Avicanna (TSX: AVCN) Enters an Exclusive Research Agreement with the University of Guelph for Proprietary Cannabinoid-based Products and Formulations to Treat Psychiatric Disorders

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TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2019 /CNW/ - Avicanna Inc. ("Avicanna" or the "Company") (TSX: AVCN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce that it will further the research and development and pre-clinical analysis of its proprietary prescription and over-the-counter ("OTC") cannabinoid products and formulations through an exclusive research agreement with the University of Guelph in Canada for a project to be performed by Dr. Jibran Khokhar, Assistant Professor at the University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College, Department of Biomedical Sciences, as principal investigator.

"We believe the studies that we have designed with Dr. Khokhar, which will be performed by his team at the University of Guelph, will provide a unique opportunity to evaluate disorders of brain health and are an essential step in a committed research program for evaluating the role of cannabinoids as therapies for several human neurological disorders," said Dr. Amza Ali, the Company's Chief Medical Officer.

The collaboration with the University of Guelph will focus on evaluating a variety of dosage forms on preclinical models of several human psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD and substance abuse. A unique aspect of this collaboration is to determine brain cannabinoid levels and cerebral activity function using electrophysiology and behavioral methods with various Avicanna formulations and common to rare cannabinoids.

Additional studies include research in the treatment of nicotine and alcohol addiction with the use of various cannabinoid formulations provided by Avicanna. Analysis of vaporizer formulations amongst others will be tested on preclinical models of neuropsychiatric disorders to potentially reduce/replace doses of THC with CBD.

"Avicanna is focused on elevating the scientific research related to cannabinoid products through its collaborations with world-class research institutions in order to provide patients and physicians with products that offer a well understood mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety profile. We are excited to advance our research and development program for psychiatric disorders and substance dependency, building on our data and expertise within the cannabinoid market," stated Aras Azadian, Chief Executive Officer.

The services to be performed under the research agreement will be provided on an exclusive basis and Dr. Khokhar's laboratory has agreed to not conduct testing on any formulations or products similar to the Company's products during the term of the agreement. All research data and research reports created under the research agreement will remain the sole property of Avicanna, however, Avicanna has granted a license to the University of Guelph to use such reports and data for research and academic purposes. The studies under this agreement are expected to take two (2) years and the cost of the studies are expected to be approximately $300,000.

About Avicanna

Avicanna is an Ontario corporation focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products through its two main business segments, cultivation and research and development.

Avicanna's two majority-owned subsidiaries, Sativa Nativa S.A.S. and Santa Marta Golden Hemp S.A.S., both located in Santa Marta, Colombia are the base for Avicanna's cultivation activities. These two companies are licensed to cultivate and process cannabis for the production of cannabis extracts and purified cannabinoids including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Avicanna's research and development business is primarily conducted out of Canada at its headquarters in the Johnson & Johnson Innovation Centre, JLABS @ Toronto. Avicanna's scientific team develops products, and Avicanna has also engaged the services of researchers at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto for the purpose of optimizing and improving upon its products.

Avicanna's research and development and cultivation activities are focused on the development of its key products, including plant-derived cannabinoid pharmaceuticals, phyto-therapeutics, derma-cosmetics and Extracts (defined as plant-derived cannabinoid extracts and purified cannabinoids, including distillates and isolates), with a goal of eventually having these products manufactured and distributed through various markets.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit www.avicanna.com, call 1-647-243-5283, or contact Setu Purohit, President by email info@avicanna.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

Certain information in this press release contains forward-looking statements. Such statements include but are not limited to the intended outcomes of the studies to be conducted under the research agreement, the disorders to be studied and the expected term and cost of the studies. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, including the risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's long form final prospectus dated July 8, 2019. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, unless and until required by securities laws applicable to the Company.

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Santé Cannabis and Spectrum Therapeutics Launch Transformative Medical Cannabis Training Program for Québec Healthcare Professionals

MONTREAL and SMITHS FALLS, ON, Sept. 16, 2019 /CNW/ - Québec doctors have a new tool at their disposal for learning about medical cannabis and its viability as a treatment option for their patients.

