Woman of Color Founded Silk and Sonder Lands $4.2M Seed for Monthly Women's Mental Wellness Program
San Francisco, CA - September 8, 2020 - Silk and Sonder, the first ever monthly planner journal aimed to empower women with their daily self-care, now has a new round of capital to expand its subscription-based mental wellness company. Redpoint Venture led a $3.6 million seed round with participation from two angel investors. The new funding gives Silk and Sonder a total of $4.2 million in funds raised according to founder and CEO Meha Agrawal. The company raised a pre-seed round in 2019 backed by Red Giraffe Advisors, 122West Ventures and 500 Startups. In 2019, the company began offering monthly subscriptions for $19.95 that include a hand-curated journal delivered each month with pages for life-coaching exercises and mood and habit trackers. Each month's issue, which boasts new themes like "Admiration" and "Vulnerability", includes a blend of productivity and planning, introspection and mindfulness, and lifestyle content. Subscribers also have access to a private community for peer-to-peer support and virtual content. Agrawal had the idea for the San Francisco-based company three years ago to help women form new habits, practice mindfulness and partake in activities to heighten self-awareness.
"Silk and Sonder is a habit in and of itself, and that is part of what makes it easier to keep up with it," says Agrawal. "I saw our audience feeling discouraged with the bullet journal, in part because they couldn't get theirs to look like the ones they were seeing on social media. Here, you can find an online community that fosters space for mental clarity, but also a space to show off your creativity." The new funding will be used to elevate emotional health offerings by understanding insights about users, including drawing correlations on behavioral patterns and emotional health. Many of the women in Silk and Sonder's community share information about their lifestyles, beliefs and values, all aspects that Agrawal says, will contribute to a more personal interaction with the brand. She is also building a world class team who believes in the power of creating multi-touchpoint (physical, digital, experiential, and social) wellness experience that provides members transparency on their emotional health. For more information visit, www.silkandsonder.com.
Empagliflozin reduced the combined relative risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure by 25 per cent in adults with and without diabetes who had heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Empagliflozin also significantly reduced the relative risk of first and recurrent hospitalization for heart failure by 30 per cent and significantly slowed kidney function decline1
Results were consistent in subgroups with and without type 2 diabetes1
An estimated 600,000 Canadians are living with heart failure, and the risk of death in people with heart failure rises with each hospital admission2
Results from the Phase III EMPEROR-Reduced trial were published in The New England Journal of Medicine1
The EMPEROR-Reduced trial included 36 study sites across Canada
BURLINGTON, ON and TORONTO, Sept. 8, 2020 /CNW/ - Full results from the EMPEROR-Reduced Phase III trial in adults with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, with and without diabetes, showed that empagliflozin was associated with a significant 25 per cent relative risk reduction in the primary endpoint of time to cardiovascular death or hospitalization due to heart failure.1 The trial evaluated the effect of adding empagliflozin (10 mg) versus placebo to standard of care.1 The results were presented on August 29th at the ESC Congress 2020, the annual meeting of the European Society of Cardiology,3 and published in The New England Journal of Medicine,1 Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced.
The findings from the primary endpoint were consistent in subgroups with and without type 2 diabetes.1 Key secondary endpoint analyses from the trial demonstrated that empagliflozin reduced the relative risk of first and recurrent hospitalization for heart failure by 30 per cent.1 Additionally, the rate of decline in eGFR, a measure of kidney function decline, was slower with empagliflozin than with placebo.1
"Heart failure is a devastating disease affecting hundreds of thousands of Canadians. Unfortunately the condition becomes progressively worse over time, leading to long and frequent hospitalizations paired with additional complications such as kidney disease," said Dr. Subodh Verma, a Professor and Cardiac Surgeon at the University of Toronto at St Michael's Hospital, who served as the Canadian lead investigator for the trial and as a member of the Scientific Excellence Committee for the EMPEROR Program. "Results from the EMPEROR-Reduced trial show that empagliflozin reduced the number of hospitalizations due to heart failure while slowing the rate of decline in kidney function when given to adults with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. These data position empagliflozin as a new therapy in the treatment of heart failure."
In an exploratory analysis, the absolute risk reduction observed in the primary endpoint of EMPEROR-Reduced corresponded to a number needed to treat of 19 patients over 16 months to prevent one cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure.1 An additional exploratory analysis showed that empagliflozin decreased the relative risk of a composite kidney endpoint*, including end stage kidney disease and a profound loss of kidney function, by 50 per cent.1
"Heart failure can have a profound impact on people living with the condition, with the potential of life limiting consequences for the heart and the kidneys," said Waheed Jamal, M.D., Corporate Vice President and Head of CardioMetabolic Medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim. "Empagliflozin was the first SGLT2 inhibitor to demonstrate a reduction in cardiovascular death and hospitalization due to heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, based on the EMPA-REG OUTCOME® trial. We continue to break new ground with the EMPEROR-Reduced results, which provide robust evidence that empagliflozin can transform the lives of millions of people through reducing cardiovascular outcomes and slowing the progression of kidney damage in people with heart failure. We look forward to exploring these data further and are planning regulatory submissions for later this year."
