News Hub | News Direct

Consumer

Baby/Maternity Children Family LGBT Men Religion Teens Women
Article thumbnail News Release

SPARK Microsystems to Demonstrate Bit-Perfect Wireless Audio Delivery at AES Show 2024 NY

SPARK Microsystems

SPARK Microsystems, a Canadian fabless semiconductor company specializing in next-generation short-range wireless communications, will showcase an industry-first breakthrough in wireless audio delivery at AES Show 2024 NY (October 8 -10, Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York). At the event, SPARK will share the results of an exhaustive third-party expert analysis comparing SPARK ultra-wideband (UWB) digital audio performance versus the performance delivered with a digital wire. On Thursday, October 10, 11AM in Demo Room 3D04, audio industry expert Jeff Anderson will present an audio transmission data comparison of UWB and straight S/PDIF wire links at data rates up to 24 bits and 96Ks/s. In a major breakthrough for the audio industry and a giant leap beyond legacy Bluetooth wireless, the results will show that SPARK UWB audio delivery is indistinguishable from a wired transmission, exhibiting bit-perfect fidelity. Data shows that the SPARK UWB transmission scheme delivers a pristine, uncorrupted audio bit depth at ultra-low latency. Headsets, speakers and audio equipment harnessing this bit-perfect performance profile can deliver wired-like sound quality – without the wires. AES Show 2024 NY attendees are invited to experience SPARK’s breakthrough wireless audio quality for themselves via demonstrations of SPARK’s headset demo kit. Delivering pristine uncompressed 96kHz 24-bit audio quality, the SPARK UWB audio technology featured in the headset design ensures that listeners can enjoy their music and entertainment with flawless sound fidelity. SPARK’s headset demo kit offers support for up to 96kHz stereo audio and a 48kHz 16-bit microphone back channel with an impressive low latency of sub-7ms, making the technology ideal for applications where clear, uninterrupted communication is essential. SPARK audio technology far outperforms legacy Bluetooth in data throughput, low latency and power efficiency, while enabling lower latency and significantly lower power consumption than Wi-Fi-based audio technologies to ensure longer battery life. “SPARK’s reputation for audio excellence has been embraced by prestigious audio brands from Focal to Sonus Faber,” said Fares Mubarak, Chief Executive Officer, SPARK Microsystems. “Expert analysis now affirms what these brands and their discerning customers already know – SPARK’s wireless audio delivery performance is unrivaled. I’m looking forward to meeting with attendees, customers and stakeholders at AES Show 2024 NY to discuss the future of wireless audio delivery.” AES Show 2024 NY attendees are invited to visit SPARK Microsystems at Booth 542 for live demonstrations of SPARK’s headset demo kit. Audio industry expert Jeff Anderson will present his research and findings on Thursday, October 10, 11AM, in Demo Room 3D04. About SPARK Microsystems​ SPARK Microsystems is building next generation short-range wireless communication devices. SPARK provides high data rate and very low latency wireless communication links at an ultra-low power profile, making it ideal for personal area networks (PANs) used in mobile, consumer and IoT-connected products. Leveraging patented technologies, SPARK Microsystems strives to minimize and ultimately eliminate wires and batteries from a wide range of applications while delivering a wired-like performance. For more information, please visit www.sparkmicro.com.​ Contact Details Jenna Beaucage +1 508-340-6851 jbeaucage@rainierco.com Company Website https://www.sparkmicro.com

October 07, 2024 01:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Holiday Gift Guide: Add These Luxury Cannabis Items to Your Shopping List