Santé Cannabis, a pioneer in medical cannabis in Québec, has partnered with Spectrum Therapeutics, the medical division of Canopy Growth (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) to launch the Prescriber Training Program, designed to aid physicians and patients, announced today at the new Santé Cannabis clinic and research centre in Montréal.

This new initiative developed by Santé Cannabis equips physicians with the most up-to-date clinical guidelines, support networks, online and in-person training opportunities so they can prescribe and monitor cannabinoid treatment plans with confidence. The program will be offered for free to Québec physicians and is made possible by an unrestricted educational grant from Spectrum Therapeutics. 

"Patient referrals and training requests from our physician colleagues have increased by more than 500 per cent over the last year," says Dr. Michael Dworkind, Medical Director of Santé Cannabis and McGill University Associate Professor of Family Medicine. "It is our duty as physicians to understand the available treatment options for our patients, and medical cannabis treatments have emerged as an important clinical tool. In this program, we extend our experience and expertise to healthcare professionals, in order to support them to meet the needs of their patients."

The Prescriber Training Program is designed by clinicians for clinicians, and gives a unique, practical approach to medical cannabis learning. It provides participating physicians with:

• Self-learning modules that detail treatment evidence for specific conditions and symptoms; 
• Ongoing personalized phone support for questions about medical cannabis and patient care; 
• Clinical preceptorship opportunities at four Santé Cannabis locations across Québec; 
• Practical reference guidebook on developing and managing treatment plans and dosing; and 
• Clinical toolkits to help navigate patient assessment and follow-ups.

"A significant issue preventing the consideration of cannabinoid medicine by healthcare professionals is that the topic is not typically included in the medical school curriculum," comments Dr. Mark Ware, Chief Medical Officer, Canopy Growth. "We've invested in a range of training and education initiatives to address this gap in knowledge, and this new program creates an important resource for Québec physicians interested in learning how to integrate medical cannabis into their practice."

As Québec's first and foremost medical cannabis clinic and research centre, Santé Cannabis has received referrals from more than 2,500 physicians and assessed over 6,000 patients since 2014, while also providing information sessions for patients and healthcare professionals. Spectrum Therapeutics' track record with providing industry-leading education, resources and support for healthcare professionals includes:

• Evidence-based educational courses in Canada that have been delivered to thousands of physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, including accredited medical education programs through the Canadian Council on Continuing Education in Pharmacy (CCCEP) 
• A first-of-its-kind Catalyst Peer Mentorship Program, which links physicians from across Canada with colleagues who possess advanced knowledge of the cannabis field in order to provide case-by-case support. 
• 71,000+ interactions with healthcare professionals

Media are invited to attend an open house to learn more about the program and visit the recently expanded Santé Cannabis clinic and research centre in Montréal including a guided tour. Santé Cannabis Medical Director Dr. Michael Dworkind, Practicing Physician Dr. Alain Watier, and Canopy Growth Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mark Ware will be available for interviews. Event details below:

Date: Tuesday, September 17th 2019
Time: 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Address: 225-4150 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Westmount, H3Z 2Y5
RSVP: If you'd like to attend, please RSVP with Lilia Rassoul (media@santecannabis.ca)

ABOUT SANTÉ CANNABIS
Santé Cannabis is Québec's leading specialized medical cannabis clinic and research centre, with clinics operating in Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke and Pointe Claire.  Santé Cannabis is a trusted and essential consultative service for over 2500 physicians who have referred more than 12,000 patients since 2014. The clinical care team is comprised of family physicians and specialists in chronic pain, cancer, gastroenterology, and endocrinology, as well as nurses with clinical expertise in cannabis medicine.  Santé Cannabis provides online and onsite training for healthcare professionals, researchers, and decision makers from all over the world. As a Contract Research Organization specialized in medical cannabis, Santé Cannabis offers consultation, data management and clinical trial services to a diverse range of clients from pharmaceutical, biotech and cannabis industries.

ABOUT SPECTRUM THERAPEUTICS
Spectrum Therapeutics, the medical division of Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED, NYSE: CGC), is dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, furthering the public's understanding of medical cannabis and its various applications, and cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Founded in Canada, Spectrum Therapeutics operates in Australia, South America, Africa and across Europe. Its products are available in a wide range of potencies and formats designed to simplify the dialogue around strength and dosage by applying a colour-coded spectrum to categorize medical cannabis according to THC and CBD levels. 

