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A New BioTech Research Race Is Focused On Improving Life For MS Patients

Pasithea Therapeutics Corp.

Learn More about Pasithea Therapeutics by gaining access to the latest research report When the world is focused on a global pandemic no one saw coming four years ago, the attention given to escalating diseases with no known cure can be hidden from the public consciousness. This is perhaps the case with multiple sclerosis (MS), an immune-mediated disease affecting the central nervous system, which according to the National Institutes of Health, continues to grow. The estimated number of people with MS worldwide increased from ~2.1 million in 2013 to 2.8 million in 2020, with the global prevalence at almost 36 per 100,000 people. The increased number of cases has subsequently increased the demand for effective diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis. A recent Fortune Business Insights report said the global multiple sclerosis drugs market size was valued at $23.68 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to $33.17 billion by 2029. Rising MS Numbers Spur Increased Research As companies launch new products and research, government initiatives are projected to improve the accessibility of care and treatment. The rising MS numbers are believed to be the primary catalyst in market expansion. Active biotech companies in the MS market today include Pasithea Therapeutics Corp. (NASDAQ: KTTA ), BioNTech SE (NASDAQ: BNTX ) and SIGA Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: SIGA ) and Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ: MRNA), among others. Some are finding new research showing that an mRNA vaccine might also work in multiple sclerosis (MS). BioNTech and scientists at the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz hypothesized that an mRNA vaccine could work in a targeted fashion to help the immune system tolerate specific MS-related proteins without compromising normal immune function. The BioNTech team developed an mRNA candidate wrapping the genetic information coding for MS-causing self-antigens in fatty substances. A similar lipid nanoparticle is used in Comirnaty to protect the COVID-19 mRNA material until it reaches target cells, where it produces the antigen protein. The results were published in the journal Science. Pasithea Reports Progress In Pursuit Of MS Vaccine Development Pasithea, a biotechnology company focused on discovering, researching and developing new and effective treatments for psychiatric and neurological disorders, recently announced positive results from a preliminary preclinical proof-of-concept study of PAS002, its tolerizing vaccine program in MS. The Pasithea vaccine promotes immune tolerance to a specific myelin protein, reducing the severity of relapses and helping the test animals gain weight, indicating a better overall health status. “Although early-stage data, we’re thrilled with the results of this study and the strong preclinical efficacy data of our tolerizing approach,” Pasithea CEO Dr. Tiago Reis Marques said. While regular vaccines usually are designed to train the body to develop an immune response against a particular pathogen, tolerizing vaccines essentially do the opposite, acting as a “reverse vaccine.” Those vaccines train the immune system to tolerate a molecule, suppressing an unwanted immune response against it. Pasithea hopes that helping the immune system accept GlialCAM, PAS002 will prevent the attacks that cause myelin loss in the brain and spinal cord, thereby reducing disease severity and MS relapses. Another recent article in Science showed published research that scientists have discovered about the risk of an individual contracting MS. The study showed that MS increases 32-fold after a person is infected with the Epstein-Barr virus. However, the risk of developing the condition does not increase when other viruses infect the patient. The scientists also tested MS biomarkers showing neurodegeneration. There are currently 15 vaccines actively under development for the Epstein-Barr virus, most of which are in discovery or preclinical stages. The Modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine under development by the Chinese University of Hong Kong is in Phase II. It uses the same technology as AstraZeneca plc (NASDAQ: AZN) and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) on their COVID-19 vaccines. The most prominent company involved, Moderna, has started testing the vaccine mRNA-1189, which uses mRNA technology, in Phase I studies. If successful, the vaccine could be one of the first on the market for the Epstein-Barr virus. Though the Moderna vaccine does not indicate MS, it could eventually help with disease prevention. For more information on Pasithea Technologies, visit pasithea.com. Pasithea Therapeutics Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery, research and development of new and effective treatments for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. With an experienced team of experts in the fields of neuroscience and psychopharmacology, Pasithea is developing new molecular entities for the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Pasithea addresses the needs of patients currently suffering with mental illness by providing access to IV ketamine infusions both in clinics and in-home settings. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details TraDigital IR- Camille Baptiste camille@tradigitalir.com Company Website https://www.pasithea.com/

October 27, 2022 09:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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This Company Is Looking For A Monkeypox Drug As City Investigates Deaths

NanoViricides, Inc.

