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Melissa & Doug Toys Co-founder Introduces Lifelines, Well Being Tools That Activate Senses, Promote Stress Relief

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/ytMbkUGV8kg It’s no secret that stress relief can get stressful for many people. Science tells us that 80% of stress relief starts in your body, not your brain. What if there was a way to bring stress relief to your fingertips with a science-backed collection of physical tools designed to activate the nervous system's calming response. Melissa Bernstein, the creative Founder behind Melissa & Doug Toys, is introducing her newest venture, Lifelines, a collection of Sensory Immersion™ tools that activate the body's natural stress relievers, your senses. For more than 30 years, Melissa conceived over 10,000 toys designed to unleash children's imagination, but behind-the-scenes she hid a lifelong struggle with anxiety, depression and stress. When she immersed her senses - she was able to break the cycle of rumination and experience the present moment in totality. That is the backstory and inspiration for Lifelines. Lifelines will offer a comprehensive suite of Sensory Immersion tools across all six senses. The first collection is focused on aroma, a powerful and science-backed category Melissa felt lacked innovation. The collection includes 45 products with 16 patents pending, spanning portable fidget tools, sensory writing, innovative diffusers, and essential oil blends. There are over 100 new products in development, including meditative art activities for adults and multi-sensorial sound and sight devices. Lifelines Grounding Stones are patent-pending handheld diffusers designed for touch, combining the power of scent with fidgeting. Fidgeting has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve focus. The six unique and touchable designs feature an irresistible swivel and fit perfectly in the palm, for stress relief anytime, anywhere. Lifelines sensory writing tools inspire focus and spark creativity. The Scented Colored Pencils elevate any writing experience. And the Pen Diffuser combines an innovative writing tool with four distinct aromas dispensed at your fingertips. Tactile Sensory Journals feature covers made for touch, with soothing embossed patterns inside to keep your ideas flowing. Lifelines immersive diffusers pair with any of their 20 essential oil blends to activate smell, touch, and sight. The Waves Ultrasonic Diffuser combines breathtaking scents, colorful lights, and cascading mist inspired by the ocean's tides. The Shower Diffuser and Bath Diffuser turn any bathroom into a spa-like getaway. The portable and lightweight Everyday Diffuser fits perfectly into small spaces like a drawer, car or bag with no batteries or cords required. And then there are Lifelines Essential Oil Blends, thoughtfully crafted aromas inspired by nature and curated by Melissa. This includes more than 20 different blends across five intoxicating scent families and four well- being goals: Energy, Calm, Focus, and Joy. Blends are made from naturally derived, sustainably sourced botanicals, free from parabens and dyes, and blended in the USA. All oils come with Lifelines' patent-pending Precision Pump™ for a mess-free application that dispenses the perfect amount of oil every time. Lifelines products are affordably priced from $5.99-$29.99 and available at popular retailers nationwide including Target. For more information, visit Lifelines.com About Lifelines Founded in 2022, Lifelines, is a collection of Sensory Immersion™ tools that activate the body's natural stress relievers, the senses. From the creative mind of toy maker and play expert, Melissa Bernstein, Lifelines established a new category of adult well-being products that are affordably priced and accessible at major retailers nationwide. For more information visit www.Lifelines.com. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 28, 2023 03:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Women and Alzheimer’s Disease Subject of Giving Tuesday Webinar

