Varex To Launch ‘Local for Local’ Campaign At CMEF

Varex at CMEF 2019: Booth #1D11

May 14-17, 2019

Conference & Exhibit: China International Medical Equipment Fair

National Convention & Exhibition Center, Shanghai, China

SALT LAKE CITY, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Varex Imaging Corporation (Nasdaq: VREX) today announced it will showcase its latest digital detectors, X-ray imaging tubes, connect and control devices and software solutions at the Chinese Medical Equipment Fair (CMEF), Asia Pacific’s leading event for the healthcare value chain, in Shanghai on May 14-17, 2019.

Varex will also launch its new ‘Local for Local’ campaign at CMEF. This initiative reflects an investment in the company’s Wuxi facility to service business in China with increased local X-ray tube and digital detector manufacturing and the aim of being global partners for local business.

“We are a global company that brings innovative X-ray imaging components to imaging systems manufacturers. One of our strategies is to be globally local and get as close to our customers as possible by establishing local commercial relationships, delivering local service and support, and sourcing from local suppliers as much as possible. Our customers in China want a local partner and we believe the investment in and expansion of our Wuxi facility is a key element for Varex to be successful in China,” said Sunny Sanyal, Chief Executive Officer of Varex Imaging Corporation.

More specifically, the investment in the company’s Wuxi facility aims to:

• Enable Varex to offer service support, returns, delivery in China and to provide increased flexibility to support its customer base on a timely basis, and
• Reduce shipping and tariff costs for customers

“Varex continues to grow its footprint in Wuxi, and we are in the early stages of the activities that we have planned in terms of delivering high quality service to our customers. I’m excited about the future and our investments in Wuxi will increase the level of customer service that we can provide our Chinese customers,” stated David O’Reilly, Senior Manager of Operations Service Center for Varex Imaging Corporation.

At CMEF 2019, Varex will exhibit new and improved products as well as packaged solutions for Radiography, Mammography, Fluoroscopy and Computed Tomography (CT). Products to be showcased include:

Digital Flat Panel Detectors

3024MX is second-generation FPD for Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) and Full Field Digital Mammography (FFDM). The new model 3024MX has a maximum frame rate of 5 fps, 40% higher saturation dose, and improved low dose performance which makes 3024MX a robust and cost-efficient choice for 3D tomosynthesis and mammography.

CMOS 3131 is a large area FPD with great low-dose performance and imaging speed for Mobile C-arm, Cardiovascular, and Dental CBCT applications. 

3131Z first in a planned series of Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) based FPDs for Surgical and Dental applications with a 100 µm pixel size. The Z platform offers significant performance benefits over most a-Si detectors.

X-Ray Tubes

The Varex mammography portfolio includes the B-121, an upgrade to Varex’s B-115 housing design. The unique fan shroud design allows 300W of heat dissipation compared to the 100W of dissipation with the B-115. This increase in dissipation supports the shift to 3D tomosynthesis imaging in women’s healthcare.

Varex brought the revolutionary anode end grounded X-ray tube technology to the CT market and is now bringing that same technology to the cardiovascular / angiography X-ray tube market with the anode end grounded FP-1596. This is a small, lightweight, compact design with excellent image quality due to significant reduction in off focal radiation. 

The MCS-6074 is a cost-effective replacement for the GE Performix and Performix 40 X-Ray tube.  The MCS-6074 with conventional bearings, is optimized in form and function for use in a wide range of GE CT scanners, including the Optima CT660. As an updated offering from the Varex Imaging Service Solutions Group, the MCS-6074 is available with technical and logistics support to enable increased system uptime and assist our customers’ success.

Software

Nexus DR^TM and DRF^TM software are multi-purpose digital image acquisition software systems that combines RF and DR capabilities on one imaging platform using various flat panel detectors.