Learn more about NanoViricides, Inc. by gaining access to the latest research report New York City is investigating the cause of death for two people who died after contracting monkeypox. Though both of the deceased had higher fatality risk because of underlying conditions, concerns about the virus and its transmissibility have been growing. The current number of monkeypox cases in the city stands at 3,695. Overall, there are just over 28,000 cases of monkeypox across America. Tackling monkeypox head-on, NanoViricides Inc. (NYSE: NNVC) is launching a monkeypox initiative. NanoViricides is a biotech company seeking treatments in the antiviral and nanomedicine space, developing a variety of drugs for diseases like COVID-19, shingles, HIV, swine flu and others. It is now hopeful as it begins developing a treatment to tackle monkeypox. Working Hard To Find A Cure NanoViricides isn’t monkeying around as it begins developing a drug for the disease. It believes itself to be well positioned in the biotech field to find a treatment. It is one of the few biopharma companies to have its own current good manufacturing practice (cGMP)-compliant manufacturing facility, meaning it follows the stringent Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations in all its novel drug development work. Plus, NanoViricides has a large library of broad-spectrum antiviral nanoviricides from which it can draw to test on pox viruses. It has the resources necessary to expedite the process of finding a proper treatment. It hopes to develop a systemic treatment — one that is both oral and injectable — and may also work on a skin cream to treat the rash associated with monkeypox. The quicker these treatments can be rolled out, the sooner they can help those infected with the disease. New York City’s health department responded to the two recent deaths with a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the two reported deaths and our hearts go out to the individuals' loved ones and community. Every effort will be made to prevent additional suffering from this virus through continued community engagement, information-sharing and vaccination.” NanoViricides believes it will be able to develop a drug in response to monkeypox in relatively quick order. Meanwhile, the company’s priority remains the development of its drug candidate NV-CoV-2, for treating COVID-19. To learn more about NanoViricides, visit its website. About NanoViricides NanoViricides, Inc. (the "Company") (www.nanoviricides.com) is a development stage company that is creating special purpose nanomaterials for antiviral therapy. The Company's novel nanoviricide® class of drug candidates are designed to specifically attack enveloped virus particles and to dismantle them. Our lead drug candidate is NV-HHV-101 with its first indication as dermal topical cream for the treatment of shingles rash. In addition, we are developing a clinical candidate for the treatment of COVID-19 disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The Company cannot project an exact date for filing an IND for this drug because of its dependence on a number of external collaborators and consultants.The Company is now working on tasks for completing an IND application. The Company is currently pursuing two separate drug candidates for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. NV-CoV-2 is our nanoviricide drug candidate that does not encapsulate Remdesivir. NV-CoV-2-R is our other drug candidate that is made up of NV-CoV-2 with Remdesivir encapsulated in it. The Company believes that since Remdesivir is already US FDA approved, our drug candidate encapsulating Remdesivir is likely to be an approvable drug, if safety is comparable. Remdesivir is developed by Gilead. The Company has developed both of its own drug candidates NV-CoV-2 and NV-CoV-2-R independently.The Company intends to re-engage into an IND application to the US FDA for NV-HHV-101 drug candidate for the treatment of shingles once its COVID-19 project moves into clinical trials, based on resources availability. The NV-HHV-101 program was slowed down because of the effects of recent COVID-19 restrictions, and re-prioritization for COVID-19 drug development work.The Company is also developing drugs against a number of viral diseases including oral and genital Herpes, viral diseases of the eye including EKC and herpes keratitis, H1N1 swine flu, H5N1 bird flu, seasonal Influenza, HIV, Hepatitis C, Rabies, Dengue fever, and Ebola virus, among others. NanoViricides' platform technology and programs are based on the TheraCour® nanomedicine technology of TheraCour, which TheraCour licenses from AllExcel. NanoViricides holds a worldwide exclusive perpetual license to this technology for several drugs with specific targeting mechanisms in perpetuity for the treatment of the following human viral diseases: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Rabies, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2), Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), Influenza and Asian Bird Flu Virus, Dengue viruses, Japanese Encephalitis virus, West Nile Virus, Ebola/Marburg viruses, and certain Coronaviruses. The Company intends to obtain a license for poxviruses if the initial research is successful. The Company's technology is based on broad, exclusive, sub-licensable, field licenses to drugs developed in these areas from TheraCour Pharma, Inc. The Company's business model is based on licensing technology from TheraCour Pharma Inc. for specific application verticals of specific viruses, as established at its foundation in 2005. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details NanoViricides, Inc. +1 203-937-6137 info@nanoviricides.com Company Website http://www.nanoviricides.com

October 27, 2022 09:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Elsevier and the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Announce the Forthcoming Launch of Genetics in Medicine Open