"Tens of millions of people live with heart failure and kidney disease," said Jeff Emmick, M.D., Ph.D., Vice President, Product Development, Lilly. "Results from EMPEROR-Reduced show that empagliflozin can help improve heart failure outcomes while also slowing kidney function decline. We are excited to share these data and, through our ongoing EMPOWER program, hope to redefine how people living with these conditions are treated."
In EMPEROR-Reduced, the efficacy results were achieved with a simple dosing regimen, with once daily dosing and no need for titration.1 The safety profile was similar to the well-established safety profile of empagliflozin.1 There were no clinically meaningful differences in adverse events including hypovolemia (decreased blood volume), hypotension (low blood pressure), volume depletion (loss of fluids), renal insufficiency (poor kidney function), hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) or hypoglycemic events (low blood sugar) compared with placebo.1
Heart failure affects over 60 million people worldwide,4 with an estimated 600,000 Canadians currently living with heart failure.2 Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to the rest of the body and is the most common and severe complication of a heart attack.2,5 People with heart failure often experience breathlessness and fatigue, which can severely impact their quality of life.2,6 Individuals with heart failure often also have impaired kidney function, which can have a significant negative impact on prognosis.7
"As a heart failure survivor and patient advocate, I live and see the effects of heart failure on a daily basis," said Marc Bains Co-Founder of HeartLife Foundation. "Through working with patients across Canada I know innovation in the area of heart failure treatment gives hope to patients that they can protect their quality of life, and continue to share meaningful moments with their loved ones."
*Composite exploratory endpoint included chronic dialysis or renal transplant or sustained reduction of ≥ 40 per cent in eGFR (CKD-EPI) or a sustained eGFR < 15 mL/min/1.73m2 (for patients with baseline eGFR ≥ 30) or sustained eGFR < 10 mL/min/1.73m2 (for patients with baseline eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m2).
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About the EMPEROR Heart Failure Studies8,9 The EMPEROR (EMPagliflozin outcomE tRial in patients with chrOnic heaRt failure) heart failure studies are two Phase III, randomized, double-blind trials investigating once-daily empagliflozin compared with placebo in adults with heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction*, both with and without diabetes, who are receiving current standard of care:
EMPEROR-Reduced [NCT03057977] investigated the safety and efficacy of empagliflozin in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).
Primary endpoint: time to first event of adjudicated cardiovascular death or adjudicated hospitalization for heart failure
Number of patients: 3,730; which included 36 study sites in Canada
Completion: 2020
EMPEROR-Preserved[NCT03057951] investigates the safety and efficacy of empagliflozin in patients with chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Primary endpoint: time to first event of adjudicated cardiovascular death or adjudicated hospitalization for heart failure [Time Frame: up to 38 months]
Anticipated number of patients: approx. 5,990
Estimated completion: 2021
*Ejection fraction is a measurement of the percentage of blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction.10 When the heart relaxes, the ventricle refills with blood.
HFrEF occurs when the heart muscle does not contract effectively, and less blood is pumped out to the body compared with a normally functioning heart. 10
HFpEF occurs when the heart muscle contracts normally but the ventricle does not fill with enough blood, so less blood can enter the heart compared with a normally functioning heart.10
About the EMPOWER program The Alliance has developed the EMPOWER program to explore the impact of empagliflozin on major clinical cardiovascular and renal outcomes in a spectrum of cardio-renal-metabolic conditions. Cardio-renal-metabolic conditions are the leading cause of mortality worldwide and account for up to 20 million deaths annually.11 Through the EMPOWER program, Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly are working to advance knowledge of these interconnected systems and create care which offers integrated, multi-organ benefits. Comprised of eight clinical trials and two real-world evidence studies, EMPOWER reinforces the long-term commitment of the Alliance to improve outcomes for people living with cardio-renal-metabolic conditions. With more than 257,000 adults studied worldwide in clinical studies, it is the broadest and most comprehensive clinical program for an SGLT2 inhibitor to date.
