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Dante Labs establishes the first of its Regional Medical Genomics Boards in Europe made of national and multinational world leaders in genomics

NEW YORK, March 24, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dante Labs, a global leader in genomics and precision medicine, announces the establishment of the first of its Medical Genomics Boards, strengthening the Company's mission and research activity in this new frontier of healthcare, using genomics to promote prevention and treatment.

The Medical Genomics Board is made up of world leaders in genomics with multidisciplinary expertise with scientists and qualified genomics professionals, including geneticists, molecular biochemists and clinical experts in pharmacogenomics, nutrigenomics and oncogenomics, prenatal, neonatal and pediatric rare diseases.

“The goal is to pursue the path of personalized therapeutic maps through the organization of a clear reporting system despite the great complexity of the data deriving from the whole genome sequencing in NGS," said Andrea Riposati, CEO of Dante Labs. "It is Dante's intention to establish more of these regional Medical Genomics Boards around the world to bring genomics to the forefront of precision medicine in healthcare, taking into account the regional and cultural considerations of each area."

The first round table of the newly formed Committee was held on March 10th, 2022 in Castel Gandolfo. The establishment of the Board was made official at that time. The role of Scientific Director has been entrusted to prof. Giuseppe Novelli, a scholar of multifactorial genetic diseases, who will coordinate the activities of the board and will be a technical–scientific consultant.

The members of the Board all come from medical and academia backgrounds, including doctors, pharmacists and biologists. These experts in Omic sciences were chosen to cover all therapeutic areas, from oncogenomics to pharmacogenomics. Specifically, they include Professor in dermatology at the Sapienza University of Rome, Giovanni Pellacani; Professor Laura di Renzo, from the Tor Vergata Polyclinic in Rome where she deals with nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics; Professor in clinical biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of Tor Vergata, Sergio Bernardini; Professor Antonio Novelli, who deals with genomics in prenatal diagnosis at the Bambino Ges Children's Hospital in Rome; Professor in Internal Medicine at the Sapienza University of Rome, Salvatore Minisola. Dr. Camilla Nero, expert on oncogenomics from the Catholic University of Rome.

About Dante Labs

Dante Labs is a global genomic data company building and commercializing a new class of transformative health and longevity applications based on whole genome sequencing and AI. Our assets include one of the largest private genome databases with research consent, a proprietary software platform designed to unleash the power of genomic data at scale and proprietary processes which enable an industrial approach to genomic sequencing.

Contact:

Laura D'Angelo
VP of Investor Relations
ir@dantelabs.com
+39 0862 191 0671
www.dantelabs.com


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8509129)

Global Center on Adaptation showcases findings of Ghana’s National Assessment to Enhance the Resilience of its National Infrastructure Systems

Accra, March 24, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — During a Ministerial Dialogue in Accra, hosted by Ghana's Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Environment (MESTI), the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) announced the findings of Ghana's first National Assessment to explore how best to enhance the resilience of its national infrastructure.

"Ghana: Roadmap for Resilient Infrastructure in a Changing Climate", was initiated by GCA and developed under the leadership of MESTI in collaboration with the University of Oxford, the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

As a result of climate change, Ghana is expected to experience more acute climate hazards such as flooding, as well as more frequent and intense droughts. This has the potential to threaten the socio–economic development gains which made Ghana a middle–income country. The National Assessment focused on the energy, transport and water sectors to assess climate hazards to infrastructure assets and to prioritize adaptation investments to address those risks.

Key findings from "Ghana: Roadmap for Resilient Infrastructure in a Changing Climate" include:

  • Energy ""Future energy availability for about a quarter of a million people in rural parts of Ghana is threatened by drought given their reliance on wood fuel for household energy generation. Equally, climate risks threaten major components of the electricity generation and transmission due to exposure to drought and flooding.
  • Water supply infrastructure "" 54% of dams assessed are exposed to floods and 23% to droughts under a high–hazard by 2050; the Weija dam, supplying 80% of the drinkable water for Accra's metropolitan area, was found to be particularly exposed to flooding.
  • Transport "" in a likely 2050 flooding scenario, analysis revealed the potential of $3.9 billion in damages to roads and highways – triple the estimated $1.3 billion Ghana invested in transport infrastructure in 2019.

GCA contributed to the National Assessment as part of its Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP), a joint initiative with the African Development Bank to mobilize USD25 billion of investments in climate adaptation and resilience in Africa.

Speaking during the Ministerial Dialogue, Professor Patrick Verkooijen, CEO of Global Center on Adaptation remarked "I don't need to remind you that Ghana will become hotter, wetter, and drier. Given how we know the climate crisis is evolving, these are very alarming statistics. But, this is not the full story. For us at the Global Center on Adaptation, the real story on climate adaptation in Africa is a story of resilience, of responsibility, of solidarity, of opportunities for a safer, greener, more prosperous continent. It is this story that is captured in the roadmap we are launching today."