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 the January 2023 launch of a new gold open access, online only journal: Genetics in Medicine Open ( GIM Open ), an Official Journal of the ACMG. GIM Open will complement ACMG’s flagship journal Genetics in Medicine ( GIM ), also published by Elsevier, and is designed to meet the evolving needs of the global medical genetics and genomics community and expand its open access publishing options. Published under Creative Commons license, all GIM Open articles will be immediately, permanently, and openly available online for readers to view, download, share, and reuse. This will enable authors to more easily comply with funder and institutional mandates, even as requirements continue to evolve. ACMG’s decision to expand the breadth of its openly available content 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. “I am excited about our new gold open access journal that will be available to anyone, anytime, anywhere in the world independent of financial resources or library access. GIM Open will be an international journal with a focus on medical genetics and genomic medicine including all aspects of therapy,” noted ACMG retiring Chief Executive Officer Maximilian Muenke, MD, FACMG, who led the development of the new journal. “It will be a trail blazer for diversity, equity, and inclusion from a double anonymous review process of manuscripts, to the Editor-in-Chief and an editorial board that truly reflects our society in the United States and around the world. We are fortunate to work with our colleagues Robert D. Steiner, MD, FAAP, FACMG, and Jan Higgins, PhD, ELS, from GIM and our publisher Elsevier on the start of this new venture. As a medical geneticist who thinks that genomic medicine is the present and future of medicine, GIM Open will educate healthcare professionals to contribute to optimal patient care everywhere.” GIM Open’s eminent international editorial board will be led by Editor-in-Chief Bo Yuan, PhD, FACMG, Baylor College of Medicine, an internationally recognized expert in the field. “I am tremendously honored and excited to serve as the founding editor of this new journal that will actively support open science for the medical, scientific and research professionals in a broad range of specialties who comprise our ACMG community,” said Dr. Yuan. “Collectively, members of the editorial board and I are dedicated to the rapid dissemination of high quality, authoritative and cutting-edge medical genetic knowledge both within and beyond the genetics community with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.” Louise Curtis, Senior Vice President, Life Sciences and Social Sciences, Elsevier, commented, “We are extremely pleased to expand our publishing portfolio with ACMG, building on our collaborative partnership with this prestigious society that began in 2022 with publication of GIM. Launching GIM Open strongly aligns with our mission to help researchers and healthcare professionals advance science and improve health outcomes for the benefit of society, and we share the commitment to inclusion and diversity at the heart of this exciting new venture.” GIM Open manuscript processing will include rigorous double anonymous peer review, a rapid submission to publication decision turnaround time, and an expedited publication timeline. Detailed instructions for authors and information regarding open access and publishing fees can be found here. Manuscript submission will open as of October 25, 2022. Papers submitted to GIM may be considered for publication in GIM Open if deemed more appropriate for that journal. It is Elsevier’s intention to submit GIM Open for inclusion in the major abstracting and indexing services at the earliest opportunity. As one of the fastest-growing open access publishers in the world, nearly all of Elsevier's 2,700 journals enable open access publishing, including 600 fully open access journals. In 2021, Elsevier published 119,000 gold or pay-to-publish open access articles, an increase of more than 46% over 2020, making Elsevier one of the largest open access publishers in the world. Notes for editors About Genetics in Medicine Open ( GIM Open ) Genetics in Medicine Open ( GIM Open ) is an open access journal with a broad focus on medical genetics and genomic medicine including all aspects of therapy. It will have a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion and will have a double anonymous review process for submitted manuscripts. Positioned as an official journal of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and the companion journal of Genetics in Medicine, GIM Open aims to be an international journal publishing research studies that advance the knowledge, understanding, and practice of medical genetics and genomic medicine for all continents. GIM Open welcomes submissions of Original Research, Reviews, Commentaries and Brief Reports in the areas of clinical genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, biochemical genetics, reproductive medicine, cancer genetics, pharmacogenomics, clinical trials, population genetics, public health, genome-wide association studies, polygenic risk, bioinformatics, methodologies, clinical implementation, ELSI (ethical, legal and social issues), genetic counseling, and practical standards and guidelines. Manuscripts reporting animal models providing clinically relevant insights into human disease mechanisms and potential therapeutics are also welcome. Manuscripts of candidate disease gene discoveries based on a small cohort size but solidified by a high standard of scientific rigor, validity and reproducibility may be considered. Rare case reports may be considered if they fill a knowledge gap in populations underrepresented in genetics research or experiencing health disparities, or inform exceptionally significant actionability in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics. GIM Open promotes studies that include diverse especially under-represented populations. www.gimopen.org About Elsevier and society partnerships Elsevier has long-standing partnerships with over 600 learned societies worldwide, helping them to realize their missions and inspire and support their communities. We pride ourselves on consistently delivering outstanding publishing outcomes through strategic insight, reliable finances, global dissemination, embracing open science and open access, and championing the needs of the communities we jointly serve. www.elsevier.com/societies 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 nearly 2,500 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 Bo Yuan, PhD, FACMG is an Associate Professor of the Human Genome Sequencing Center (HGSC) and the Department of Molecular and Human Genetics at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). He is also a Division Director of the Clinical Laboratories of HGSC. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree from Nankai University in China, he came to the United States and completed his PhD training in molecular and human genetics at BCM. He then received the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG) fellowship at BCM and was subsequently board-certified in Clinical Molecular Genetics and Clinical Cytogenetics. Dr. Yuan is an active laboratory geneticist and academic researcher with interest in characterizing new mechanisms of human genetic disorders, investigating, developing and implementing tools to improve molecular diagnostics and genomic data interpretation, and enhancing the visibility of genomic medicine in clinical care. He has authored and co-authored more than 60 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters. Dr. Yuan is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). He is also a contributing member of other professional communities, including the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG), ClinGen Variant Curation Expert Panel, and ACMG evidence-based guideline (EBG) workgroup. He has also been a longtime reviewer for a number of journals. 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 8,700 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 over 2,700 digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell; our over 43,000 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 Elsevier Kiran Dhaliwal - Global Press & Communications Manager newsroom@elsevier.com American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Kathy Moran - Senior Director, Communications and Public Relations kmoran@acmg.net Company Website https://www.elsevier.com/

October 27, 2022 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Software Effective Solutions Subsidiary MEDCANA (OTC: SFJW) Announces Successful Launch of Test Greenhouses for Microclimates and Genetics with Colombia Partner Firms

Software Effective Solutions Corp.