Alzheimer’s Disease Research Foundation

Cure Alzheimer’s Fund will host Dr. Liisa Galea for a Giving Tuesday webinar on her research into women and Alzheimer’s disease. In this pre-recorded webinar, Dr. Galea presents her research on sex-based differences into the causes of Alzheimer's disease and discusses her findings with Meg Smith, CEO of Cure Alzheimer's Fund. Dr. Liisa Galea is the Treliving Family Chair in Women’s Mental Health at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, Canada and a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto. Dr. Galea is a world-renowned expert in sex hormone influences on brain and behavior, with a focus on dementia and stress-related psychiatric disorders. Her research examines the intersection of hormones, and stress on brain plasticity in males and females. “Women develop Alzheimer's disease at twice the rate of men. Dr. Galea’s research into why women are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s and what is driving increased risk is impressive,” said CEO Smith. “She is a tireless advocate for women’s health research and for sex and gender-based analysis to improve cognitive aging for both women and men. We are lucky to hear from her.” “There is a lot of talk about precision medicine, the idea that we can tailor treatments based on our genes. But we rarely talk about how different treatments might be needed to combat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s based on our sex,” said Galea. “The top three risk factors for late onset sporadic Alzheimer’s disease include APOE4 genotype and female sex. If you are an APOE4 carrier and a female you have an even greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than if you are male carrier. Why not harness this information to see whether we can discover new therapies to combat this devastating illness. It’s time we figured out how sex plays a role, not only in the risk and progression of Alzheimer’s disease, but whether or not, different treatments may need to be tailored by sex.” For more information and to view the webinar, please visit Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at CureAlz.org and https://bit.ly/49jqQuO for the webinar. The webinar takes place during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in November. It is estimated that more than 6.5 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease two-thirds of those who are afflicted are women. It is projected that the share of adults 65 and older in the US population will rise to 22 percent by 2050. With age as the biggest risk factor, Alzheimer’s disease is poised to place an unmanageable financial burden on the US healthcare system, caregivers, and loved ones. About Cure Alzheimer’s Fund Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is a non-profit dedicated to funding the most promising research to prevent, slow, or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. Since its founding in 2004, Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has provided grants to the world’s leading researchers and contributed more than $180 million to research. Its funded initiatives have been responsible for many key breakthroughs in understanding the causes and pathology of Alzheimer’s disease. Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has received a 4-star rating for more than 12 consecutive years from Charity Navigator. With 100 percent of funds raised going to support research, Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has been able to provide grants to many of the best scientific minds in the field of Alzheimer’s research. For more information, visit https://www.curealz.org/. To learn about our the impact of Alzheimer’s on women and women working towards a cure, visit https://womenandalzheimers.org. Contact Details Barbara Chambers +1 978-417-9890 bchambers@curealz.org Company Website https://www.CureAlz.org

November 27, 2023 05:01 AM Eastern Standard Time

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Sherri Winslow Reflects on Over 20 Years in Palm Desert, CA and Joins President’s Club

