variednews: KLAR Partners funds complete procurement of Sandbä...

variednews: KLAR Partners funds complete procurement of Sandbä...: STOCKHOLM, March 1: Funds advised by KLAR Partners Limited ("KLAR Partners" or "KLAR") have completed the earlier co...

KLAR Partners funds complete procurement of Sandbäckens

STOCKHOLM, March 1: Funds advised by KLAR Partners Limited ("KLAR Partners" or "KLAR") have completed the earlier communicated procurement of Sandbäckens, a contributor of technical installation and servicing of sprinkler, heating and sanitation solutions for buildings. The company is KLAR Partners' first procurement in Sweden. "We are very pleased to have completed the acquisition of Sandbäckens. We look forward to working closely with the skilled employees and management to further develop the company's strong culture and build the leading technical installation and property services company in the Nordic region," said Fredrik Brynildsen, Partner at KLAR. Sandbäckens' operations specialise in technical installations and servicing in the areas of heating and sanitation, comfort cooling, sprinklers and district heating. The company has approximately 800 employees in 30 locations in Sweden. About KLAR Partners KLAR Partners is a European private equity company focused on investments in companies operating in the business services and light industrials. The companies in which KLAR invests each have an annual turnover of approximately EUR 50-500m and are headquartered in the Nordics, Benelux or DACH regions. With investment professionals located in London, Stockholm, Frankfurt and Brussels, and together with a broad international network in the industry, KLAR has a proven business model to support, develop and grow companies. KLAR's senior professionals have worked together for many years and have more than 50 years of combined investment experience in KLAR's industry-specific and geographical focus area.

variednews: New World Development dedicates Itself setting Sci...

variednews: New World Development dedicates Itself setting Sci...: HONG KONG, March 1: New World Development ("NWD" or "the Company") has dedicated itself to the Business Ambition f...

New World Development dedicates Itself setting Science-Based Objectives for Climate Action

HONG KONG, March 1: New World Development ("NWD" or "the Company") has dedicated itself to the Business Ambition for 1.5°C, a worldwide urge to action from the United Nations as well as business pioneers for climate change mitigation under the Paris Agreement. NWD is one of 14 real estate companies globally, and the third in Asia, to have committed to setting science-based targets (SBT) that would help limit global warming to 1.5°C. SBT provide companies with a clearly-defined path to reducing emissions in line with the Paris Agreement goals, aiming to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change and future-proof businesses. The commitment, which covers the Company's major properties and construction activities in Hong Kong and mainland China, is in line with New World Group's continued focus on building sustainable communities via New World Sustainability Vision 2030 (SV2030), a long-term strategy that references the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) with four pillars: Green, Wellness, Smart and Caring. Adrian Cheng, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NWD, said, "We call on more organisations globally to join us on this journey to reduce carbon footprint, protect the environment and create shared value for all stakeholders." "Historically, the real estate industry has contributed significantly to global carbon emissions which has catalysed climate change. It is incumbent on the industry leaders to ramp up climate change mitigation efforts now for a more liveable future. In fact, I urge the industry to not only see this as a wake-up call but actually as an opportunity to rethink the way we develop and do so in a far more sustainable approach. Taking climate action is our responsibility to the next generation and also a business opportunity. Our bold commitment to SBT will support Hong Kong's plan for net zero carbon by 2050 and Mainland China's target of carbon neutrality by 2060." Taking action on climate change is not new to NWD. Since 2018, the Company has been working towards SV2030, which targets to halve its environmental impact in energy and carbon emissions intensity from the levels in FY2015 across different business units. It is also a leader in building globally renowned certified green buildings such as Victoria Dockside and K11 ATELIER King's Road in Hong Kong, being an early supporter of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and establishing Impact Kommons, Asia's first startup accelerator focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). The latest commitment to Business Ambition for 1.5°C steers the company to further decarbonise its operation and additionally focus on setting targets in 2023 to reduce both direct and indirect emissions by 2030. Ellie Tang, Head of Sustainability of NWD, said, "Committing to Business Ambition for 1.5°C is an exciting milestone to accelerate our sustainable building efforts and echo the global call for imminent climate action. It sends a clear signal that New World Group is connecting its business success with positive impact on people and the planet. Business as usual is not enough to address climate risks: we must adopt global best decarbonisation practices and work with our business partners to reduce the impact of global warming. Looking ahead, the Company sees business opportunity in climate action, for example, in terms of global recognition and sustainable finance. NWD maintained its five-star (highest) rating in the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) in 2019 and 2020 and was rated first globally for climate resilience disclosure in 2020. It also recently became the world's first real estate developer to issue a USD Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB), with a target to power its rental properties in the Greater Bay Area of China by 100% renewable energy by 2026 which forms part of the Company's greater commitment of using 100% renewable energy for all Greater China rental properties by 2031.

variednews: Sheremetyevo Ranked Most Excellent Large Airport i...

variednews: Sheremetyevo Ranked Most Excellent Large Airport i...: MOSCOW, March 1: Sheremetyevo International Airport was acknowledged as the most excellent airport for service quality in 2020 among air...

Sheremetyevo Ranked Most Excellent Large Airport in Europe for Service Quality in 2020

MOSCOW, March 1: Sheremetyevo International Airport was acknowledged as the most excellent airport for service quality in 2020 among airports with 2019 passenger traffic of over 40 million by the Airports Council International's (ACI) global program for researching the level of service at airports Airport Service Quality (ASQ). Sheremetyevo Airport has been recognized consistently since 2012 as one of the best airports in Europe in terms of service quality. At the end of 2020, Sheremetyevo topped the rating in the category of the largest airports in Europe for the third time. At the same time, this year Sheremetyevo was included in the list of the Voice of the Customer of the Airports Council International – the 140 most active airports in the implementation of the ASQ ACI program during the COVID-19 pandemic. "ACI Awards are the highest recognition for airport operators around the world," said ACI World CEO Luis Felipe de Oliveira. "This year, the award recognizes those airports that have listened to their customers and adapted their services and experiences to meet changing needs and expectations in very difficult circumstances. I am proud of the accomplishments of all ASQ award winners, who demonstrate their commitment to delivering excellence in customer service and set a great example for their colleagues. Today, aviation industry representatives around the world are joining together to address the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is this focus on customer needs that will help us find the fastest way to overcome these challenges." "An airport is very much a service business, and we take the idea of service very seriously," said Sheremetyevo's Chairman Alexander Ponomarenko. "Airlines and passengers have a choice, and we want to make it easy for them to choose Sheremetyevo. We do that by paying close attention to the traveler's needs so that the time they spend with us is pleasant, convenient, stress-free and safe. That is our mission." Last year, Sheremetyevo Airport, in the face of global anti-epidemic restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, implemented major infrastructure projects and introduced new services in order to improve the airport experience of passengers and customers. In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheremetyevo fully implemented a set of preventive measures in cooperation with the responsible government agencies and services to ensure a safe stay at the airport for passengers, guests and staff. Sheremetyevo introduced a number of new services in 2020 in anticipation of the lifting of restrictions on international traffic and restoration of the intensity of flights in the country and abroad. These services include a rapid testing service for COVID-19 (first among the world's airports) and the opening of a publicly available coronavirus vaccination station. To date, the implementation of anti-epidemic measures at Sheremetyevo continues on a full scale. The systematic development of infrastructure, an effective management system and the introduction of innovative technologies and services are the priorities for Sheremetyevo's management and allow the airport to provide high quality services for passengers and customers. Sheremetyevo Airport was awarded a number of international and Russian industry awards based on its performance in 2020. Sheremetyevo Airport is among the TOP-5 airport hubs in Europe, the largest Russian airport in terms of passenger and cargo traffic. In 2020, the airport served 19 million 784 thousand passengers. Sheremetyevo is the best airport in terms of quality of services in Europe, the absolute world leader in punctuality of flights, the recipient of the highest 5-star Skytrax rating.

variednews: Hills Software Expands Advanced Development Tools ...

variednews: Hills Software Expands Advanced Development Tools ...: SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 1: Green Hills Software, the global pioneer in embedded safety and security, revealed novel capacities t...

variednews: Hills Software Expands Advanced Development Tools ...

variednews: Hills Software Expands Advanced Development Tools ...: SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 1: Green Hills Software, the global pioneer in embedded safety and security, revealed novel capacities t...

