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InvestorBrandNetwork (IBN) Recaps 2020 Milestones, Outlines 2021 Initiatives

NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via InvestorWire — InvestorBrandNetwork ("IBN"), an innovative corporate communications agency and diversified content distributor, today announces via an InvestorWire Global Release translated into 12 languages to 56 countries a recap of its milestones in 2020 and provides an overview of its plans for 2021.

For more details, view the full–length announcement in English: https://IBN.fm/2020Recap

Emerging in the communications arena with its first brand in 2006, IBN has recorded sustained and transformative growth. Today, IBN boasts a portfolio of 50+ brands with a collective social media audience that includes millions of followers. IBN's proven track record serving 500+ client partners highlights its unparalleled value proposition for both public and private companies, bolstered by its expansive network of 5,000+ key syndication partners.

Throughout 2020, IBN continued expansion of its audiences and syndication network while helping a growing list of client partners navigate unparalleled challenges. The most notable areas of growth include:

  • Podcasts Solutions for Executives and IR Firms "" As of today, IBN has produced and distributed more than 485+ episodes to numerous podcast directories such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio and Stitcher.
  • Distribution of Audio Press Releases and Interviews "" All told, IBN launched six new podcast channels in 2020. In 2021, IBN will launch The Bell2Bell Podcast, your primary destination for informative updates and exclusive interviews with executives operating in fast–moving industries.
  • More Virtual Investor Events "" IBN seamlessly transitioned from live event coverage to virtual event coverage as conferences were taken digital during the pandemic. IBN covered a full calendar of virtual investor events in 2020, providing additional reach to both public and private companies participating in these shows.
  • Apple TV, Roku and 90+ Additional OTT Networks "" IBN's syndication network was expanded to feature popular streaming media channels in 2020, including popular Over The Top (OTT) Media Solutions Platforms such as Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
  • Additional Brands "" With specialized brands for specific audiences, IBN has achieved tremendous engagement rates. In 2020, IBN announced the launch of new brands targeting fast–moving sectors filled with promising companies, such as PsychedelicNewsWire, MiningNewsWire, and BioMedWire.
  • Launched InvestorWire "" IBN's new press release wire service, InvestorWire, provides a full complement of wire service offerings alongside exclusive benefits such as press release enhancement, follow–up coverage via InvestorNewsBreaks and white–glove distribution services.

To learn more about IBN's 15+ year history, scroll through the visual timeline: https://IBN.fm/TimeLine

About InvestorBrandNetwork

The InvestorBrandNetwork ("IBN") consists of financial brands introduced to the investment public over the course of 15+ years. With IBN, we have amassed a collective audience of millions of social media followers. These distinctive investor brands aim to fulfill the unique needs of a growing base of client partners. IBN will continue to expand our branded network of highly influential properties, leveraging the knowledge and energy of specialized teams of experts to serve our increasingly diversified list of clients.

For more information on IBN, visit https://www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re–published: https://IBN.fm/Disclaimer

InvestorBrandNetwork (IBN)
Los Angeles, California
www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
310.299.1717 Office
Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8139716)

Low Carbon on Cement Possible with CCS

EDMONTON, Alberta, Jan. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A low carbon future for cement is advancing through a unique feasibility study to see carbon capture and storage (CCS) on Lehigh Cement's plant in Edmonton, Alberta. Recognizing the substantial role that large–scale CCS has in reducing greenhouse (GHG) emissions, Lehigh Cement, the International CCS Knowledge Centre (Knowledge Centre), and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group are moving forward with the engineering design for this feasibility study of the cement plant's carbon capture system.

A first for the North American cement industry, the Lehigh CCS Feasibility Study looks at the viability of capturing 90–95 per cent of the carbon dioxide (CO2) – an estimated 600,000 tonnes of CO2 annually – from the cement plant's flue gas. The study is also a first for each of these organizations in North America all of whom pledge to actively work toward decarbonization.

The study is timely as the recently released Canada Climate Plan specifically indicates that it will develop a comprehensive CCS strategy and explore other opportunities to help keep Canada globally competitive in this growing industry.

With experience gained through the design, construction, operation, and subsequent enhancements/modifications of the SaskPower Boundary Dam 3 CCS Facility (BD3 Facility), the Knowledge Centre, along with MHI Group and their collaborative work on the Shand CCS Feasibility Study, continue to be at the forefront of post–combustion capture processes globally and see an opportunity for CCS across post–combustion industries.

Due to the remarkable similarities in flue gases, the expertise acquired at the BD3 Facility can be adapted to the cement sector with experienced–based guidance from the Knowledge Centre. The Lehigh CCS Feasibility Study will look to an engineering design that tailors the carbon capture technology owned by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHIENG), part of MHI Group, so called KM CDR ProcessTM being deployed at 13 commercial plants globally, for integration with Lehigh's plant and output specifications, such as a flue gas pretreatment system and the carbon capture and compression process.

With cement demand on the rise and as a sector that is challenged with further abating emissions, large–scale CCS could well become the definitive solution to cut GHGs. The Lehigh CCS Feasibility Study explores the value of this for the cement industry, by encompassing engineering designs, cost estimation and an in–depth business case analysis.