Connect & Control Solutions 

The Optica^TM 10 and Optica^TM 40 collimators are available for integration with radiography and fluoroscopy systems. The Optica^TM 10 is a manually operated collimator for integration with mobile and stationary radiography systems. This collimator is equipped with a long-life power LED that projects a bright light field on the exposed area. LED brightness and timer are adjustable via an internal USB port.

Varex Imaging will be highlighting packaged component solutions for medical applications at CMEF and will have their team of imaging experts on hand at the show to advise customers on these offerings. Andrew Hartmann, Varex Senior Vice President of Medical Global Sales and Marketing commented, “Collaboration with customers is something that differentiates us. Not only do we design and build X-ray imaging components; we also have an extensive engineering department that allows us to engage on a new project with our customers from the very beginning and provide them access to Varex engineers to supplement the work they are doing. This allows us to provide customized solutions for each of our customers.”

About Varex

At Varex, we aren’t just a supplier to our customers. We aim to be an extension of their teams; a partner in their success; a solution to their problem. Our goal is to enable our customers to become world-class system suppliers by strengthening their competitiveness and enabling them to bring products to market faster. Our rich history spans 65+ years of dedication to the imaging industry. Our knowledge, our people, and our innovation make us who we are. At Varex, we are Solutions in Sight^TM.

For more information about Varex visit: www.vareximaging.com.

For Information Contact:
Kirstie Mogilner
Marketing Manager
+44 (0) 7909449409 | kirstie.mogilner@vareximaging.com

Howard Goldman
Director of Investor & Public Relations
+1 (801) 978-5274 | howard.goldman@vareximaging.com

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HONG KONG, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — As a company whose purpose is to make the world healthier and happier, premier global nutrition company, Herbalife Nutrition, today released findings from its Asia Pacific Healthy Breakfast Survey 2019. Conducted in March 2019 with 5,500 respondents in 11 markets – Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam – the survey revealed that while the majority of Asia Pacific consumers understand the benefits of a healthy breakfast, and desire to consume healthier breakfasts, seven in 10 (67%) still make breakfast decisions based on convenience, ahead of health benefits (43%) and nutritional value (33%).

Herbalife Nutrition Asia Pacific Healthy Breakfast Survey 2019

The Asia Pacific Healthy Breakfast Survey 2019 builds upon the original study conducted in 2018, which looked at consumers’ attitudes and habits towards breakfast. This year, the survey uncovered the typical local breakfast combinations that consumers opt for, the factors influencing these decisions, as well as their views of what makes up a healthier breakfast combination.

“It is widely understood that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Starting each day with a healthy breakfast supports metabolism, muscle health and long-term weight management. With this in mind, it is essential that consumers make informed decisions to kickstart their day with the right nutrients. Herbalife Nutrition offers breakfast options that provide the optimal nutrition foundation for consumers to lead healthier lives,” said Stephen Conchie, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Herbalife Nutrition. 

Coffee and Eggs — The Typical Breakfast Combination for Asia Pacific Consumers

When asked about the breakfast choices that Asia Pacific consumers would typically go for, the survey revealed “coffee and eggs” as the most popular breakfast combination for consumers in Australia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand. The only exceptions were Hong Kong and Indonesia where “tea and eggs” took top spot, and in Vietnam where “coffee and bread bun” was voted the top breakfast combination. On average, Asia Pacific consumers said that they consume their typical breakfast combination 16 times each month, equating to around once every two days.

Convenience — The Top Influencing Factor for Consumers’ Choice of Breakfast

On the reasons that influenced their typical breakfast choices, Asia Pacific consumers highlighted the following as their top five considerations:

• Convenience (67%)
• Tastiness (47%)
• Cost-effectiveness (44%)
• Healthy (43%)
• Nutritious (33%)

With convenience being the key consideration factor in their choice of breakfast, majority of consumers also chose the most convenient way to get their typical breakfast ready:

• 51% said they would prepare the breakfast from scratch at home
• 22% would purchase it from a nearby eatery
• 18% would prepare it using processed food at home

When it comes to their preferred location to consume breakfast:

• 70% prefer to consume breakfast at home
• 11% prefer to consume it at a nearby eatery
• 10% would consume it at work
• 6% would consume it on-the-go

Asia Pacific Consumers Divided Over Healthier Breakfast Choices

When asked about what they would consider as a healthier breakfast combination, the views of Asia Pacific consumers’ were divided. In Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, milk was considered a healthier beverage option compared to coffee; in Hong Kong and Taiwan, soy milk was considered a healthier option; while in Malaysia and Singapore, tea was considered healthier.