Hills Software Expands Advanced Development Tools for Top Worldwide Automotive Tier 1 Suppliers Utilized Infineon TRAVEO II

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 1: Green Hills Software, the global pioneer in embedded safety and security, revealed novel capacities that increase the productivity of software developers creating safety-sensitive automotive software when they utilize the MULTI® integrated development environment (IDE) and Green Hills Probe for the Infineon TRAVEO™ II processor. These new features permit software teams at automotive manufacturers and their worldwide Tier 1 suppliers to diminsh the time-to-production while increasing software quality and security in millions of cars globally. The MULTI IDE offers a multicore debugger, ASIL D-certified optimizing C/C++ compilers and run-time libraries, MISRA C Adherence Checking, and performance analysis tools. The Green Hills Probe provides MULTI high-speed JTAG and trace connections to pre-silicon and silicon platforms, supporting thousands of processors, including processors based on Arm® and other architectures. The combined tools are used by thousands of customers on systems running the AUTOSAR, Linux, INTEGRITY® and µ-velOSity™ operating systems or running bare-board with no operating system. The combined solution of Infineon TRAVEO II and Green Hills development tools offers customers new safety and productivity features including: Debug Through Sleep – By leveraging special power modes on the TRAVEO II processor, MULTI and the Green Hills Probe enable developers to debug and test code through the processor's hibernate mode cycle, instead of requiring them to disconnect the debugging session. This feature greatly reduces the time and effort to debug and test critical code. As a result, developers can confidently allow the processor to run with hibernate mode enabled, substantially reducing the amount of power a processor will need to consume in a deployed vehicle. Breakpoints in Flash – This feature allows developers to set an unlimited number of breakpoints when debugging code running in flash memory. Removing breakpoint limits greatly increases software developers' productivity. Romain Libaud, Business Owner of Classic AUTOSAR / TRAVEO II for HMI Solutions at Automotive Supplier and Technology Company Continental, said: "Global vehicle manufacturers rely on Continental for automotive systems that enable advanced features to address the emerging trends such as firmware over-the-air updates and higher standards for reliable performance. Infineon and Green Hills have established a strong track record of providing responsive support to Continental with solutions strong in safety, security and performance." "We have had a strong collaboration for over a decade," said Sven Natus, Vice President Marketing at Infineon Technologies. "Green Hills has been the first choice of our customers on our Arm-based MCU TRAVEO products for the automotive market. Our efficient and close collaboration model with Green Hills allowed us to enable important lead TRAVEO II customers even before first silicon availability." The TRAVEO II family is designed for emerging body electronics platforms requiring performance, safety, and security. It combines a single Arm Cortex®-M4F and two Cortex-M7F for increased performance. The TRAVEO II family has state-of-the-art safety features, including ECC for memory, power supply voltage and clock monitors, watchdogs, and self-test libraries. TRAVEO II devices also include advanced security features, including the introduction of an HSM (hardware security module), dedicated Cortex-M0+ for secure processing, and embedded flash in dual bank mode for FOTA requirements. Traveo II features six power modes that enable ECUs to minimize overall power consumption. Availability The Green Hills MULTI development tools and the Green Hills Probe are available now for early customers to take advantage of the new features of TRAVEO II. About Green Hills Software Founded in 1982, Green Hills Software is the worldwide leader in embedded safety and security. In 2008, the Green Hills INTEGRITY-178 RTOS was the first and only operating system to be certified by NIAP (National Information Assurance Partnership comprised of NSA & NIST) to EAL 6+, High Robustness, the highest level of security ever achieved for any software product. Our open architecture integrated development solutions address deeply embedded, absolute security and high-reliability applications for the military/avionics, medical, industrial, automotive, networking, consumer and other markets that demand industry-certified solutions. Green Hills Software is headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, with European headquarters in the United Kingdom.

variednews: Tencent Cloud Puts in Place its First MENA Region ...

variednews: Tencent Cloud Puts in Place its First MENA Region ...: HONG KONG, March 1: -Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of Tencent, revealed its partnership with the Bahrain Economic Development Board ...

Tencent Cloud Puts in Place its First MENA Region Internet Data Centre Hub in Bahrain

HONG KONG, March 1: -Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of Tencent, revealed its partnership with the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) -- the Kingdom of Bahrain's Investment promotion agency. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the objective to drive the Kingdom of Bahrain's Internet Data Centre (IDC) development and support its swift emergence as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's hub for the cloud and IDC sectors. The MoU signing also marks a considerable milestone for Tencent Cloud as it deploys its first public cloud infrastructure in the MENA region. According to research by MarketsandMarkets, the Middle East's cloud market is expected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 17.5 percent over the same period, highlighting the growing opportunity in this region. The MoU between Tencent Cloud and the Bahrain EDB will allow for substantial opportunities to boost the local digital economy, empowering local organisations to expedite their digital transformation journey. It will also allow Tencent Cloud to leverage on Bahrain's regional position, and the EDB's connectivity with local and regional stakeholders, including Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat. The terms of the MoU include: Tencent Cloud's first IDC in Bahrain and MENA: Tencent Cloud will launch a brand-new IDC in Bahrain, which will go live by the end of 2021. Promoting the deployment of Tencent Cloud: Bahrain EDB, together with public and private stakeholders will encourage the continued adoption of cloud services to further the digital transformation agenda. Additionally, support will be offered to partner companies to leverage cloud services in collaboration with local stakeholders such as Tamkeen. Local talent development: Tencent Cloud will explore and set up training initiatives jointly with the local government in universities and educational institutions across the Kingdom to allow for further knowledge transfer and qualified digital technology talents. H.E. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Bahrain's Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, said, "This is an important milestone in Bahrain's journey to become the MENA region's cloud and data centre hub and I commend the EDB for their ceaseless efforts in developing the partnership with Tencent and ensuring that Bahrain is a favored destination for investment. Tencent joins leading global cloud giants in setting up in Bahrain which will drive massive growth in data traffic towards MENA. Moreover, the launch of the new data centre stands to create a clustering effect as other global providers turn their attention to the increasingly attractive region, with Bahrain positioned as the destination of choice with proactive initiatives such as the Government's 'Cloud-First' policy and nationwide 5G." Poshu Yeung, Senior Vice President, Tencent Cloud International, said, "While the local government in Bahrain has been making significant efforts to grow the local IDC industry, Tencent Cloud is excited to collaborate with Bahrain EDB as part of our ongoing efforts to ramp up the global IDC landscape. We will launch all necessary steps to set up a brand-new IDC in Bahrain to provide better coverage all over the Middle East and North African regions along the Belt and Road, fully supporting Bahrain's 'Cloud-First' strategy." H.E. Khalid Humaidan, Chief Executive, Bahrain Economic Development Board, said, "As a global leader in technology, innovation and cloud services, the EDB is very proud to be partnering with Tencent to set up their first MENA data center hub in Bahrain. We are confident that Tencent will be able to leverage on the Kingdom's regional connectivity, local talent, and business friendly environment to expand their services and reach clients across the region." Raed Fakhri, Managing Director - Investments, Mumtalakat, added, "Innovative technologies, including cloud services and other content driven services, are an area that Mumtalakat is keen to explore and support as Bahrain progresses with its 'Cloud First' policy. As one of the first organisations in the Kingdom to achieve full cloud migration we are excited to witness this milestone that will only further enhance Bahrain's diversification strategy." In 2017, Bahrain introduced the region's first nationwide "Cloud-First" policy to enhance government information and communication technologies, driving the adoption of cloud across state entities and reducing IT costs by up to 90%. Operating in 27 regions and 60 availability zones worldwide, Tencent Cloud is a secure, reliable and high-performance public cloud service provider that integrates Tencent's infrastructure-building capabilities with the advantages of its massive user platform and ecosystem. By harnessing Bahrain's track record of agile and forward-thinking data regulation, as well as its strategic location within the region, Tencent Cloud will enhance its rich array of global services to both the public and private sectors in the region.

variednews: TVM Capital Healthcare Quits Cambridge Medical and...

variednews: TVM Capital Healthcare Quits Cambridge Medical and...: SINGAPORE, March 1:TVM Capital Healthcare, a worldwide expert healthcare private equity firm functioning in developing markets, revea...

TVM Capital Healthcare Quits Cambridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center for US$ 232 Million, a 4.6x Return on Capital Invested

SINGAPORE, March 1:TVM Capital Healthcare, a worldwide expert healthcare private equity firm functioning in developing markets, revealed the successful sale of its portfolio company Cambridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center ("CMRC") to UAE-based publicly traded investment company, Amanat Holdings PJSC. CMRC is the pioneer post-acute care and rehabilitation services contributor in the MENA region. TVM Capital Healthcare has a long track record of successfully investing in and expanding specialty care companies with investment and operation squads in the MENA region and Southeast Asia. The sale of CRMC represents the third successful exit of the $134 million funds managed and arranged by TVM Capital Healthcare. Distribution to investors of Paid-In capital (DPI) amounts to 2.4 times funds invested to date, with two companies still in the portfolio. Compounded returns amount to 28.0% Gross IRR / 19.7% Net IRR, a performance in the Upper Quartile of similar vintage funds, benchmarked against Cambridge Associates Emerging Markets PE and VC Funds. As a highly active growth capital investor, TVM Capital Healthcare has invested and grown CMRC to be a sustainable healthcare business which continues to have a significant social impact on the communities it serves. CMRC is fully accredited by some of the world's top clinical excellence accreditation organizations, such as Joint Commission International (JCI) and CARF and is considered a pioneer in post-acute services in its region. CMRC today has a capacity of 250 licensed beds and out-patient facilities. More recently during the global COVID-19 pandemic, CMRC demonstrated the benefits of specialist care outside of hospitals, relieving the public health system by unblocking acute beds and delivering quality outcomes for the post-acute patients it took on. Dr. Helmut Schuehsler, Chairman and CEO of TVM Capital Healthcare, commented: "In 2010, we identified a major unmet need in the region's healthcare sector. Through the first long-term care company we invested in – ProVita International Medical Center, exited in 2015 with a 10.7x return on capital invested - and two years later in 2012, through CMRC- we introduced highly specialized long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and outpatient services. Today, we are extremely proud of the value we created with CMRC for patients, their families, the local healthcare system, and our investors – by building a centre of healthcare excellence leveraging our 35 plus years of global healthcare experience, our global network, and the expertise of alliance partners such as Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, official teaching partner of the Harvard Medical School Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation." Hoda Abou-Jamra, Founding Partner of TVM Capital Healthcare and Managing Director Southeast Asia, added: "Our early and continued focus on installing quality and a comprehensive ESG framework has enabled us to build a sustainable and successful healthcare company that not only has created more than 500 jobs to date but also has significantly supported its community. Our team in Southeast Asia is transferring our post-acute care, and other specialty care expertise, to selected Southeast Asian markets, where we see similar demand." Carl Stanifer, Operating Partner of TVM Capital Healthcare and current Chairman of CMRC, said: "I am proud to have been part of the CMRC journey in becoming one of the leading post-acute care providers in the region, which perfectly proof-points our investment strategy. Looking forward, Southeast Asia will offer TVM Capital Healthcare ample opportunity to execute on its post-acute care expertise. We see promising investment opportunities there in meeting specific, underserved healthcare needs in certain segments and areas in the region where the firm potentially could add operational value." About TVM Capital Healthcare TVM Capital Healthcare is an emerging markets-focused healthcare private equity investment firm. The firm invests growth capital in healthcare companies with a focus on specialized healthcare services, digital health solutions, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and diagnostics. Investment and operating partners have strong international track records in healthcare M&A and operations. Headquartered in Singapore and Dubai, with representative offices in Munich and Boston, the firm partners with Middle East and Southeast Asia management teams to build sector champions and selectively backs companies from regions such as Europe or North America with expansion projects into the firm's target geographies. TVM Capital Healthcare's investment approach combines strong commercial value creation and returns with responsible investing and a comprehensive ESG framework to build impactful, sustainable, and well-governed companies, delivering excellent healthcare services, with continued growth and job creation, in a fair and diverse workplace, with high business ethics.