The development program encompasses:
EMPEROR-Reduced, in adults with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death or hospitalization due to heart failure1
EMPEROR-Preserved, in adults with chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death or hospitalization due to heart failure8
EMPULSE, in adults hospitalized for acute heart failure to improve clinical and patient reported outcomes12
EMPACT-MI, to evaluate all-cause mortality and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with and without type 2 diabetes who have had an acute myocardial infarction, with the aim to prevent heart failure and improve outcomes13
EMPA-KIDNEY, in adults with established chronic kidney disease to reduce the progression of kidney disease and the occurrence of cardiovascular death14
EMPERIAL-Reduced, in adults with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction to evaluate functional ability and patient reported outcomes15
EMPERIAL-Preserved, in adults with chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction to evaluate functional ability and patient-reported outcomes16
EMPA-REG OUTCOME, in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease to prevent major adverse cardiovascular events, including cardiovascular death17
EMPRISE, a non-interventional study of the effectiveness, safety, healthcare utilization and cost of care of empagliflozin in routine clinical practice in adults with type 2 diabetes across the cardiovascular risk continuum18,19
About Heart Failure Heart failure is a progressive, debilitating and potentially fatal condition that occurs when the heart cannot supply adequate circulation to meet the body's demands for oxygenated blood or to do so requires increased blood volume leading to fluid accumulation (congestion) in the lungs and peripheral tissues.2 An estimated 600,000 Canadians are living with heart failure.2 Worldwide 60 million people are affected and the prevalence is expected to increase as the population ages.4 Heart failure is highly prevalent in people with diabetes;20 however, approximately half of all people with heart failure do not have diabetes.4,21
The empagliflozin heart failure program was initiated based on data from the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, which assessed the effect of empagliflozin (10 mg or 25 mg once daily) in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease when added to standard of care, compared with placebo.17
About Cardio-Renal-Metabolic Conditions Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly are driven to transform care for people with cardio-renal-metabolic conditions, a group of interconnected disorders that affect more than one billion people worldwide and are a leading cause of death.22
The cardiovascular, renal and metabolic systems are interconnected, and share many of the same risk factors and pathological pathways along the disease continuum. Dysfunction in one system may accelerate the onset of others, resulting in progression of interconnected diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and kidney disease, which in turn leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular death. Conversely, improving the health of one system can lead to positive effects throughout the others.23,24
Through our research and treatments, our goal is to support people's health, restoring the balance between the interconnected cardio-renal-metabolic systems and reducing their risk of serious complications. As part of our commitment to those whose health is jeopardized by cardio-renal-metabolic conditions, we will continue embracing a multidisciplinary approach towards care and focusing our resources on filling treatment gaps.
About Empagliflozin Empagliflozin is an oral, once daily, highly selective sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor and the first type 2 diabetes medicine to include cardiovascular death risk reduction data in its label in several countries.25,26
Inhibition of SGLT2 with empagliflozin in people with type 2 diabetes and high blood sugar levels prevents sugar being re-absorbed by the kidneys, leading to the excretion of excess sugar in the urine. In addition, initiation of empagliflozin also prevents salt being re-absorbed, leading to increased excretion of salt from the body and reducing the fluid load of the body's blood vessel system (i.e. intravascular volume). Empagliflozin induces changes to the sugar, salt and water metabolism in the body that may contribute to the reductions in cardiovascular death observed in the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial.27
About Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company In January 2011, Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company announced an alliance in the field of diabetes that centres on three pipeline compounds representing several of the largest treatment classes. This Alliance leverages the strengths of two of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies, combining Boehringer Ingelheim's solid track record of research-driven innovation and Lilly's innovative research, experience and pioneering history in diabetes. By joining forces, the companies demonstrate commitment in the care of people with diabetes and stand together to focus on patient needs. For more information about the Alliance visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.ca or www.lilly.ca.
About Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. Making new and better medicines for humans and animals is at the heart of what we do. Our mission is to create innovative therapies that change lives. Since its founding in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim is independent and family-owned. We have the freedom to pursue our long-term vision, looking ahead to identify the health challenges of the future and targeting those areas of need where we can do the most good.
As a world-leading, research-driven pharmaceutical company, more than 51,000 employees create value through innovation daily for our three business areas: Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing. In 2019, Boehringer Ingelheim achieved net sales of 19 billion euros. Our significant investment of almost 3.5 billion euros in R&D drives innovation, enabling the next generation of medicines that save lives and improve quality of life.
We realize more scientific opportunities by embracing the power of partnership and diversity of experts across the life-science community. By working together, we accelerate the delivery of the next medical treatment that will transform the lives of patients now, and in generations to come.
The Canadian headquarters of Boehringer Ingelheim was established in 1972 in Montreal, Quebec and is now located in Burlington, Ontario. Boehringer Ingelheim employs approximately 600 people across Canada.
About Eli Lilly Canada Eli Lilly and Company is a global healthcare leader that unites caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We were founded more than a century ago by Colonel Eli Lilly, who was committed to creating high quality medicines that meet people's needs, and today we remain true to that mission in all our work. Lilly employees work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to people who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and contribute to our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism.
Eli Lilly Canada was established in 1938, the result of a research collaboration with scientists at the University of Toronto, which eventually produced the world's first commercially-available insulin. Our work focuses on oncology, diabetes, autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, and pain. To learn more about Lilly Canada, please visit us at www.lilly.ca.
For our perspective on issues in healthcare and innovation, follow us on twitter @LillyPadCA.
References
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1 Packer M, Anker SD, Butler J, et al. Cardiac and Renal Outcomes With Empagliflozin in Heart Failure With a Reduced Ejection Fraction. N Engl J Med. 2020;10.1056/NEJMoa2022190
3 Packer M. EMPEROR-Reduced: Empagliflozin in Heart Failure With a Reduced Ejection Fraction, With and Without Diabetes. Presented on 29 August 2020 at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2020 – The Digital Experience.