The top healthier breakfast combination in each of the Asia Pacific markets are:

• Milk and Eggs – Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam
• Plain Water and Fruits – Australia
• Soy Milk and Cereal – Hong Kong
• Milk and Plain Toast – Japan
• Plain Water and Rice – Korea
• Tea and Eggs – Malaysia
• Tea and Oatmeal – Singapore
• Soy Milk and Eggs – Taiwan

The diversity of responses shows that Asia Pacific consumers may not be fully aware of the ideal nutritional make-up for breakfast. While the “plain water and fruits” combination selected by consumers in Australia is high in fiber and vitamin content, there is a noticeable lack of protein, which when consumed in appropriate amounts at breakfast, supports metabolism, muscle health and weight management. Additionally, the healthier breakfast option selected by consumers in Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Taiwan are lacking significantly in fiber.

Asia Pacific Consumers Desire for Healthier Breakfasts

Despite the lack of widespread understanding on the ideal nutritional composition for a healthy breakfast, over eight in 10 (82%) Asia Pacific consumers said that they desire to consume healthier breakfasts, with over nine in 10 consumers in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam wanting to do so. However, the lack of time (62%), amount of effort required (31%) and inconvenience (31%) remained as key obstacles that prevent them from doing so.

“There is no doubt that Asia Pacific consumers want their breakfast to be healthy, tasty, convenient and cost-effective all at the same time. For us at Herbalife Nutrition, we’ve invested in new products while continually improving on our current products such as the Herbalife Nutrition Formula 1, to make it really easy for consumers to prepare a tasty, nutritious, healthy breakfast every day,” added Conchie.

Herbalife Nutrition Asia Pacific Wellness Tour

Herbalife Nutrition is bringing its 11th Asia Pacific Wellness Tour to the region, featuring a series of nutrition talks held in cities across Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. The Tour, which lasts through May, will play host to Herbalife Nutrition experts and Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board (NAB) members, who will share their expertise on a variety of health-related topics, and educate the public on the importance of having a healthy breakfast every day.

About Herbalife Nutrition

Herbalife Nutrition is a global nutrition company whose purpose is to make the world healthier and happier. The Company has been on a mission for nutrition – changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and programs – since 1980. Herbalife Nutrition offers high-quality, science-backed products, one-on-one coaching with an Herbalife Nutrition Independent Member, and a supportive community that inspires customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Herbalife Nutrition’s targeted nutrition, weight-management, energy and fitness and personal care products are available through its Independent Members in more than 90 countries.

Herbalife Nutrition supports the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists community organizations focused on providing good nutrition. Herbalife Nutrition is also proud to sponsor more than 190 world-class athletes, teams and events around the globe.

Herbalife Nutrition has more than 8,300 employees worldwide. To learn more, visit IAmHerbalife.com.

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World Lupus Federation global survey highlights the need for education, specialty care and emotional support for millions of people living with lupus

WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — More than 6 in 10 (61.6%) people living with lupus say the disease has had ‘a lot’ of effect on their emotional and mental well-being, according to data from a global online survey of nearly 5,000 people with lupus released by the World Lupus Federation for World Lupus Day on May 10. About one-third of respondents noted the disease had at least ‘some’ effect.

The survey also revealed that 8 in 10 people with lupus are interested in joining a support group that focuses on improving their emotional and mental well-being. The psychological impact of lupus can be as devastating as its physical complications, which affects at least five million people worldwide.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system is out of balance with self, producing antibodies that target healthy tissue and organs. The disease most often affects the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. While therapies are available to help manage symptoms, there is no cure for lupus. About 40 different treatments are in various stages of clinical development and testing, offering hope for better management of the disease in the future.