variednews: MCI Flowtronex engineers most compact developed bo...

variednews: MCI Flowtronex engineers most compact developed bo...: DALLAS, March 1:MCI Flowtronex has concluded their engineering and design of their Floboy package which includes a broad array of functi...

MCI Flowtronex engineers most compact developed booster pump package for landscape, golf irrigation, and sports arenas

DALLAS, March 1:MCI Flowtronex has concluded their engineering and design of their Floboy package which includes a broad array of functionality and value adding characteristics. Flowtronex specializes in effortless to utilize, low maintenance/high performance tools. Using our more than 40 years of experience building pumping systems the Floboy TX models the same quality and longevity our business was built upon. The Floboy TX product line is a compact, durable, and fully self-contained packaged pump station. This offers a multitude of solutions for many different applications. Our VFD and advanced control platform offers you the most efficient intuitive operation. Remote communication from anywhere with cell service allows customers, support staff, and operators to monitor, program, and troubleshoot anywhere in the world. Our Floboy TX line delivers surge-free constant pressure management while monitoring a list of other safeties to ensure the equipment's life cycle is maximized. Our color touch screen paired with the most cutting edge VFD technology gives the operator tangible information that is easy to navigate. The world needing more and more fluid moving equipment for sports complex irrigation, golf course irrigation booster, water feature, etc. this will be the perfect product to keep up with the world demand of pumping solutions. MCI Flowtronex, Ian McQuagge, Director of Product Development and Sustainability, said: "Our creative and brilliant engineering team has truly created an unprecedented product packed with the most cutting edge technology. We strive to continue to lead the curve on peak performance, high durability, and user-friendly operation." MCI also announces the completion of our automated control panel shop, producing the highest quality controls solutions. With the utilization of our state-of-the-art brake presses, 4000W fiber lasers, robotic gasket machines, robotic horizontal and vertical welders, and automated conveyed powder coat line. MCI Flowtronex & Water Equipment Technologies continues to engineer, fabricate, and support the most modern efficient packaged pump solutions and high purity water treatment systems worldwide. As a standard all packages will be equipped with MCI's secure and fast remote monitoring allowing troubleshooting, monitoring, and programming.

variednews: Wego Unveils ShopCash, an Online Shopping Cashback...

variednews: Wego Unveils ShopCash, an Online Shopping Cashback...: DUBAI, UAE, March 1; Wego, the biggest online travel marketplace across the MENA area, revealed the unveiling of ShopCash, an online ...

Wego Unveils ShopCash, an Online Shopping Cashback Rewards and Deal Discovery App for the MENA Market

DUBAI, UAE, March 1; Wego, the biggest online travel marketplace across the MENA area, revealed the unveiling of ShopCash, an online shopping cashback and deal discovery app for Middle East clients. ShopCash is available today for download from the iOS App Store, Google Play Store. ShopCash users will earn instant cashback for online purchases made with hundreds of popular merchants across the Middle East and gain access to exclusive deals and discounts. Cashback automatically accumulates in a user's ShopCash wallet with every purchase and can periodically be withdrawn into a user's bank account or via other pay-out methods. ShopCash users will also be able to redeem cashback for air tickets and hotel stays with Wego or for purchases or gift cards with other partner merchants. "Nobody in the Middle East has done much travelling over the last year but because of social distancing measures we are all spending more time and money online than ever before." said Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego. "It's been a tough year for many, and we know how gratifying it is to get something back. ShopCash gives you real money back into your account for the online purchases that you make. For every brand, for every deal, even on top of the merchant's discount, so basically it's a deal on another deal." According to a recent study by Kearney, the GCC e-commerce market value in 2020 had reached $24 billion. The pandemic has driven a rapid acceleration in e-commerce adoption by Middle East consumers that has been matched by more merchants investing in e-commerce platforms and digital marketing capabilities. "The response from the merchants that we've approached has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic", commented Craig Hewett, Wego Co-Founder, Wego. "Everybody from global e-commerce giants to regional champions to local niche specialists have immediately seen the value of participating in ShopCash and I'm pleased to say that we have a long back-log of merchants to integrate in the weeks and months ahead." Merchants participating in ShopCash at launch include Amazon, AliExpress, GearBest, iHerb, H&M, Mumzworld, Mothercare, Mamas & Papas, Banggood, Styli, Nike, Ounass, Pottery Barn, GAP, The Luxury Closet, SharafDG, Bath & Body Works and Wego where users will earn cashback on flight and hotel purchases. New merchants are being added each week.

variednews: MobiTV Files Voluntary Chapter 11 To Effectuate Va...

variednews: MobiTV Files Voluntary Chapter 11 To Effectuate Va...: MobiTV Files Voluntary Chapter 11 To Effectuate Value-Maximizing Deal EMERYVILLE, Calif., March 1: MobiTV, Inc. (MobiTV) revealed that the...

MobiTV Files Voluntary Chapter 11 To Effectuate Value-Maximizing Deal

MobiTV Files Voluntary Chapter 11 To Effectuate Value-Maximizing Deal EMERYVILLE, Calif., March 1: MobiTV, Inc. (MobiTV) revealed that the Company, together with its ancillary, has voluntarily filed for relief under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. MobiTV desires to utilize these proceedings to execute a restructuring procedure which will position the Company's functioning platforms for long-term sustainability and expansion. The Company is committed to functioning with its lenders and stakeholders towards a fast and successful resolution of the case. MobiTV has received a commitment for a $15.5 million debtor-in-possession ("DIP") financing facility that will support the Company for the duration of the restructuring process, providing MobiTV with the financial runway and flexibility to execute on a value-maximizing solution, which may include a going-concern sale under section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code. The new facility, which is subject to Court approval, will enable the Company to continue to operate the business and meet its financial obligations, including the timely payment of employee wages and benefits, continued provision of service to existing platform customers, and payment of other obligations during the chapter 11 cases. After thoroughly evaluating all strategic alternatives, the Board of Directors unanimously agreed that pursuing a restructuring through a formal chapter 11 process is a necessary step forward for the business. FTI Consulting, Inc. and FTI Capital Advisors LLC have been retained as the Company's financial advisor and investment banker, subject to approval of the Court, to assist in negotiation of strategic options. Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP and Fenwick & West LLP are serving as the Company's legal advisors.

variednews: iRhythm Technologies, Inc. Caution: Kessler Topaz ...

variednews: iRhythm Technologies, Inc. Caution: Kessler Topaz ...: RADNOR, Pa., Feb. 27: The law company of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP reminds iRhythm Technologies, Inc. ("iRhythm&quot...

iRhythm Technologies, Inc. Caution: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Alert Investors of Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against iRhythm Technologies, Inc.

RADNOR, Pa., Feb. 27: The law company of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP reminds iRhythm Technologies, Inc. ("iRhythm") investors that a securities fraud class action lawsuit has been filed against iRhythm on behalf of those who bought or procured iRhythm common stock between August 4, 2020 and January 28, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period ") According to the complaint, iRhythm is a digital healthcare company that offers a portfolio of ambulatory cardiac monitoring services on its platform called the Zio service. iRhythm receives revenue for its Zio service primarily from third-party payors, which includes commercial payors and government agencies, such as the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS"). On August 3, 2020, the CMS issued its Calendar Year 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule, which would update payment policies, payment rates, and other provisions for services to be furnished under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule on or after January 1, 2021. Kevin M. King ("King"), then President and CEO of iRhythm, discussed at length how iRhythm "worked hand-in-hand with the various governing bodies . . . in drafting and constructing" the language used in the CMS's proposed rule, and that iRhythm was "well aware and well informed" of the proposed CMS rules. King praised the impact the proposed rule would have on iRhythm's business and revenues, stating that "[i]f we were to apply the new codes and proposed rates, our 2019 revenues would increase slightly," and that "our total business will be up slightly overall." However, the truth began to be revealed on December 1, 2020, when the CMS issued its final rule, which finalized the codes as anticipated, but did not finalize national pricing for certain products and services offered by iRhythm. On December 2, 2020, iRhythm's common stock opened at $183.00 per share, down from the December 1, 2020 close of $240.64. Then on January 29, 2021, Medicare Administrative Contractor, Novitas Solutions, published actual reimbursement rates under the CMS's 2021 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. A Baird analyst commented that these rates were "way lower than" the former codes, citing one example where iRhythm was previously reimbursed around $311, but was now receiving just $42.68. Following this news, the price of iRhythm's common stock closed at $168.42 on January 29, 2021, down approximately 33% from its January 28, 2021 close of $251.00. iRhythm investors may, no later than April 2, 2021, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. In order to be appointed as a lead plaintiff, the Court must determine that the class member's claim is typical of the claims of other class members, and that the class member will adequately represent the class. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP, prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country involving securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of state and federal law. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP is a driving force behind corporate governance reform, and has recovered billions of dollars on behalf of institutional and individual investors from the United States and around the world. The firm represents investors, consumers and whistleblowers (private citizens who report fraudulent practices against the government and share in the recovery of government dollars). The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP.

variednews: Comfort of Preparation, Premium Products to Propel...

variednews: Comfort of Preparation, Premium Products to Propel...: CLEVELAND, Feb. 27: US demand for manufactured food is predicted to increase 1.4% yearly in nominal terms through 2024, as revealed by ...