MJ Attaché

Cannabis is legal in 38 states and counting for medical use. Almost 40% of women over the age of 21 currently consume cannabis, and men are nearly twice as likely to use cannabis than women. Odds are, your holiday gift-giving list includes an herbalist who would cherish an easy and elegant addition to their self-care ritual. “Whether the cannabis connoisseur on your holiday giving list uses cannabis medicinally or recreationally, MJ Attaché gift options elevate the experience and simplify the lives of discerning herbal enthusiasts,” explains MJ Attaché founder Christy Fuicelli. “Not only are our attachés statement pieces for self-care rituals, but they’re discreet, lockable and customizable to suit individual consumption needs.” New-to-market, MJ Attaché luxury holiday gift options for cannabis enthusiasts The Anthony Bag - $2,150.00 The Anthony bag combines style and sophistication for the discerning herbalist. Built by Italian artisans with the finest materials, this attaché dispels outdated stereotypes and elevates self-care rituals with patent-pending technology. It is the first on the market to provide a subtle, smell-disguising, practical and elegant solution to suit a cannabis enthusiast’s lifestyle. Available in five colors, The Anthony contains a removable rolling tray and magnetic accessories for customizable storage of your cannabis and accouterments. Retractable Vape Pen Holder - $150.00 Give the gift of ease, and the herbalist on your list will never lose another vape pen. Made in Italy of metal, leather and elastic, this accessory ensures the safekeeping and easy access of a favorite pen. The branded snap hook clips to bags or clothing, and the monogrammed retractable piece allows for use without removal. Fits most batteries up to.5″ in diameter. Retractable Lighter Holder - $175.00 Place this holder under the tree, and your favorite cannabis enthusiast’s lighter will always be at hand. Like the pen holder, this lighter holder is made in Italy of metal and leather. It is engineered to ensure a lighter’s safekeeping and easy access. The accessory’s branded snap hook clips to clothing or bags for accessibility, and the monogrammed retractable piece allows for use without removal. Fits classic BIC lighter. “Our vape pen and lighter holders keep your cannabis accessories safe and right where you need them. The Anthony is a luxury storage solution for all your cannabis needs—making it the perfect gift for a sophisticated herbal enthusiast,” says Fuicelli. “In addition to beauty and refinement, The Anthony is equally functional in that the components can be customized to meet individual needs. For example, edibles, flower and prerolls can be stored in the provided smell-proof jars and locked in The Anthony bag for safekeeping and transport this holiday season,” Fuicelli explains. The Anthony bag makes cannabis self-care rituals easy and elegant Discreet, smell-disguising design you can take anywhere Patent-pending modular elements include smell-proof jars for edibles and flower, lighter holder and glass holder Removable rolling tray for ease of use and clean-up Zipper lock eliminates need for difficult-to-open childproof containers "The Anthony bag not only keeps all my sesh products nicely organized for on-the-go, but it also turns heads. All my colleagues are shocked to find out its purpose!" says Arend Richard, The Anthony bag purchaser and founder of Cirrus Social Club in Denver. Find holiday luxury at MJAttache.com. Connect on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and deals. # # # About MJ Attaché Launched in April 2024, MJ Attaché is a designer and developer of high-quality, handmade Italian leather bags and accessories for the cannabis connoisseur. The luxury brand, with its moniker “MJ” (short for Mary Jane—an alias for marijuana), was founded by entrepreneur Christy Fuicelli, a stylish herbalist. Realizing a void in the marketplace, Fuicelli created MJ Attaché to cache and carry her cannabis in a discreet manner reflective of the luxury she enjoyed in other personal products. Fuicelli spent years designing beautifully crafted bags that embody elevated style, sophistication, high quality and fine craftsmanship. Appealing to men and women alike, MJ Attaché products bring ease and style to the cannabis industry and challenge outdated stigmas. Contact Details MJ Attaché Katie Converse for MJ Attaché info@mjattache.com Company Website https://mjattache.com/

October 03, 2024 01:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Focal Chooses SPARK Microsystems’ UWB Wireless Tech for New HiFi DIVA UTOPIA Speakers

SPARK Microsystems

SPARK Microsystems, a Canadian fabless semiconductor company specializing in next-generation short-range wireless communications, today announced its collaboration with Focal, the renowned French audio brand, in the development of the revolutionary DIVA UTOPIA loudspeaker. This collaboration brings together Focal’s expertise in high-fidelity audio with SPARK’s Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, delivering a high-performance wireless audio experience. The DIVA UTOPIA is Focal’s first connected, wireless active loudspeaker, designed to meet the demands of those seeking exceptional sound quality with the convenience of modern wireless technology. SPARK’s SR1020 wireless transceiver leverages UWB technology to supply the data transmission between the two speakers, delivering uncompressed audio with ultra-low latency, setting a new standard for wireless audio performance. “Our collaboration with Focal showcases the advantages of SPARK’s UWB in delivering high-resolution audio without the limitations of traditional wireless technologies,” said Julie Delamarre, SPARK Microsystems, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales. “The DIVA UTOPIA is a great example of how a UWB wireless connection ensures every note is transmitted with the highest fidelity.” SPARK’s UWB connectivity allows for a seamless wireless connection between the two DIVA UTOPIA loudspeakers, maintaining a stable and lossless signal at 96kHz/24bit resolution. This advanced technology eliminates the need for wires while preserving the quality of sound typically associated with wired connections. With support for major streaming platforms and wireless protocols, the DIVA UTOPIA offers a versatile and intuitive user experience. SPARK’s UWB technology supports multiroom configurations, making it easier than ever to integrate the DIVA UTOPIA into a complete home music ecosystem. "The DIVA UTOPIA represents a new era in high-fidelity audio. By integrating SPARK Microsystems' UWB technology, we have created a loudspeaker that not only delivers exceptional sound quality but also offers the freedom and flexibility that today’s consumers demand,” said Rejean Bedel, Focal & Naim, Group Marketing Manager. “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and redefining the listening experience." The DIVA UTOPIA loudspeakers are now available exclusively at qualified Focal Powered by Naim stores. For more information, visit Focal's website. About Focal Since 1979, Focal has stood out from the crowd in manufacturing loudspeakers and acoustic speakers. Their expertise extends to headphones, car audio kits, professional speakers, and installations for yachts. This unique know-how, combined with their in-house manufacturing in France, puts Focal among the top audio brands globally. In 2011, Focal joined forces with Naim — the British leader in high-end electronics — under the VerVent Audio group to offer exquisite complete audio systems. Visit www.focal.com for more. About SPARK Microsystems​ SPARK Microsystems is building next generation short-range wireless communication devices. SPARK provides high data rate and very low latency wireless communication links at an ultra-low power profile, making it ideal for personal area networks (PANs) used in mobile, consumer and IoT-connected products. Leveraging patented technologies, SPARK Microsystems strives to minimize and ultimately eliminate wires and batteries from a wide range of applications while delivering a wired-like performance. For more information, please visit www.sparkmicro.com.​ Contact Details Jenna Desimone +1 508-340-6851 jdesimone@rainierco.com Company Website https://www.sparkmicro.com