His Excellency Dr Kwaku Afiyie, Ghana's Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation said:

"Extreme weather and rapid changes to Ghana's climate present a profound risk to key sectors of Ghana's socio–economic development. Infrastructure in these sectors are the bedrock of the country's economic growth and development. Ghana, through MESTI in July 2020, received support from the Global Centre on Adaptation (GCA) through UN Office for Project Services (UNOPs) under the "enhancing the resilience of Ghana's National Infrastructure Systems to the impact of climate change" project ["] the implementation of the resilience road map will now require additional financial resources from both Government and Development Partner institutions."

The National Assessment proposes 35 adaptation options for funders and investors to invest in Ghana's future, offering impactful, evidence–based adaptation projects and enabling environment interventions backed by robust research and analysis.

GCA, in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), through AAAP, is already working to implement the Scaling Renewable Energy Mini grid and Net Metering Program which seeks to support Ghana in the electrification of island communities and move closer moving closer to identified development objectives such as Sustainable Energy for All by 2030. GCA is working with the AfDB conduct climate risk assessments on potential climate hazards in the districts that will benefit from the electrification program.

Through its Technical Assistance Program (TAP) to access and leverage climate finance, GCA is also providing technical support to the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) as part of its application to become a Direct Access Entity to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to enable Ghana to be able to take greater ownership of the implementation of climate finance.

Notes to Editors

About the Global Center on Adaptation

The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) is an international organization which works as a solutions broker to accelerate action and support for adaptation solutions, from the international to the local, in partnership with the public and private sector, to ensure we learn from each other and work together for a climate resilient future. Founded in 2018, GCA is hosted by the Netherlands, working from its headquarters in Rotterdam with a knowledge and research hub based in Groningen. GCA has a worldwide network of regional offices in Abidjan, Ivory Coast; Dhaka, Bangladesh and Beijing, China. Through this evolving network of offices and global and regional GCA teams, the organization engages in high–level policy activities, new research contributions, communications, and technical assistance to governments and the private sector.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8509449)

Conagen Produces Two Thaumatin Protein Natural Sweeteners at Scale

Bedford, Mass., March 23, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Food and beverages brands get two more tools for their sugar reduction toolkits as Conagen announced the successful scale–up production of two new high–intensity sweeteners, thaumatin I and thaumatin II. The development will expand commercial partner Sweegen's robust sugar reduction solutions of zero–sugar natural sweeteners.

Thaumatin is a group of proteins found in the fruits of the tropical plant Thaumatococcus danielli. Each protein, thaumatin I and thaumatin II, varies slightly in sweetness profiles. Both proteins have been evaluated as 100,000 times sweeter than sugar on a molar basis and 3,000 times sweeter on a weight basis. The high sweetness factor can translate into a strategic cost–effective sugar reduction solution for brands seeking to get the most out of a natural sweetener.

The thaumatin proteins were developed from Conagen's peptide production platform, which had previously been used for the scaled production of another peptide sweetener, brazzein. "Conagen constantly improves its protein and peptide production platforms to generate more exciting new products,” said Casey Lippmeier, vice president of innovation at Conagen. “In this case, the platform has been leveraged to make thaumatin by several innovative approaches, but under a significantly shorter R&D timeline."

These two new, high–purity thaumatin proteins add to Sweegen's creative portfolio of sugar reduction solutions to help brands make low–calorie products. Brands can now explore the synergistic benefits of formulations that contain thaumatin and other products from Sweegen's Signature Sweetener portfolio, including brazzein and stevia. This diversity of natural, high–intensity sweeteners represents the most cost–effective approach for reducing sugar in food and beverages to deliver the best tasting match for the sweetness of sugar.

The desire for natural sweeteners will drive the demand for fruit and plant–based sweeteners, such as thaumatin and stevia, respectively. The main advantages to sweetening food and beverages with thaumatin are its familiarity and acceptance by consumers and the fact that it is approved for use in products by the majority of the countries in the world.

Health–conscious consumers are generally more accepting of natural sweeteners than sugar and artificial sweeteners. According to FMCG Gurus, Top 10 Future Trends 2030, “60% of global consumers currently believe natural sweeteners are healthier alternatives to sugar.” The trend report further stated, “Increasingly, consumers will want only products that contain real and authentic ingredients, and sweeteners will be no exception to the rule. As such, this will drive demand for sweeteners sourced directly from fruits and plants, something that the industry will respond to.”

Like most other proteins, when thaumatin proteins are consumed, they are digested into amino acids. However, because thaumatin communicates such a strong sweet taste, the levels used in most applications contribute almost no calories. It is one of the most intense sweeteners ever discovered.

Consumers increasingly expect to stock their pantries with low–to–no sugar products with food and beverages that fit into their lifestyle and diets. Thaumatin can complement a number of consumer lifestyles, such as diabetic, ketogenic, or low–to–no carbohydrate diets. These sweet proteins are low on the glycemic index.

"Thaumatin is the second announced product generated from our peptide platform, which fits well into our existing world–scale, precision fermentation infrastructure." Lippmeier further added, "Peptides and small proteins like brazzein and thaumatin can be very difficult to make economically; however, now that we have successfully scaled multiple peptides and proteins, we are willing to collaborate with other customers to make other novel peptide products."