Comfort of Preparation, Premium Products to Propel Value Advantages for Produced Food

CLEVELAND, Feb. 27: US demand for manufactured food is predicted to increase 1.4% yearly in nominal terms through 2024, as revealed by Food Processing: United States, a survey recently released by Freedonia Focus Reports. The market for produced food will grow as actual disposable income per capita advances 0.4% yearly throughput that tenure. Additionally, clients will pay a premium for products that need little or no preparation and are regarded healthy or natural. Therefore, procurement of higher-value foods is anticipated to sustain demand expansion. However, the maturity of the market, diminishes in actual disposable income in 2021, and falling meat and chicken costs will restrain quicker advantages. Demand for meat, poultry, and seafood products is forecast to expand 2.1% annually through 2024, remaining the leading product segment. While meat consumption per capita has fallen over the last four decades, stagnant beef prices and falling chicken prices will support small additional gains in volumes of meat consumption. Demand will also be boosted by purchases of more expensive cuts of meat, bolstered by demand for high-quality meat while dining out, more environmentally friendly meat (e.g., grass-fed, free range, organic, no antibiotics or hormones used during production), and value-added meat products (e.g., pre-marinated or seasoned meat). Rising competition from vegetable-based meat-like alternatives is expected to restrain faster gains. Competition from meatless products is also set to intensify over the forecast period due to consumer concerns about their health, animal welfare, and the environmental impact of meat production. These and other key insights are featured in Food Processing: United States. This report provides an estimate of 2020 and forecast to 2024 for manufactured food demand and shipments for both employer and non-employer firms in nominal US dollars at the manufacturer level. Total demand is segmented by product in terms of: meat, poultry, and seafood dairy products grains and oilseeds bakery and related products processed fruits and vegetables animal food sugar and confectionary products other manufactured foods, such as condiments and sauces, dry coffee and tea, egg substitutes, frozen specialty foods, peanut butter, roasted nuts, and spices To illustrate historical trends, total demand, total shipments, the various segments, and trade are provided in annual series from 2009 to 2019. Excluded from the scope of this report are ready-to-drink beverages such as bottled water, carbonated soft drinks, and fluid milk; beverage syrups; and unprocessed foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs. Also excluded are flavoring syrups and concentrates for the production of soft drinks. Cotton linters are also excluded. Inedible byproducts of animal slaughtering, such as bones and hides, are not included in demand or shipment totals for meat, poultry, and seafood products. Re-exports of manufactured food are excluded from demand and trade figures.

variednews: Rix.GG Takes Pride in Revealing Seapeekay As Its N...

variednews: Rix.GG Takes Pride in Revealing Seapeekay As Its N...: LONDON, Feb. 27:Rix.GG, a leading UK esports organisation, reveals the signing of Callum "SeaPeeKay" Knight as a content creato...

Rix.GG Takes Pride in Revealing Seapeekay As Its Newest Content Creator

LONDON, Feb. 27:Rix.GG, a leading UK esports organisation, reveals the signing of Callum "SeaPeeKay" Knight as a content creator to its expanding squad. Callum "SeaPeeKay" Knight is a family-friendly Twitch partnered streamer from Doncaster, England most known for amassing a large dedicated fanbase in Minecraft. He is most known for speed running breaking world records within the game. Jamie Lewis, founder, said: "Callum is one of the most exciting up and coming streamers in the UK right now - and we are incredibly excited to have him on board. We've got some genuinely groundbreaking ideas in the pipeline, and I can't wait for Rix.GG's fanbase to see!" Callum "SeaPeeKay" Knight, content creator, said: "I'm really excited to be joining Rix.GG, it is a fantastic opportunity for me to make awesome content for a rising team in the sports scene! Rix will go on to do amazing things and I'm glad that I get to be a part of the journey." About Rix.GG Rix.GG empowers esports athletes to reach their full potential through unique opportunities, support, and competitive training. Founded by Jamie Lewis and a team of investors in 2020, the esports organisation launched by signing one of the UK's best Valorant teams featuring homegrown talent. Rix.GG aims to grow grassroots esports in the UK by developing athletes, signing rosters in other titles, holding tournaments and other esports events.

variednews: Psychics Near Me: 6 Topmost Psychic Reading Servic...

variednews: Psychics Near Me: 6 Topmost Psychic Reading Servic...: CHARLESTON, S.C., Feb. 27: PsychicInsights reveals the release of the study, "Psychics Near Me: How to Find the Best Psychics Availa...