October 02, 2024 12:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Forum Health Launches Revolutionary PNOĒ Metabolic Device Transforming Weight Management, Fitness and Longevity

Forum Health

Forum Health, a premier provider of personalized integrative and functional medicine, announces the launch of the PNOĒ metabolic analysis device, offering precise insights into metabolic, heart, lung, and cellular health for personalized wellness. Now available in Forum Health’s Madison and Fond du Lac, Wisconsin clinics, the PNOĒ uses a data-driven approach to weight management, fitness, and longevity optimization. Schedule a PNOĒ assessment here: Fond du Lac or Madison. Julie Heyrman, MD: "We’re thrilled to bring this advanced technology to our patients in Wisconsin. The PNOĒ allows us to better tailor health solutions that address the root causes of weight gain, fatigue, aging, and cardiovascular risk." Through using only breath, the PNOĒ provides a comprehensive metabolic analysis on how effectively the body burns calories, the efficiency of the heart and lungs, and overall cellular performance. Patients receive personalized health plans tailored to their unique metabolic profile for improved wellness and disease prevention. Key Benefits of PNOĒ Metabolic Analysis: Precision Weight Management: Analyzes metabolism to optimize workouts, calorie intake, and macronutrient balance for sustainable weight management. Endurance Enhancement: Measures the efficiency of heart, lungs, and cells, identifying limiting factors and providing a customized plan to overcome them. Longevity Optimization: Calculates VO2 max, cellular health, and metabolic efficiency—key predictors of lifespan and well-being. Early Detection - Detects early risk factors for heart, lung, and metabolic conditions, empowering proactive health steps. Phil Hagerman, CEO: “Forum Health is committed to bringing the most advanced technologies to our patients, and the PNOĒ device represents a new frontier in personalized healthcare. By offering precise metabolic insights, we can create tailored health plans that drive better outcomes for the health issues most affecting our patient's overall well-being.” About PNOĒ PNOĒ is a state-of-the-art metabolic analysis device that provides comprehensive assessments of heart, lung, and cellular fitness through breath analysis. Learn more at pnoe.com. About Forum Health, LLC Forum Health, LLC is a nationwide provider of personalized healthcare steeped in the powerful principles of functional and integrative medicine. Our providers take a root-cause approach to care exploring lifestyle, environment, and genetics to help each patient achieve their ultimate health goals. Members have access to advanced medical treatments and technology, with care plans informed by data analytics and collaborative relationships. For more, visit www.forumhealth.com. Contact Details Britt Wittelsberger +1 410-852-0738 bwittelsberger@forumhealth.com Company Website https://forumhealth.com