Regulatory approval for thaumatin as natural sweeteners has passed in the European Union (E957), Israel, and Japan. In the United States, it is generally recognized as safe as a flavoring agent (FEMA GRAS 3732).

###

About Conagen
Conagen is a product–focused, synthetic biology R&D company with large–scale manufacturing service capabilities. Our scientists and engineers use the latest synthetic biology tools to develop high–quality, sustainable, nature–based products by precision fermentation and enzymatic bioconversion. We focus on the bioproduction of high–value ingredients for food, nutrition, flavors and fragrances, pharmaceutical, and renewable materials industries. www.conagen.com

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8508630)

JETEX AND FOUR SEASONS LAUNCH THE ULTIMATE PRIVATE JET RAMADAN EXPERIENCE

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 23, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jetex, an award–winning global leader in executive aviation, is betting on the future of the global luxury market which increasingly is going experiential. Consumers' perception of luxury is changing, especially among younger consumers, and the concept is luxury is no longer only about purchasing tangible objects "" it is about opulent experiences, travel and instagrammable moments. As wealthy millennial customers shift their money from goods to experiences, Jetex presents the world's most special Ramadan experience in partnership with Four Seasons.

Building upon the tremendous success of Iftar in the Sky last year, Jetex unveils the ultimate Ramadan experience, which features even more unique elements, blending time–honored traditions with modernity.

Suhoor in the Sky is offered onboard a larger 18–seat private jet that has more space in which to savor the spirit of the Holy Month as the aircraft soars in the moonlight above the United Arab Emirates and the shimmering Arabian Gulf.

The evening commences at the award–winning Jetex VIP Terminal with a trio of traditional musicians and light refreshments in the calm of the private lounges. The passengers are then invited to board the aircraft on one of the Jetex Rolls–Royces that whisk to the aircraft.

Onboard, passengers are warmly welcomed by the Jetex cabin crew as well as the Four Seasons culinary team. For the first time, live traditional music is performed onboard and throughout the flight to create a warm and relaxing ambiance of a private majlis in the sky. As soon as the aircraft reaches its cruising altitude, passengers can enjoy scenic views of the Dubai skyline as well as a delectable Suhoor menu, created especially for the occasion.

From traditional Ramadan starters, freshly baked artisan breads and a wide selection of mezze, to the exquisite Omani lobster, lamb shank in traditional spices and rich poultry "" every gourmet taste is considered. Passengers of the 120–minute journey can enjoy Suhoor above the clouds at their own pace as the Jetex crew ensures the most comfortable private jet experience.

As soon as the aircraft arrives back at Dubai, passengers are invited to enjoy a wide range of desserts, teas and coffees at a dedicated lounge at Jetex VIP Terminal, as well as enjoy the leisure facilities of the terminal.

"Jetex delivers unique experiences to discerning travelers and is known for blending the world of private aviation with exceptional hospitality. We are proud to deliver this new experience in partnership with Four Seasons, the brand synonymous with excellence in luxury hospitality. Every element of Suhoor in the Sky is designed to create timeless, one–of–a–kind lifelong memories for anyone who experiences it," said Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex.

"Dreaming up inspired experiences is a core passion for us at Four Seasons Dubai," said Leonardo Baiocchi, Regional Vice President and General Manager, Four Seasons. "We are delighted to partner with Jetex throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan, to create a Suhoor experience that is nothing less than spectacular. With our trademark Four Seasons hospitality and the exceptional private aviation standards that Jetex is known for, we will be elevating luxury to a new cruising altitude."

To ensure utmost safety and comfort of travelers, aircraft cabin will be thoroughly sanitized using the signature Jetex bipolar ionization technology before and after each flight.

The unforgettable travel experience is priced from AED 140,000 for up to 14 travelers and will be available between 1 and 30 April 2022. All passengers are required to carry their passports to board the flight.

For reservations, please contact Jetex Premier Experience at experience@jetex.com.

– END –

About Jetex:

An award–winning global leader in executive aviation, Jetex is recognized for delivering flexible, best–in–class trip support solutions to customers worldwide. Jetex provides exceptional private terminals (FBOs), aircraft fueling, ground handling and global trip planning. The company caters to both owners and operators of business jets for corporate, commercial and personal air travel. To find out more about Jetex, visit www.jetex.com and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About Four Seasons:

As the world's leading operator of luxury hotels, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts currently manages 122 properties in 47 countries. Open since November 2014, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach offers a vacation experience of unlimited variety, and the highly personalized, anticipatory service that Four Seasons guests expect and value around the world. Recent awards and honors include Cond Nast Traveler Gold List and Forbes Travel Guide Five–Star Awards. For more information on Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, visit press.fourseasons.com/Dubai or check us out on www.instagram.com/fsdubai.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8507859)

Pritzker Military Museum & Library Announces Selected Design in International Design Competition for the Cold War Veterans Memorial

Somers, Wisconsin, March 22, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Contact:

Erika Davis

Senior Communications Associate

erika.davis@tawani.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pritzker Military Museum & Library Announces Selected Design in

International Design Competition for the Cold War Veterans Memorial

"Orbits" by Oyler Wu Collaborative Selected for Cold War Veterans Memorial in Somers, Wisconsin

SOMERS, WI (March 22, 2022) "" In April 2021, the Pritzker Military Museum & Library, located in Chicago, launched an international competition for the new Cold War Veterans Memorial to be built in Somers, Wisconsin, as a part of the Pritzker Archives & Memorial Park Center (PAMPC) project. After reviewing an impressive number of inspiring design concepts, Orbits has been selected as the final design of the competition.