Software Effective Solutions Corporation (OTC: SFWJ) (“The Company”, “SFWJ”) subsidiary Medcana is pleased to announce the successful launch of test greenhouses for microclimates and genetics with five partner firms in Colombia, South America. With significantly better economics than the US and Canada, a central location for exportation to major markets, and prime cultivation characteristics, Colombia is believed by many to have significant cultivation advantages over other regions around the world. According to Arcview Market Research, the cost to cultivate cannabis in Colombia is 60X less expensive than in Canada and 30X less than in the U.S. José Gabriel Diaz, The Company’s CEO, states, “We have begun simultaneous testing in all five partner companies. The goal is to test microclimate, genetics, local pests, and any other factors that may affect the final design and selection of genetics. The plan is to have our partners run tests with desired strands and analyze initial results.” “As well, the greenhouses are a very small fraction of the planned builds but allow us to test conditions and begin micro-testing genetics. The plan is to run one 90-day cycle and make sure the test parameters yield the expected results.” Medcana partners will also be running tests in native soil for near-term open-air cultivation possibilities for the Company. For now, the greenhouses give Medcana and partners a controlled environment to ensure native soil results are accurate. Software Effective Solutions/MedCana is a global infrastructure and holding company in the cannabis industry. The recent acquisition of a software company expanded the offering to provide traceability from plant to product. MedCana's initial focus is on developing clients and companies in Latin America, with an initial focus on Colombia and partnerships with laboratories, research facilities, and hospitals throughout the world. “In order to build something right and well, we must go slow, analyze, and test all variables. We have done a phenomenal job with the initial analysis for infrastructure, with geological, hydrological, and environmental factors. Now we want to test further. All things matter, wind currents, small changes in humidity, soil, pests, we want to make sure all is analyzed and tested,” adds Diaz. MedCana aims to build its Partner companies into one of the most advanced Cannabinoid production and processing organizations globally SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT This press release contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by terminology such as "believes," "expects," "potential," "plans," "suggests," "may," "should," "could," "intends," or similar expressions. Many forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results implied by such statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, our ability to continue to enhance our products and systems to address industry changes, our ability to expand our customer base and retain existing customers, our ability to effectively compete in our market segment, the lack of public information on our company, our ability to raise sufficient capital to fund our business, operations, our ability to continue as a going concern, and a limited public market for our common stock, among other risks. Many factors are difficult to predict accurately and are generally beyond the company's control. Forward-looking statements speak only as to the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made. Signed. /s/ Jose Gabriel Diaz, CEO www.medcana.net info@medcana.co Contact Details Chris Greta +1 512-587-5175 chris@chrisgreta.com Company Website https://www.medcana.net/

October 27, 2022 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Can This Company’s Birth Control Patch Disrupt The Contraceptive Market?

Agile Therapeutics, Inc.