Spectrum Therapeutics' offerings include whole flower cannabis, oils and new innovations such as Softgels in addition to single cannabinoid medicine Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. Through product simplification, robust clinical research and ongoing education of healthcare professionals, Spectrum Therapeutics is committed to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients around the globe.

About Canopy Growth Corporation
Canopy Growth (TSX:WEED, NYSE:CGC) is a world-leading diversified cannabis, hemp and cannabis device company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms, as well as medical devices through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents. The Company's medical division, Spectrum Therapeutics is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Spectrum Therapeutics sells a range of full-spectrum products using its colour-coded classification Spectrum system as well as single cannabinoid Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. The Company operates retail stores across Canada under its award-winning Tweed and Tokyo Smoke banners. Tweed is a globally recognized cannabis brand which has built a large and loyal following by focusing on quality products and meaningful customer relationships. From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icons Snoop Dogg and Seth Rogen, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House Seeds, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates eleven licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.7 million square feet of production capacity, including over one million square feet of GMP certified production space. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include "most up-to-date clinical guidelines, support networks, online and in-person training opportunities", and "will be offered for free". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including medical cannabis regulations and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 24, 2019 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Canopy Growth Corporation

7 in 10 Canadians over the age of 65 feel confident about technology use and 86% are online daily

Almost 6 in 10 (58%) own smartphones and 70% would pay out-of-pocket for technology to stay in their own home

TORONTO, Sept. 16, 2019 /CNW/ - A new survey commissioned by AGE-WELL, a federally funded Network of Centres of Excellence, and conducted by Environics Research, offers a number of fresh insights into the attitudes of Canadians over the age of 65 and 50-64 toward aging, health and technology. The survey was conducted July 11 – 30, 2019 with over 2,000 Canadians 50 years of age and older.

"The findings show that Canadians over the age of 65, just like those aged 50 to 64, are feeling confident about using technology and many feel the impact on society is positive," says Bridgette Murphy, Managing Director and COO of AGE-WELL. "We also found strong interest among respondents in using technologies to stay healthy, engaged and living independently for as long as possible."

The poll found that more than 8 in 10 Canadians over the age of 65 believe technological advances can help older adults stay safe, in their own homes longer and stay independent. And, 7 in 10 agree that technological advancements can help older adults stay active and manage health better as they age and can reduce social isolation. When they have difficulties with technology, 53% of respondents turn to their children and 18% to their grandchildren.

"With this level of receptivity and usage, we have an incredible opportunity to create products that will help people age well and remain in their own homes longer," says Murphy. "Overall, the survey reaffirms our view that, as a country, we are well positioned to be a world leader in the field of technology and aging."

Among the key findings of this survey:

Attitudes towards Technology

• 74% of those aged 65+ and 80% of those aged 50-64 report feeling confident using current technology; 
• Only 15% of Canadians over the age of 65 and 50-64 believe the impact of technology on society is negative; 6 in 10 (61%) over the age of 65 believe the impact of technology on society is positive; 
• 7 in 10 (70%) of Canadians 65 and over and 67% of those aged 50-64 would be willing to pay out-of-pocket for technology that allows them to stay in their home longer.

Technology for Health and Wellness

• Over 90% of those aged 50-64 and 65+ have never had an online 'visit' with a doctor or health care provider; 
• 18% of Canadians aged 65+ and almost ¼ (24%) of those aged 50-64 use a digital watch to help manage their health, wellness and/or independence; 
• Over 8 in 10 Canadians 65+ believe technological advancements can help older adults stay safe, independent and stay in their own homes longer; 7 in 10 agree technological advancements can help older adults reduce social isolation; stay active and manage their health better as they age; 
• 7 in 10 Canadians over the age of 50 would use the following technology for health and wellness: devices that alert people if you fall, that keep you mentally active at home, that help you recover at home, that help connect you with a doctor/health care provider and that allow you to stay independent at home.