Quotes

"Advancements for large–scale CCS on cement is important in the broader deployment of CCS facilities across sectors so that we, as global citizens, can make meaningful impact on emission reductions worldwide."
– Beth (Hardy) Valiaho, VP Strategy & Stakeholder Relations, International CCS Knowledge Centre

“The path to achieving a carbon–neutral world by 2050 requires the ability to decarbonize hard to abate sectors. By exploring and unlocking ways to expand our proven carbon capture technology to new markets and applications, we can face the challenge head–on."
– Yoshihiro Shiraiwa, President & CEO, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America

"This CCS feasibility study is essential for understanding how our industry can continue to meet growing production demands, while also meeting equally important climate targets. We are proud to be in a position to lead a global change with a crucial clean technology in our industry."
–Joerg Nixdorf, President, Lehigh Hanson Canada Region

QUICK FACTS & LINKS

Lehigh CCS Feasibility Study

  • The Lehigh CCS Feasibility Study is being jointly conducted by the Knowledge Centre and Lehigh Cement with a target delivery of fall 2021.
  • The objectives of the study are to deliver a Class 4 cost estimate; to work with a capture technology provider (MHI Group) to perform engineering design tailored to the Lehigh plant; to manage the process and engage third parties, as necessary; to complete a detailed business case; and to develop the budget for Front End Engineering Study (FEED).
  • This initiative has received $1.4M in funding from Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) through its Partnership Intake Program. ERA's investments help innovators develop and demonstrate GHG–reducing technologies that lower costs, improve competitiveness and accelerate Alberta's transformation to a low carbon economy.

Cement Emission Overview

  • Concrete, a product of cement, is the second most consumed substance on the planet, next to water, with roughly attributing three tonnes of concrete yearly by every person on earth (State of the Planet, Earth Institute, Columbia University).
  • Total emissions from the cement industry contribute as much as 7–8% of global CO2 emissions.
  • Two thirds or 5% of global emissions result from the chemical reactions in the cement production process and therefore cannot be eliminated through gains in energy efficiency.
  • Global demand for cement is expected to increase 12–23% by 2050 (IEA Report: Transforming Industry through CCUS)

About the International CCS Knowledge Centre (Knowledge Centre): with a mandate to advance the global understanding and deployment of large–scale CCS to reduce global GHG emissions, the Knowledge Centre provides the know–how to implement large–scale CCS projects as well as CCS optimization through the base learnings from both the fully–integrated Boundary Dam 3 CCS Facility and the comprehensive second–generation CCS study, known as the Shand CCS Feasibility Study. Operating since 2016 under the direction of an independent board, the Knowledge Centre was established by BHP and SaskPower. For more info: https://ccsknowledge.com/

About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group:
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is a global leader in engineering and manufacturing. With more than 80.000 employees working in over 300 companies worldwide. MHI Group is a major global force in power systems, industry and infrastructure, and the aircraft defense and space industries. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHIENG), together with Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. (KEPCO) started the development of the Kansai Mitsubishi Carbon Dioxide Recovery KM CDR ProcessTM, a post–combustion carbon capture technology, in 1990. As of November 2020, MHIENG has delivered a total of 13 commercial plants with the KM CDR ProcessTM, making it a global leader in carbon capture technology deployment. Two more plants are currently under construction. For more info: https://www.mhi.com/products/engineering/co2plants.html

About Lehigh Cement & Lehigh Hanson:
Since 1956, Lehigh Cement has been an innovator, partner and collaborator in advancing the cement and concrete industry, and supporting Alberta's economy. Lehigh Cement is an affiliated company of Lehigh Hanson, the North American operations of HeidelbergCement. For more info: https://www.lehighhanson.com.

Lehigh Hanson is part of HeidelbergCement, one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of building materials and solutions, with leading market positions in aggregates, cement, and ready mixed concrete. Around 54,000 employees at more than 3,000 locations in over 50 countries deliver long–term financial performance through operational excellence and openness for change. At the center of actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As forerunner on the path to carbon neutrality, HeidelbergCement crafts material solutions for the future.

About Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA):
For more than 10 years, ERA has been investing the revenues from the carbon price paid by large final emitters to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative clean technology solutions. Since ERA was established in 2009, they have committed $616 million toward 186 projects worth $4.55 billion that are helping to reduce GHGs, create competitive industries and are leading to new business opportunities in Alberta. These projects are estimated to deliver cumulative reductions of 35 million tonnes of CO by 2030. For more info: https://eralberta.ca/

MEDIA CONTACTS

International CCS Knowledge Centre
Jodi Woollam
Head of Communications & Media Relations
jwoollam@ccsknowledge.com
T: +1–306–565–5956 / M: +1–306–520–3710
ccsknowledge.com
@CCSKnowledge

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group
mediacontact_global@mhi.co.jp

Lehigh Hanson
Jeff Sieg
Director, Corporate Communications
972–653–6011
jeff.sieg@lehighhanson.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4540ab2–8b97–40d5–a10b–4ee2b47697d6


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8139663)

Biotalys Submits First Protein-Based Biocontrol Registration Package to the EPA

GHENT, Belgium and RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Jan. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Biotalys NV, a transformative food and crop protection company, announces that it has submitted its first protein–based biocontrol, Evoca, to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States for approval. Pending EPA registration, this biocontrol will offer U.S. fruit and vegetable growers a new way to combat major diseases to maximize yields and extend the shelf life after harvest of produce with substantially lower residues.