Orbits is designed by Jenny Wu and Dwayne Oyler of Oyler Wu Collaborative in Los Angeles, California. From its formal structure to its shaped surroundings, the memorial emerges from the ground to become an architectural tribute to Cold War veterans, embodying the dedication, optimism, and hope that is emblematic of their enduring spirit. Collectively, the memorial unifies these complex narratives through juxtaposition, recognizing its interconnected history – one of sacrifice, triumph, and innovation.

"Each submitted design was remarkable and very inspiring. The final decision was tough, but after much discussion, we believe that the Orbits design will truly resemble a place where everyone who contributed to the Cold War will be honored. This memorial is special and very dear to many because people who sacrificed during this era are not recognized enough. Our goal is to make sure that our gratitude to these individuals is signified through this project," said Col. Jennifer Pritzker, Founder of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library.

The Design Competition was a two–stage juried process. Stage 1 was an open call to submit design concepts for the memorial. In Stage 2, the finalists evolved their concepts for the memorial to create fully defined designs. The design challenge was to provide a conceptual design for the Cold War Veterans Memorial that embraces the mission statement, exemplifies the guiding vision, and achieves the design goals authored by the Cold War Veterans Memorial Steering Committee. The finalists rose to the challenge and submitted designs that showed their passionate exploration of how to portray the scale and complexity of the Cold War for current and future generations.

As Dwyan Oyler and Jenny Wu stated in their submittal, "In recognition of the profound complexity of the Cold War, our design draws from a range of meaningful artifacts and imagery from the era to create an immersive experience "" evoking a range of cultural associations organized as a set of circular "orbits' through the landscape."

The Cold War Veterans Memorial's guiding vision is to create permanent recognition that stimulates ongoing thought and study that honors American military members and civilians who served and sacrificed during the Cold War era (1945–1991). In line with the Pritzker Military Museum & Library's mission, the Cold War Veterans Memorial aims to increase the public understanding of military history and how its lessons have contributed to the history we create today.

“We are extremely honored to have received so many submissions from such talented national and international designers and seen the professional skill the finalists brought to the second stage," said Susan Rifkin, Pritzker Military Museum & Library Interim CEO. "We are really looking forward to working with Jenny Wu and Dwayne Oyler to create a memorial that honors the lives and legacies of those who served and helped during the Cold War."

The concept Orbits by Oyler Wu Collaborative received the unanimous recommendation of the jury as the selected design and the design team. In their summary report, the Jury said the imagery of this concept invites discovery, the setting is respectful of the site, and a variety of paths and experiences can be explored and provide a palette for interpretation.

All information on the design competition can be found at coldwarveteransmemorial.org.

Please view the design submission by Jenny Wu and Dwayne Oyler of Oyler Wu Collaborative in Los Angeles, California, here.

Pritzker Archives & Memorial Park Center

The PAMPC was created out of a need for additional space to house some of the circulating book collection and the archival collections of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library and will be completed in phases over an estimated ten years.

The first phase of the PAMPC project will include the Pritzker Military Archives Center to house the collections and provide workspace for the continued curation for future exhibits; Commercial Archives based on demand where private collectors, public institutions, and others may store their archives; a facility specializing in firearms education and training; a Community Green Space expertly landscaped with walking and biking paths; and the Cold War Veterans Memorial.

###

About the Cold War Veterans Memorial

In line with the Pritzker Military Museum & Library's mission, the Cold War Veterans Memorial aims to increase the public understanding of military history. It will be a lasting tribute to the courage and tenacity found in the U.S. Armed Forces and civilian personnel who faithfully and honorably served during the Cold War era, September 2, 1945, to December 26, 1991. The Memorial will be a publicly accessible display where citizens can honor, reflect, and learn about the bravery and sacrifice displayed to further our country's freedom. To learn more, visit www.coldwarveteransmemorial.org.

About Pritzker Archives & Memorial Park Center

Located in Somers, Wisconsin,"The Pritzker Archives & Memorial Park Center supports"the Pritzker Military Museum & Library's mission of preserving the past, present, and future of the citizen soldier."This project has various components, the first being the Pritzker Archives Center, a state–of–the–art archive space to"restore, preserve, and provide storage for the Pritzker Military Museum & Library's collections that include books, artifacts, and other historical materials."Other components of the project include a Commercial Archives Center, a firearms education center, the Cold War Veterans Memorial, and community green space."To learn more, visit"www.pritzkerarchivespark.com.