Psychics Near Me: 6 Topmost Psychic Reading Services Online - PsychicInsights

CHARLESTON, S.C., Feb. 27: PsychicInsights reveals the release of the study, "Psychics Near Me: How to Find the Best Psychics Available In Your City": When typing into any search engine, "psychics near me," the results page will usually bring up local psychics, mediums, and tarot readers (depending on your location, of course). However, many experienced psychics are ditching the traditional in-person readings and joining popular online psychic networks, making finding a local psychic more and more difficult. With more people choosing to work from home, it's no surprise that psychics, too, are opting to take their unique skill set online. But are virtual psychic readings accurate? Can a reading via phone, online chat, or video really be just as good as visiting a local psychic? This article has looked at the top psychic networks available to find out. How The Best Psychic Websites Were Evaluated Price - How expensive any service is can never be overlooked. That's why this article made sure to look closely at the rates each psychic website charged. Psychics - A big concern for many surrounds the credibility and experience of psychics advertised on the newer psychic platforms available. As such, this article made sure to confirm that each top pick had a stringent vetting process and rigorously screened their advisors for authenticity. Interface - Does the platform offer helpful tools to filter psychic advisors based on skill, experience, price, and more? Is the interface intuitive and easy to navigate? These factors and more were taken on board when evaluating the best psychics near me (online). Readings - Accuracy is the key to online psychic readings. That's why this article looked at how accuracy was assured on each platform, whether via rigorous vetting, public customer feedback, or a satisfaction guarantee. 6 Best Psychics Near Me (Online) 1. Kasamba - Best Psychic Site Overall Kasamba is widely considered the psychic site to visit for tarot readings. In business since 1999, Kasamba has provided readings to over 3 million customers—a testament to their quality and accuracy. Users can find answers to various questions, including readings involving astrology, tarot cards, dream interpretation, fortune-telling, and numerology. Kasamba Positives Virtual Tarot Readings Three free minutes with every new session 70% off standard rates for new members Each psychic registered on the platform is experienced and boasts their own profile page, allowing members to check out feedback from previous clients and get a better sense of whether a psychic will be able to help. They also offer three minutes free and an additional 70% off for new users. You can get a reading via email or chat, depending on the method that works best for you. Something that's really unique about this particular psychic platform is that each psychic sets their own rates. This might seem confusing at first, but it can actually be beneficial because some of them are very budget-friendly. Should I Visit Kasamba or Look for a Psychic Near Me? If you're looking for advice and support from experienced psychics that won't break the bank, this could be the place to go, especially if you're struggling to visit a psychic face-to-face. Kasamba is a strong platform of highly skilled professional psychics, each one specializing in different fields. Plus, since each psychic sets their own rates, you'll be sure to find one that fits your budget. Kasamba is a great alternative to visiting a local psychic in person and can save you the stress involved in struggling to find a psychic near you. 2. Psychic Source - Most Accurate Love Readings Similar to Kasamba, Psychic Source also offers three free minutes to anyone who hasn't had a previous reading with them, plus an additional 75% off their first reading. With more than 30 years of experience, Psychic Source specializes in providing readings about love and relationships and is a trusted psychic network in the industry. Psychic Source Positives ● Perfect for love and relationship readings ● Advisors are tested for authenticity ● Available 24 hours a day Psychic Source also has an impressively high satisfaction rating, as all of their psychics (200+) are screened and thoroughly tested for accuracy. Coupled with a money-back guarantee, it makes this particular psychic site hard to beat if you have questions about your love life. And with more than 200 experienced advisors willing to help, it's unlikely that you'll be left waiting for an appointment. Furthermore, they offer phone readings in addition to both online chat and live video readings and always have multiple psychics online 24/7 to chat or call. Should I Visit Psychic Source or Look for a Psychic Near Me? Yes! By signing up at Psychic Source, you can stay in the comfort of your own home and choose the reading method that you're the most comfortable with. For those who find it difficult to talk with people they've just met but still need guidance and support from a verified psychic advisor, Psychic Source is the place to go, especially for questions about love and relationships. 3. Keen Psychics - Great at Giving Guidance on Life Decisions On the other hand, if you're looking for clairvoyants and mediums that can help with some of life's bigger decisions, this may be the group you're looking for. They offer 10 minutes for $1.99, a real bargain that makes it hard to pass them up. Furthermore, they've been in business for more than 20 years, and they employ roughly 1,700 psychics. Keen Positives Useful mobile app 10 minutes for $1.99 Over 1700 psychic advisors Keen.com boasts experts in Tarot cards, astrology, and mediumship. They also have pet psychics, aura cleansing, dream interpretation, and energy healers available. Psychics can conduct readings by phone, email, or chat, or they can connect with members via the mobile app. One of the things that makes this psychic platform unique is that they allow members to filter readings based on specific questions. In other words, members can choose a psychic who specializes in the types of questions they're searching for answers to. Should I Visit Keen.com or Look for a Psychic Near Me? Anyone looking for guidance or advice from a verified psychic professional should take a look at this psychic network. Keen may not offer free three minutes, but they do provide an equally beneficial introductory rate that allows new members to verify the service for themselves. It doesn't matter if you're looking for answers about getting married, moving to another city, changing jobs, or you're looking to get in touch with a lost loved one; Keen is well-versed in helping members with all of these things. 4. Oranum - Unique Way to Communicate with Psychics Oranum specializes in answering an array of unique questions that can be discussed in multiple languages. It's important to note that most of the groups that offer online psychics tend to focus on one or two areas, but this platform focuses on a much wider spectrum. Oranum Positives Dedicated customer service team Free live public sessions weekly 99.99 free credits Moreover, Oranum is one of only a handful of psychic networks that offer readings in languages other than English. (Of course, they provide readings in English as well). One of the best things about this platform is that they have hundreds of psychics available, so you shouldn't have a difficult time finding one that fits well with your specific needs. Like many of the other psychic networks listed here, members can get a reading via phone, video, or online chat. Plus, they offer a money-back guarantee, and even though their rates vary, they advertise having rates among the cheapest available online. Their psychics are well-versed with Angel cards, tarot cards, dream interpretation, and energy readings. Should I Visit Oranum.com or Look for a Psychic Near Me? If you're looking for advice and support, Oranum is a great place to start and certainly a viable alternative to looking for a local psychic nearby. They specialize in various areas surrounding life, love, careers, relationships, and more, but more than anything, their psychics can help ward off negative energy, thus breaking the cycle of negative thoughts. Moreover, the platform requires that all advisors host a free live session available to everyone, allowing members to familiarize themselves with a psychic before going ahead with a paid session. 5. AskNow - Best for Dream Analysis AskNow is another multilingual group, this time offering readings in both English and Spanish. They've been in operation since 2005 and thoroughly screen their psychics before allowing them to work on their platform, just as most of the groups listed here do. AskNow Positives Five minutes free (new users) Psychics available 24/7 Free daily horoscope AskNow psychics use tarot cards, crystals, and runes to help members sort through the questions that might be holding them back at any given time, especially when it comes to things like career, love life, and finances. If you choose to do a reading with them, you can get 15 minutes for $10 as well as an additional 5 minutes with a master psychic free of charge. Psychics are available 24/7 via phone or online chat. There's also a helpful mobile app available for iOS devices. Should I Visit AskNow.com or Look for Psychic Near Me? Absolutely! AskNow, as with all of the top picks on this list, is a solid alternative to searching for a local psychic. Plus, there are many benefits to be had signing up for an online platform, such as 24/7 support, free daily horoscopes, great customer service, and more. AskNow also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee to ensure that members disappointed with a reading can either claim their money back or their minutes used in credit. 6. California Psychics - Best for Rigorous Psychic Screening Even people who haven't contemplated getting a psychic reading online have probably heard of this group. Their psychics are extremely well-vetted, and without a doubt, they are a well-advertised psychic platform when it comes to mainstream types of communication. California Psychics Positives ● Mobile app available ● Several communication methods ● Calendar to set appointments California Psychics has been in business for 25 years, so it only stands to reason that you may have heard more about them than some of the other sites listed here. They do paint their reputation on accuracy, and more often than not, they are right on the money. They also offer psychics that can help answer a wide variety of different questions, depending on your needs. California Psychics offers three pricing tiers ranging from popular to premium, with the middle pricing tier being identified as preferred. Members have the option to select a specific pricing tier, but if you forget, you'll end up in the middle category by default. Depending on the tier chosen, readings range from $4 to $15 per minute. Should I Visit California Psychics or Look for a Psychic Near Me? California Psychics is known for being more expensive than most psychic networks. With only 100 psychics available, it may be harder to come across an affordable advisor than on other platforms. Still, California Psychics has an impressively rigorous vetting process, ensuring members receive highly accurate readings. For anyone new to the psychic world, one of the options above may be better. However, for people who frequent psychic networks and want assurance that they're not dealing with an inexperienced advisor, California Psychics is a great choice and another solid alternative to visiting a psychic locally. Psychics Near Me FAQ Q: Should I Look Online or Find a Local Psychic Near Me? A: Although psychic readings by phone, email, online chat, and video have been popular for many years, many still question whether finding a local psychic and having a reading performed in person is a smarter choice. However, searching for a "psychic near me" in Google has various downsides that may not be obvious at first. For instance, it may be harder to verify the credibility of a local psychic over an advisor who's been vetted by professionals and subject to visible feedback from paid customers. Plus, there's no guarantee that finding a psychic within driving distance of your home will be easy. Independent psychics also tend to be booked up for weeks at a time and sometimes require clients to pay well in advance before appointments. Luckily this isn't the case with popular psychic platforms. The best sites boast more than 1000 screened psychic professionals and offer readings 24/7 via text, call, online chat, and video. Moreover, online platforms allow members to filter psychics based on skill, experience, feedback, and more to suit the client's requirements. Most platforms even offer first-time users discounts and free minutes, allowing them to trial an advisor before paying.

variednews: Teamsters Satisfied By House Approval Of Stimulus ...

variednews: Teamsters Satisfied By House Approval Of Stimulus ...: WASHINGTON, Feb. 27: The Teamsters are appreciating the House's passage of a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill that incorporat...

Teamsters Satisfied By House Approval Of Stimulus Bill Containing Pension Changes Retirements of 1M+ Hardworking Americans are now in the Senate's Hands

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27: The Teamsters are appreciating the House's passage of a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill that incorporates language granting relief to hundreds of vulnerable multiemployer pension plans that would safeguard the hard-earned retirements of over 1 million American retirees and workers. Under the Butch Lewis Emergency Pension Plan Relief Act of 2021 language inserted into the legislation, more than 50 Teamster pension plans – including its largest, the Central States Pension Fund – will be eligible for assistance at the outset of the bill's enactment, with more of the union's plans becoming eligible in 2022. "For my entire administration, the Teamsters have been fighting for members and retirees who only want to receive the nest eggs that they've worked so hard to earn for their golden years," Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa said. "Now we are one step closer towards fulfilling that promise." As America looks to reopen and rebuild, maintaining the solvency of the multiemployer pension system will be a key to economic recovery. The National Institute for Retirement Security has concluded that the $44.2 billion in private pension benefit payments paid to retirees of multiemployer plans in 2018 supported $96.6 billion dollars in overall economic output in the national economy, and an estimated $14.7 billion in total tax revenue. The country can ill-afford a reduction in these revenue streams during the recovery period. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. Elected officials can no longer turn their backs on these hardworking Americans who have played by the rules their entire lives. Congress must pass COVID-19 legislation that includes a pension fix. Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

variednews: Global Forum Explores End Objective of a Free and ...

variednews: Global Forum Explores End Objective of a Free and ...: WASHINGTON and SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 27: Legislators from both sides of the aisle in the U.S. Congress and South Korea's National...

Global Forum Explores End Objective of a Free and Unified Korea; Fresh Start to US-ROK Alliance