"Biotalys is thrilled to have begun the EPA registration process for its first product. While Evoca targets diseases like Botrytis cinerea and powdery mildew, we are leveraging the flexibility of our technology platform to advance a broad pipeline of products with new modes of action that will safely and reliably address key crop pests and diseases across the food value chain," commented Luc Maertens, COO of Biotalys.

Evoca will help growers effectively control key pathogens in the field, as well as in the food value chain to protect fruits and vegetables post harvest, extending shelf life and reducing decay and food loss. With its new mode of action and favourable safety profile, Evoca provides growers with additional rotational options to manage resistance in a more sustainable way.

The submission follows Biotalys' successful completion of an extensive field product development program and regulatory studies on Evoca. More than 200 field and greenhouse trials globally demonstrated high consistency in effective control of key pathogens in fruit and vegetables crops. With this submission and pending regulatory approvals, Biotalys is on track to introduce Evoca to select regions in the U.S. market in late 2022.

Biotalys will proceed with international registrations on its own, maintaining full ownership of all rights. Aligned with the go–to–market strategy for Evoca, the submission in the United States will be followed by a submission in the European Union. Major agricultural markets in Latin America and Asia are in scope for future registrations.

Evoca: Pending Registration. This product is not currently registered for sale or use in the United States and is not being offered for sale.

About Biotalys

Biotalys is a rapidly growing and transformative food and crop protection company developing a new generation of protein–based biocontrol solutions, shaping the future of sustainable and safe food supply. Based on its groundbreaking technology platform, Biotalys has developed a broad pipeline of effective and safe candidate products that aim to address key crop pests and diseases across the whole value chain, from soil to plate. Combining the high–performance characteristics and consistency of chemicals with the clean safety profile of biologicals, Biotalys goal is to provide ideal crop protection agents for both pre– and post–harvest applications. Based in the biotech cluster in Ghent, Belgium, Biotalys was founded in 2013 as a spin–off from the VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) and has raised 61 million ($66m USD) to date from specialist international investors. More information can be found on www.biotalys.com.

PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/c62d03a4–c6f2–4b53–a8d2–8883fcbfd403


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8139195)

PMTA VERIFIED RELEASES UNVERIFIED BRANDS LIST

Miami, FLA, Jan. 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PMTA Verified releases their Unverified List, uncovering e–liquid and device Brand Owners and Manufacturers who have made statements regarding PMTA Submission(s), but have neglected to provide proof to PMTA Verified in the form of a signed Acceptance Letter from the FDA.

It has been just over 130 days since the September 9th PMTA submission deadline and the trade is still awaiting the FDA's much–anticipated list of brands that have submitted PMTAs, with corresponding filing statuses.

"The public and trade must be aware; simply submitting an application does not guarantee it has been accepted for review. The review is the first step towards final approval, but as we have learned, many applications were not deemed acceptable and rejected from even review phase. Deeming these products effectively illegal for sale.”, stated Carlos Smith, MD, Founder of Vape Safe and PMTA Verified.

After multiple attempts to source verified PMTA Acceptance Letters based on their claim of submission, the following brands have been deemed Unverified by the PMTA Verified Team:


Bantam

Humble Juice Co.

Air Factory

Voopoo

British Vapor Co.

Caterpillar E–juice

Vaptio

Lady Boss Vapor

Lotus Vaping Technologies

Hometown Hero

Mom and Pop Vapor Shop

Prism E–Liquids

Forge Vapor

Vape Moar

Ecig Charleston

American E–Liquid Store

DuraSmoke

Suorin

Sigelei

HQD Tech

KangerTech

Innokin

Geek Vape

Aspire

Horizon Tech

Smok

Boulder

Joyetech

Uwell

Puff Bar

Bang Bar

POSH

VGOD

Oxva

Lost Vape

Vandy Vape

YiHi Sxmini

RipTide

Tasty Cloud

Prophet

"We welcome each and every Brand Owner to submit the proper documentation so we may accurately and transparently provide true PMTA status to those impacted by these applications", said Laura Tobin, Press Manager of PMTA Verified at PMTAfiled.com. "The sole purpose of PMTA Verified is to provide unbiased and up–to–date product status information in order to allow adult consumers and the trade to make informed decisions on Pre–Market Authorized products and beyond".

###

About PMTA Verified

PMTA Verified was born in 2016, to a nonprofit organization founded by a group of concerned Vapers and Industry leaders. PMTA Verified is led by an Emergency Room Physician and a passionate group of professionals that have all witnessed the impacts of limited solutions and misinformation within the communities and patients they serve.