About the Pritzker Military Museum & Library

The Pritzker Military Museum & Library aims to increase the public's understanding of military history, military affairs, and national security by providing a forum for the study and exploration of our military – past, present, and future – with a specific focus on their stories, sacrifices, and values. With national and global reach, these spaces and events aim to share the stories of those who served and their contributions as citizen soldiers, helping citizens everywhere appreciate the relationship between the armed forces and the civilians whose freedoms they protect. A non–governmental, non–partisan organization, the Museum & Library features diverse collections, scholarly initiatives, and public programs from its flagship center in downtown Chicago to its world–class research center and park currently under construction in Somers, Wisconsin.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8508047)

Taconic Biosciences Improves rasH2 Carcinogenicity Test System Access in Asia-Pacific Region

RENSSELAER, N.Y., March 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Taconic Biosciences, a global leader in providing drug discovery animal model solutions, has appointed Nomura Siam International Co., Ltd. (NSI) and Nomura Jimusho. Inc. (NJI) as sales agents and distributors of the rasH2 Mouse Carcinogenicity Test System in India and China, respectively. These distribution arrangements greatly improve rasH2 access for the burgeoning pharmaceutical industry in the Asia–Pacific region.

The rasH2 transgenic mouse model is the only short–term (6–month) carcinogenicity test system that is both accepted by global regulatory authorities and readily available in commercial production. Invented by the Central Institute for Experimental Animals (CIEA), the rasH2 model is widely used as an alternative to the 2–year carcinogenicity bioassay, providing a faster, more accurate test system that better aligns with Russell & Burch's 3R tenets. Taconic and CLEA Japan, Inc (CLEA) have provided validated and consistent rasH2 mice for use in North America, Europe, and Asia since 2006, though access in India and China has been limited. As drug discovery and development activity increases in India and China, access to a carcinogenicity assay that is accepted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), as well as local authorities, is vital.

Under the new agreement, NSI serves as sales agent and distributor for India and NJI as sales agent and distributor for China. These distributors and sales agents greatly simplify the transaction process for users located in these countries. NSI and NJI will leverage CLEA and Taconic production colonies in Japan, Denmark, and the US to meet customer demand, facilitating investigator access. Taconic, CLEA, and CIEA closely monitor these colonies and perform regular functional studies using positive control compounds to assure performance critical for drug safety assessment. The arrangement also allows CLEA and Taconic to align production to meet global demand through improved visibility into rasH2 global use and needs.

"The rasH2 model has delivered on the promise of transgenic technology by demonstrating exceptional value in carcinogenicity assessment of new drugs, and the worldwide adoption of this system is a testament to its advantages in terms of speed, specificity, and total cost," said Dr. Michael Seiler, vice president commercial products at Taconic.

“This historic collaboration ensures customers in every country have full access to the rasH2 carcinogenicity test system," said Ryuta Nomura, CIEA chairman of the board and CEO. "This partnership will significantly increase the likelihood that all customers globally receive rasH2 as requested with minimal delay, enabling studies to be performed sooner and ultimately helping to get new life–saving medications on the market faster."

To learn more about the rasH2 model, please call 1–888–TACONIC (888–822–6642) in the US, +45 70 23 04 05 in Europe, or email info@taconic.com.

About Taconic Biosciences, Inc.

Taconic Biosciences is a fully–licensed, global leader in genetically engineered rodent models and services. Founded in 1952, Taconic provides the best animal solutions so that customers can acquire, custom–generate, breed, precondition, test, and distribute valuable research models worldwide. Specialists in genetically engineered mouse and rat models, microbiome, immuno–oncology mouse models, and integrated model design and breeding services, Taconic operates service laboratories and breeding facilities in the US and Europe, maintains distributor relationships in Asia, and has global shipping capabilities to provide animal models almost anywhere in the world.

About CIEA:

Central Institute for Experimental Animals is a private and independent non–profit institute, founded in 1952 with the aim of contributing to medical care and medical science based on animal experiments.

About CLEA:

CLEA Japan Inc. was founded in 1965 as a total system supplier of laboratory animals, their diet and equipment, to support bioscience research and development with a vision of health, welfare, and environment for humans.

CLEA operates four breeding facilities in Japan, a joint venture facility in Thailand, and Technical Service Center near Mt. Fuji in Japan.

About Nomura Siam International Co. Ltd. (NSI):

Nomura Siam International Co. Ltd., based in Bangkok, Thailand, was jointly established in 2012 by CLEA Japan, Inc. and Nomura Jimusho, Inc. to provide a one–stop service for the laboratory animal field. As a one–stop service supplier, NSI not only sells laboratory animals but also handles a wide range of related products, including equipment for rearing animals and experiments, feeds, and bedding, as well as provides consulting services for preclinical research and designing facilities for laboratory animals.

About Nomura Jimusho. Inc. (NJI):

Established in 1933 for petroleum–related businesses and diversified the activities to deal in products with unique and distinct characteristics in fields such as oil–refining catalysts, special materials, plastic containers, specialty chemicals, and life sciences. In the life sciences field, NJI/NSI have been supplying laboratory animals and various laboratory animal equipment for over a decade to overseas market, such as China, Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and recently India in the partnership with Taconic Biosciences, Inc.