Technology for Connecting 

• 86% of Canadians aged 65+ and 94% of Canadians aged 50+ report being online daily; 
• 58% of Canadians aged 65+ and almost 8 in 10 (78%) aged 50-64 own smartphones; 
• Almost all (93%) of smartphone owners aged 65+ find them easy to use and 98% of those owning smartphones aged 50-64 find them easy to use; 
• Over 6 in 10 (63%) Canadians aged 65+ have a Facebook account. Over 8 in 10 (88%) of Canadians aged 50-64 currently have at least one social media account (Facebook 72%, YouTube 46%); 
• When they have difficulties with technology, Canadians aged 65+ turn to their children most often (53%) and sometimes their grandchildren (18%).

Click here to view infographic.

About the Survey:
Commissioned by AGE-WELL, the Environics Research survey was conducted between July 11 - 30, 2019, interviewing 2,027 Canadians over the age of 50. 602 respondents (30%) for this survey were contacted by telephone and 1,425 (70%) via an online panel.

About AGE-WELL:
AGE-WELL NCE Inc. is Canada's Technology and Aging Network. The pan-Canadian network brings together researchers, older adults, caregivers, partner organizations and future leaders to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians. AGE-WELL researchers are producing technologies, services, policies and practices that improve quality of life for older adults and caregivers, and generate social and economic benefits for Canada. AGE-WELL is funded through the federal Networks of Centres of Excellence program. www.agewell-nce.ca.

SOURCE AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence (NCE)

Smokers' Rights to Know about Less Harmful Alternatives Undermined by Provincial Governments

TORONTO, Sept. 16, 2019 /CNW/ - According to Research Co.'s survey for the Canadian Association of Consumers, only 25 percent of smokers who sought advice from a physician on how to quit had vaping mentioned as an option and referenced as a potential harm reduction tool. Only 33 percent of smokers surveyed believed the products were less harmful than tobacco. 

This new information comes on the heels of a decision by the Ontario government to sign a joint submission in which Canada's ten provinces and three territories demand that the federal government impose further restrictions on vaping advertising.

"If vaping advertising is prohibited and health officials are ill-equipped to advise smokers about these less harmful alternatives, it begs the question, how can public health advocates reach adult smokers to inform them of the full suite of options available to help them reduce their dependence on tobacco?" said Professor Chris Lalonde, academic advisor to Rights4Vapers.com, a consumer advocacy group dedicated to advancing evidence-based policymaking. "There is a clear need for more information on harm reduction products in Canada. Adults smokers understanding of vaping products contrasts with Health Canada's position that vaping is less harmful than smoking and offers smokers a potentially effective means to quit smoking." 

Judges in two recent court cases ruled that policies that may prevent smokers from becoming aware of less harmful alternatives are a form of public health censorship and are unconstitutional. 

Also, several federal and provincial regulations already exist that restrict vaping advertising to limit the appeal of these products to youth. Quebec's provincial regulations go the furthest to prevent vape retailers from advertising their products altogether, even where cigarettes are sold and even in adult-only establishments. 

"If advertising is a key driver of youth trying vaping products, one would expect the ban on advertising in Quebec to result in lower rates of youth experimentation, but this is not the case," argues Professor Lalonde. "The youth experimentation rate is nearly equal to that of provinces with no vaping advertising restrictions. Advertising is not the key driver to youth uptake of vaping products."

Before the federal government introduces regulations requiring all other provinces to follow suit, regulators should also remember that a Quebec superior court judge recently found provincial restrictions on vaping advertising to violate the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Namely integrity and personal security as well as freedom of expression. The judge concluded that; "The problem with the current restrictions is that the public—particularly smokers—do not distinguish between smoking and vaping… they must be permitted to know the difference. Rather than silence, it is sometimes necessary to educate and let people know that vaping exists first and foremost for smokers."

In the same vein, Facebook recently lost a lawsuit filed by a non-governmental organization which argued that the social media giant's policies have the effect of censoring posts on harm reduction, jeopardizing the ability for the public health groups to share information that could save lives. The case outlined the "problem of Facebook deleting pages, groups, posts, and that promoted harm reduction principles and products."