To sign up for real–time PMTA alerts and information, visit pmtafiled.com. For media inquiries, please email press@pmtafiled.com. To submit your PMTA filing documentation, email info@pmtafiled.com.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8138945)

OSRAM Signs Supply and Commercial Agreement With LeddarTech for Automotive LiDAR and ADAS

QUEBEC CITY and MUNICH, Germany, Jan. 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech , a global leader in Level 1–5 ADAS and AD sensing technology and OSRAM, the global leader in automotive lighting and laser systems, are pleased to announce they have entered into a long–term agreement. LeddarTech will provide their industry–leading LiDAR hardware and software components into OSRAM's PERCEPT LiDAR platform.

The PERCEPT LiDAR platform is the first flexible solid–state LiDAR platform engineered with a strict focus on industrialization and automotive qualification. In a clear Tier 2 role, OSRAM wants to offer a mid– to long–range platform to OEMs, Tier 1s, and system integrators that can be adapted for their specific application.

This partnership targets to deliver the industry's first automotive–grade ADAS and eventually fully autonomous driving systems at mass–market pricing.

"Early in 2017, OSRAM recognized LeddarTech's promising technological LiDAR approach based on unique software and hardware components and therefore invested $70 million to become a major shareholder," said Dr Olaf Berlien, CEO of OSRAM Licht AG. "Since then, we have committed over $70 million more on developing LiDAR products, which has allowed OSRAM to offer LiDAR solutions to Tier 1s and OEMs that meet their cost and performance requirements for mass deployment."

OSRAM's PERCEPT LiDAR integrates LeddarTech's LeddarEngine, which is comprised of a family of highly integrated system–on–chips and related LiDAR measurement software that are ISO 26262 and significantly reduces system cost and development time. Combined with OSRAM's laser products and optical module design and industrialization expertise, the PERCEPT LiDAR platform is the most versatile and highest performance LiDAR available at a cost that can enable volume deployment of ADAS systems integrating LiDAR.

OSRAM and LeddarTech will also collaborate to deliver perception software solutions that deliver an enhanced 3D environmental model using the PERCEPT LiDAR. These solutions will be based on LeddarTech's perception technology, including raw data sensor fusion. This technology further contributes to deliver enhanced and cost–efficient ADAS systems through the fusion of cost–efficient LiDAR, cameras, and radar and with lower overall system computing power.

"LeddarTech is honored by the commitments expressed by OSRAM, one of the most respected and by far the largest lighting automotive suppliers in the world. OSRAM's presence selling into every major OEM with the PERCEPT LiDAR platform will transform the automotive industry and enable mass deployment of ADAS systems, leading to a significantly safer and vastly enhanced user experience," stated Mr. Charles Boulanger, CEO of LeddarTech. "OSRAM is one of the most respected automotive suppliers for optical systems and is positioned to be one of the leading suppliers of automotive LiDAR solutions." Mr. Boulanger continued: "LeddarTech's expertise in LiDAR, sensor fusion, and perception technology, combined with OSRAM's industrialization competencies and their track record in delivering highly reliable and quality automotive modules, is destined to be the model of a winning partnership for the industry." Mr. Boulanger concluded that he believes that the Tier 1 automotive suppliers, supported by technology providers such as LeddarTech, will dominate the market for LiDAR sensing systems just as they have with radar and other sensing platforms.

About OSRAM

OSRAM, based in Munich, is a leading global high–tech company with a history dating back more than 110 years. Primarily focused on semiconductor–based technologies, their products are used in highly diverse applications ranging from virtual reality to autonomous driving and from smartphones to smart and connected lighting solutions in buildings and cities. OSRAM uses the endless possibilities of light to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities. OSRAM's innovations enable people all over the world not only to see better, but also to communicate, travel, work, and live better. OSRAM had approximately 21,000 employees worldwide as of end of fiscal 2020 (September 30) and generated revenue of around three billion euros from continuing activities. The company is listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt and Munich (ISIN: DE000LED4000; WKN: LED 400; trading symbol: OSR). Additional information can be found at www.osram.com.

About LeddarTech

LeddarTech is a leader in environmental sensing platforms for autonomous vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems. Founded in 2007, LeddarTech has evolved to become a comprehensive end–to–end environmental sensing company by enabling customers to solve critical sensing and perception challenges across the entire value chain of the automotive and mobility market segments. With its LeddarVision sensor–fusion and perception platform and its cost–effective, scalable, and versatile LiDAR development solution for automotive–grade solid–state LiDARs based on the LeddarEngine, LeddarTech enables Tier 1–2 automotive system integrators to develop full–stack sensing solutions for autonomy level 1 to 5. These solutions are actively deployed in autonomous shuttle, truck, bus, delivery vehicle, smart city/factory, and robotaxi applications. The company is responsible for several innovations in cutting–edge automotive and mobility remote–sensing applications, with over 95 patented technologies (granted or pending) enhancing ADAS and autonomous driving capabilities.

Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

Contact:
Daniel Aitken, Vice–President, Global Marketing, Communications, and Product Management, LeddarTech Inc.
Tel.: + 1–418–653–9000 ext. 232
daniel.aitken@leddartech.com

Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarEngine, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, LeddarCore, VAYADrive, VayaVision, and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d8beb2b1–0c48–446f–8126–192e9a3cba2a


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8138492)

Madison Realty Capital Provides $53 Million Construction Financing to Heritage Equity Partners for Multifamily Development in Brooklyn

NEW YORK, Jan. 19, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Madison Realty Capital, a New York City based real estate private equity firm focused on debt and equity investment strategies, today announced it has provided $53 million in construction financing to Heritage Equity Partners, led by Toby Moskovits and Michael Lichtenstein, for a 150–unit ground–up multifamily development located at 875 4th Avenue between 32nd and 33rd Streets, in "South Park Slope," also known as the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY.