From Evofem Biosciences Inc. ’s (OTCMKTS: EVFM) Phexxi vaginal gel contraceptive to Dare Bioscience Inc. ’s (NASDAQ: DARE) Ovaprene, an investigational hormone-free monthly intravaginal contraceptive, the market is never in short supply of birth control products. While the issue of birth control and abortion can be embroiled in continuous debates and controversies, contraceptives have been known to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancies, the need for unsafe abortions, and HIV transmissions from mothers to newborns. The need is strong - a 2020 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) said that among 1.9 billion reproductive-age women (15 to 49 years) globally in 2019, around 1.1 billion women require family planning and 270 million of those have an unmet need for contraception. Disruptive Contraceptive Patch? The rising number of women with unmet contraceptive drugs and device needs could present unique opportunities for industry players. Agile Therapeutics Inc. ’s (NASDAQ: AGRX) Twirla® (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol) transdermal system could be one innovative product with the potential to disrupt the industry. New Jersey-based Agile Therapeutics is a forward-thinking women’s healthcare company dedicated to fulfilling the unmet needs of today’s women. The company’s product and product candidates are designed to offer women more freedom and flexibility through additional contraceptive options. Agile Therapeutics Chairman and CEO Al Altomari, speaking at the H.C. Wainwright 24th Annual Global Investment Conference in September, revealed that the company is currently focused on the growth of its first Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved product Twirla®. Twirla®, the company reports, is the first and only birth control patch delivering a low dose of estrogen. Twirla delivers 30 micrograms (mcg) of estrogen daily, the lowest exposure of estrogen in a transdermal contraceptive option. Unlike most oral contraceptives on the market that women take at least 21 days each month, Twirla® uses just three patches a month. Agile Therapeutics plans to commercialize and upscale Twirla through its business plan — non-retail channel growth driver ( Afaxys GPO ) and retail channel growth drivers (telemedicine providers like Nurx & Twirla’s DTC CTV commercial ). With the growth of Twirla® being the main focus, the company believes that building a U.S. women’s health franchise on the foundation of the patch’s commercial success can enhance value for shareholders. “We have sought out and will continue to explore partnerships and opportunities that leverage our existing infrastructure, including co-promotion and business development opportunities,” Altomari said. Cash On Hand And The Way Forward Agile Therapeutics raised net proceeds of approximately $12.2 million through its at-the-market (ATM) offering in the second quarter of 2022 and $22.2 million in an upsized public offering in July 2022. The company reduced the outstanding principal amount owed to Perceptive Advisors to $3 million with proceeds from ATM. Agile Therapeutics established a new $75 million ATM in August 2022. From the end of the fourth quarter to the end of the second quarter of 2022, the company reduced its quarterly operating expenses (OPEX) from $18.2 million to $11.3 million while still growing Twirla demand by 27%. The company now believes it has sufficient cash on hand to fund operations through the end of 2022. In the second quarter of 2022, Agile Therapeutics realized net product sales revenue of $2.1 million, an increase of 75% compared to the second quarter of 2021 revenue of $1.2 million. Total operating expenses for the second quarter of 2022 were $11.3 million. Non-retail sales primarily associated with the Afaxys partnership are expected to significantly accelerate in the second half of 2022. Non-retail channels experience higher gross-to-net discounting compared to retail channels and therefore the company expects overall gross-to-net discounts to increase as a percentage of gross revenue. Agile Therapeutics intends to use its resources to continue to grow Twirla® and to improve on its performance as it prepares to report third-quarter 2022 financial results and Twirla® growth update in November. One of the Company’s financial goals is to become cash flow positive. “Our focus in 2022 has been on growing Twirla and advancing towards generating positive cash flow,” said Agile Therapeutics Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Al Altomari. “In 2022, we have significantly reduced our operating expenses by redesigning how we work to gain efficiencies and implemented a plan we believe can drive Twirla growth through our Afaxys partnership, connected TV (CTV) campaign, and growing the telemedicine channel. ” Agile Therapeutics is a women's healthcare company dedicated to fulfilling the unmet health needs of today’s women. Our product and product candidates are designed to provide women with contraceptive options that offer freedom from taking a daily pill, without committing to a longer-acting method. Our initial product, Twirla®, (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol), a transdermal system, is a non-daily prescription contraceptive. Twirla is based on our proprietary transdermal patch technology, called Skinfusion®, which is designed to allow drug delivery through the skin. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Matt Riley - Head of Investor Relations & Corporate Communications mriley@agiletherapeutics.com Company Website https://agiletherapeutics.com/

October 26, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Amid A Turbulent Industry, This Cannabis Company Shines Like A Diamond In the Rough

LiveWire Ergogenics, Inc.