Minuteman Press International Inc

Sherri Winslow is the owner of the Minuteman Press franchise in Palm Desert, CA since April of 2002. When her husband suddenly passed away in 2012, Sherri made the difficult decision to carry on as she took a more prominent role in the business as the sole owner and operator. Since then, Sherri has continued to build her business and in 2023 she was honored and acknowledged as one of the newest members of the Minuteman Press President’s Club. As she reflects on her accomplishments, Sherri shares her thoughts on 20-plus years and joining the President’s Club, keys to success and longevity, advice to others, and more. Celebrating 20 Years + Joining Minuteman Press President’s Club In 2022, Sherri celebrated 20 years of business ownership for Minuteman Press in Palm Desert. Today, in 2023, Sherri is now recognized as a member of the Minuteman Press International President’s Club for achieving yearly gross sales of over $1 million in 2022. Sherri shares, “Reflecting on our 20 years in business makes me realize that we were fortunate to partner with a good franchisor. Very few small businesses were able to make it through this period without a strong management and operational program to follow. That along with proper training and support from people that have been in the print business have made a huge impact. We will always be thankful for this.” She continues, “In 2023, I was proud to join the Minuteman Press International President’s Club. We have had fairly steady growth over the past 20 years. We started out making $19,000 in our first month after buying an existing business. In 2012, I lost my husband and I personally went from part-time to being the boss. My staff and Minuteman Press local support led by RVP Dan Byers helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. It was a very foggy year but we made it. In the past few years, we were getting close to the $1 million milestone and we set that as our goal last year. My staff and I worked very hard to make sure we reached that goal. A lot of hard work and determination helped us get there.” When asked about her keys to success and growth, Sherri says, “Our longevity and success is primarily due to our staff and customer service. We have had many referrals through the years without asking. Now that we have been through the last training session, we plan to start asking for referrals through different channels. Other contributing factors to our success are related to our direct & internet marketing along with expanding our services & products over the years. We added wide format in the beginning, then signage, direct mail, and blueprints.” Sherri continues, “There are two other areas worth mentioning that I feel have been successful for us. The first has to do with Google Reviews, which has been a point of focus at regional meetings. At one meeting before the pandemic hit, there were around 50 people in attendance from many franchises in Southern California. We talked about how important Google Reviews are. We shared materials used to get reviews and it really blossomed here. I get a lot of new customers because they did a search and noticed how many good reviews we have.” She further shares, “Next is having good storefront and building signage. My shop is on the main highway that people travel from one end of the valley to the other. You can’t miss my shop because we went big and bold with the signage. I would do more, but the local laws don’t allow it. People always tell me they find me from our signage.” Printing Industry & Community/Franchise Support Sherri shares her insights on the printing industry today, saying, “Printing remains vital to businesses today because it provides a connection that stays with the consumer as opposed to the internet or email. Your printed materials end up in someone’s hand, which can make that lasting impression. How many people swipe left or delete emails without reading them? They will always take the time to look at a business card, postcard or holiday card that they receive.” In Palm Desert, Sherry says, “We are a small set of cities that hold large events and conventions. This brings an increase to our population that is about triple the amount during certain months of the year. Thanks to our community, our key growth areas have included signage, blueprints, convention printing and direct mail.” She adds, “We would not be where we are today without the local franchise support, training and the IT department that Minuteman Press International provides. We owe a lot of our success to this.” Rewards & Advice for Others As she looks back on over 20 years and reflects on the rewards of owning a business, Sherri says, “I would say my biggest personal reward is that I have been able to achieve everything that I have wanted to in my life. I can’t really ask for more personally except for time. My biggest professional reward has been reaching that $1 million goal and making the Minuteman Press President’s Club.” As for what advice she would give to others, Sherri shares, “Make sure you are active with the quote process and follow-up. Understand the difference between shoppers (who are getting 3 quotes from various vendors) and buyers. I recommend you give the customer a day to digest the quote they received, then follow up and make sure you answer their questions. Lastly, make sure you let them know you want to meet their price point or their budget constraints if you do… Again, the difference between a shopper and a buyer will make the difference on whether you will want to meet their budget constraints.” Minuteman Press in Palm Desert is located at 73-660 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ca/palm-desert/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

November 14, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Tencent Cloud, Ledger and More Web3, Gaming & Investment Players Gather at the MultiversX Hub Seoul

STORM Partners

MultiversX, the leading layer-1 smart contract platform, known for its highly scalable, secure and robust infrastructure, has announced the Seoul Hub event scheduled for November 14, hosted by the nonce community location. Planned as an Upbit D Conference side event, the Hub will follow the extensive presence of the team at UDC, with MultiversX CEO Beniamin Mincu set to take the stage. The one-day event includes keynote sessions, technical presentations, panel discussions, workshops, a coding challenge, as well as networking opportunities and a party to conclude the day. Among the global experts attending the MultiversX Hub Seoul will be representatives from Tencent Cloud, Ledger, Pantera Ico Group, Presto Labs, Four Pillars, BIFROST and more. They will cover everything from gaming and NFTs, business, research, investment and beyond. MultiversX Hub is a new platform designed to spotlight the most relevant voices within the crypto, blockchain and tech spheres in strategic areas around the world and to connect them with exciting projects developing on MultiversX. In Seoul, participants will have the chance to connect with the team behind CyberpunkCity, an MMORPG currently in public alpha that combines immersive Metaverse experiences and creative tools of true digital ownership. On the DeFi side of the event, attendees can explore the industry-defining payment products from Pulsar Money, while NFT enthusiasts will get insights from XOXNO, the largest marketplace in the MultiversX ecosystem. The event will also host a developer-centric challenge to brainstorm, collaborate, innovate, and build using the MultiversX network. The team has prepared a series of workshops for developers to explore the MultiversX infrastructure, and encourage them to propose real-world solutions, pitch their ideas and win up to $2000 in prizes. " As the MultiversX protocol and ecosystem have matured and attracted significant interest from some of the largest tech companies in the world, including Google Cloud, Deutsche Telekom or AWS, we are in an exceptional position to provide a unique platform for advancing the discussion on the next evolution of blockchain and other emerging technologies. Seoul provides us with a great opportunity to kick-start the MultiversX Hub in one of the world's innovation centers, connect with some of the brightest minds in the industry in Asia, and expand our strong partner base, " said Beniamin Mincu, MultiversX CEO. The full event agenda, as well as a registration option, are available here: https://lu.ma/MultiversXHubSeoul About MultiversX A highly scalable, secure and decentralized blockchain network created to enable radically new applications, for users, businesses, society, and the new metaverse frontier. Distributed by STORM Partners. Contact Adrian Bono for interviews and quotes - adrian.bono@storm.partners or telegram @STORMPartners Contact Details Media Contact Dan Voicu, Head of Communications dan.voicu@multiversx.com