"In its consideration of further restrictions on advertising to protect youth,Rights4Vapers.com strongly urges the Canadian government to carefully weigh these concerns with the acknowledgment that adult smokers do not know enough about vaping nor do their trusted health providers," concluded Professor Lalonde. 

SOURCE Rights 4 Vapers

ViVitro Labs Acquires ProtomedLabs

Merger strengthens European service and expands cardiovascular customization capabilities 

VICTORIA and MARSEILLE, France, Sept. 17, 2019 /CNW/ - ViVitro Labs, the industry-leading provider of cardiovascular device test equipment and related consulting services, announces the acquisition of ProtomedLabs SASU, an ISO 17025 accredited medical device testing laboratory based in Marseille France.

The companies will merge operations and form a single company operating under the name of ViVitro Labs Inc. The new organization extends ViVitro's presence in Europe and doubles the company's contract testing and customization capabilities. Karim Mouneimne, General Manager of ProtomedLabs, will become President of the combined organization and move to ViVitro headquarters in Victoria, Canada.

"This acquisition and merger reflects our commitment to growing ViVitro's resources, products and services to address evolving cardiovascular testing system needs for leading edge researchers and organizations," said Scott Phillips, Owner and CEO of the StarFish Group and CEO of ViVitro Labs.

"ProtomedLabs has been the ViVitro sales agent for Europe, Israel, and Africa since 2015. We are excited to bring this successful partnership to the next level," said Frederic Mouret, President & CEO, Protomed SA and owner of ProtomedLabs.

"Helping companies solve testing challenges by using our equipment and customized testing strategies is part of ViVitro's unique heritage. We go beyond standard catalog items or services," said Karim Mouneimne. "Our new larger capacity will allow us to aggressively invest in our product lineup while expanding customized service offerings for clients across the cardiovascular industry."

About ViVitro Labs

ViVitro Labs Inc., Canada, offers industry-leading cardiovascular test equipment and related laboratory testing and consulting services. Hundreds of organizations in over 39 countries for 30 years have trusted ViVitro expertise, accuracy, and quality for their heart valve, LVAD, TAH, stent, and graft testing. ViVitro Laboratory Services holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation based on ISO 5840. ViVitro Labs products are manufactured by StarFish Medical in Victoria, Canada.

About ProtomedLabs

ProtomedLabs SASU, Marseille, France, is an ISO 17025 accredited medical device testing laboratory which provides responsive turnkey engineering solutions in device testing for companies developing implantable and interventional cardiovascular devices.  ProtomedLabs was 100% owned by Protomed SA, Strasbourg, France.

About Protomed SA

Protomed SA, Strasbourg, France, is an ISO 13485 certified contract service R&D company specialized in medical device design and development. PROTOMED has been driver in the development of several minimally invasive surgery, single use devices, vascular and cardiac implants. Its fab lab includes prototyping machines (3D printers; CNC machines), test benches, control equipment and state of the heart CAD software.

About Starfish Group

StarFish Group is a privately owned company focused on medical device and life sciences markets. The company consists of StarFish Medical, Canada's largest medical device design, development and contract manufacturing company, and ViVitro Labs.

SOURCE ViVitro Labs Inc.

ACTO and Teleflex Collaboration Leads to Improved Sales Performance and Wins Bronze in the 2019 Brandon Hall Group Human Capital Management Excellence Awards for Learning Technology Implementation

TORONTO, Sept. 17, 2019 /CNW/ - ACTO and Teleflex's Vascular Division won a coveted Brandon Hall Group Bronze award for excellence in the "Best Advance in Learning Technology Implementation" category for their groundbreaking efforts to improve sales performance. The ACTO and Teleflex case study demonstrates the commercial success that life sciences companies can achieve after implementing new technology to gather field data and streamline their commercialization processes. 

"This award is a testament to Teleflex's visionary leadership in recognizing the importance of learning and development in life sciences' renewed industry landscape," said Parth Khanna, CEO of ACTO, "With all the changes we are seeing right now in the industry, Teleflex had the vision to engage their sales force through digital transformation, and were able to execute seamlessly on their commercial strategy. As a result, they have been able to drive commercial outcomes through learning, a landmark achievement for Teleflex and the industry at large."