4 GBD 2017 Disease and Injury Incidence and Prevalence Collaborators. Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 354 diseases and injuries for 195 countries and territories, 1990–2017: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. Lancet. 2018;392(10159):1789–1858.
5 Anderson JL and Morrow DA. Acute Myocardial Infarction. N Engl J Med. 2017;376:2053–64.
6 Calvert MJ, Freemantle N, Cleland JGF. The impact of chronic heart failure on health–related quality of life data acquired in the baseline phase of the CARE–HF study. Eur J Heart Fail. 2005;7(2):243–51.
7 Sarnak MJ. A patient with heart failure and worsening kidney function. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014;9(10):1790–98.
11 GBD 2015 Mortality and Causes of Death Collaborators. Global, regional, and national life expectancy, all-cause mortality, and cause-specific mortality for 249 causes of death, 1980–2015: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015. The Lancet. 2016; 388(10053):1459–544.
15ClinicalTrials.gov. A phase III randomised, double-blind trial to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks treatment of once daily EMPagliflozin 10 mg compared with placebo on ExeRcise ability and heart failure symptoms, In patients with chronic HeArt FaiLure with reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) (EMPERIAL – reduced). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03448419. Accessed August 2020.
16ClinicalTrials.gov. A phase III randomised, double-blind trial to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks treatment of once daily EMPagliflozin 10 mg compared with placebo on ExeRcise ability and heart failure symptoms, in patients with chronic HeArt FaiLure with preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) (EMPERIAL – preserved). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03448406. Accessed August 2020.
17 Zinman B, Wanner C, Lachin JM, et al. Empagliflozin, Cardiovascular Outcomes, and Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med.2015;373:2117–28.
18 Kim DJ, Sheu WH-H, Seino Y, et al. Cardiovascular Effectiveness and Safety of Empagliflozin in Routine Care in East Asia: Results from the EMPRISE study. Presented at IDF Congress 2019. 2-6 December 2019, Busan, Korea.
19 Patorno E, Pawar A, Franklin J, et al. Empagliflozin and the risk of heart failure hospitalization in routine clinical care: a first analysis from the EMPagliflozin compaRative effectIveness and SafEty (EMPRISE) Trial. Circulation. 2019;139:2822-30.
20 Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/ American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2013;128(16):e240–e327.
21 Suskin N, McKelvie RS, Burns RJ, et al. Glucose and insulin abnormalities relate to functional capacity in patients with congestive heart failure. Eur Heart J. 2000;21:1368–75.
22 GBD 2015 Mortality and Causes of Death Collaborators. Global, regional, and national life expectancy, all-cause mortality, and cause-specific mortality for 249 causes of death, 1980–2015: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015. The Lancet. 2016; 388(10053):1459–544.
23 Ronco C, McCullough P, Anker SD, et al. Cardio-renal syndromes: report from the consensus conference of the acute dialysis quality initiative. Eur Heart J. 2010;31(6):703–11.
24 Lazzeri C, Valente S, Tarquini R, et al. Cardiorenal syndrome caused by heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Int J Nephrol. 2011;2011:634903.
27 Vallon V and Thompson SC. Targeting renal glucose reabsorption to treat hyperglycaemia: the pleiotropic effects of SGLT2 inhibition. Diabetologia. 2017;60(2):215–25.
SOURCE Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.
PlantX announces partnership with Geoponics to distribute fresh indoor plants throughout Canada
VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 8, 2020 /CNW/ - Vegaste Technologies Corp. (the "Company" or "Vegaste") (CSE: VEGA) (Frankfurt: WNT1), is pleased to announce the Company has entered into a partnership with Geoponics Inc. ("Geoponics") to distribute fresh indoor plants throughout Canada using its extensive e-commerce platform www.PlantX.com.
The partnership allows PlantX, the one-stop shop for everything plant-based and the digital face of the plant-based community, to expand its category verticals by offering a wide variety of fresh indoor plants for sale on PlantX.com/plants-shop/, all sourced from Geoponics grow houses.
PlantX believes that fresh indoor plants are a vital part of a plant-based lifestyle. Aside from natural home decor plants may offer air-purification and may contribute to lowering carbon footprints. Geoponics is committed to bringing fresh, hand picked and quality-checked plants to its customers and offers ready-to-grow plants with natural lava rock potting mix. The porous mineral rock allows for air and water circulation throughout the roots of the plant offering a quality product.
Geoponics is a live plant company offering customized Eco-giving—using plants as alternative gifts for any occasion or event—with the intention of creating a more sustainable world. Each plant is grown and nurtured for 2-3 months by Geoponics' plant experts, hand-picked, meticulously inspected and once through quality control are bagged, wrapped and carefully packaged. Every order includes care manuals and growth requirements specific to each plant to keep them healthy and thriving.
"We believe it is very important to offer indoor plants as a plant-based company," said Julia Frank, PlantX CEO. "PlantX wants to cover all facets of the plant-based lifestyle and Geoponics is helping us do just that."