November 13, 2023 03:29 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Classiq Announces Quantum Center for Life Sciences in Collaboration with NVIDIA

Classiq Technologies

Quantum software pioneer Classiq today unveiled a new industry initiative, the Quantum Computing for Life Sciences & Healthcare Center, formed in collaboration with NVIDIA and the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center. The initiative will champion the development and implementation of quantum algorithms and applications, targeting their transformative potential on life sciences and healthcare. Quantum computing, with the potential to process multifaceted data at unparalleled speeds, may play a pivotal role in reinventing domains like drug discovery, molecular analysis and bespoke medical treatment strategies. Beyond these domains, quantum computing may also be leveraged to address the challenges within supply chain and treatment coordination. By optimizing pharmaceutical supply chains, quantum may ensure the timely and efficient delivery of critical medications. For example, by aiding in treatment coordination, it could streamline patient care, ensuring optimized and personalized therapeutic journeys based on individual medical histories and real-time health data. Classiq CEO Nir Minerbi said, “The opportunities for quantum computing and especially the software that drives it are growing very quickly. The new Quantum Computing for Life Sciences & Healthcare Center aspires to bridge the gap between quantum theory and practice with tangible benefits in life sciences, healthcare and beyond.” In collaboration with NVIDIA, Classiq will establish a multifaceted research landscape. Leveraging NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPU capabilities, along with the integration between the NVIDIA CUDA Quantum programming platform and Classiq’s software infrastructure, the center is set to offer a robust environment for quantum-centric innovations and training non-quantum experts. “Integrated quantum-classical computing holds great potential for powering breakthroughs in life sciences and healthcare, but many challenges to realizing that potential remain yet to be addressed,” said Tim Costa, Director of High-Performance Computing and Quantum at NVIDIA. “The Classiq Quantum Computing for Life Sciences & Healthcare Center, built on NVIDIA CUDA Quantum, aims to help researchers tackle these challenges and push the boundaries in applying quantum computing to problems in this critical area.” Initiating the center’s collaborative approach is the renowned Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov Hospital). Celebrated for its progressive technological adoptions and pioneering AI integrations since 2014, this institution embodies the future-ready ethos of the healthcare sector. Prof. Roni Gamzu of the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center said, “Clinical and operational activities are typically managed at Ichilov Hospital through smart, data-driven computing systems. We are proud of our achievements but at the same time very much aware that currently available tools are not efficient enough to provide solutions to the steadily growing complexity of our systems. For this exact reason, we are delighted to announce the opening of the first quantum computing lab here at Ichilov. Together with Classiq and NVIDIA, we will break the boundaries of data science for the benefit of medicine and patients. I am convinced that this unique initiative will pave the way for a radically novel approach to data management in health organizations to the benefit of our patients and society at large.” With the Quantum Computing for Life Sciences & Healthcare Center, Classiq and its collaborators are poised to tap into quantum capabilities to propel life sciences and healthcare into a future with potential for greater precision, efficiency and innovation. About Classiq Classiq Technologies, the leading quantum software company, provides an all-encompassing software platform (IDE, complier and OS) with a single point of entry into quantum computing, from algorithm design to execution. Tailored to all levels of developer proficiency, Classiq aims to democratize access to quantum computing with software that equips customers to take full advantage of the quantum computing revolution. A low-code development environment ensures that a broader range of talents, including those with backgrounds in AI, ML and linear algebra, can harness quantum computing without requiring deep, specialized knowledge of how to program quantum computer hardware. Backed by powerful investors such as HPE, HSBC, Samsung, Intesa Sanpaolo and NTT, Classiqâs world-class team of scientists and engineers has distilled decades of quantum expertise into its groundbreaking software development platform. Follow Classiq on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), or YouTube, or visit www.classiq.io to learn more. Contact Details Rainier Communciations on behalf of Classiq Michelle Allard McMahon/Jenna Beaucage classiqPR@rainierco.com Company Website http://www.classiq.io/