October 01, 2024 08:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

COLORESCIENCE® INTRODUCES TOTAL LASH™ MASCARA

Colorescience

Colorescience®, a leading dermatologist-recommended specialty skincare company, is launching Total Lash™ Mascara, an innovative, new all-in-one lash serum, conditioner and mascara that immediately enhances the appearance of lash length and volume for a vibrant, eye-opening effect. With every application, this clinically tested formula works to improve lash health with a blend of peptides and botanicals that nourishes the lashes while helping support the natural lash cycle for healthier, stronger, fuller and longer looking lashes. The Total Lash™ ingredient complex uses gentle, prostaglandin analogue-free ingredients and has been ophthalmology tested and confirmed to be safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. This formula is ideal for those who want to restore and improve their natural lashes, especially after discontinuing lash extensions, false lashes, or other lash procedures. Dr.Tanya Khan, Oculoplastic Surgeon and Board-Certified Ophthalmologist, led the clinical study. After a 12-week clinical trial with daily usage of Total Lash Mascara 90% of subjects reported their lashes looked longer. As measured by Dr. Khan, lashes were on average 24% longer compared to baseline. Over 92% of subjects reported less lash breakage and 94% reported lashes appeared fuller, thicker, and fluffier after twelve weeks of usage. Recalling these results, Dr. Khan shared, “During the clinical study, it became clear to me that patients were readily achieving their desired results of lash growth, density, thickness, and darkness when using the Total Lash™ product once per day. As an oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, I am even more amazed that the formula is well-tolerated by sensitive eyes and does not cause irritation or discoloration of the delicate skin around the eye area. I look forward to offering this product to my patients as a safe, effective, and gentle daily option that delivers lash enhancement without prostaglandins or extensions.” This multi-benefit formula enhances the appearance of length and volume, nourishes and strengthens the lashes and supports lash growth. Proven peptide Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 stimulates the hair follicle to help support continued growth while botanical extracts optimize root health and help promote continued growth for longer, fuller looking lashes. The results are a visibly denser, more defined lash line and longer lashes that are hydrated and nourished. Panthenol and jojoba seed oil condition and nourish lashes to reduce breakage helping strengthen and prolong length and volume. Lastly, the formula immediately enhances lashes upon application while providing all-day smudge-free wear. This tubing mascara wraps each lash in a rich black iron oxide mineral pigment, making this dye-free formula ideal for sensitive eyes. Patricia Boland, VP of Research & Development at Colorescience says, “We created this formula with the tubing feature because our goal is always to treat and improve while delivering immediate enhancement and optimal wear. The skin around the eyes is especially thin and delicate, so extensive rubbing during removal of products can contribute to irritation. Instead, our Total Lash Mascara envelops each lash with our clinically proven treatment complex while maximizing wear-time, and the product removes effortlessly with warm water and a favorite cleanser.” ABOUT COLORESCIENCE Colorescience ®, the leading innovator in all-mineral sun protection, delivers transformational skincare solutions through wearable multifunctional products that provide immediate confidence and long-term visible results. Crafted for users who know that great results require daily skincare and protection, Colorescience ® uses cutting-edge technology and clinically tested formulas to ensure efficacy and provide reassurance to people of all ages, skin types, and concerns. Colorescience ® products speak for themselves through their wearability, published clinical studies, and skin-healthy ingredients. For more information please contact: Project MM, meredith@projectmmnyc.com Contact Details Meredith Winfrey meredith@projectmmnyc.com Company Website https://www.colorescience.com

October 01, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Former USC Student-Athlete L Simpson Launches "Take No L’s" Collection with Shiekh at USC Village

Full Scope PR

Current USC student, former USC football player and fashion entrepreneur L Simpson is rewriting the playbook for student-athletes with the exclusive launch of his highly anticipated streetwear collection, “Take No L’s”, at Shiekh at USC Village on Sept. 26. What began as a middle school project has evolved into a brand that embodies a mindset of relentless determination: no losses, only lessons – whether it’s on the court, field or in life. “Take No L’s” gained significant traction throughout Simpson’s high school basketball career at Sierra Canyon High School (Chatsworth, Calif.), where he captained his team to back-to-back California Open State Championships alongside notable teammates Scottie Pippen Jr., KJ Martin, Cassius Stanley and Christian Koloko. The brand’s momentum continued to increase when he joined USC’s renowned football program. Coached by USC head coach Lincoln Riley alongside former teammates and current NFL players, Caleb Williams, Jordan Addison and Brenden Rice, “Take No L’s” quickly became a regularly worn brand among his teammates and coaches. “I’m thrilled for L,” said USC head coach Lincoln Riley. “It’s always great to watch our players achieve their dreams, both on and off of the field. Whether we’re on campus or around the city, our players and staff love wearing the brand. L is extremely bright and innovate, and I know he is going to be incredibly successful.” “This launch is special,” says Simpson. “I shopped at Shiekh as a kid. Whenever Jordans would drop or when I wanted new athletic gear, I would always ask my parents to take me to Shiekh. It truly does feel like a full- circle moment. We’re not just selling clothes; we’re promoting a mindset of going after your dreams and never accepting defeat. That’s what Take No L’s stands for—no losses, just lessons.” Take No L’s is a bold, confident and unapologetic premium streetwear brand featuring striking graphics and vibrant colors. The collection includes hoodies, cropped sweatshirts, t-shirts, sweatpants and hats, with prices ranging from $90 to $200. With significant attention from L’s influencer network, which boasts a combined reach of over 100 million followers, the brand is already generating buzz on social media. Join Simpson on Sept. 26 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. PT at Shiekh in USC Village for the official launch of the “Take No L’s” collection. Experience firsthand why “Take No L’s” is setting a new standard in streetwear. The event will include special appearances, exclusive products and live entertainment featuring stars like Storm Reid, Brenden Rice, Riri Simpson, Jazz Hill, Temi Ojoro, Tade Ojoro, Ceyair Wright, Amber Jasmine, Lboogz, and Saint Thomas. Don't miss this exciting celebration of fashion and culture! About L Simpson: L Simpson, current USC student and former student-athlete, is the founder of the “Take No L’s” brand. Inspired by sports, culture and the journey of perseverance, Simpson created “Take No L’s” to encourage people to live fearlessly and embrace a lifestyle without losses. Simpson’s collection combines bold design, high-quality fabrics and empowering messaging to create a distinctive streetwear line that resonates with today’s generation. L has previously hosted his own talk show on SLAM and recently co-hosted the “Almost Pro” podcast with former Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. Simpson is currently pursuing a degree in communication from the USC Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism, and he will graduate in the spring of 2025. For more info on the brand, visit takenolsstore.com and follow Simpson on Instagram at @lboogz. About Shiekh Shoes: Style Elevated, Sneakers Celebrated. Shiekh offers a curated collection of footwear, apparel, and accessories. Explore top brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan at Shiekh. Shiekh stores can be found at premium locations in multiple states. For more information follow @Shiekh on Instagram and visit Shiekh.com Media Contact: Pia Malihi | Full Scope PR pia@fullscopepr.com # # # Contact Details Pia Malihi pia@fullscopepr.com Company Website https://takenolsstore.com/