"Working with PlantX is allowing us to spread greenery through homes across Canada," said Ibrahim Shafi, Geoponics Inc. Regional Sales Specialist. "Plants make people happy!"
Since its inception in October 2019, the Company's PlantX platform has quickly emerged as an industry leader. As the fledgling plant-based sector continues its explosive growth, the Company will be at the forefront by continually evolving and delivering new ways to expand PlantX. With its forward-looking, cutting edge approach, the Company will continue to secure significant partnerships across North America while exploring innovative ways to expand both its e-commerce capabilities and digital resources to help educate, inspire, and uplift consumers.
As the digital face of the plant-based community, Vegaste's PlantX platform is the one-stop-shop for everything plant-based. With its fast growing category verticals, the Company will offer customers across North America more than 10,000 plant-based products by the end of September. In addition to offering meal and indoor plant deliveries, Vegaste currently has plans underway to expand its product lines to include cosmetics, vitamins, clothing, and its own water brand — but the business is not limited to an e-commerce platform. Vegaste uses its digital platform to build a community of like-minded consumers and most importantly, provide education. Its successful enterprise is being built and fortified on partnerships with top nutritionists, chefs, and brands. Vegaste eliminates the barriers to entry for anyone interested in living a plant-based lifestyle, and thriving in a longer, healthier, and happier life.
The Company's lynchpinwww.PlantX.com is the digital face of everything plant-based and fueled by the power of education and accessibility. For those who don't have the time to cook their own healthy plant-based meals, Vegaste offers a wide array of pre-made meals curated by Executive Chefs and nutritionists. For those looking to learn how to cook their own plant-based meals, Vegaste offers regularly updated weekly recipes. Unlike other plant-based e-commerce companies, Vegaste has a large selection of indoor plants for sale. The site educates consumers on the benefits of a plant-based diet with a specialized blog, connects like-minded individuals with its forum, and provides resources for the best plant-based restaurants, pop-up retailers and products across Canada and the USA.
Forward-Looking Information
This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. The forward-looking information contained herein includes statements regarding the Company's platform emerging as an industry leader, the expansion of PlantX, the expansion of the Company's e-commerce capabilities, the growth of the plant-based sector and the Company's position at the forefront of the sector, the Company's plans to secure future partnerships, and the business and strategic plans of the Company.
By their nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. A variety of factors, including known and unknown risks, many of which are beyond our control, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this press release including, without limitation: the Company's ability to comply with all applicable governmental regulations including all applicable food safety laws and regulations; impacts to the business and operations of the Company due to the COVID-19 epidemic; the risks inherent in having a limited operating history, the ability of the Company to access capital to meet future financing needs; the Company's reliance on management and key personnel; competition; changes in consumer trends; foreign currency fluctuations; and general economic, market or business conditions.
Additional risk factors can also be found in the Company's continuous disclosure documents which have been filed on SEDAR and can be accessed at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward-looking information is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.
SOURCE Vegaste Technologies Corp.
Tea Drunk starts an Educational Club to teach all about Tea
The producer of the world's most expensive tea ventures into offering exclusive zoom classes during COVID-19 pandemic
New York- A celebration of an epic romance between man and nature - Tea Drunk is known for its finest and most prized tea that comes straight from the lands of China. One of the world’s most popular luxury brands, Van Cleef & Arpels, known for its attention to detail and exquisite quality products has partnered with Tea Drunk for their corporate training courses. On the tails of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tea Drunk has started an online Educational Tea Club with a monthly subscription opportunity that offers the chance to meet and connect with team members, brew tea samples while following the video, receive special discounts on pre-sale teas, etc. Live and recorded classes are available in brewing, tea crash courses, and even tea connoisseur for those who want to gain higher experience in tea making. Tea Drunk provides tea service to corporations and institutes as well. "What I love the most is the level of online engagement we received during this time. We kept putting educational posts about tea on Instagram and received more inquiries about various topics on tea which in turn inspired me to do more virtual classes and events," said Tea Drunk founder Shunan Teng.
The tea available through Tea Drunk is truly one of a kind. Like nature cannot recreate itself, no two batches of tea are the same. Some tea leaves are picked from ancient tea trees which are 200-600 years old with the actual harvesting season containing only 10-15 days per year. While more commercial teas are harvested all year long and are finished processing in hours. Every tea is prepared with lots of love and hard work by Shunan Teng who heads to the deepest mountains in China in the Spring Season.
Shunan Teng is the educator for the TED-Ed lesson – The History of Tea and has collaborated with the Metropolitan Museum of Art to execute a temporary Chinese tea house in the museum. She is an avid educator on tea and has spoken on the subject matter at many institutions including Yale University, World Tea Expo, and Stony Brook University.
About Tea Drunk: Based and founded in NYC in 2013, Tea Drunk is on a mission to break all stereotypes in tea and open access in the West to the highest level of Chinese teas. Tea Drunk is the destination for those seeking exceptional tea and tea knowledge. At $369/ ounce, these are not any typical “fine teas”. These are historical teas cared by heritage farmers for generations. Shunan Teng- the founder of Tea Drunk, travels to historic tea mountains in China every year to harvest and make tea alongside the heritage farmers.