Three in four survey respondents indicated they were interested in learning about new opportunities to participate in a clinical trial of a potential new treatment for lupus; however, 80% of respondents had never been asked by their doctor whether they might be interested in joining such a trial. 

The survey results reinforce patient-centered ‘calls to action’ included in a new report, A Vision for Lupus, that will be published online by GSK at visionforlupus.org for World Lupus Day. Representatives of the World Lupus Federation served on the Global Multidisciplinary Steering Committee to develop the report, which highlights gaps and inconsistencies in care and areas for action to address these gaps that can often exist for people with lupus and their families.

The action calls include the need to raise awareness of clinical trials to facilitate participation by people with lupus, and programs to help people with lupus feel more acknowledged, understood and supported through their disease journey.

Full survey data and a summary of the findings are available at worldlupusday.org.

Media Contact: Duane Peters, peters@lupus.org.

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Source: United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd.

AUSTIN, Texas, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — VolitionRx Limited (NYSE AMERICAN: VNRX) (“Volition”) today announced that it has added to its extensive clinical trial program with the execution of a contract under the previously announced Memorandum of Understanding, to conduct its first large-scale lung cancer study in conjunction with the prestigious National Taiwan University (“NTU”). The study will be conducted under the supervision of Professor Chen Jin-Shing in the Department of Surgery of NTU and will include 1,200 subjects receiving Low-Dose Computed Tomography scans, including 1,000 with lung cancer.

Professor Chen Jin-Shing commented: “Lung cancer remains the deadliest of all the cancers and there is a high unmet clinical need for either a non-invasive early stage lung cancer detection test or for a triage test which can improve the specificity of the Low-Dose CT scan currently used. The early data from the Nu.Q™ technology platform is promising, and clearly larger scale studies are required. We are delighted to execute this agreement and very much look forward to evaluating the Nu.Q™ technology platform”.

“We are delighted with the progress we have achieved with the network of key influencers and collaborators in Asia and in particular our expanded relationship with the National Taiwan University,” commented Dr. Jasmine Kway, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Volition. “At a total cost of approximately $320,000 payable over two years, this study demonstrates once more Volition’s commitment to conducting large yet cost effective trials worldwide. We are hopeful that our recent proof of concept results in lung cancer will be repeated in this much larger cohort. We expect to release preliminary data relating to the first 600 patient samples in the first quarter of 2020.”

Volition recently announced preliminary results from two proof of concept studies utilising its first optimized product-grade assay:

• In a lung cancer cohort (76 subjects), a single Nu.Q™ assay detected lung cancer, including stage I lung cancer. The Area Under the Curve (“AUC”) for this single assay was 85%, cancer versus healthy.
• In a second confirmatory lung cancer cohort (152 subjects), the same single Nu.Q™ assay also detected lung cancer with an AUC of 79%, cancer versus healthy.

Volition has also recently executed a nonbinding Memorandum of Understanding with Shanghai Fosun Long March Medical Science Co., Ltd. with the shared intention to enter into a binding agreement and to conduct three small-scale clinical trials in China. One of the trials is in lung cancer, and the others are in colorectal cancer and ovarian cancer, with preliminary data expected in 2019.  

About the National Taiwan University

NTU is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and is the top university in Taiwan. The University has a wide network of partners and collaborators and plays a leading role in education and research. The University has four university level research centers, with an overall student population of approximately 33,000.

About Volition

Volition is a multi-national life sciences company developing simple, easy to use, cost effective blood tests to help diagnose a range of cancers and other diseases. Early diagnosis has the potential to not only prolong the life of patients, but also to improve their quality of life. The tests are based on the science of Nucleosomics™, which is the practice of identifying and measuring nucleosomes in the bloodstream or other bodily fluid – an indication that disease is present.