"Teleflex had a product that was underperforming for over a year. In just one quarter, we have exceeded our sales targets after launching modules through ACTO," said Jacqueline Cronin, Senior Marketing Manager, Vascular at Teleflex, "ACTO has been a game-changer for our company. We were looking for a way to engage our entire sales force, particularly legacy reps, and provide them with a continuous learning experience. ACTO was a true partner in helping us redesign our training, and track what our top reps are doing to create a blueprint for success. They have been instrumental in ensuring that the field adopted our new sales process, and gave our reps tools and learnings to increase their proficiencies."

Award entries were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, Brandon Hall Group analysts and executives based upon the following criteria: fit the need, design of the program, functionality, innovation and overall measurable benefits.  

"Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards Program has recognized leading organizations for the past twenty-plus years for the latest trends in Human Capital Management," said Rachel Cooke, Brandon Hall Group COO and leader of the HCM Excellence Awards Program. "The initiatives that were honored are not only innovative but fit the unique needs of the business and create truly remarkable success stories."              

Excellence Awards winners will be honored at Brandon Hall Group's HCM Excellence Conference, February 4-6, 2020, at the Hilton West Palm Beach, Florida. Select winners also will serve as presenters in breakout sessions, sharing their leading practices during the conference.        

"The HCM Excellence Awards recognize programs that measurably benefit organizations," said Mike Cooke, Brandon Hall Group CEO. "Many human capital management departments are unable to confirm that their initiatives help the business's bottom line. Because we focus on measurable benefits, our awards program is universally recognized and highly prestigious."                       

About ACTO
ACTO is on a mission to improve treatment access by disrupting how drugs and devices are commercialized globally. ACTO Commercialization Cloud for Life Sciences is the only one-stop-shop sales, marketing, and training platform designed to help life sciences companies effectively communicate their clinical evidence story, increase sales, and gather powerful field intelligence. ACTO helps pharma, medical device, and dental companies increase rep effectiveness, message consistency, and build a culture of continuous learning while helping them stay compliant. For more information on the ACTO Commercialization Cloud for Life Sciences, visit acto.com.

About Teleflex
Teleflex is a global provider of medical technologies designed to improve the health and quality of people's lives. They apply purpose driven innovation – a relentless pursuit of identifying unmet clinical needs – to benefit patients and healthcare providers. Their portfolio is diverse, with solutions in the fields of vascular and interventional access, surgical, anesthesia, cardiac care, urology, emergency medicine and respiratory care. Teleflex employees worldwide are united in the understanding that what they do every day makes a difference.

About Brandon Hall Group                            
Brandon Hall Group is an HCM research and advisory services firm that provides insights around key performance areas, including Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Talent Acquisition and HR/Workforce Management.

With more than 10,000 clients globally and 25 years of delivering world-class research and advisory services, Brandon Hall Group is focused on developing research that drives performance in emerging and large organizations, and provides strategic insights for executives and practitioners responsible for growth and business results.                                

Our mission: Empower excellence in organizations around the world through our research and tools each and every day.

At the core of our offerings is a Membership Program that combines research, benchmarking and unlimited access to data and analysts. The Membership Program offers insights and best practices to enable executives and practitioners to make the right decisions about people, processes, and systems, coalesced with analyst advisory services which aim to put the research into action in a way that is practical and efficient. (www.brandonhall.com)

SOURCE ACTO Technologies, Inc.

ViVitro Labs Acquires ProtomedLabs

Merger strengthens European service and expands cardiovascular customization capabilities 

VICTORIA and MARSEILLE, France, Sept. 17, 2019 /CNW/ - ViVitro Labs, the industry-leading provider of cardiovascular device test equipment and related consulting services, announces the acquisition of ProtomedLabs SASU, an ISO 17025 accredited medical device testing laboratory based in Marseille France.

The companies will merge operations and form a single company operating under the name of ViVitro Labs Inc. The new organization extends ViVitro's presence in Europe and doubles the company's contract testing and customization capabilities. Karim Mouneimne, General Manager of ProtomedLabs, will become President of the combined organization and move to ViVitro headquarters in Victoria, Canada.