Media Contact:

Aidan Bouchelle
Associate Director, Marketing Operations
518–949–7598
Aidan.Bouchelle@taconic.com


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8506270)

FreedomPay Enables Sephora to Deliver Next Level Mobile POS Platform for Enhanced Consumer Experience across the Americas

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, March 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FreedomPay, the world's leading commerce platform, announces partnership with Sephora USA, Inc. the leading prestige beauty omni–retailer, to integrate FreedomPay's data–driven commerce technology platform in Sephora's 500 plus stores across the Americas.

"FreedomPay is proud to announce the agreement with Sephora, to provide a world class experience to its millions of customers across the Americas," said Chris Kronenthal, President at FreedomPay. "Our suite of touchless commerce and data solutions will enable Sephora to provide customers a fast, frictionless, and innovative consumer experience."

The partnership allows for a safe and secure next–level Mobile POS consumer experience for shoppers with FreedomPay. The new touchless capable payment system enables Sephora clients to have complete control over their checkout experience, giving consumers the option to pay via contactless payment methods and digital wallets all on their own device, including Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay.

"Now more than ever, it is critical for us at Sephora to be able to adapt to the quickly changing retail environment and that's especially important at the point of sale," said Sree Sreedhararaj, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Sephora. "Our clients desire a seamless experience in every step of the shopping journey, and our partnership with FreedomPay allows us to maximize efficiencies and capabilities at checkout."

About FreedomPay

FreedomPay's Next Level Commerce platform transforms existing payment systems and processes from legacy to leading edge. As the premier choice for many of the largest companies across the globe in retail, hospitality, lodging, gaming, sports and entertainment, foodservice, education, healthcare and financial services, FreedomPay's technology has been purposely built to deliver rock solid performance in the highly complex environment of global commerce. The company maintains a world–class security environment and was first to earn the coveted validation by the PCI Security Standards Council against Point–to–Point Encryption (P2PE/EMV) standard in North America. FreedomPay's robust solutions across payments, security, identity, and data analytics are available in–store, online and on–mobile and are supported by rapid API adoption. The award winning FreedomPay Commerce Platform operates on a single, unified technology stack across multiple continents allowing enterprises to deliver an innovative Next Level experience on a global scale. www.freedompay.com

About Sephora Americas

Since its debut in North America more than 20 years ago, Sephora has been a leader in prestige omni–retail with the mission of creating an inviting beauty shopping experience and inspiring fearlessness in our community. With the goal of delivering unbiased shopping support and a personalized experience, Sephora invites clients to discover thousands of products from more than 340 carefully curated brands, explore online and through our mobile app, enjoy services at the Beauty Studio and engage with expertly trained Beauty Advisors in more than 500 stores across the Americas. And with its new long–term retail strategic partnership, clients can now shop Sephora at Kohl's, a fully immersive, premium beauty destination, with 200 locations in 2021, and at least 850 locations by 2023. Clients can access the free–to–join Beauty Insider program and digital community, which together enhance the experience of Sephora's passionate clients.

Sephora has been an industry–leading champion of diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment, guided by our longstanding company values. In 2019, Sephora announced a new tagline and manifesto, "We Belong to Something Beautiful," to reinforce its dedication to fostering belonging amongst all clients and employees and to publicly strive for a more inclusive vision for retail in the Americas. Sephora continues to give back to our communities and advance inclusion in our industry through its social impact and equity programming, called the Sephora D&I Heart Journey.

For more information, visit: https://www.sephora.com/about–us and @Sephora on social media. For media inquiries, please visit our Sephora newsroom or email ExternalComms@sephora.com


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8506148)

bioLytical Laboratories Inc. Receives its CE Mark for the iStatis COVID-19 Antigen Home Test

bioLytical Laboratories Inc. announced today that it is launching a new platform, iStatis, and has received its CE Mark for immediate market entry into Europe for its iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Test

  • From the makers of INSTI , bioLytical launches a new platform, iStatis, created to ensure every person in the world has access to reliable testing
  • bioLytical has received its CE Mark for the iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Test for immediate entry to the European market
  • The test is portable and can be performed at home with easy–to–understand results and no additional readers or machinery needed
  • Test performance in clinical studies demonstrated an industry–leading 100% accuracy
  • bioLytical's quality system is ISO 13485:2016 MDSAP certified

RICHMOND, British Columbia, March 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — bioLytical Laboratories Inc. ("bioLytical"), a global leader in rapid in–vitro medical diagnostics, announced today that it is launching its new testing platform, iStatis, across Europe after receiving its CE Mark for the iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Test, allowing its immediate entry into the European market.

Building on its innovative INSTI testing platform, bioLytical launched iStatis to continue creating reliable access to testing. With new lateral flow technology in its portfolio, bioLytical can reach more people with its COVID–19 antigen home test that provides peace of mind with its industry–leading accuracy of 100%.