The construction loan features a LIBOR–based floating rate and was arranged by Meridian Capital Group and its Director Elliot Kunstlinger, who has a working relationship with both Heritage Equity Partners and Madison Realty Capital. The project is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2022. Heritage Development, a vertically integrated development and management firm with a focus on residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, is serving as general contractor for the project.

Located in an area certified as a "Qualified Opportunity Zone" under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the property will span approximately 140,000 square feet and include a total of 150 studio, one–bedroom and two–bedroom units. Residents will enjoy access to numerous top–tier amenities including a gym and yoga studio, children's playroom, shared workspace, function room, shared outdoor space, rooftop grill and sun deck, as well as in–unit washers and dryers. Further, the building boasts waterfront views and is the only Class A residential building within walking distance to the bustling creative hub at Industry City, as well as numerous transportation options including the D, N and R subway lines. Over the past five years, Industry City has experienced an influx of tech and creative jobs which has led to a vibrant revitalization of the area including numerous mixed–use, residential and retail development and office redevelopment projects.

"Sunset Park is a growing, creative neighborhood, yet suffers from an undersupply of attractive housing options," said Josh Zegen, Managing Principal and Co–Founder of Madison Realty Capital. "We are pleased to build upon our relationship with Heritage Equity Partners to provide a flexible solution and execute this $53 million loan that will bring vital new housing options to this vibrant and growing neighborhood."

"This area has seen major changes in the last few years, and there is not enough housing supply for all the new jobs created in this area," said Toby Moskovits, CEO of Heritage Equity Partners. "While there has been a large increase in companies moving into this area, there have not been enough residences built to accommodate the growth in population. There is a need for more housing in this area, for more rental apartments, and especially a need for new construction luxury units in this area. Our project will be providing both, as we are providing both affordable and luxury units in the two buildings that we will be constructing on this site. It is difficult to find sites in this area that allow for multi family development, and we are happy to be part of the solution for the housing shortage in this area."

Michael Lichtenstein, President of Heritage Equity Partners pointed out that this area is where the so–called South Park Slope area meets Industry city, "and so the confluence of neighborhoods of Sunset Park, Industry City and South Park Slope, makes this location very attractive for a mixed–use project, providing housing to all income levels that are attracted to this neighborhood."

"We have always focused on pioneering projects in new and growing neighborhoods, and are delighted to move ahead with this project, which brings to the fore our team's strengths in development, construction, and brings our vision to fruition, creating a beautiful building that will cater to all residents of these neighborhoods. While the pandemic has delayed all development projects in NYC, we are happy that we can move ahead with this project immediately thanks to our long running relationship with Madison Realty Capital," added Lichtenstein.

About Madison Realty Capital

Madison Realty Capital (MRC) is a New York City based real estate private equity firm focused on debt and equity investment strategies with regional offices in key markets including Los Angeles and Dallas. Founded in 2004, MRC has closed on approximately $13 billion of transactions in the multifamily, retail, office, industrial and hotel sectors. The firm manages investments in the United States on behalf of a global investor base. MRC is a fully integrated firm with over 60 employees across all real estate investment, development, and property management disciplines. Among other industry recognitions, MRC has been named to the Commercial Observer's prestigious "Power 100" list of New York City real estate players and is consistently cited as one of the industry's top construction lenders.

About Heritage Equity Partners

Heritage Equity Partners was founded by Toby Moskovits and Michael Lichtenstein in 2008, and has been at the forefront of innovative and community building projects. Heritage Equity Partners developed many well–known projects, such as the Spire Lofts, the Williamsburg Hotel, 25 Kent, and its principals have been amongst the first developers in Williamsburg, Long Island City, and are now developing in Mott Haven and South Bronx.

About Meridian Capital Group

Founded in 1991, Meridian Capital Group is America's most active dealmaker and one of the nation's leading commercial real estate finance, investment sales and retail leasing advisors. In 2019, Meridian closed over $40 billion in financing across more than 250 unique lenders. Meridian represents many of the world's leading real estate investors and developers and the company's expansive platform has specialized practices for a broad array of property types including office, retail, multifamily, hotel, mixed–use, industrial, and healthcare and senior housing properties. Meridian is headquartered in New York City with offices in New Jersey, Maryland, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, and California.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8137972)

Taconic Biosciences Expands Immuno-oncology Animal Model Portfolio

RENSSELAER, N.Y., Jan. 18, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Taconic Biosciences, a global leader in providing drug discovery animal model solutions, announces an expansion of its immuno–oncology portfolio.

Immuno–oncology is a leading research priority because it uses the body's own immune system to effectively treat some types of cancer. Syngeneic tumor animal models play a critical role because they use standard inbred mice that have a competent immune system, which is required to evaluate immune–modulating therapies. These models are engrafted with mouse tumors derived from the same strain background; this genetic similarity between tumor and host prevents the host from rejecting the tumor.

