hesketh, co-founder and CTO of MajorBoost. “Our AI-enabled phone automation delivers productivity, intelligence and decision support to healthcare teams, getting them off the phone and back to helping patients.” With general availability imminent, MajorBoost is already working with private practices that report seeing immediate results including a boost in same-day issue resolution rates and more patient conversations by using the AI-based tool. Healthcare providers can register for access to MajorBoost at www.majorboost.com. About MajorBoost MajorBoost is founded by technologists who personally live with the challenges of health insurance reimbursement, and were leaders at major tech companies and health plans. Backed by the Allen Institute for AI, MajorBoost builds cutting edge AI to improve the lives of patients, healthcare workers, and call center agents. About the MajorBoost Founders As CEO of MajorBoost, Lekshmi Venu is building on her experiences at both Amazon and the healthcare industry. Prior to co-founding MajorBoost, Lekshmi led a global data science and AI team at Amazon. After earning her MBA at Harvard Business School, Lekshmi held leadership roles at Express Scripts (Cigna) and a mid-size long-term care distributor. Ben Hesketh, CTO of MajorBoost, is a tech innovator and entrepreneur. Ben created first generation products in IoT, AR/VR and NLP and amassed over fifteen patents to date with Microsoft. He began his software career in video game development soon after graduating from Cambridge with dual degrees. MajorBoost is Ben’s third co-founded startup. Andrew Palmer, VP of Engineering, is a technologist and professional weightlifter with a passion for improving the lives of patients and healthcare providers. After graduating with an Engineering degree from University of Dayton, Andrew developed health insurance software and later joined Microsoft as a software developer. Andrew was a developer at Moz and Rover, and most recently founded and led engineering for a social network with over 500K users. About the Allen Institute for AI (AI2) AI2 was founded in 2014 with the singular focus of conducting high-impact research and engineering in the field of artificial intelligence, all for the common good. AI2 is the creation of Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder, and is led by Dr. Oren Etzioni, a leading researcher in the field of AI. AI2 employs more than 200 top researchers and engineers from across the globe. To date, AI2 has spun out over 10+ companies via its commercialization arm, the AI2 Incubator. Learn more at allenai.org and ai2incubator.com. Contact Details Owen Media Forrest Carman +1 206-859-3118 forrestc@owenmedia.com Company Website https://www.majorboost.com/

July 15, 2021 07:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time