November 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Fintech startup EduFi secures $6.1m led by Zayn VC to launch student loans with Study Now Pay Later

EduFi

Education is a lever of economic growth and social development in any country but poor quality state school provision often drives many families to fee-paying schools. Helping these families manage the financial challenges of school fees, EduFi is today announcing a $6.1m funding round for its Study Now, Pay Later lending platform. It has launched in Pakistan, a country where 40% of students are attending a fee-paying school and spending over $14 billion for their education every year. The pre-seed funding round was led by Zayn VC with participation from Palm Drive Capital, Deem Ventures Ltd, Q Business, Abhi, Adalfi, Techlogix and other angel investors. EduFi is a fintech platform and mobile app that enables students to secure loans for their school fees. EduFi works with liquidity providers and schools to drive successful student loans. The platform is underpinned by a proprietary education sector focused credit scoring model using advanced machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence. Aleena Nadeem, Founder & CEO of EduFi commented: “We conceived and built this product to serve markets that have low credit penetration. Pakistan presented an ideal opportunity to launch because the need is the greatest and we had a first-mover advantage. Firstly, banks don’t offer student loans, instead users take personal loans which are riddled with a high cost of origination owing to physical verification of identity, personal assets and financial health. The absence of credit scoring has restricted credit access to a thin, top tier of customers. We want to expand the credit and student loan opportunity to a much wider audience of students across the country. Secondly, we feel student loans can be a bridge to the country’s two biggest problems - high levels of poverty and low literacy rates - and catalyze economic growth”. The EduFi team has created a full tech stack that provides visibility to liquidity providers on their capital performance and enables schools to capture student performance metrics such as attendance, overdue fees, drop out rates and academic performance of the students. In addition, the EduFi App UX offers an unparalleled pathway for users to quickly and easily access student loans. Combined, this end-to-end tech stack powers the EduFi credit scoring system to disperse student loans within 48 hours of application. The loan journey offers a faster and simpler application process, fast loan disbursement, flexible repayment options and provides more convenience and accessibility than the traditional lenders. EduFi has ended the weeks of manual work to a few minutes in offering and making a student loan. Headquartered in Singapore, EduFi was founded in 2021 by Aleena Nadeem. Having benefited from an MIT education and a successful finance career, her conviction that education opens pathways was the genesis for EduFi. The wider team has over several decades combined experience across banking, education and technology. The EduFi model is based on research and analysis the team conducted on the cultural, social, and economic factors that shape the decisions and behaviors of parents regarding education and finance. Based on these insights, EduFi is designed to be intuitive, transparent, and secure for the users. EduFi’s vision is to be more than a platform but a lifeline and community for aspiring students to unlock their true potential. Through its partnerships with 15 colleges across Pakistan, EduFi is now available to over 200,000 students to pay their school fees. Aleena Nadeem, CEO and founder of EduFi commented: “Education offers hope and can change the lives of people. I am one example of millions out there. EduFi offers this hope and will be a trigger for change in the lives of people as we lift one of the biggest burdens on aspiring families. For example, students in dental or medical schools have to pay upwards of $8,000 upfront which is not sustainable for many in Pakistan. Every student we’ve helped is testament to the ambition, opportunity and empowerment we are striving for at EduFi.” According to a recent Unesco report, families in Pakistan spend 57% of their income on children's education, a sum total of $14 billion annually. Pakistan ranks second across South Asia and Southeast Asia in terms of expenditure on education. This presents a significant opportunity for EduFi to support students on their academic journey. Faisal Aftab, General Partner & Founder at Zayn VC commented: “We are thrilled to support Aleena's vision for EduFi, which aims to provide financing options for families to fund their children's higher education. This is a significant step towards achieving financial inclusion for middle and low-income families. In Pakistan, families spend more than 50% of their income on their children's education, which has become increasingly challenging due to inflationary pressures. EduFi's innovative approach will help alleviate this burden and empower families to invest in their children's future.” About EduFi Headquartered in Singapore, EduFi was founded in 2021 by Aleena Nadeem. It is Pakistan's first student loan platform, helping students finance and plan for their education. The innovative platform streamlines the borrowing process, making it easy for students to apply for loans and access funds quickly. For more information please visit: https://www.edufi.tech/ About Zayn VC Zayn Venture Capital (Zayn.VC) is a prominent Venture Capital Fund, spearheaded by Faisal Aftab, that is dedicated to supporting and financing innovative Pakistani start-ups that are leveraging technology to revolutionize various industries. Zayn VC primarily focuses on early-stage tech companies and, although they are sector-agnostic, they meticulously analyze each company through a FinTech lens. For further details, please visit www.zayn.vc. Contact Details EduFi Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.edufi.tech/