"This acquisition and merger reflects our commitment to growing ViVitro's resources, products and services to address evolving cardiovascular testing system needs for leading edge researchers and organizations," said Scott Phillips, Owner and CEO of the StarFish Group and CEO of ViVitro Labs.

"ProtomedLabs has been the ViVitro sales agent for Europe, Israel, and Africa since 2015. We are excited to bring this successful partnership to the next level," said Frederic Mouret, President & CEO, Protomed SA and owner of ProtomedLabs.

"Helping companies solve testing challenges by using our equipment and customized testing strategies is part of ViVitro's unique heritage. We go beyond standard catalog items or services," said Karim Mouneimne. "Our new larger capacity will allow us to aggressively invest in our product lineup while expanding customized service offerings for clients across the cardiovascular industry."

About ViVitro Labs

ViVitro Labs Inc., Canada, offers industry-leading cardiovascular test equipment and related laboratory testing and consulting services. Hundreds of organizations in over 39 countries for 30 years have trusted ViVitro expertise, accuracy, and quality for their heart valve, LVAD, TAH, stent, and graft testing. ViVitro Laboratory Services holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation based on ISO 5840. ViVitro Labs products are manufactured by StarFish Medical in Victoria, Canada.

About ProtomedLabs

ProtomedLabs SASU, Marseille, France, is an ISO 17025 accredited medical device testing laboratory which provides responsive turnkey engineering solutions in device testing for companies developing implantable and interventional cardiovascular devices.  ProtomedLabs was 100% owned by Protomed SA, Strasbourg, France.

About Protomed SA

Protomed SA, Strasbourg, France, is an ISO 13485 certified contract service R&D company specialized in medical device design and development. PROTOMED has been driver in the development of several minimally invasive surgery, single use devices, vascular and cardiac implants. Its fab lab includes prototyping machines (3D printers; CNC machines), test benches, control equipment and state of the heart CAD software.

About Starfish Group

StarFish Group is a privately owned company focused on medical device and life sciences markets. The company consists of StarFish Medical, Canada's largest medical device design, development and contract manufacturing company, and ViVitro Labs.

SOURCE ViVitro Labs Inc.

/R E P E A T -- Go Auto to donate more than $500,000 annually to the Kids with Cancer Society/

EDMONTON, Sept. 12, 2019 /CNW/ - Go Auto, the Edmonton-based automotive group, is donating $10 to the Kids with Cancer Society for every vehicle sold, starting July 1, 2019. With the company on track to sell more than 50,000 vehicles per year, the total donation will exceed $3 million over a 5-year commitment.

Go Auto has also developed a program that will run in all of its Alberta and NWT dealerships where customers can donate to the Kids with Cancer Society, as well. The aim is for customers to match Go Auto's $10 per vehicle donation and collectively drive the total monies raised to more than $5 million.

"The Kids with Cancer Society plays a critical role in the lives of thousands of Albertans every year," said Go Auto President Jason Smith. "Rather than feel alone during treatment, the children and their families are welcomed into a community, provided with incredible support, and reminded that they are more than their diagnosis. This is an organization that means a lot to us. So, we thought it was time to take it to the next level by asking the 50,000 customers we have the privilege of serving each year to join us in this effort.

"We want to make a substantial commitment as a company, but we also want to make it easy for our customers to give back and help raise as much money as possible."

The Kids with Cancer Society provides vital programs and services to children with cancer, and their families, who reside in Northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. By working with the parents, and through close communication with the medical teams who treat children with cancer, the Society is able to identify priorities and fund the programs that will have the greatest impact. They work with families from the time of diagnosis throughout treatment and beyond, through educational and financial support, clinical programs, counselling and research. All programs are at no cost to the families.

"We greatly appreciate all donations and would like to sincerely thank everyone, in advance, for joining us in support of the Kids with Cancer Society," Smith said. "Together, we hope to raise more than $1 million annually."

About Go Auto

The largest automotive network in Western Canada, Go Auto owns and operates more than 40 dealerships, half of which are located in the Edmonton area. In addition to their partnership with the Kids with Cancer Society, Go Auto donates vehicles to more than 10 charities to aid in their operations. They have also created the Fuels the Schools program, which sees hundreds of Go Auto employees cook and deliver over 80,000 healthy meals to Edmonton schoolchildren each year. 