WASHINGTON and SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 27: Legislators from both sides of the aisle in the U.S. Congress and South Korea's National Assembly and Korea policy specialists explored crucial topics and prospects for a new start to US-Korea policy under the new Biden administration at an online forum convened concurrently in Washington D.C. (February 24) and Seoul (February 25). Forum discussions considered a bold, new "free and unified Korea framework" calling for a comprehensive, end-game approach to the resolution of longstanding Korean peninsula issues encompassing security and denuclearization, economic development, and human rights. One focal point for the discussion was President Joseph Biden's remarks last October during the U.S. presidential campaign to the Korean news agency Yonhap. In them, he affirmed his objective to "keep pressing toward a denuclearized North Korea and a unified Korean peninsula, while working to reunite Korean-Americans separated from loved ones in North Korea for decades." U.S. congressional leaders—including Korean Americans Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) and Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA), Rep. GK Butterfield (D-NC) and Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) — called for bipartisan efforts to support a reunified Korea as well as efforts to reunite Korean-American with their families in North Korea through pending legislation in the Congress. Congressman and Majority Deputy Whip GK Butterfield stated, "With a new U.S. administration reaching out once again to strengthen our bedrock alliance with the Republic of Korea, I would like to join with you in affirming strong support for the founding ideals of the Korean independence movement for one free and indivisible Korea." Noting that both her parents were from North Korea and were unsuccessful in attempts to reunite with relatives left in North Korea, Rep. Steel said, "It's not fair to exclude [visitation of] family members because they are Korean American." She is co-sponsoring legislation together with Rep. Young Kim and Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) that would include Korean American families in any family reunification initiatives. Prominent ROK National Assembly members from both political parties, including Hon. Young-Kyo Seo and Hon. Taeyong Cho, expressed support for reunification based on principles and values that strengthen the U.S-ROK alliance. Assemblyman Cho welcomed the new U.S. administration and said that President Biden "values the US-ROK alliance, will restore trust between two nations, and pursue unification of the Korean peninsula." Leading officials from the Clinton and Bush administrations, as well as Korean policy and grassroots leaders, saw significant opportunities with the new U.S. administration for progress in U.S.- ROK relations and a reset in approaches to the threat posed by the North Korean regime. Dr. Victor Cha, Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and Georgetown University professor Robert Gallucci, the chief U.S. negotiator of the U.S.-DPRK "Agreed Framework" agreed that complex diplomatic work needs to be undertaken with renewed efforts to engage allies, ensure short-term and long-term deterrence to counter North Korea's nuclear threat, and define clear tactical and strategic relations with China. Dr. Cha laid out key principles for U.S. Korea policy. Foremost was working in close co-operation with allies, especially South Korea. He also added that 'normalized' relations with North Korea would require addressing the human rights issue. Dr. Hyun Jin P Moon, Global Peace Foundation chairman and author of Korean Dream: Vision for a Unified Korea, stressed the need for a comprehensive strategic approach focused on the end goal of a free and unified Korea, backed by the growing movement for reunification in South Korea and a global civic campaign to build international support. He called for Koreans to draw upon the shared values and culture in their history that long predate the current division. He urged that "A unified Korea, aligned with fundamental freedoms and human rights, should become the clearly stated and actively pursued policy of the U.S., South Korea, their allies and the UN. This would provide a clear end goal for Korea policy and a framework for all negotiations with the North. Focus on this end goal naturally requires a comprehensive approach that no longer compartmentalizes the nuclear issue from other issues such as human rights, governance concerns and economic development." Dr. Edwin Feulner, founder of the Heritage Foundation, underscored the need to reaffirm the US-ROK alliance, and stressed the essential role of a vibrant civil society in building a free and united Korea, calling it our destiny to work together, on both sides of the Pacific, toward this goal.

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reveals a Probe of Protective Insurance Corp. - PTVCA

NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner at Monteverde & Associates PC, a national securities firm ranked among Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report with its headquarters at the Empire State Building in New York City, is probing Protective Insurance Corp. ("PTVCA" or the "Company") (PTVCA) linked to its planned procurement by The Progressive Corporation. Under the terms of the agreement, PTVCA shareholders will obtain $23.30 in cash per share. The investigation focuses on whether Protective Insurance Corp. and its Board of Directors violated securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to the Company by 1) failing to conduct a fair process, and 2) whether the transaction is properly valued. About Monteverde & Associates PC We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2019 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

variednews: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reve...

variednews: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reve...: NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner at Monteverde & Associates PC, a countrywide securities organisatio...

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reveals a Probe of Pandion Therapeutics, Inc. - PAND

NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner at Monteverde & Associates PC, a countrywide securities organisation rated Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report with its headquarters at the Empire State Building in New York City, is probing Pandion Therapeutics, Inc. ("PAND" or the "Company") (PAND) connecting to its planned procurement by Merck. Under the terms of the agreement, PAND shareholders will obtain $60.00 in cash per share. The investigation focuses on whether Pandion Therapeutics, Inc. and its Board of Directors violated securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to the Company by 1) failing to conduct a fair process, and 2) whether the transaction is properly valued. We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2019 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

variednews: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reve...

variednews: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reve...: NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner at Monteverde & Associates PC, a national securities firm ranked ...

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Monteverde & Associates PC Reveals a Probe of Protective Insurance Corp. - PTVCA

NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner at Monteverde & Associates PC, a national securities firm ranked among Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report with its headquarters at the Empire State Building in New York City, is probing Protective Insurance Corp. ("PTVCA" or the "Company") (PTVCA) concerned with the planned procurement by The Progressive Corporation. Under the terms of the contract, PTVCA shareholders will obtain $23.30 in cash per share. The investigation focuses on whether Protective Insurance Corp. and its Board of Directors violated securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to the Company by 1) failing to conduct a fair process, and 2) whether the transaction is properly valued. We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018 and 2019 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2019 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

variednews: Estée Lauder Signs Actress Ana de Armas as New Wor...

variednews: Estée Lauder Signs Actress Ana de Armas as New Wor...: NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Estée Lauder revealed that it has signed Ana de Armas, Golden Globe Award-nominated actress and honoree of the 2021 T...

Estée Lauder Signs Actress Ana de Armas as New Worldwide Brand Ambassador

NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Estée Lauder revealed that it has signed Ana de Armas, Golden Globe Award-nominated actress and honoree of the 2021 TIME100 Next list, as its new Global Brand Ambassador. Ana will be seen in campaigns across digital, TV, in-store and print. Her first campaign for the brand will commence with a new fragrance in March 2021. Ana joins the present roster of Estée Lauder worldwide skill consisting of Anok Yai, Bianca Brandolini D'Adda, Carolyn Murphy, Diana Penty, Grace Elizabeth, Karlie Kloss and Yang Mi. "We are thrilled to welcome Ana to the Estée Lauder brand," said Stéphane de La Faverie, Group President, The Estée Lauder Companies & Global Brand President, Estée Lauder and AERIN. "Her story of overcoming barriers to achieve her dreams and become an accomplished actress is inspiring to women around the world, and her talent, warmth and beauty will bring a new energy to the brand." "I am honored to represent such an iconic brand," said Ana de Armas. "Growing up in Cuba, I really admire and connect with the story of Mrs. Estée Lauder. She understood that you have to work hard to turn your dreams into a reality. Everything she did was inspiring then and continues to be inspiring today. I am proud to become part of that legacy and share her story." About Ana de Armas Ana de Armas is a Golden Globe Award-nominated actress, who made a name for herself for more than a decade in Spain and the United States, has become one of the industry's most sought-after actresses. Her compelling performances bring warmth, passion and versatility to the big screen. Born in Cuba, de Armas made her feature film debut in Una Rosa De Francia for the Cuban Institute of Cinematography. Following years of success as an actress in Spain, Ana made the transition to Hollywood and has starred in films such as Blade Runner 2049 and War Dogs working with some of the industry's most critically acclaimed actors and directors, including Denis Villeneuve, Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford and Robert De Niro. De Armas' breakout role of Marta in the beloved modern-day murder mystery Knives Out earned her a Golden Globe Award nomination, solidifying her as one of Hollywood's brightest stars. This year, Ana will reunite with her Knives Out co-star Daniel Craig in Cary Joji Fukunaga's No Time To Die, the 25th installment of the James Bond franchise. She will also star Adrian Lyne's thriller Deep Water, and in Andrew Dominik's highly anticipated Blonde, based on the novel by Joyce Carol Oates, portraying actress, model, singer and icon Marilyn Monroe. She is currently in production for Netflix's The Gray Man, helmed by the Russo Brothers. About Estée Lauder Estée Lauder is the flagship brand of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. Founded by Estée Lauder, one of the world's first female entrepreneurs, the brand today continues her legacy of creating innovative, sophisticated, high-performance skincare and makeup products and iconic fragrances – all infused with a deep understanding of women's needs and desires. Today, Estée Lauder engages with women in over 150 countries and territories around the world and at dozens of touch points – from in-store to digital. And each of these relationships consistently reflects Estée's powerful and authentic woman-to-woman point of view.

variednews: Distillation Is All About the Details In Cognac

variednews: Distillation Is All About the Details In Cognac: NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Cognac Distillation Season In Cognac, the distillation "season" commences in the wake of harvest after th...

Distillation Is All About the Details In Cognac

NEW YORK, Feb. 27: Cognac Distillation Season In Cognac, the distillation "season" commences in the wake of harvest after the grapes (mostly Ugni Blanc) are fermented into a low-alcohol wine. There is no official commencement date — distillation commonly starts in October/early November, and, by official decree, must conclude by March 31 the subsequent year. In Cognac, expert distillers meticulously tend to their stills utilising years of experience and all of their senses to craft this exceptional spirit. Transforming Wine into Spirit Distillation concentrates a wine's aromas and flavors, creating an exceptional elixir with fruity and floral notes and long-aging potential. The general distillation "recipe" is the same for all cognacs and nine (9) liters of wine are needed to produce one (1) liter of cognac! Alexandre Gabriel, Ferrand Cognac Master Blender, shared, "Distillation is a magical time. When I'm in the distillery, I have the sensation of actually being inside a heated grape. The aromas and smells (warm fruits and pastry) are etched in my brain and my soul. A distiller must capture the very essence of the fruit to make this elixir." In simple terms: the base white wine is heated in an alambic Charentais. The alambic originated in the 16th century, and the hammered copper pot stills used in Cognac are still handcrafted today, with no two being exactly alike. Vapors from the wine rise and pass through the swan's neck coil and then condense as they cool passing through a serpentine coil. This first distillate, called the brouillis, is around 30% alcohol by volume. It is then distilled a second time. After this bonne chauffe (literally "good heating"), the colorless liquid or eau-de-vie (around 70% abv at this stage) comes off the still and will become cognac only after aging in oak barrels for a minimum of two years. Decisions, Decisions…the Art of Distillation Like a master chef, the distiller is an artist, and has many choices and decisions to make along the way, especially during the second distillation. The first liquid to come off the still is the "heads" with the highest alcohol content and is discarded. The distiller separates the "heart" with its fragrances of fruits and flowers from the "tails" which contain undesirable compounds. Each distiller must decide when to make cuts, whether or not to redistill cuts into the next batch, and if temperature adjustments are needed along the way. Another key decision is whether or not to distill on the lees (yeast cells leftover from fermentation) which contributes to the style of the finished cognac and can add texture and richness. These critical decisions require smelling (known as "nosing") and tasting the spirit, as well as intuition and expertise gained from years of experience. Cognac Park Master Blender Jérôme Tessendier, whose family distillery is in operation in the town of Jarnac, commented, "The first heating focuses on concentration, and the second on the sorting of flavors and aromas. It is with the bonne chauffe, where emotions, desires, and ideas on creating the final spirit come into play." Thibaut Hontanx, Master Distiller from Maison Courvoisier, shared the house philosophy regarding use of lees. "Our distillation is customized to reveal the true nature of the crus. We distill the wines from Fins Bois without their lees to ensure delicate floral and fruity notes, especially for VS. For Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne and Borderies, we distill with the lees followed by a long maturation to ensure aromatic richness and depth, mainly for VSOP and longer-aged cognacs." Technical courses are available but there isn't a "distillation school" in Cognac; this expertise is learned on the job and passed down from generation to generation. Tessendier elaborated, "It is indeed the experience, the little secrets or habits, the hand on the controls, that must be passed on from one generation to another. It is a relay between the grower, the winemaker, the distiller, and the cellar master." Each round of distillation takes around 12 hours, so it's a 24-hour process for one still's worth of wine to be transformed into an eau-de-vie. Distillers work round the clock all winter long, constantly monitoring the stills. The master distiller has one objective: obtain the best possible concentration of aromas in order to offer the cellar master a generous and rich eaux-de-vie. Cellar masters smell and taste the different eaux-de-vie as they age to decide when the time is right to add them to the final cognac blend, taking into account the style of each house.