Eclectic Mix of Kosher Comfort Foods and Other Family Favorites Perfect for At Home Dining
Dallas, TX, September 3, 2020 — If homemade meals have become dull or repetitive, it may be time to broaden your repertoire. It’s possible for any cook — with the suggestions and guidance in Kenneth M. Horwitz’s award-winning book, Deep Flavors: A Celebration of Recipes for Foodies in a Kosher Style — to prepare delicious dinners and mouth-watering desserts. Perfect for those who love cooking kosher or vegetarian, or simply experimenting with new recipes, Deep Flavors features an abundance of tempting dishes drawing from many cultures, complete with helpful tips ranging from how to source ingredients to proper preparation.
“Cooking is worth some effort and attention to detail,” Horwitz writes. “The positive reactions from family or guests, as well as your own enjoyment, will make it worthwhile.”
“Effort” and “attention to detail,” however, don’t have to equate with “difficult.” In fact, throughout Deep Flavors, Horwitz shares his wisdom for breaking recipes into simple steps — and how to do some of this prep work well in advance so that delicious meals can be served even with a hectic schedule.
Between the covers of Deep Flavors, Horwitz offers an eclectic menu that includes traditional Jewish dishes plus other regional and international favorites reinterpreted to observe some or all of the rules for kosher foods. The result is a diverse anthology of recipes that will appeal to broad audiences everywhere — Jewish and otherwise.
Horwitz, an attorney and CPA by trade, explained in an interview with Today’s CPA that, “My approach to cooking is really an extension of what I do in my professional practice. I solve problems. One of the ‘problems,’ at least in my house, is that since we maintain a kosher house, but eat eclectically, is how to convert recipes so that they are kosher …”
Horwitz’s Texas State Fair Blue Ribbon-winning Spinach/Mushroom Lasagna, for instance, is a completely original vegetarian lasagna accessible to Jews and vegetarians, with a unique twist on ingredients that gives it a complex flavor profile. Even recipes for classic foods such as brisket and roast turkey contain newly imagined taste combinations and techniques to elevate them while maintaining recognizable hallmarks of each dish. Another recipe that epitomizes the standard set by Horwitz, yet remarkably simple to execute, is the Dill French Toast: savory, unique, and delicious.
Horwitz’s ultimate goal was to create recipes that are readable and easily followed by anyone with a basic knowledge of cooking. He provides detailed instructions with enhanced explanations and alternatives, helpful for both the novice and the more experienced cook.
A Readers’ Favorite reviewer, who gave Deep Flavors a 5-star rating, referred to the book as “… an essential addition to any cookbook fanatic's collection and to anyone who believes in spending the time and effort to make the ‘food’ experience a real work of art …”
With 52 years in a general tax and transaction practice as a CPA and lawyer, Ken Horwitz has a creative and focused approach to finding and fixing problems — a skill that translates well to the development of and modification of recipes based on traditional family favorites but tailored to one’s personal tastes and dietary needs. His professional drive and the care given to his work have earned him multiple awards, including the Honorary Fellow for a lifetime of distinguished service and the 2017 Chairperson of the Year by the Texas Society of CPAs. Currently residing in Dallas, Texas, Horwitz enjoys sharing his passion for cooking with his wife, children and grandchildren. Horwitz believes that one of the highest compliments he has received came from a longstanding client who uses numerous lawyers. He said, “Ken, you are the only lawyer we use whose work we have not had to fix.” Horwitz’s goal is for Deep Flavors to reach that same standard.
Deep Flavors Publisher: Inspire on Purpose ISBN-13: 978-1-941782-51-4 ISBN-10: 1-941782-51-5 Available from Amazon.com
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True Story of Survival Opens Minds and Dialogues about Mental Health
New York NY, Sept. 3, 2020 — Mark Henick stood precariously on the wrong side of the railing on a crumbling, concrete overpass. The bridge spanned two realities and, for Henick, had become a symbol of escape — in one form or another. A voice behind him tried to help. A crowd gathered. Siren lights flashed in his peripheral vision. Surrounded but still alone, Henick let go.
So-Called Normal: A Memoir of Family, Depression and Resilience from Mark Henick is a vital and triumphant story of perseverance and recovery by one of North America’s foremost advocates for mental health.
Henick’s near-death experience on the overpass that night would alter his emotional orbit just enough that his exit from a psychiatric ward following that suicide attempt in 2003 would be his last. His transformation didn’t happen overnight — it was a gradual process punctuated with new challenges and setbacks — but slowly, his patterns reversed and he began a profound, “upward” spiral toward recovery.
So-Called Normal chronicles Henick’s youth and the events that led to that fateful night on the bridge and the experiences and transformation that followed. It is a vivid and personal account of a boy who had to deal with the breakdown of his parents’ marriage, an abusive stepfather, bullying and trauma — all while trying to navigate his progressively worsening mental health. In the backdrop is a community that didn’t talk about mental illness, one where silence and maintaining the comforts of “normal” was paramount.