One consideration in using syngeneic models is that some drug candidates can cause a negative immune response not seen in humans. Standard mice may develop anti–drug antibodies (ADA), which can neutralize the therapeutic or even trigger anaphylaxis. This can prevent researchers from determining therapeutic efficacy in a preclinical study.

Taconic's Jh mouse, which lacks B cells but retains other immune cell types, such as T cells important for evaluation of immunotherapies, is widely used to overcome this problem. Because the Jh mouse cannot produce ADA, there is no neutralizing or pharmacokinetic impact on the therapeutic or anaphylaxis risk. Taconic's Jh mouse was previously only available on the BALB/c background, so it was applicable to only a portion of syngeneic tumor studies. The new Jh mouse on the C57BL/6 background expands utility to cover most studies.

"Taconic is committed to both generating key immuno–oncology mouse models and facilitating access to them for drug discovery," shared Dr. Michael Seiler, vice president of commercial models at Taconic. “The Jh mouse is available globally to both non–profit and for–profit researchers, including contract research organizations."

Cohorts of both the C57BL/6 and BALB/c versions of the Jh mouse are available for immediate delivery.

The Jh models are just one aspect of Taconic's immuno–oncology portfolio, which includes humanized mice built on the immunodeficient CIEA NOG mouse plus custom model generation and colony management solutions.

To learn more about Jh mice, please contact Taconic at 1–888–TACONIC (888–822–6642) in the US, +45 70 23 04 05 in Europe, or email info@taconic.com.

About Taconic Biosciences, Inc.

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

Media Contact:

Kelly Owen Grover
Director of Marketing Communications
518–478–6095
kelly.grover@taconic.com


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8126807)

Open Society Foundations Announce 2020 Puerto Rico Youth Fellows

San Juan, Jan. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Open Society Foundations are pleased to announce the 2020 recipients of the Puerto Rico Youth Fellowships, which support young Puerto Rican leaders working to elevate justice, promote human rights, and help underserved communities in Puerto Rico.

The fellowship program, now in its second year, recognizes 10 recipients from all over the island""from central San Juan to the island of Vieques""working on a wide range of issues. Among the fellows' projects: teaching young people about food sovereignty, strengthening support for LGBTQPIA+ youth across the island, elevating the leadership of Black youth, and using art as a medium to spark political engagement by young Puerto Ricans.

"Puerto Rican youth have encountered some of the worst living conditions in generations, from Hurricane Maria to earthquakes to the pandemic," said Karina Claudio Betancourt, director of Open Society's Puerto Rico Project. "Despite these challenges, their leadership has transformed the political landscape of the island and has resulted in the ousting of the former governor Ricardo Rosell, and in the defeat of colonial bipartisan control of the Puerto Rican government."

Betancourt continued: "These projects reflect the vast range of ideas and initiatives that will help spur further transformation in Puerto Rico and will help build power and amplify the voices of communities too often left out of political and policy debates."

The Puerto Rico Youth Fellowships Program continues Open Society's commitment to investing in and building power among youth on the island. Open Society has been working in Puerto Rico since 2013, supporting a range of organizations, movements, and individuals that contribute to strengthening civil society, civic participation, transparency, and government accountability on the archipelago and in the diaspora. To date, Open Society has invested $20 million in Puerto Rico–related issues""and plans to continue to invest in the coming years.

"As a young Afro–Puerto Rican, I am proud of the opportunity to accompany and work with the new cohort of the Youth fellows," said Loidymar Duprey, co–coordinator of the fellowships. "In recent years, many Puerto Rican youth have had to leave the island in search of better opportunities, driven away by the panorama of challenges and crises that the archipelago is going through. These grants open the door for young people like me to reimagine their communities and advocate for social justice and human rights from and for their home. The goal is for these young people to continue dreaming, fighting, and paving the way for future generations of young leaders and activists from Puerto Rico that we deserve."

"It is an honor to participate again as coordinator of the Youth Fellowship""a program that in its second year continues to rely on the great power of Puerto Rican youth," said Alvaro Fernandez, fellowships co–coordinator. "In this new cohort, I see reflected the diversity and collective resistance of Puerto Rico's social movements""movements that despite so much uncertainty will not stop growing and strengthening. I see in these 10 young people the love they have for Puerto Rico and the courage they share to continue in the fight for a better future. I congratulate all of the recipients."

Fellowship recipients range in age between 18 and 27. They will receive up to $50,000 for working full–time on their projects for an 18–month period.

2020 Puerto Rico Youth Fellows

Edrimael Delgado Reyes (pronouns: he, him, his) will develop queer spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in Puerto Rico through LaBoriVogue, a laboratory using vogue as an agent of individual transformation and collective justice.

Luis Mi Rodrguez–Rodrguez (pronouns: they, her, hers) will create content for the LGBTQ+ community through Plvora Colectiva Cuir, a digital media collective generating safe spaces for discussion and debate within queer communities.

Camil Libert Valentn Arce (pronouns: she, her, hers) will develop Amarilla, a workshop and community garden offering resources for a more dignified life to the disadvantaged in Aguadilla through art and agroecology.