The pandemic was a monumental moment for the cannabis industry as marijuana became a household essential. In many states, dispensaries were declared essential businesses and were allowed to remain open, resulting in a 46% increase in legal cannabis sales over 2019 to $17.5 billion in 2020. Entrepreneurs flocked to the scene, and investors readily backed the industry. with large investments, often time via so-called SPACs. However, the past several months have marked a return to pre-pandemic levels. While the cannabis industry is still predicted to expand and grow, the industry is witnessing an adaption curve. Between heavy taxation, cultivators abandoning licenses, and the pressure of growing inflation, many companies have put up “For Sale” signs or are looking at tough times ahead. A Diamond In The Rough? The Party’s Just Getting Started For LiveWire Ergogenics LiveWire Ergogenics, Inc. (OTC: LVVV) (“LiveWire”) is a company that focuses on acquiring and managing special-purpose real estate properties that will serve as bases to help discover and develop high-end organic cannabis specialty products. LiveWire firmly positions itself in the center of the health and wellness industry. The cannabis industry as a whole has seen a recent downturn in profits resulting in missed rent payments and cultivation facilities shutting down. While the industry as a whole is looking at positive growth, the reality on the ground for many cannabis companies may be bleak. Property deals have been falling through more frequently as companies struggle to make ends meet. Companies are facing difficulties with the slowing general economy paired with legislative challenges that plague the cannabis industry. Public policy is an uphill battle. Despite these challenges in the market, LiveWire is prospering. Its Q2 results show solid growth and a positive future. In Q2, LiveWire generated $463,313 in revenue, which was a 323% increase from 2021’s Q2. Net profit also saw considerable growth; the company’s net profit was $183,122 in Q2 compared to a loss of $579,792 during 2021’s Q2. LiveWire believes that U.S. cannabis companies must be well-managed and offer unique and high-quality products via legal and environmentally conscious operations, not low-quality mass production. That is a significant component of their success and the Company believes that diligent and disciplined investors will be presented with an exciting second opportunity to benefit from one of the last decade's fastest-growing markets for any industry. They expect to see reliable growth in cannabis industry sales going forward, and while still in the revenue startup phase that seems to already reflect in their own sales. LiveWire has developed Estrella Ranch as the central hub for all LiveWire and subsidiary operations. This property is being developed into the first “Estate Grown Weedery,” and eventually the ultimate cannabis destination in California. As of October, the Ranch has passed all quarterly inspections by the county and state and was renewed for its annual permit. The Estrella Ranch has also received nine new cultivation permits that will allow for an expanded outdoor cultivation area. As Q3 and Q4 approach, the company is exploring the buildout of an already existing building on Estrella Ranch as an indoor cultivation area. If implemented and considered economical this is expected to help further drive revenue. Based on Livewire’s philosophy that any cannabis company has to be subject to strict financial principles and must operate with low overhead and reasonable debt burden to produce increasing revenues and profits, LiveWire does not seem to be experiencing the same dilemmas that other companies in the industry are facing. If their Q2 report and business expansion plans are any indications, LiveWire seems to have a strong future ahead of it. LiveWire Ergogenics focuses on acquiring, managing, and licensing well-qualified cannabis real estate locations to establish fully compliant and permitted facilities to produce cannabis-based products and establish relationships for the statewide distribution of these products in California. This includes developing and licensing high-quality organic cannabinoid-based products and services and creating the high-quality "Estrella Grown Weedery™" brand via its subsidiary/affiliate companies Estrella Ranch Partners, Estrella River Farms, Makana Ola, and CaliCruz Farms. LiveWire Ergogenics does not produce, sell, or distribute products that violate the United States Controlled Substances Act. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Tristan Cavato ir@livewireergogenics.com

October 26, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Cortland Biomedical Announces Capabilities for Creating Textile Structures Incorporating Radiopaque Fibers

Cortland Biomedical

Cortland Biomedical, a full-service medical textiles product development partner that provides access to a full spectrum of global engineering, design and manufacturing capabilities, today announced that it now has capabilities for processing radiopaque fibers. By incorporating radiopaque fibers into diagnostic and interventional medical devices, it allows the devices to become clearly visible under fluoroscopy while maintaining the mechanical properties desired for the specific application. Improved visibility under fluoroscopy and x-rays – including better contrast and sharpness of the image– will allow surgeons to optimally position the device or implant. Furthermore, textile-based implants can also incorporate radiopaque fibers, which will enable surgeons to view the position of the implant under fluoroscopy months or even years after surgical placement. The incorporation of textiles allows for lower profile and more flexible medical devices that can enable less invasive surgical procedures. Cortland Biomedical has an extensive range of knitting, weaving, and braiding capabilities, enabling it to work with its customers to develop complex, customized textile structures with highly tailored mechanical properties. Any of these methods can be applied to processing radiopaque fibers, which are currently available in PET and UHMWPE. “We’re always aiming to break down the barriers of what’s traditionally been possible when it comes to engineering textile structures,” said John Greco, VP Sales, Cortland Biomedical. “We’re pleased to now be able to work with radiopaque fibers, which will give our customers more choice when it comes to material selection and allow them to create devices that can be seen more clearly under fluoroscopy without the need for additional markers.” About Cortland Biomedical Cortland Biomedical custom designs and manufactures high-performance biomedical textile structures leveraging years of experience in medical textile engineering methods including knitting, braiding, and weaving. Its thoughtful design concepts challenge the status quo. Cortland Biomedical’s unique combination of advanced equipment and technology, a seasoned medical textile-specific engineering team, and first-rate R&D capabilities allows it to tackle customers’ complex challenges with the innovation and agility expected in the medical device industry. Learn more at cortlandbiomedical.com. Contact Details SVM Public Relations Jordan Bouclin +1 401-490-9700 Jordan.bouclin@svmpr.com Company Website https://www.cortlandbiomedical.com/

October 25, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Hong Kong Baptist University-led research identifies Salvia miltiorrhiza extract as potential preventive agent for gastric cancer induced by bile reflux