variednews: Study: Staffing Industry Witnesses Gender Parity b...

variednews: Study: Staffing Industry Witnesses Gender Parity b...: WASHINGTON, Feb. 27: The WBC Staffing Council – a workstream within the Women Business Collaborative (WBC), in collaboration with execut...

Study: Staffing Industry Witnesses Gender Parity but Broad Pay Gap Still Continues

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27: The WBC Staffing Council – a workstream within the Women Business Collaborative (WBC), in collaboration with executives representing staffing industry associations American Staffing Association (ASA), National Association of Professional Staffing (NAPS), Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) and TechServe Alliance, revealed the findings of their initial study of 489 companies on gender diversity and equity within the U.S. Staffing Industry. The study discovered that the percentage of women executives in the staffing industry is not more than 20% In late 2020, the WBC Staffing Leadership Council launched its efforts to accelerate diversity, equity and inclusion in staffing industry. Their initial efforts called for a coordinated approach to providing the awareness of the status of diversity across the industry, as well as subsequent efforts to guide efforts towards a more balanced environment. The initial survey results largely reinforce our perception of opportunity to improve both representation and compensation equity from a gender diversity perspective. Key observations from the survey include the following: There is a profound pay gap between women and men – both within the industry and across the U.S. as a whole. The staffing industry has a fair balance of men and women across its workforce, however imbalance occurs as leadership levels increase, with an underrepresentation of women in senior leadership roles. Women CEO's bring a unique perspective to leadership – they are more likely to drive initiatives that create a stronger more balanced culture (including priorities around diversity). There is a lack of racial diversity across this industry with people of color comprising well under 10% of all staff. "The data in this survey and dashboard this represents a significant opportunity to drive opportunity for promotion and pay equity in leadership roles" states Edie Fraser, CEO of the Women Business Collaborative. "The staffing industry supports the employment of nearly 10 million job workers on an annual basis. By encouraging a more diverse and equitable workforce composition across those businesses supporting this industry, we will by default better represent the workers we employ." The WBC Staffing Leadership Council has made the results of the survey available for review and analysis through a dynamic data analytics dashboard. Over the next several months the Council will begin to release a series of insights and observations resulting from our review of the survey results. This work will be done in collaboration with the work along the 9 Action Initiatives of the WBC which focus on ensuring equal position, pay and power for all women across all industries and throughout the pipeline.

variednews: Sony Pictures and Lionsgate Collaborate on Novel M...

variednews: Sony Pictures and Lionsgate Collaborate on Novel M...: CULVER CITY, Calif. and SANTA MONICA, Calif., Feb. 26: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Inc. ("SPHE") and worldwide content p...

Sony Pictures and Lionsgate Collaborate on Novel Multi-Year Physical Home Entertainment Distribution Contract

CULVER CITY, Calif. and SANTA MONICA, Calif., Feb. 26: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Inc. ("SPHE") and worldwide content pioneer Lionsgate revealed a multi-year contract in which SPHE will handle distribution services for Lionsgate's physical home entertainment releases in the United States and Canada. Lionsgate will persist to maintain its own liberal sales and marketing squads while leveraging SPHE's best-in-class supply chain and distribution services. The contract was jointly revealed by Jason Spivak, Executive Vice President, Distribution, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, and Ron Schwartz, President, Worldwide Distribution, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. "We're excited to embark on this new relationship with Lionsgate in physical home entertainment," said Spivak. "By working together, we can identify and leverage efficiencies in the supply chain that will benefit not only our respective studios, but also retailers, and ultimately, the millions of consumers who enjoy Sony Pictures and Lionsgate feature films and TV programs in the 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD formats." "We're pleased to be working with Sony Pictures, a respected world-class distributor who shares our philosophical commitment to the customer," said Schwartz. "This collaboration makes both our businesses even stronger, and our new agreement enhances our ability to serve the retail community and consumers with innovation, adaptability and strong content slates in the years to come." SPHE will begin distributing Lionsgate physical home entertainment properties in July. About Sony Pictures Entertainment Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. Sony Pictures Television operates dozens of wholly-owned or joint-venture production companies around the world. SPE's Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, 3000 Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, Sony Pictures International Productions, and Sony Pictures Classics. About Lionsgate Combining the STARZ premium global subscription platform with world-class motion picture and television studio operations, Lionsgate brings a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. Its film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 17,000-title library and the largest collection of film and television franchises in the independent media space. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for the audiences it serves worldwide.

variednews: variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to M...

variednews: variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to M...: variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Merge its ODX... : CHICAGO, Feb. 26: Enova International , a top fiscal expertise an...

Klöckner Pentaplast Unveils Its Novel Sustainability Tactic

LONDON, Feb. 26: Klöckner Pentaplast (kp or the company), a top worldwide producer of high barrier secure packaging solutions with industry-pioneering utilisation of recycled content, revealed the unveiling of its novel sustainability tactic, 'Investing in Better'. This comes in the wake of the new announcement of the successful conclusion of kp's total capital structure refinancing, which is the first of its kind to include an ESG-Ratchet Linked Term Loan marketed to U.S. investors. With the new 'Investing in Better' sustainability strategy, the company has set itself ten clear targets for long-term improvement grouped into three key objectives: Close the Loop, which commits kp to using more recycled material, closing the packaging loop and taking every opportunity to make packaging recyclable. Work Smarter encompasses targets that focus on using less energy, cutting carbon emissions and ending landfill. And Act Responsibly, builds on the cornerstone of kp culture of continuous improvement in the areas of employee engagement, safety, and will enable kp to become a more diverse and inclusive company. kp CEO Scott Tracey said: "Our new sustainability strategy is inextricably linked to our purpose, the sustainable protection of everyday needs, and sustainability has been a core value at kp for many years. For the last three years, our 'Positive Plastics Pledge' initiative helped advance our sustainability agenda and this new strategy serves as a roadmap to build and expand on the progress we've already made. Ultimately, 'Investing in Better' will enable us to meet the long-term needs of our people, our communities and our planet. Based on our track-record, kp is well-positioned to deliver on these aims." Prior to the launch of 'Investing in Better', kp drove key initiatives to raise awareness of the value of plastic waste and recycling, and opportunities to work closely with stakeholders to develop the infrastructure, education and incentives around recycling plastic for a circular economy. Adam Elman, kp Group Director of Sustainability, adds: "We recognise that the environmental and social challenges of today call for more urgent action and a broader, science-based plan. Just in the last year, the global pandemic has triggered many profound changes and exposed significant global inequities. It's critical that we're embarking on this journey now, expanding beyond our recycling efforts. Going forward, our commitments now include the continuation of work to raise awareness and collaborate with key stakeholders on recycling for a circular economy, as well as reducing our carbon footprint, supporting the communities where we live and work, becoming more diverse and inclusive as a company, and ensuring a safe environment where all kp colleagues can thrive."

variednews: Withings Health Solutions Unveils Cellular Gadgets...

variednews: Withings Health Solutions Unveils Cellular Gadgets...: BOSTON, Feb,26: Withings, an early leader of the connected health revolution, takes another step to narrow the difference between patients...