September 26, 2024 01:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Little Spoon Becomes The First and Only Baby Food Maker In the U.S. To Publicly Set EU-Aligned Safety Standards and Share Test Results for Heavy Metals, Pesticides + Plasticizers

Little Spoon

In a groundbreaking move for the baby food industry, Little Spoon, the largest online baby and kids food company in the United States, today becomes the first and only brand in the country to unveil its testing standards and results for heavy metals, pesticides and plasticizers, making a commitment to never sell any product that falls short of its strict limits. The launch of this significant transparency initiative comes in response to the ongoing national discussion about baby food safety, the urgent need for stricter industry standards, and staggering statistics from a recently commissioned study of 2,000 American parents with children under 2 years old. As national conversations on baby food safety rapidly gain steam, it has become impossible to ignore the concerning headlines on toxic levels of heavy metals, grocery store brand misinformation and deteriorating consumer trust. Little Spoon partnered with Talker Research to conduct a survey of 2,000 American Parents to pulse check the needs and standards of American parents, and the results uncovered astonishing levels of mistrust and concern around industry safety, federal regulations, and overarching brand commitment. In fact, 95% of parents agree that baby food brands should be doing more to address baby food safety concerns— and only 9% report a ‘high degree’ of trust in baby food companies. “Quality nutrition and confidence in the products that fuel your family are rights, not privileges.” said co-founder and CEO, Ben Lewis. “We view this as a fundamental responsibility for our industry and a key reason why Little Spoon exists in the first place. The standards for children’s food in the U.S. are maddeningly low. Parents deserve better, and we are doing our part to finally deliver what they deserve.” Established to bring change to a century old industry, Little Spoon is once again raising the bar in the category by testing and sharing results for every batch of baby food for 500+ contaminants including heavy metals, pesticides, glyphosate and plasticizers. With no current federal regulations set for limiting the levels of chemical contaminants in baby food in the U.S., Little Spoon has aligned its testing standards for heavy metals with the European Union (EU), a long-standing, trusted standard for safety and excellence in the baby space. Consumers can see exact testing limits for each contaminant through a dashboard viewable for every Babyblend product on the brand’s website and can confidently purchase products knowing Little Spoon will not sell any products that do not meet these standards. “This generation is plagued by concern regarding baby food safety — and for good reason.” said co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Little Spoon, Angela Vranich. “We have always crafted our products with the utmost care, using certified organic ingredients and differentiated processing. We knew we could meet the rigorous EU testing limits for heavy metals in our baby food, and it quickly became our obsession to provide the level of transparency parents truly deserve.” To draw further attention to this crucial issue for Little Spoon consumers and parents nationwide, the ‘Little Spoon, Big Change’ initiative will be driven by a comprehensive 360-degree marketing campaign launching today. Designed to meet parents’ growing demands for transparency and baby food safety, the campaign will feature media partners, celebrities, tastemakers, and experts including an expanded advisory panel which now features world-class experts in public policy and academics specializing in heavy metals. As a topic often fraught with fear mongering tactics, Little Spoon is leveraging experts, educators and a new AI-powered chatbot on their site to provide education for parents and support the wide-ranging questions that come with baby food safety. "We won't see large-scale changes until companies like Little Spoon take action," said Dr. Bruce Lanphear, an advisor to Little Spoon who studies childhood exposure to toxic chemicals. "Companies don't need to wait for regulations—they can lead the charge.” Test results for every Little Spoon Babyblend, alongside detailed ingredient sourcing information are now available on LittleSpoon.com, with plans to roll out additional transparency measures for their robust portfolio of products in the coming months. For complete details on the ‘Little Spoon, Big Change’ initiative including Little Spoon’s testing process, regulation limits, test results, and overall commitment to baby food safety, please visit LittleSpoon.com and follow @littlespoon on Instagram. Little Spoon is the leading direct-to-consumer kid’s food brand on a mission to make parents' lives easier, and kids healthier through high-quality, accessible feeding solutions from baby’s first bites through the big kid years. Little Spoon is conveniently delivering the future of kid’s food right to parent’s doorsteps with integrated products that age with your child through a portfolio of freshly-made baby food, early finger foods, toddler + big kid meals, and snacks that meet the modern standard on quality, nutrition and value. Since launch, the company has delivered more than 50 million meals, helping to simplify the lives of hundreds of thousands of parents across the U.S.. With more than 90% of new parents identifying as millennials, Little Spoon is here to disrupt the +$100B children's health and wellness market, offering modern solutions, trusted resources, and new ways to connect with a network of advisors and parents just like you. Learn more at LittleSpoon.com, or find Little Spoon on Instagram at @LittleSpoon. Contact Details Powers PR Alex Turk +1 516-306-2373 alext@powers-pr.com