Cristian J. Laracuente Vzquez (pronouns: he, him, his) will lead Taller Lumpen, a project developing street art as a tool for education and socialization of essential resources to combat inequality in Mayagez.

Venus A. Pez Hernndez (pronouns: she, her, hers) will develop the S.A.L.V.A. project (Food Sovereignty Achieving Agroecological Vieques), with a mission to provide educational resources to promote agribusiness development.

Jesef Reyes Morales (pronouns: he, him, his) will develop Semillas de Apoyo Mutuo en Utuado, a project to promote food sovereignty and local organizing for the agricultural workers in Tetun, a community in Utuado.

Anna Margarita (pronouns: she, her, hers) is co–founder of Caribana Coop, a worker–owned co–op that seeks to create spaces and tools to reimagine our education and our economic, social and land relations.

Jun Daz Gonzlez (pronouns: he, they, theirs) will lead Flor de Loto, a mentorship project focusing on human rights and LGBTI youth in the area and surrounding communities of Caguas.

Mara Jos (pronouns: she, they, theirs) will develop House of Grace, a trans–feminist antiracist collective promoting mutual aid, economic justice, and artistic development for trans–feminine nonbinary individuals of color.

Cristian Eduardo Martnez Medina (pronouns: he, him, his) will develop Escuela de Liderazgo Poltico y Comunitario, a project seeking to support a community space for young Black leaders in Yabucoa.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8125587)

Sabin Vaccine Institute Funds Researchers to Investigate COVID-19 Misinformation, Design Solutions to Increase Vaccine Acceptance

WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Sabin Vaccine Institute (Sabin) announced today that it has awarded grants to research teams in four countries to explore the social drivers of COVID–19 misinformation, and its impact on routine immunization acceptance and the acceptance of a COVID–19 vaccine.

The grants are part of Sabin's Social and Behavioral Interventions for Vaccination Acceptance Small Grants Program, which provides funding to researchers in low– and middle–income countries to better understand the social drivers of vaccination and design small–scale interventions to assess their impact on vaccination acceptance.

Five research teams in India, Kenya, Pakistan and Uganda will receive up to $30,000 to conduct this research and pilot a small–scale intervention in their respective communities over a period of 10 months.

Through this support, Sabin is encouraging collaborative, on–the–ground relationships between academic researchers, health officials and local communities. Grantees will have the opportunity to build relationships and have impactful conversations about their research and potential applications of social science for immunization with the Sabin–led interdisciplinary Vaccination Acceptance Research Network, an international group of social scientists and public health experts addressing vaccine acceptance and demand. Sabin will also support each research team in the compilation and dissemination of an open access journal publication, accessible to the communities in which the research is conducted. Due to the ongoing COVID–19 pandemic, all components of the projects will be conducted virtually to ensure the safety of the research teams and the communities they work with.

“It is more important than ever to better understand vaccine acceptance in low– and middle–income countries," said Kaitlin Christenson, vice president of Vaccine Acceptance & Demand at Sabin. “The expected introduction of a COVID–19 vaccine furthers the need to learn more about driving acceptance and demand for vaccines and to work with community immunization programs on intervention strategies, while continuing to improve overall immunization uptake."

The 2020 Sabin grantees include:

In India, Dr. Rajeev Seth, MBBS, MD, DNB, a senior consultant pediatrician leading Bal Umang Drishya Sanstha, a non–profit organization in New Delhi focused on child health and welfare for marginalized children, will lead a team of researchers to study community health worker perceptions of and misinformation surrounding vaccines. Co–investigators from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, represented by Baldeep Dhaliwal, MPH, and Dr. Anita Shet, MD, from the Department of International Health within the International Vaccine Access Center, will collaborate with Dr. Seth and a team of researchers on the project. The virtual study will employ multi–pronged community health worker interventions in the Mewat district of Haryana, India, to address barriers to vaccine acceptance.

In Kenya, Dr. Benson Wamalwa, MSc, PhD, research scientist and lecturer from the University of Nairobi, will lead a team to virtually study COVID–19 misinformation in trusted social networks with the goal of better understanding perceptions of COVID–19 and the community's willingness to accept a COVID–19 vaccine in Tans Nzoia, Kenya. The research team will then implement and evaluate an intervention that seeks to debunk COVID–19 misinformation through teleconsultations. Kenya Registered Nurse Chrysanthus Wamela, chief registrar of the maternal neonatal and child health unit of AMUA, joins the team as the co–investigator guiding the project.

In Pakistan, Abdul Momin Kazi, MPH, MBBS, assistant research professor in pediatrics and child health at Aga Khan University in Karachi, will lead a virtual research project to study the perceptions and barriers of childhood vaccination amongst health care workers and caregivers at a peri–urban site in Karachi. The research team will also explore the role of mobile health–based interventions and social media on improving childhood immunization during COVID–19. Dr. Fauzia Aman Malik, PhD, MSc, special advisor to the dean for global health research initiatives at Yale University, will serve as the co–investigator on the project.