Hong Kong Baptist University

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 25 October 2022 - Research led by the School of Chinese Medicine at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has identified cryptotanshinone, a compound extracted from the Chinese herbal medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza, with the potential for the treatment and prevention of gastric cancer associated with bile reflux. The researchers unveiled the mechanism of how bile reflux induces gastritis and gastric cancer. They explained that refluxed bile acids (BAs) lead to the proliferation of pro-inflammation bacteria that promote gastric carcinogenesis, the formation of cancer. Professor Jia Wei, Associate Dean (International Collaboration) of Chinese Medicine and Cheung On Tak Endowed Professor in Chinese Medicine at HKBU, has identified cryptotanshinone with the potential for the treatment and prevention of gastric cancer associated with bile reflux. The research findings have been published in the international scientific journal Advanced Science. Role of bile reflux in gastric cancer unclear Bile, secreted by the liver, is stored in the gallbladder and is released to the duodenum to help digest fat. When the pylorus connecting the stomach and the duodenum is damaged or fails to work properly, bile in the duodenum can enter the stomach, causing gastritis. People with stomach surgery complications, peptic ulcers or gallbladder removal surgery have higher risks of bile reflux. However, the mechanism of how bile reflux induces gastric carcinogenesis remains unclear. Professor Jia Wei, Associate Dean (International Collaboration) of Chinese Medicine and Cheung On Tak Endowed Professor in Chinese Medicine at HKBU, in collaboration with researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, conducted a study on how bile reflux induces gastric carcinogenesis, and looked for new prevention and therapeutic approaches. Professor Jia said: “We unveiled for the first time the underlying mechanism by which bile reflux promoted the development of gastric carcinogenesis. It offers important clinical insights on the development of novel prevention and therapeutic approaches for the disease. Based on the newly discovered mechanism, we identified cryptotanshinone as a potential Chinese medicine-based pharmaceutic agent for the prevention and treatment of gastric carcinogenesis due to bile reflux.” Bile reflux alters gastric environment The research team analysed the gastric juice samples of 50 patients with bile reflux gastritis (BRG group), 50 patients with gastric cancer (GC group) and 45 subjects in the control group using chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques. It was found that the amounts of BAs, the major component of bile, in the gastric juice samples of BRG and GC groups are significantly higher than in the control group. Furthermore, the acidities of gastric juice samples of the BRG group (pH value about 3.5) and the GC group (pH value about 4) are drastically lower than in the control group (pH value about 2). The phenomenon is explained by the fact that BAs are weak acids compared with strong gastric acid, and their influx into the stomach changed the gastric environment by upsetting the normal acid-base balance of the gastric juice. Further investigation found that a specific type of BA, called taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA), showed a strong positive correlation with pH value of gastric juice samples of the BRG and GC groups. Previous studies showed that bile reflux is closely related to chronic gastric inflammation and gastric carcinogenesis. The researchers thus examined the concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a pro-inflammation cytokine, in the gastric juice of the 145 subjects above, and found that the BRG and GC groups have LPS concentrations significantly higher than those of the control group. Change in microbiota associates with gastric carcinogenesis As LPS is produced and found in the outer membrane of certain kinds of bacteria, the researchers applied gene sequencing and other techniques and confirmed that LPS-producing bacteria are significantly more abundant in the gastric juice of BRG and CG groups compared to the control group. Among these LPS-producing bacteria, a species called P. melaninogenica had the highest relative abundance. From these experimental results, it is suggested that bile reflux induces significant changes in the gastric environment, alters the gastric microbiota, and results in the development of gastritis and gastric carcinogenesis. The hypothesis was tested with a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments in mice, which confirmed that application of TDCA and LPS promotes gastric epithelial cell proliferation, and induces gastric inflammation. Cellular and molecular analysis revealed that P. melaninogenica promoted gastric inflammation in mice by activating the IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 pathway, a chain of interactions between proteins in a cell involved in processes such as immunity, cell division, cell death, and tumour formation. Cryptotanshinone as potential pharmaceutic agent After unveiling the mechanism of bile reflux-induced gastric cancer, the researchers turned to explore a corresponding preventive and therapeutic approach. They focused on cryptotanshinone, a bioactive compound isolated from the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza, which is a Chinese herbal medicine that facilitates blood circulation with an anti-inflammatory effect. Cryptotanshinone is also known as an inhibitor of the STAT3 signaling pathway in cells. The researchers tested the effects of cryptotanshinone with a bile reflux mouse model developed through surgery. In a group of eight mice without application of cryptotanshinone, three mice developed gastric lesions 50 weeks after surgery. However, in another group of six mice injected with cryptotanshinone, no obvious gastric lesions were observed. The results suggested that cryptotanshinone has abolished the effects of TDCA and LPS in activating the IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 pathway. “Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that cryptotanshinone is a potential Chinese medicine-based pharmaceutic agent for the prevention and treatment of gastric carcinogenesis due to bile reflux. It provides an alternative strategy for the development of medication which targets on the newly discovered mechanism of how bile reflux induces gastric carcinogenesis,” said Professor Jia. Contact Details HKBU Communication and Public Relations Office Christina Wu hkbunews@hkbu.edu.hk

October 25, 2022 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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A Growing Body of Research Supports the Positive Impact of Massage Therapy For Mental Health