September 25, 2024 09:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

AI Unpacks Generational Stereotypes, Highlighting Key Differences, but Beer Bridges the Gap

AIport

What happens when you ask generative AI models to depict Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z? You might expect tech-challenged Boomers and avocado-loving Millennials. But what you get is far more interesting and in some cases, unexpected. A joint research project conducted by AIport and Turing Post last month analyzed over 1200 AI-generated images across four different models—Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, YandexART, and ERNIE-ViLG. The findings have revealed both familiar stereotypes and surprising quirks about how AI perceives these generations. Sad Boomers, Happy Zoomers? Contrary to the carefree Boomer stereotype, AI models like Midjourney depict Baby Boomers as introspective, or even somber, often bundled up and gazing wistfully into the distance—a reflection, perhaps, of their disillusionment with the unfulfilled ideals of the 1960s cultural revolution. However, the ERNIE-ViLG model, likely trained on datasets with a more collectivist cultural slant, shows 93% of Boomers smiling. This fascinating contrast underscores the cultural differences embedded in different AI models. Meanwhile, Gen Z’s images are vibrant and diverse, reflecting their reputation as a generation that embraces individuality, inclusivity, and self-expression. The AI-generated images depict Zoomers in colorful, highly detailed scenarios, making them the most visually distinct generation in the study. Generations Through the AI Lens The research explored how generations are portrayed in five key aspects of life: identity, relationships, work, lifestyle, and consumer habits. The AI models revealed consistent patterns and stereotypes; for example, males predominated in the depictions of Boomers and Gen Xers across all four models, while many images of Millennials and Zoomers showed greater diversity and more female representation. Surprisingly, Gen X appears to be the least well-understood generation by AI, characterized by fewer defining features compared to all other generations, likely due to the limited amount of training data available. The one stereotypical Gen X leitmotif that AI consistently identifies is their fondness for flannel shirts—an unmistakable symbol of the 1990s grunge scene worn by Gen Xers who were rebellious teenagers and young adults during that era. As for one (un)expected commonality… It’s beer. Whether they’re Millennials job-hopping or Boomers reminiscing about the good old days, AI consistently showed beer in 34% of the produced images across all generations. Prompt Engineering and AI Insights The prompts for this research were carefully crafted to avoid bias, using neutral phrases like "A Millennial at work" or "A Boomer relaxing." The results offer a telling look at how generative AI models mirror societal stereotypes, often shaped by the data they're trained on. These findings open the door to deeper discussions on how AI reflects, and sometimes distorts, cultural narratives. "Whether we think we can learn about generations from these images depends upon how confident we feel that the training data that went in is an accurate image of the self identity of a group,” explains Senior Engineer and Sociologist Stephanie Kirmer, who analyzed the findings. “For the younger sets, I don’t think we can know how much of it is media representation created by people outside the group versus how much is selfie-style personal expression. Some of what we’re getting, especially for the older groups who don’t contribute as much self-generated visual media online, is perceptions of that group from advertising and media, which we know has inherent flaws." About the Study The study examined the outputs of four globally recognized generative AI models, each with distinct aesthetic and cultural nuances, providing a comprehensive look at how each generation is portrayed visually. The selected models included Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, YandexART, and ERNIE-ViLG, offering diverse perspectives from different regions across the globe. Conclusion Whether confirming or contradicting societal stereotypes, AI-generated images provide a fascinating snapshot of how technology interprets generational differences. The fact that beer remains a unifying theme across all four models shows that, no matter our age, some things—like enjoying a cold one—transcend generational divides. To learn more about the project, visit https://www.aigenerations.tech/. Hero images for the media: Google Drive Link About AIport AIport is an emerging community of AI/ML enthusiasts and practitioners with a goal of providing a truly global view of the AI/ML/DS landscape. https://www.blog.aiport.tech/ About Turing Post Turing Post is everything you need to make smarter decisions about AI. https://www.turingpost.com/ Contact Details Nick Leighton nick.leighton@nettresultsllc.com Company Website https://www.aigenerations.tech/