Withings Health Solutions Unveils Cellular Gadgets To Eradicate Telehealth Pain Points For Healthcare Experts And Patients

BOSTON, Feb,26: Withings, an early leader of the connected health revolution, takes another step to narrow the difference between patients and health experts, introducing a novel business-to-business range of cellular-connected gadgets designed to eradicate considerable pain points of remote patient monitoring. The Withings Body Pro cellular smart scale and Withings BPM Connect Pro cellular blood pressure monitor considerably streamline the telehealth procedure by functioning straight out of the box, needing no setup, and automatically transmitting perfect, safe data to health experts. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for telehealth and at-home monitoring solutions. However, while technology is telehealth's driving force, it is often a barrier to wide-spread use by patients of all ages, tech proficiency levels and located in areas with limited internet infrastructure. Professional telehealth programs largely fail to reach their potential as product setups, connectivity requirements and the need for smartphones and apps often result in the breakdown of programs. Withings has more than a decade of experience creating elegantly designed medical-grade devices that fit seamlessly into consumer lifestyles. With features designed to encourage ongoing use, it boasts some of the best user retention rates on the market and is the number one smart scale manufacturer in the United States. Leveraging this expertise, Body Pro and BPM Connect Pro address specific needs of telehealth and allow health professionals to furnish patients with devices that overcome installation and retention problems, motivating them to continue use long-term. "For telehealth and remote patient monitoring to be successful for health professionals, they must have access to continuous, reliable and accurate at-home data that is collected, transmitted and analyzed in a frictionless, consistent manner," said Antoine Robiliard, vice president of Withings business-to-business division, Health Solutions. "Connected health products have a central role to play. For optimal results, they must be simple for anyone to use, drive engagement, take medical-grade measurements, be consistently used by patients, and must autonomously transmit private, secure data. Our new cellular range addresses these issues to help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare professionals and increase the effectiveness of their telehealth programs."

variednews: MasterClass Reveals Questlove to Teach Music Curat...

variednews: MasterClass Reveals Questlove to Teach Music Curat...: SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 26: MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the globe's most excellent across a broad ...

MasterClass Reveals Questlove to Teach Music Curation and DJing

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 26: MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the globe's most excellent across a broad array of topics, revealed that Questlove will teach a class on music curation and DJing. The Grammy Award–winning musician will explore the extensive linkage of music, sharing his encyclopedic musical knowledge to teach members how to expand their music vocabulary and link songs to entertain, encourage and enlighten. Questlove's class is now obtainable particularly on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 100+ instructors with a yearly membership. "Questlove's storied career and unparalleled knowledge and passion for music has made him a music icon and one of the most influential individuals in the industry," said David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass. "In his MasterClass, members will gain a deeper understanding of how to listen to and absorb music so they can deconstruct songs and gain a deeper appreciation of everything they hear." For members looking to expand their music knowledge and deepen their love and appreciation for music, Questlove will give an inside look into his creative process for curating music and DJing. Using a versatile playlist composed of classic hip-hop, neo-soul, jazz and R&B, Questlove will break down the musical attributes, psychology and emotional impact of each song to teach members how to use those elements to create their own musical journey. Through a series of engaging demonstrations, Questlove will also share the basics of DJing—from how to deconstruct music for organization, combination and performance to scratching and segues for music sets. He will also break down his equipment list and show members how to choose and use the right equipment to create a great DJ set. For members who want to level up, he will cover live loop creation, phasing, beat juggling and more. Questlove will also share insights and life lessons from his career as the drummer for the Roots, musical director of The Tonight Show, bestselling author, DJ and more. "It's one thing to listen to music, but it's another thing to embrace it and have it come to you," Questlove said. "Nothing will take the place of the passion that I feel for music, and I hope my MasterClass will open up a portal in your heart so that you learn to love music, find it and appreciate it." Drummer, DJ, producer, culinary entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author and member of the Roots, Questlove is the unmistakable heartbeat of Philadelphia's most influential hip-hop group. He is the musical director for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where his beloved Roots crew serves as house band. Beyond that, this four-time Grammy Award–winning musician's indisputable reputation has landed him musical directing positions with everyone from D'Angelo to Eminem to Jay-Z. Questlove has also released four books, including the New York Times bestseller Mo' Meta Blues; Soul Train: The Music, Dance and Style of a Generation; somethingtofoodabout; and, most recently, Mixtape Potluck. Questlove and Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter of the Roots have executive produced the acclaimed documentary series Hip Hop: The Songs That Shook America on AMC under their production company, Two One Five Entertainment, which recently announced a first-look deal with Universal Television to develop scripted and non-scripted programming. Questlove will serve as executive producer for the upcoming documentary The League, centered on the tumultuous journey of Negro League baseball. He also made his directorial debut with the acclaimed feature documentary Summer of Soul, which explores the legendary 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. The film debuted on the opening night of the 2021 Sundance Film Festival in January. Questlove also recently announced he will direct a new documentary about the career and legacy of Sly Stone.

variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Merge its ODX...

variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Merge its ODX...: CHICAGO, Feb. 26: Enova International , a top fiscal expertise and analytics company offering consumer and small business loans and f...

Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Merge its ODX Business with Fundation's Business to create Market-Leading Digital Account Origination Company

CHICAGO, Feb. 26: Enova International , a top fiscal expertise and analytics company offering consumer and small business loans and financing, revealed that it has entered into a definitive contract to combine its ODX business with Fundation, an origination solutions contributor concentrated on the business banking market. Enova will keep a minority stake in the new combined business. The combined company will be named Linear Financial Technologies ("Linear") and will be the market leader in AI-based SaaS small business lending solutions, digital account origination technology and insights for financial institutions, B2B vendors and SMB service providers. "This transaction creates the largest independent SaaS provider to banks for small business lending, with a product set that is superior to other offerings in the market," said David Fisher, Enova's CEO. "We believe that this transaction will fuel growth for Linear while enabling us to more efficiently focus our efforts on growing our core U.S. SMB and consumer businesses." About Enova Enova International (NYSE: ENVA) is a leading financial technology company providing online financial services through its AI and machine learning powered lending platform. Enova serves the needs of non-prime consumers and small businesses, who are frequently underserved by traditional banks. Enova has provided more than 7 million customers with over $40 billion in loans and financing with market leading products that provide a path for them to improve their financial health.

variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Combine its O...

variednews: Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Combine its O...: CHICAGO, Feb. 26: Enova International, a top fiscal expertise and analytics company presenting client and small business loans and fina...

Enova Reveals Definitive Contract to Combine its ODX Business with Fundation's Business to create Market-Leading Digital Account Origination Company

CHICAGO, Feb. 26: Enova International, a top fiscal expertise and analytics company presenting client and small business loans and financing, revealed that it has entered into a definitive contract to combine its ODX business with Fundation, an origination solutions contributor concentrated on the business banking market. Enova will keep a minority stake in the new combined business. The combined company will be named Linear Financial Technologies ("Linear") and will be the market leader in AI-based SaaS small business lending solutions, digital account origination technology and insights for financial institutions, B2B vendors and SMB service providers. "This transaction creates the largest independent SaaS provider to banks for small business lending, with a product set that is superior to other offerings in the market," said David Fisher, Enova's CEO. "We believe that this transaction will fuel growth for Linear while enabling us to more efficiently focus our efforts on growing our core U.S. SMB and consumer businesses." About Enova Enova International is a leading financial technology company providing online financial services through its AI and machine learning powered lending platform. Enova serves the needs of non-prime consumers and small businesses, who are frequently underserved by traditional banks. Enova has provided more than 7 million customers with over $40 billion in loans and financing with market leading products that provide a path for them to improve their financial health.

variednews: Kanazawa University study: A biosensor for gauging...

variednews: Kanazawa University study: A biosensor for gauging...: KANAZAWA, Japan, Feb. 26: Scientists at Kanazawa University report in Biosensors and Bioelectronics a fruitful test of a sensor for gaug...

Kanazawa University study: A biosensor for gauging extracellular hydrogen peroxide concentrations

KANAZAWA, Japan, Feb. 26: Scientists at Kanazawa University report in Biosensors and Bioelectronics a fruitful test of a sensor for gauging hydrogen peroxide concentrations near cell membranes. The sensor has the capacity to become a tool for new cancer therapies. Several processes in the human body are regulated by biochemical reactions involving hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Although it can act as a 'secondary messenger', relaying or amplifying certain signals between cells, H2O2 is generally toxic because of its oxidant character. The latter means that it converts (oxidizes) biochemical molecules like proteins and DNA. The oxidizing property of H2O2 is of potential therapeutic relevance for cancer, though: deliberately causing tumor cells to increase their H2O2 concentration would be a way to destroy them. In light of this, but also for monitoring pathologies associated with H2O2 overproduction, it is crucial to have a means to reliably quantify hydrogen peroxide concentrations in the extracellular environment. Now, Leonardo Puppulin from Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University and colleagues have developed a sensor for measuring concentrations of H2O2 in the vicinity of cell membranes, with nanometer-resolution. The biosensor consists of a gold nanoparticle with organic molecules attached to it. The whole cluster is designed so that it anchors easily to the outside of a cell's membrane, which is exactly where the hydrogen peroxide molecules to be detected are. As attachment molecules, the scientists used a compound called 4MPBE, known to have a strong Raman scattering response: when irradiated by a laser, the molecules consume some of the laser light's energy. By measuring the frequency change of the laser light, and plotting the signal strength as a function of this change, a unique spectrum is obtained — a signature of the 4MPBE molecules. When a 4MPBE molecule reacts with a H2O2 molecule, its Raman spectrum changes. Based on this principle, by comparing Raman spectra, Puppulin and colleagues were able to obtain an estimate of the H2O2 concentration near the biosensor. After developing a calibration procedure for their nanosensor — relating the H2O2 concentration to a change in Raman spectrum in a quantitative way is not straightforward — the scientists were able to produce a concentration map with a resolution of about 700 nm for lung cancer cell samples. Finally, they also succeeded in extending their technique to obtain measurements of the H2O2 concentration variation across cell membranes. Puppulin and colleagues conclude that their "novel approach may be useful for the study of actual H2O2 concentrations involved in cell proliferation or death, which are fundamental to fully elucidate physiological processes and to design new therapeutic strategies."