"We are excited to announce the addition of iStatis in Europe with our new COVID–19 rapid antigen home test," said Rob Mackie, Chief Executive Officer of bioLytical. "With our new iStatis platform, we can expand our reach and increase access to testing across Europe. With the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, we are proud to offer Europeans a reliable and trusted test that they can take in the comfort and privacy of their own homes."

Rapid testing is a vital tool that provides an additional way to identify infection to help reduce virus spread. Along with public health measures such as handwashing, masking, and social distancing, regular rapid testing provides an extra layer of defense against the transmission of the virus. With the pandemic evolving, testing will continue to play an integral role in the fight against COVID–19 by helping keep communities safe.

The iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Test will help create certainty in infection identification, providing Europeans with access to a convenient test at home, reducing the burden on busy medical facilities. With its industry–leading accuracy of 100%, portability, and ease of use, iStatis provides reliable results, making informed health decisions easier and quicker.

bioLytical will manufacture the iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Tests in its ISO 13485:2016 MDSAP certified facility in Richmond, British Columbia. As a global leader in ultra–rapid infectious disease diagnostics, bioLytical is working to ensure our iStatis COVID–19 Antigen Home Test kits are available across Europe.

bioLytical Laboratories Inc. is a privately–owned Canadian company focused on the research, development, and commercialization of rapid in–vitro medical diagnostics using its proprietary INSTI technology platform and its lateral flow line iStatis. bioLytical has won several local and industry awards, including B.C. Exporter of the Year in 2019. We have been named Lifesciences B.C.'s Growth Stage Med Tech Company of the Year and are featured on B.C.'s Fastest–Growing Companies for five years in a row, including the Globe and Mail's Fastest Growing Companies list in 2020. bioLytical moved to a significantly larger, state–of–the–art facility in Richmond, B.C., in 2020 to accommodate the extraordinary growth achieved through our team. Providing accurate results in one minute or less, the INSTI range includes the INSTI HIV–1/HIV–2 Antibody Test, INSTI Multiplex HIV Syphilis Ab Test, INSTI HIV Self Test, INSTI Covid–19 Antibody Test, and the INSTI HCV Antibody Test. bioLytical sells its products in Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. In 2022, bioLytical launched iStatis, its new lateral flow testing platform to create additional access to testing worldwide.

By delivering accurate results in real–time, INSTI and iStatis generate meaningful outcomes for medical professionals, patients, and public health organizations worldwide and is a key partner in tackling some of the world's most severe healthcare challenges. Please visit www.istatis.com, www.insti.com, and www.biolytical.com for more information.

References
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/covid–19/surveillance/testing–strategies
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications–data/options–use–rapid–antigen–tests–covid–19–eueea–first–update

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1f4f21c7–51bc–481a–9b13–d4c00f6c2697


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8506626)

Hitachi Energy to provide advanced grid connection for the world’s largest eucalyptus pulp mill in Brazil Innovative solution will enable surplus renewable electricity to be transferred into the national power grid

Zurich, Switzerland, March 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hitachi Energy, the global technology and market leader in power grids, announced today that it has won an order from Suzano, the world's leading eucalyptus pulp producer and one of Latin America's largest paper producers, to design and deliver a complete grid connection solution for the company's new pulp mill in Brazil.

Suzano's new factory will be the world's largest single–line eucalyptus pulp mill and Brazil's first pulp production facility to be fossil fuel free when completed in the second half of 2024. It will have an annual production capacity of 2.5 million tons and will increase Suzano's output by 20 percent. About half of the electricity generated will be transferred to the national power grid, enough to supply around 2.3 million people for one month.

The two companies have worked closely together on grid solutions for Suzano's fleet of mills over the past 20 years. In this spirit of collaboration and co–creation, Hitachi Energy has contributed its pioneering technologies and its unique system integration capabilities, engineering expertise and extensive experience of local grid code requirements. This enables Hitachi Energy to design and supply complete solutions with exceptional levels of reliability, that are fundamental for these types of application.

"We are honored and delighted to be working with Suzano again on this landmark project that sets a new benchmark in sustainable pulp production and shares its emission–free electricity with society at large," said Niklas Persson, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy's Grid Integration business. "This is another example of how our solutions are advancing the world's energy system to be more sustainable, flexible and secure."

"The construction of the new factory is the biggest investment in Suzano's history, so it is vital that the grid connection through which we generate additional revenue from our surplus energy operates at outstanding levels of reliability and availability," said Mauricio Miranda, Engineering Director at Suzano. "We chose Hitachi Energy as our technology partner based on more than 20 years of successful collaboration and consistent delivery of innovative, reliable solutions and exceptional project execution."

Hitachi Energy will supply a state–of–the–art grid connection solution to enable the surplus renewable power to be transferred reliably, safely and securely into the national power grid. The solution's compact footprint is based on advanced gas–insulated switchgear and offers excellent performance in terms of efficiency and availability, while minimizing the total lifecycle cost and CO2 footprint.

To secure reliability and availability, key elements of the grid connection, such as the transformers will be equipped with Hitachi Energy's digital monitoring systems to provide real–time data and performance insights and enable predictive maintenance. Hitachi Energy will provide a complete solution across the value chain, from system studies and grid code compliance to design and engineering, supply and installation and commissioning.