November 10, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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How Over-The-Counter Medicines Could Impact Your Blood Pressure

YourUpdateTV

Would it surprise you to know that nearly half of all adults in the country have elevated blood pressure, and most don’t even know it? Yet only 30% have spoken with a healthcare professional about the adverse effects some over-the-counter medicines can have on their blood pressure. Recently, Dr. Mitch Elkind, American Heart Association’s Chief Clinical Science Officer, conducted a satellite media tour to share precautionary measures that people with high blood pressure need to take before using over-the-counter medications, especially if they have pre-existing conditions or are on other medications. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/x7bVSA55fJ0 High blood pressure, (also referred to as hypertension) is when your blood pressure, the force of blood flowing through your blood vessels, is consistently too high. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure it is to have your blood pressure checked. How to use a home blood pressure monitor Be still. Discuss how to use your home blood pressure monitor with your health care professional. Don't smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure. Empty your bladder and ensure at least five minutes of quiet rest before measurements. Sit correctly. Sit with your back straight and supported (on a dining chair, rather than a sofa). Your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs should not be crossed. Your arm should be supported on a flat surface, such as a table, with the upper arm at heart level. Make sure the bottom of the cuff is placed directly above the bend of the elbow. Check your monitor's instructions for an illustration or have your health care professional show you how. Measure at the same time every day. It’s important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as morning and evening. It is best to take the readings daily, ideally beginning two weeks after a change in treatment and during the week before your next appointment. Take multiple readings and record the results. Each time you measure, take two readings one minute apart and record the results using a printable (PDF) tracker. If your monitor has built-in memory to store your readings, take it with you to your appointments. Some monitors may also allow you to upload your readings to a secure website after you register your profile. Don't take the measurement over clothes. If you get a high blood pressure reading If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg and you are experiencing signs of possible organ damage such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, change in vision or difficulty speaking, do not wait to see whether your pressure comes down on its own. Call 911, as this is an emergency. A single high reading is not an immediate cause for alarm. If you get a reading that is slightly or moderately higher than normal, take your blood pressure a second time and write the results of the two measurements down. Consult your health care professional to verify if there’s a health concern or whether there may be any issues with your monitor. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and test again. If your readings are still unusually high, contact your health care professional immediately. You could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis. AHA recommendation The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for all people with high blood pressure to help the health care professional determine whether treatments are working. Home monitoring, or self-measured blood pressure, is not a substitute for regular visits to your physician. If you have been prescribed medication to lower your blood pressure, don't stop taking your medication without consulting your health care professional, even if your blood pressure readings are in the normal range during home monitoring. Understanding Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and High Blood Pressure Look for warnings related to high blood pressure medication. Always read the labels on all over-the-counter medications, especially if you have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Look for warnings to those with high blood pressure and to those who take blood pressure medications. If you have high blood pressure and certainly if you are on prescription medication, consult your health care professional before taking any over-the-counter medications or supplements. Be careful with supplements or natural (naturopathic) remedies. There are no special pills, vitamins or drinks that can substitute for prescription medications and lifestyle modifications. Talk to your health care professional before taking any over-the-counter drug or supplement that claims to lower your blood pressure. They may not work as advertised and/or may interfere with other medications. In fact, some can even raise your blood pressure. Decongestants may raise your blood pressure. People with high blood pressure should be aware that the use of decongestants may raise blood pressure or interfere with the effectiveness of some prescribed blood pressure medications. Be aware of over-the-counter cold and flu preparations that contain decongestants as well. Discuss any medications you wish to use with your health care professional. Check the sodium content. Some over-the-counter medications are high in sodium, which can also raise blood pressure. Look at the active and inactive ingredients lists for words like “sodium” or “soda.” Note the amount of sodium in the medication. People with high blood pressure should consume less than 1,500 mg of sodium per day from all sources — one dose of some over-the-counter medications can contain more than a whole day’s allowance. Other drugs and substances that can raise your blood pressure include: Alcohol Amphetamines Antidepressants Atypical antipsychotics (for example, clozapine and olanzapine) Caffeine Cocaine Oral contraceptives Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs (for example, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium) Systemic corticosteroids (for example, prednisone and methylprednisolone) Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without discussing with your health care professional. To learn more visit: heart.org/bptools About Talent Mitchell S. V. Elkind, MD, MS, FAAN, FAHA is a tenured Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology at Columbia University, and the Chief Clinical Science Officer at the American Heart Association as of September 2022. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, and he trained in Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and in Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, both in Boston, MA. He completed a fellowship in Vascular Neurology and Neuroepidemiology at Columbia University Medical Center. Dr. Elkind holds a Master’s degree in Epidemiology from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health. Dr. Elkind’s research focuses on stroke prevention, inflammatory and infectious biomarkers in stroke risk prediction, atrial cardiopathy, immune therapy for acute stroke, and vascular causes of cognitive aging. He is the second neurologist to serve as President of the American Heart Association (AHA) in its 100 year history, from 2020-2021. About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 09, 2023 10:57 AM Eastern Standard Time