SOURCE Go Auto

Eosera’s Product Expansion and Rapid Growth Lead to Market Success and Bigger Manufacturing and Warehouse Space

Eosera gives a sneak peek into new products and announces the move to a bigger location due to rapid growth.

Fort Worth, TX - September 24th 2019 — Multimillion-dollar biotechnology company, EOSERA,announced today that they are not only expanding their line of products, but also moving to a facility that is double the size of their previous location, and hiring four new team members in three different capacities. They are doing it with customer demands higher than ever and products in over 13,000 stores.

Recent Growth 

Eosera’s impressive rapid and successful expansion in the ear care category is no surprise to CEO, Elyse Dickerson. “Our innovative products are bringing new customers to the ear care aisle, which translates into incremental growth.” The company growth and consumer demand are at an all-time high. In consumer market research done by Eosera in 2019, 77% of 25-44-year-olds reported that they were motivated to buy Eosera products to keep ears clean and healthy on a routine basis.

In September 2019, Eosera developed two new products to the growing ear care line, EAR CLEAN MD^™and EAR ITCH MD^® NIGHTTIME. These products will debut in late fall. 

EAR CLEAN MD^™ is a product unlike any other. Meant to be dissolved into warm water, this powerful yet gentle powder cleans the outer ear canal from unwanted wax, oils, and debris and moisturizes to help reduce irritation. EAR CLEAN MD^™ can be used regularly for those interested in keeping up with routine ear hygiene.

Over here at Eosera, we’re all about those clear and clean canals. Introducing Ear Clean MD™, our newest category in ear care.

EAR ITCH MD^® NIGHTTIME is an innovative product made of essential and naturally occurring oils to soothe and relieve itchy ears. Meant to be used at night for chronically itchy ears, EAR ITCH MD^®NIGHTTIME demonstrated an improved look and feel of the ear canal. 

Don’t sleep on Eosera’s latest innovation in ear care: Ear Itch MD^® Nighttime.


In addition to Eosera’s expanding line of products, they are moving to a larger facility that doubles the size of their warehouse and manufacturing space. Since all manufacturing of Eosera’s products are done in-house, this facility upgrade is evidence of the consumer demand and growing product line. Located at 5000 S. Freeway in Fort Worth, Texas, Eosera expects to move into their new space by September 17^th, 2019. To prep the new space for the growing company, the construction team is customizing the manufacturing and warehouse space for Eosera’s specific needs by putting on the finishing touches to make it uniquely Eosera’s.

Eosera’s team added four new members in the capacity of manufacturing, marketing, and supply chain. Each team member was carefully vetted and selected from an impressive pool of candidates. 

Recent Awards

As a result of Eosera’s rapid growth in 2019, The Dallas Business Journal recognized CEO Elyse Dickerson one of the Most Admired CEOs in North Texas. Fort Worth Magazine named Elyse Fort Worthian to Watch,FW Inc named her Top 400 Most Influential People, and D CEO named her Most Admired CEO. Fort Worth Business Press also presented Eosera with the Top Woman-Owned Business Award in 2018.

About EOSERA

EOSERA®, Inc. is a majority woman-owned biotech company committed to developing innovative products that address underserved healthcare needs. Eosera operates by putting purpose before profits and is proud to be one of the pioneering companies in a movement called  Conscious Capitalism. Since launching EarwaxMD, Eosera has expanded its offering to include everything ear care: Earwax MD^®, Earwax MD^® for Kids, Ear Pain MD^™, Ear Pain MD^™ for Kids, Ear Itch MD^®, Wax Blaster MD^®, and Earwax PET^®. Eosera’s CEO, Elyse Dickerson, was recently named ‘2019 Fort Worthian to Watch.’ In 2018, Eosera received the 2018 Top Women Owned Business Award by Fort Worth Business Press as well as the Women in Business Award by the Dallas Business Journal. Eosera’s products are currently available at CVS and Rite Aid stores nationwide, and online at Amazon. For more information, visit  www.earcaremd.com.