American Massage Therapy Association

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is sharing recent research supporting the benefits of massage therapy for stress, anxiety and depression. In a time when the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) ranks anxiety as the country’s most common mental illness – and depression as the leading cause of disability for people ages 15 to 44 1, people with mental health issues are turning to a range of wellness strategies, including massage therapy which has a positive impact on the body and mind. During AMTA’s National Massage Therapy Awareness Week®, explore the latest studies on massage therapy for mental health. Studies on Massage for Stress and Anxiety A recent study by German researchers indicated that short-term interventions such as massage therapy can robustly reduce stress on a psychological and physiological level by boosting the body’s principal engine for relaxation – the parasympathetic nervous system. In the study, researchers measured how massage can affect heart rate variability. When the parasympathetic nervous system is active, during rest and relaxation, the heart rate variability is high. The researchers found that just 10 minutes of massage created “significant increases” in heart rate variability. 2 Another 2021 Mayo Clinic study showed positive results on the benefits of massage therapy for anxiety in preoperative surgical patients. After receiving a 15-minute non-therapeutic hand massage, patients experienced lower anxiety levels and increased satisfaction. 3 New Research on Massage Therapy for Chronic Pain and Depression Research also indicates that massage can improve mood and reduce depression in those living with chronic pain. In fact, a scientific journal “Brain Sciences” recently covered a 2020 trial on women with chronic back pain whose depressive symptoms and negative body image were significantly reduced after receiving slow, superficial strokes along the back, neck and dorsal limbs. 4 In addition, a recent Australian pilot study examined the feasibility and acceptability of partner-delivered relaxation massage, and whether massage can reduce symptoms of prenatal anxiety, stress and depression. The results showed that massage therapy was linked to a large reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms and a moderate reduction of stress. Pregnant women who received massage therapy reported a positive benefit from massage of 78 mm (range 29 – 100) on a 100 mm visual analog scale. 5 Massage For Youth Struggling with Mental Health Issues Mental health issues are on the rise for children in the U.S. Many recent studies point to the benefits of using massage in addressing a range of psychological issues in youth, such as attention disorders, aggression, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. In a 2019 study on eating disorders and depression, researchers found that excessively low-dopamine levels were increased following one month of daily 20-minute massages. 6 Another 2019 study compared the effectiveness of soft tissue manipulation and a relaxation technique (Jacobson’s progressive relaxation) in reducing anxiety levels in young adults. The researchers found that the level of perceived anxiety decreased “significantly” in the group receiving soft tissue manipulation. 7 “Research on the efficacy of massage therapy for mental health continues to show great promise,” says Michaele Colizza, AMTA National President. “In fact, more and more consumers are turning to massage therapy as part of an integrative approach to care for improving mental health and well-being.” It’s an Important Moment in Time for Massage for Mental Health Over the last few years, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a marked effect on the country’s mental health. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 42% of people surveyed reported symptoms of anxiety or depression during the pandemic. Researchers are concerned that the increase in mental health issues could linger long after the pandemic has subsided, and many integrative health experts believe that massage therapy can be an important part of the solution in helping alleviate stress, anxiety and depression. 8 About The American Massage Therapy Association The American Massage Therapy Association, the most trusted name in massage therapy, is the largest non-profit, professional association serving massage therapists, massage students and massage schools. The association is directed by volunteer leadership and fosters ongoing, direct member-involvement through its 51 chapters. AMTA works to advance the profession through ethics and standards, the promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists in all states, and public education on the benefits of massage. To find a qualified massage therapist in your area, please visit AMTA’s Find a Massage Therapist Locator Service ™. Research Citations 1. Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA): Facts & Statistics | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA 2. University of Konstanz. “Ten minutes of massage or rest will help your body fight stress.” ScienceDaily. September 2020. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200918104305.htm. 3. Zghihong, Bauer, Aaberg, Pool, Van Rooy, Schroeder, Finney. “Benefits of hand massage on anxiety in preoperative outpatient: A quasi-experimental study with pre- and post-tests.” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32919894/ 4. Effect of Psycho-Regulatory Massage Therapy on Pain and Depression in Women with Chronic and/ or Somatoform Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial - PubMed (nih.gov) 5. Hall HL, Munk NK, Carr BH, Fogarty SR, Cant RB, Holton SR, Weller CL, Lauche RM. Maternal mental health and partner-delivered massage: A pilot study. Women Birth. 2021 May;34(3):e237-47. 6. Tiffany Field. " Pediatric massage therapy research: A narrative review." Children (Basel) 2019 Jun; 6(6): 78. 7. Wilczynska, Lysak-Radomska, Podczarska-Glowacka, Jolanta Zajt, Dornowski, Skonieczny " Evaluation of the effectiveness of relaxation in lowering the level of anxiety in young adults." Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2019;32(6):817-824. 8. Vahration, Blumberg, Terlizzi, Schiller. “Symptoms of Anxiety or Depressive Disorder and Use of Mental Health Care Among Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic” – United States, August 2020-February 2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2021;70:490-494. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7013e2.htm?s_cid=mm7013e2_w Contact Details American Massage Therapy Association Kristin Taylor +1 847-905-1425 communications@amtamassage.org Company Website https://www.amtamassage.org/

October 24, 2022 12:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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