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HKBU-led research discovers therapeutic potential of hyodeoxycholic acid for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Hong Kong Baptist University

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 8 November 2023 - A research led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has discovered that hyodeoxycholic acid (HDCA), a bile acid generated in human intestine, can reduce fat accumulation and inflammation in the liver, demonstrating its strong therapeutic potential for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The research also found that HDCA's intervention in NAFLD works by reshaping the population of beneficial gut bacteria, which affects the metabolic interactions between the gut and the liver. The result highlighted the critical role of gut health in liver disease. The research findings have been published in the renowned scientific journal Cell Metabolism. HKBU researchers will coordinate a phase I and II clinical trial in the Mainland to evaluate the safety and efficacy of HDCA for patients with fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes. 32% of adults suffer from NAFLD NAFLD is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, characterised by the build-up of excessive fat in liver cells that is not caused by alcohol consumption. Its global prevalence has been increasing over time. A meta-analysis in 2022 estimated that 32% of the adult population is affected by NAFLD. Some people with NAFLD can develop non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which is marked by liver inflammation and may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. Currently, there are no therapeutic drugs available for sale on the market for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. A research led by Professor Jia Wei, Acting Dean and Chair Professor in Chinese Medicine and Systems Biology of the School of Chinese Medicine at HKBU, discovered that HDCA offers promising potential as a pharmaceutical intervention for NAFLD. "Our research is a significant stride forward in understanding the pathophysiology of NAFLD, and it offers a potential new avenue for therapeutic intervention," he said. Therapeutic effects of HDCA Professor Jia's team found that individuals with NAFLD have lower levels of HDCA compared to those without NAFLD. In a cohort consisting of 178 patients with NAFLD and 73 healthy individuals, hyocholic acid species, including HDCA and its major metabolite glycohyodeoxycholic acid, comprises 0.5% of the bile acids in NAFLD patients, which is significantly lower than the 2% in healthy individuals. This observation led the team to explore HDCA's potential therapeutic role. A series of controlled experiments were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effect of HDCA. The team orally fed HDCA to mouse models with NAFLD for eight weeks. The results showed that HDCA markedly reduced excessive lipid droplets, and improved hepatic inflammation, oral glucose tolerance (i.e. the blood glucose level after oral intake of glucose), and insulin sensitivity (i.e. the sensitivity of the body to the effects of insulin which helps the glucose to enter into the cells for use) compared to the control group. The results revealed that HDCA alleviated NAFLD conditions and the risk factors of NAFLD such as type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Interestingly, the researchers found that HDCA did not exert its therapeutic effects on NAFLD by directly targeting liver cells. They evaluated the potential direct effect of HDCA on lipid accumulation in a mouse model. The results showed that lipid accumulation was barely affected by the HDCA. They hypothesised that HDCA induced gut microbiota alterations, which might contribute to the alleviation of NAFLD. HDCA reshapes gut microbiota The researchers observed that HDCA could improve the population of beneficial gut bacteria. Parabacteroides distasonis (P. distasonis), a member of the core microbiome in the human gut, sharply increased in the mouse model fed with high-fat food and administered with HDCA, compared with the control group fed with high-fat food only. The results revealed that HDCA provided a favorable environment for the thriving of P. distasonis, which regulates fatty acid metabolism as well as the hepatic bile acid synthesis pathways. "The study underscores the crucial role of the gut-liver metabolic axis in disease management. We hope that the research findings on HDCA and the clinical trial to be conducted in the Mainland will provide more insights into the treatment of fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis," said Professor Jia. Professor Jia has also led a research project investigating the molecular connections between metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, with a specific focus on host-gut microbiota interactions. The project has been awarded over HK$7.2 million in research funding from the Theme-based Research Scheme (13th round) under the Research Grants Council. Contact Details Christina Wu christinawu@hkbu.edu.hk