Hitachi Energy is the world's leading provider of grid connections and power quality solutions, with an installed base of more than 10,000 projects worldwide, over 800 of which connect renewable energy sources to the grid.

About Hitachi Energy Ltd.

Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. We serve customers in the utility, industry and infrastructure sectors with innovative solutions and services across the value chain. Together with customers and partners, we pioneer technologies and enable the digital transformation required to accelerate the energy transition towards a carbon–neutral future. We are advancing the world's energy system to become more sustainable, flexible and secure whilst balancing social, environmental and economic value. Hitachi Energy has a proven track record and unparalleled installed base in more than 140 countries. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ around 38,000 people in 90 countries and generate business volumes of approximately $10 billion USD.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, contributes to a sustainable society with a higher quality of life by driving innovation through data and technology as the Social Innovation Business. Hitachi is focused on strengthening its contribution to the Environment, the Resilience of business and social infrastructure as well as comprehensive programs to enhance Security & Safety. Hitachi resolves the issues faced by customers and society across six domains: IT, Energy, Mobility, Industry, Smart Life and Automotive Systems through its proprietary Lumada solutions. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2020 (ended March 31, 2021) totaled 8,729.1 billion yen ($78.6 billion), with 871 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 350,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8506105)

17 offices across 10 countries; the region’s leading law firm expands its operations

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 18, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Al Tamimi & Company, the leading law firm in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has announced that, on 1 April 2022, it will open a new office in Casablanca, Morocco. The expansion will see the law firm grow its footprint in the MENA region to 17 offices across 10 countries.

Al Tamimi and Company's move into Morocco builds on its strategic expansion plans for the African continent and follows a successful 2021 office opening in Port Said, Egypt. The new office in Casablanca is the firm's third office in Africa (Cairo, Port Said and Casablanca) and will play an important role in realising Al Tamimi & Company's long–term vision.

Morocco was identified as a destination due to its position as a gateway for investment into Africa, and it acts as a strategic base for law firms and international businesses that are looking to operate in the region. These factors combined with a well–deveoped market, and the opportunity to support clients across a variety of African territories made Morocco an attractive location for Al Tamimi & Company to set up its new office.

As of 1 April 2022, Nesrine Roudane, Managing Partner of Roudane & Partners Law Firm, will become a partner of Al Tamimi & Company and act as Head of the Morocco office.

Commenting on the opening of the Casablanca office, Samer Qudah, Managing Partner at Al Tamimi & Company said:

"This marks an important moment for us, and we are delighted to expand the Al Tamimi & Company brand and grow our footprint in Africa. Establishing an office in Casablanca moves us a step closer to achieving our vision, which is to be the leading law firm in the Middle East and North Africa. Opening the new office at a time like this is an indicator of our ambition to continue to expand our presence, particularly in Africa, as it remains a strategically important region for our clients and the firm."

"As the firm enters its 33rd year, expanding further into Africa is a timely reminder of how far we have come. As one of Africa's largest economies, Morocco is an exciting market for the firm and we look forward to building our practice, working with our clients, and offering them the high standard of expertise and service they would expect from Al Tamimi & Company." Commented Essam Al Tamimi, Chairman, Al Tamimi & Company.

Nesrine Roudane, Partner and Head of the Morocco office at Al Tamimi & Company said:

"I am excited to become a partner of Al Tamimi & Company and to lead the team in Casablanca. I look forward to offering our clients the unrivalled capability and experience that Al Tamimi & Company will bring to the Moroccan market. We are here to ensure our clients have access to the best legal services in Morocco."

ENDS

About Al Tamimi & Company

Al Tamimi & Company is the leading law firm in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) with 17 offices across 10 countries. The firm has unrivalled experience, having operated in the region for over 30 years. Our lawyers combine international experience and qualifications with expert regional knowledge and understanding.

We are a full–service firm, specialising in advising and supporting major international corporations, banks and financial institutions, government organizations and local, regional and international companies. Our main areas of expertise include arbitration and litigation, banking and finance, corporate and commercial, intellectual property, real estate, construction and infrastructure, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our lawyers provide quality legal advice and support to clients across all of our practice areas.

Our business and regional footprint continues to grow, and we seek to expand further in line with our commitment to meet the needs of clients doing business across the MENA region.

About Nesrine Roudane

Nesrine Roudane has been a lawyer with the Casablanca Bar since 2002 and the Managing Partner of Roudane & Partners Law Firm since 2008. She is also a trained mediator and a commercial arbitrator. A former member of the Order Council of the Casablanca Bar, she currently acts as the Coordinating Officer of the International Bar Association's Arab Regional Forum (IBA/ARF) and also chairs the Start–Up and Venture Capital Commission of the Union Internationale des Avocats (UIA) and the Legal and Tax Commission of the French International Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Morocco (CFCIM). She is also a legal commentator and analyst for several Moroccan news organisations.

For more information, please visit www.tamimi.com.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8505861)