Also in Pakistan, Rubina Qasim, MSc, a lead researcher and lecturer at Dow University of Health Science in Karachi, will lead a research team exploring misinformation surrounding COVID–19 and vaccination amongst urban slum dwellers in Landhi Town, Karachi. Following their research, the team will employ a co–design approach, working with community members to design and implement an appropriate intervention addressing COVID–19 misinformation and its impact on the acceptance of a COVID–19 vaccine. Dr. Mohammad Tahir Yousafzai, PhD, consultant epidemiologist and senior instructor at Aga Khan University, joins the project as the co–investigator.

In Uganda, Dr. Freddy Kitutu, PhD, a lecturer of health systems, pharmacist, and researcher and dean of the School of Health Sciences at Makerere University, will lead a team to study the prevalence and effect of misinformation in Buikwe District. Following their research, the team will train and empower community influencer groups to address COVID–19 misinformation and vaccine hesitancy. The virtual study will explore dialogue–based social mobilization intervention through community groups and influencers. Jacquellyn Nambi Ssanya, MPH, from Makerere University School of Public Health joins the project as the co–investigator.

About the Sabin Vaccine Institute

The Sabin Vaccine Institute is a leading advocate for expanding vaccine access and uptake globally, advancing vaccine research and development, and amplifying vaccine knowledge and innovation. Unlocking the potential of vaccines through partnership, Sabin has built a robust ecosystem of funders, innovators, implementers, practitioners, policy makers and public stakeholders to advance its vision of a future free from preventable diseases. As a non–profit with more than two decades of experience, Sabin is committed to finding solutions that last and extending the full benefits of vaccines to all people, regardless of who they are or where they live. At Sabin, we believe in the power of vaccines to change the world. For more information, visit www.sabin.org and follow us on Twitter, @SabinVaccine.

Media Contact:
Mary Beth Wooden
Sabin Vaccine Institute
+1 (202) 842–5025
press@sabin.org


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8123852)

SweeGen Announces Successful Scale-up of Bestevia® Reb N

Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., Jan. 12, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SweeGen is making possible a healthier, more guilt–free, and sweeter world with the commercialization of Bestevia Rebaudioside N (Reb N), a special zero–calorie, highly sought–after natural stevia sweetener.

Reb N is a naturally occurring sweetener found in stevia leaves. The unique sensory profile of Bestevia Reb N makes it especially attractive for beverage applications, which is an application space that has already been exclusively licensed out. With its unique functionality, Reb N also works very well in a variety of foods.

Following SweeGen's commercial announcements of Bestevia Rebs B and I this year, and with the addition of Reb N, the company's portfolio of sugar reduction solutions is the broadest available in the industry for tackling sugar reduction challenges.

"Bestevia Reb N has a unique sweet profile that helps us create solutions that have a taste profile closer to both full–calorie and high intensity sweeteners," said Shari Mahon, SVP of global application technology. "Our solutions are one of the most unique and tailored in the industry because of our access to the widest range of Rebs for sugar reduction."

SweeGen's entire proprietary portfolio of natural stevia sweeteners are classified as next generation non–GMO, high–purity, and clean tasting. The Bestevia portfolio includes Rebs B, D, E, I, M, and now Reb N. These Rebs translate to highly–relevant, clean–label, sustainable, natural sweeteners that consumers are seeking in finished products.

Much like Bestevia Rebs M, E and I, Reb N is found in trace quantities in the stevia leaf, which historically made it difficult and expensive to isolate. SweeGen's Bestevia Reb N is now accessible because it is produced by a patented bioconversion technology, which starts with sustainably–sourced stevia leaf, and results in great tasting, pure molecules that are found in nature. This process was developed by Conagen, a biotech innovator of sustainable ingredients.

"The introduction of Reb N is another great example of how Conagen's deep expertise in bioconversion technology enables the creation of unique stevia sweeteners," said Conagen's VP of Innovation, Dr. Casey Lippmeier. "With such a wide range of next generation stevia offerings now available, we will see a new level of innovation in better–for–you products that was previously considered impossible."

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About SweeGen

Sweegen provides sweet taste solutions for food and beverage manufacturers around the world.

We are on a mission to reduce the sugar and artificial sweeteners in our global diet. Partnering with customers, we create delicious zero–sugar products that consumers love. With the best next generation stevia sweeteners in our portfolio such as Bestevia Rebs B, D, E, I, M, and N, along with our deep knowledge of flavor modulators and texturants, SweeGen delivers market–leading solutions that customers want and consumers prefer.

For more information please contact info@sweegen.com and visit SweeGen's website, www.sweegen.com.

About Conagen

Conagen is making the impossible possible. Our scientists and engineers are bettering humankind and the world by employing advanced synthetic biology tools for the bioproduction of high–value ingredients for food, nutrition, flavor and fragrance, pharmaceutical, and renewable materials industries. www.conagen.com

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward–Looking Statements

This press release contains forward–looking statements, including, among other statements, statements regarding the future prospects for Reb M stevia leaf sweetener. These statements are based on current expectations, but are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are beyond the control of SweeGen, Inc.

Relevant risks and uncertainties include those referenced in the historic filings of SweeGen, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward–looking statements, and therefore should be carefully considered. SweeGen, Inc. assumes no obligation to update any forward–looking statements as a result of new information or future events or developments.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8124367)