September 23, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Industry Update: 3 Exciting Precision Oncology Players to Watch Following Summit’s Meteoric Rise: Silexion, Nuvectis, Scorpian

Global Markets News

Summit Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SMMT) recently captured headlines with the release of its Phase 3 data for ivonescimab, a targeted NSCLC therapy that has generated substantial buzz. The results from its trial conducted in China showed a dramatic 49% reduction in the risk of disease progression or death compared to Merck’s Keytruda, signaling a potentially disruptive force in NSCLC treatment. However, the news wasn’t without its concerns—since the trial data originates from China, there are questions about its applicability to broader, global populations. As noted by BMO Capital Markets’ Evan Seigerman: “Results may or may not be generalizable beyond the China-focused patient population initially assessed.” Despite this, Summit’s valuation has risen by over 100%, now approximating $19 billion. With such a high valuation, the company could see limited room for further significant gains, leading many in the industry to explore other emerging opportunities in precision oncology. Alongside Summit, there are quite a few other players in the field. Some if these companies have even already shown promising initial results and could see similar success in the future if they were to report positive results. These emerging players are worth watching for those interested in following precision oncology drug candidates and pipelines. Among them are precision oncology innovators such as Silexion Therapeutics, Nuvectis Pharma, and Scorpion Therapeutics, which we discuss below. Silexion Therapeutics: Disrupting the KRAS-Driven Cancer Space Silexion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SLXN) is another under-the-radar player in the precision oncology space, with a focus on KRAS-driven cancers—a notoriously difficult target in oncology. While current small-molecule KRAS inhibitors are making progress, they are often limited to specific mutations, such as KRAS G12C, which accounts for a small percentage of cancers. Silexion’s RNA interference (RNAi) approach offers a broader solution, targeting a wider spectrum of KRAS mutations, particularly in pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest and most treatment-resistant cancers. At the heart of Silexion’s approach is its LODER™ platform, which delivers siRNA directly to the tumor site, silencing KRAS mutations at the genetic level. This localized delivery not only increases efficacy by concentrating the treatment in the tumor, but it also reduces systemic side effects. Silexion’s next-generation candidate, SIL-204, is an optimized siRNA formulation designed to target pan-KRAS G12x mutations, positioning it to treat a broader range of KRAS-driven cancers beyond pancreatic cancer, such as lung and colorectal cancers. In Phase 2 trials for locally advanced pancreatic cancer, Silexion's LODER™ platform showed a 9.3-month improvement in overall survival when combined with standard chemotherapy. Additionally, the objective response rate (ORR) increased from 20% with chemotherapy alone to 55% with the combination, and in some cases, tumors that were initially non-resectable became operable after treatment with LODER™. These results are especially encouraging given the limited options available for pancreatic cancer patients. SIL-204, is expected to enter Phase 2/3 clinical trials in 2025-2026. What makes Silexion particularly intriguing is its current market valuation. Valued at aproximatly just ~$9 million following its SPAC merger, the company’s valuation could be perceived as low when compared to some of its peers, especially given its innovative technology and promising clinical achievements. Some have wondered whether this low valuation has more to do with dynamics post-SPAC companies. If Silexion can report positive results in its later-stage trials, the company’s outlook could dramatically improve, reflecting the potential of its RNAi-based platform. Like NXP900, SIL-204 could potentially have vast applications across multiple KRAS-driven cancer types, making Silexion a company to watch closely as it advances through clinical development. Nuvectis Pharma: Targeting NSCLC and Beyond by Inhibiting SRC/YES1 Kinases Nuvectis Pharma (NASDAQ: NVCT) has been quietly making strides in the precision oncology sector, developing innovative therapies aimed at overcoming treatment resistance in hard-to-treat cancers. Its lead candidate, NXP900, targets NSCLC by inhibiting the SRC/YES1 kinases, which play critical roles in cancer cell survival and resistance to current therapies. This approach positions NXP900 as a potential game-changer in the treatment of NSCLC, particularly in patients who have developed resistance to EGFR and ALK inhibitors, such as AstraZeneca’s Tagrisso and Novartis’ Alecensa. NXP900 is still in the early stages of clinical development, currently undergoing Phase 1 trials. However, preclinical studies have already shown that it has strong anti-tumor activity in resistant NSCLC models. Even more promising is its