November 08, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Asian University for Women partner with Cisco Networking Academy Program

Asian University for Women

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 8 November 2023 - Asian University for Women (AUW) and the world’s leading technology company Cisco signed an agreement that Cisco will provide access to Cisco Networking Academy Program, the company’s global IT and cybersecurity education program, skills-based career certifications, and cyber security training to selected students attending the university in Bangladesh. The collaboration aims to provide students the IT competencies they need to thrive in the workforce. This new partnership with Cisco Networking Academy Program will enable all AUW students to undertake digital training and gain certifications that will enhance career prospects with vital technical skills development. Courses include networking, cyber security, digital literacy, data science and programming, operating systems, and professional skills with hands-on practice opportunities. The university will roll out the program to all undergraduate and pre-undergraduate students, starting in December 2023, with an aim of equipping as many of the graduates with an array of practical certifications and necessary IT skills to become more effective in the workforce. AUW and Cisco signed the agreement at the Annual AUW Impact Event held at JW Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong on October 30 in front of hundreds of AUW Hong Kong-based supporters. “At AUW and our Support Foundation, we are dedicated to preparing high-potential women from underserved communities to become effective future leaders in their home countries after graduation,” said Lynne Anne Davis, board chairman of the AUW Support Foundation in Hong Kong. “We are deeply grateful to Cisco for generously equipping our students with the latest innovative tools, knowledge and technology to further boost the transformative power that an AUW education provides and set them up for success in their onward career journeys." About AUW Founded in 2008, AUW is a leading liberal arts and sciences institution located in Chittagong, Bangladesh. The University seeks to establish itself as the educational destination of choice for talented women from across the Asian continent and beyond, irrespective of their socio-economic background. AUW has a special mission to serve women from communities that have been historically disenfranchised or whose lives have been abruptly disrupted by civil war or political upheavals, and to offer them a world-class education. 1500 students from 17 countries currently attend AUW: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Syria, Timor Leste, Vietnam, and Yemen. More than 85% of AUW students are on full or near-full scholarships funded by supporters from around the world. To learn more about Asian University for Women, please visit https://asian-university.org. AUW has already graduated over 1400 students from around Asia and the Middle East. Contact Details Daisy Nicholas +1 617-914-0500 Daisy.Nicholas@asian-university.org

November 08, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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