So-Called Normal is not a “misery memoir” about suicide — it’s a gripping, inspirational story of survival that has already touched the hearts of many, including television personality Rosie O’Donnell.
“Mark Henick is a powerful storyteller. His vivid account of his early years as a depressed, suicidal teenager is a page-turner. So-Called Normal is beautifully written, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. Necessary reading for anyone who wants a peek inside the mind of someone who journeyed through mental illness and found hope on the other side,” O’Donnell said.
Author Mark Henick’s TEDx talk about being saved from death by a stranger is one of the most watched in the world and has been viewed millions of times. His search for “the man in the brown jacket” whose bravery and strong arms kept him from falling to his death went viral around the world (and was successful!). Henick has been on television and radio and has written many articles on mental health. He has hosted more than 60 intimate conversations about mental health with notable public figures and celebrities on his podcast, So-Called Normal, and has executive produced and hosted the Living Well podcast for Morneau Shepell. Henick has served on the board of directors for the Mental Health Commission of Canada, and was the president of a provincial division of the Canadian Mental Health Association — the youngest person in either role. He has worked as a frontline clinician, a program manager and the national director of strategic initiatives for CMHA. Currently the CEO and principal strategist for Strategic Mental Health Consulting, Mark Henick is in high demand as an international keynote speaker on mental health recovery.
Episode 14- The Train It Right Life - Life Update - Why HD Muscle?
Sorry I am a little late on this weeks podcast. I explain why with a Sammy update (that's my frenchie). He has epilepsy and this week hasn't been a good one for him. Its ok he's on the mend! I also give you the rundown n why I take, promote and work for HD Muscle. www.hdmuscle.com Code: trainitright to save 10%
I hope you enjoy this weeks episode! Have a good one guys!
4 Ways You Can Ease the Pain of Your Chronic Injuries
Studies have revealed that up to20 percent of adults struggle with chronic pain, and that ongoing discomfort can bring an individual’s life to a grinding halt. If you are dealing with daily pain and would like to avoid opioid drugs, then you need to come up with a comprehensive pain management plan that will allow you to regain control of your life.
Move Around
While it might be tempting to sit around and do nothing if you are constantly in pain, exercise could actually be very beneficial. As long as it has been cleared by your doctor, you should try to engage in physical activities at least once or twice a day. Exercising is going to release endorphins, and those natural chemicals can suppress discomfort. Even a short walk or a few minutes of stretching could have a huge impact on your pain levels.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Many people don’t realize that their dietary habits might increase or decrease their pain. Certain foods and beverages will exacerbate chronic pain by inflaming ligaments and muscles. As a general rule, adults should attempt to follow a relatively clean diet that emphasizes whole grains, fresh produce, and lean sources of protein. They should also minimize their intake of processed sweeteners, alcohol, and tobacco.
Meditation
Research is now showing us that meditation might be a great option for those who have chronic pain. Meditation seems particularly effective at reducing pain that is caused by osteoarthritis. This practice requires nothing more than a quiet and comfortable environment where you can focus on your thoughts and breathing. Many people also use apps that guide them through their meditation sessions.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is more popular than ever, and these cutting-edge medical devices are being used to treat a wide array of health issues. A cold laser device could potentially lower your pain levels by disrupting the nerve impulses and promoting blood flow to the area. Those devices are very easy to operate, and they can be used on almost any area of the body. Some lasers will even speed up one's recovery after an acute injury has occurred.
In addition to these few tips and tricks, you must also make sure that you are working with an experienced physician who can help you uncover the root causes of your discomfort. Many pain management techniques are very effective, but you need to be sure that you are treating the underlying health complications as well.
Now Available in Canada - Bausch Health, Canada Launches First of its Kind, Topical Antipsoriatic Agent in Almost Twenty Years
Formulated with PRISMATREX™, a proprietary technology, DUOBRII™ lotion improves the signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis in adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
LAVAL, QC, Sept. 2, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - Bausch Health, Canada, part of Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE: BHC) (TSX: BHC), ("Bausch Health" or the "Company") today announced that its novel topical prescription drug for improving the signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis in adult patients is now available in Canada. DUOBRII™ (0.01% w/w halobetasol propionate and 0.045% w/w tazarotene) is indicated for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.i The product is manufactured for distribution throughout Canada and the United States at the Company's Quebec manufacturing facility in Laval.
"Achieving clear skin is the primary goal of patients, and this is equally so for the physicians who treat them," says Richard Lajoie, President and General Manager, Bausch Health, Canada. "As a company fully committed to the Canadian psoriasis community, we are sensitive to the challenges faced in improving the quality of life of patients with psoriasis. DUOBRII works in a unique way by combining halobetasol propionate, which reduces inflammation; and tazarotene that contributes to the normalization of skin cell growth. We are excited to bring this novel product to Canadians and very proud that it is being manufactured at our own facility here in Canada."