potential application beyond NSCLC. Like Summit's ivonescimab, NXP900 focuses on resistance, but it also has broader applications due to its ability to target multiple cancer types driven by SRC/YES1 pathways. This versatility makes it a promising asset not just for NSCLC but also for other difficult-to-treat cancers like squamous cell carcinomas. In addition to NXP900, Nuvectis is advancing NXP800, another precision oncology candidate that is further along in the clinical development process. NXP800 is currently in Phase 1b trials, targeting ARID1a-mutated cancers such as ovarian and endometrial cancers. The early clinical data for NXP800 is promising, showing positive responses in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. With two strong candidates in the pipeline, Nuvectis is positioning itself as a formidable player in the precision oncology landscape. As Summit’s ivonescimab continues to gain attention, Nuvectis’ earlier-stage NXP900, with its NSCLC focus and beyond, could see similar success in the future if clinical results continue to trend positively. Scorpion Therapeutics: Pioneering Mutant-Selective Therapies Scorpion Therapeutics is redefining the frontier of precision oncology with its focus on delivering highly selective small molecules targeting validated and previously undruggable cancer mutations. Its lead candidate, STX-478, is a mutant-selective, allosteric PI3Kα inhibitor currently in Phase 1/2 trials for advanced solid tumors. Early data presented at the ESMO Congress 2024 highlighted its potential, with STX-478 demonstrating a 23% overall response rate in breast cancer and a 21% response rate across all tumor types, positioning it as a potentially best-in-class PI3Kα inhibitor. STX-478 is notable for its ability to spare wild-type PI3Kα activity in normal tissues, avoiding the toxicities seen with previous PI3Kα inhibitors, such as hyperglycemia and rash. Tumor reductions were seen in 72% of patients treated with STX-478 as a monotherapy, with circulating tumor DNA levels dropping in 86% of patients. This mutant-selective precision could help overcome the limitations of existing PI3Kα inhibitors, which have struggled with dose-limiting toxicities. In July 2024, Scorpion raised $150 million in a Series C financing round, co-led by Frazier Life Sciences and Lightspeed Venture Partners. The additional funding will support the advancement of STX-478 and other pipeline assets, positioning Scorpion for further clinical success. Scorpion’s pipeline includes a broad range of wholly-owned compounds that target both validated and novel cancer targets, positioning the company for future expansion into larger patient populations. As STX-478 progresses through clinical development, Scorpion is poised to become a significant player in the precision oncology space, making it another company worth watching closely. Optimistic Outlook for Precision Oncology The precision oncology space is experiencing a golden era of innovation, with companies like Summit Therapeutics, Nuvectis Pharma, Silexion Therapeutics, and Scorpion Therapeutics leading the charge. As the focus shifts towards targeted therapies that address resistance mechanisms, the market is increasingly favoring companies with novel approaches and broad applications. Summit’s meteoric rise has shown that there is tremendous potential for companies that can demonstrate efficacy in overcoming cancer resistance. While Summit has already captured much of the current attention, companies like Nuvectis, Silexion, and Scorpion, with their earlier-stage pipelines, offer exciting opportunities for the industry to keep a close eye on. As these companies continue to report clinical data and advance through trials, the potential for breakthroughs in treating some of the most difficult cancers grows stronger. With targeted therapies offering the possibility of overcoming resistance without the need for chemotherapy, the future of cancer treatment looks brighter than ever. For those in the oncology space, keeping a close eye on emerging players like Nuvectis, Silexion, and Scorpion could lead to transformative developments as the field of precision oncology continues to evolve. * * * This update may include speculative forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. the BioTech and Pharma industries are volatile and risky and readers are advised to seek out preffesional advice in the relevent feilds from licensed profesionals. This update is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as financial, investment or any form of professional advice, recommendation or endorsement. Please review the full documentation detailing financial compensation disclosures and disclaimers the article is subject to. [ https://justpaste.it/ch2qt/pdf ]. Global Markets News Network is a commercial digital brand compensated to provide coverage of news and developments related to innovative companies as detailed in the full documentation and it is thus subject to conflicts of interest. Contact Details News Coverage ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

September 19, 2024 07:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

12345 ... 136