Dr. Neil H. Shear, MD, FRCPC, Professor and Head of Dermatology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre has spent decades treating psoriasis patients. "Offering my patients a new option with promising, long-term results will help deliver what every psoriasis patient hopes for: achieving clear skin. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, which means that patients need continuous solutions to manage their symptoms. With DUOBRII, we are seeing positive results in as little as two weeks, which is highly encouraging. The fact that it is the only Health Canada-approved drug for psoriasis to provide extended clearance post-treatment is an important benefit."
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, and life-altering skin condition that affects approximately one million Canadians, with 90% of those affected suffering from plaque psoriasis.ii
The disease is characterized by red elevated patches and flaking silvery scales, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. While the psoriatic lesions can appear anywhere on the body, the most common places include the elbows, knees, scalp, chest and lower back. Because the disease typically affects visible parts of the body, the impact on patients extends well beyond the physical symptoms. Psoriasis often impacts nearly every aspect of an individual's life including their ability to work and maintain social and intimate relationships. In addition to the tremendous medical burden experienced while trying to find a medication that controls the disease, the psychological impact is high. Many individuals suffer from low self-confidence, anxiety, depression and sleep deprivation.iii
"We know how difficult psoriasis is to treat and it is even harder to live with for patients and their families," said Rachael Manion, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients (CAPP). "Patients deserve the most advanced and effective treatment options available, and we are encouraged that Bausch Health, Canada has brought DUOBRII to market as a new topical treatment option for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis."
DUOBRII lotion provides the combined action of two unrelated compounds, halobetasol propionate, a corticosteroid, and tazarotene, a retinoid prodrug. These well-known ingredients have long-established efficacy profiles. When halobetasol propionate and tazarotene are administered together in DUOBRII, they provide complementary effects due to their individual modes of action targeting different receptors and pathways to achieve anti-inflammatory control and epidermal morphologic restoration. The improvement that is seen in psoriatic patients appears to occur in association with the restoration of normal cutaneous morphology and the reduction of the inflammatory markers ICAM-1 and HLA-DR.iv
DUOBRII is also distinct based on its Prismatrex™ technology, a polymeric emulsification system which provides a stable condition where emulsion droplets retained their distribution across time and temperature.v
The clinical efficacy and safety of once daily use of DUOBRII were assessed in two prospective, multi-centre, randomized, double-blind Phase III clinical trials in subjects 18 years and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. In the Phase III pivotal studies, analysis of the primary efficacy endpoint demonstrated that Duobrii was statistically significantly more effective than Vehicle Lotion in achieving treatment success in the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) at Week 8, defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from Baseline and a score of Clear or Almost Clear in both studies.vi
In the first study 35.76% of subjects in the DUOBRII group had treatment success at Week 8 compared with 6.98% in the Vehicle group. In the second study, 45.33% of the subjects in the Duobrii group had treatment success at Week 8 compared with 12.51% in the Vehicle group.vi In the clinical studies, the individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) showed sustained efficacy improvement up to 4 weeks after treatment.vii
While the exact cause of psoriasis has not yet been determined, researchers believe it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. Psoriasis develops when there is a malfunctioning of the immune system which causes inflammation. White blood cells (T cells) in the immune system are triggered and this causes inflammation to occur, which then causes skin cells to rise to the surface and shed at 10 times the normal rate.
About Bausch Health Companies Inc. Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) is a global company whose mission is to improve people's lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of pharmaceutical, medical device and over-the-counter products, primarily in the therapeutic areas of eye health, gastroenterology, and dermatology. We are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health.
In Canada, the Company's prescription product portfolio is focused on eye health, dermatology, and cardio-metabolic conditions. More information can be found on the Company's website at bauschhealth.ca.
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i DUOBRIIProduct Monograph. Bausch Health, Canada Inc. June 16, 2020 p.3
iv DUOBRIIProduct Monograph. Bausch Health, Canada Inc. June 16, 2020 p.13
v Data in Health Canada NDS submission
vi DUOBRIIProduct Monograph. Bausch Health, Canada Inc. June 16, 2020 p.18
vii DUOBRIIProduct Monograph. Bausch Health, Canada Inc. June 16, 2020 p.19
SOURCE Bausch Health
NHS soup-and-shake diet could lead to reduction in type 2 diabetes and obesity in UK by improving disease management, says GlobalData
Following the news that Type 2 diabetes sufferers in the UK were put on a soup and shake diet by the NHS;
Akash Patel, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Analyst at GlobalData, offers their view:
“Plans like the NHS’ soup-and-shake diet will help the ~1.9 million people in the UK that are estimated by GlobalData to be currently living with both type 2 diabetes and obesity, conditions that are risk factors for developing severe COVID-19 complications.
“If these T2D patients reduce their body weight, this will reduce the likelihood of development of additional comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, diabetic kidney disease and peripheral nerve damage. Historically, the most common practice has been physicians educating patients about diet and T2D management, however, such practices have been met with limited success as not all T2D patients are compliant with their diet and exercise regimens.
“The NHS plan will likely confer a more streamlined approach, making it easier for both patients and physicians improve compliance and overall management strategy.”
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