Volition’s research and development activities are currently centered in Belgium, with additional offices in Texas, London and Singapore, as the company focuses on bringing its diagnostic products to market.

For more information about Volition, visit Volition’s website (http://www.volitionrx.com) or connect with us via:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/volitionrx 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volitionrx 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VolitionRx/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VolitionRx

The contents found at Volition’s website address, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are not incorporated by reference into this document and should not be considered part of this document.  The addresses for Volition’s website, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are included in this document as inactive textual references only.

Media / Investor Contacts

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements in this press release may be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that concern matters that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking statements. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “aims,” “targets,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “optimizing,” “potential,” “goal,” “suggests,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “may,” “will” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements relate to the negotiation and execution of a binding agreement with Fosun Long March Medical Science Co., Ltd. and the timing of availability of preliminary data under such agreement, the effectiveness of Volition’s blood-based diagnostic tests as well as Volition’s ability to develop and successfully commercialize such test platforms for early detection of cancer and other diseases. Volition’s actual results may differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements due to numerous risks and uncertainties. For instance, if Volition fails to develop and commercialize diagnostic products, it may be unable to execute its plan of operations. Other risks and uncertainties include Volition’s failure to obtain necessary regulatory clearances or approvals to distribute and market future products in the clinical IVD market; a failure by the marketplace to accept the products in Volition’s development pipeline or any other diagnostic products Volition might develop; Volition will face fierce competition and Volition’s intended products may become obsolete due to the highly competitive nature of the diagnostics market and its rapid technological change; and other risks identified in Volition’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other documents that Volition files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about Volition’s business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release, and, except as required by law, Volition does not undertake an obligation to update its forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

Nucleosomics™, and Nu.Q™ and their respective logos are trademarks and/or service marks of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, service marks and trade names referred to in this press release are the property of their respective owners. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, all references to “$” refer to the legal currency of the United States of America. 

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SANTA CLARA, California, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Based on its recent analysis of the global multipurpose digital radiography (DR) systems market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes Agfa NV (Agfa) with the 2019 Global New Product Innovation Award for its DR 800 multi-purpose system. The product combines design features and modern technologies such as VarioDrive and LiveVision™ with game-changing Dynamic Multi-Scale Image Contrast Amplification (MUSICA®) processing. This product enables clinicians to perform general radiography, a full range of fluoroscopy examinations, and advanced clinical applications in a single, integrated room. Suitable for any patient, including the most challenging to image, Agfa’s extensive DR 800 X-ray room allows healthcare organizations to optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) while still providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

2019 Global Multipurpose Digital Radiography Systems New Product Innovation Award

“Agfa worked alongside radiologists, technologists, and administrators at Loma Linda University Medical Center and Florida Hospital, the largest healthcare provider in the Southeast region of the United States (US) while designing the DR 800 system,” said Poornima Srinivasan, Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan. “With this customer-driven development approach, it aligns design features and state-of-the-art technologies, including its best-in-class Dynamic MUSICA®, to achieve superior image quality, workflow productivity, and dose optimization standards.”

The multi-purpose DR 800 X-ray room allows healthcare organizations to decrease TCO and return on investment while increasing value in the healthcare delivery chain. It generates efficiencies through higher utilization rates, shorter exam preparation and procedure times, and quality, patient-centered care. The workstation’s color pallet reduces operator eye fatigue, offers seamless automatic stitching for full-leg and full-spine imaging, and handles bariatric patients. Its unique imaging processing technique is suitable for any patient, unlike competing DR solutions that require ancillary tools for hard-to-image patients.

The system’s smooth motorized movements, height adjustment, positioning freedom, and remote and in-room control capabilities enable unprecedented clinical versatility and flexibility. Ultimately, DR 800 positions customers to optimize equipment performance, facilitate quick and easy procedures, and maximize both patient and operator comfort. Commercially available in the European Union since late 2017, the three-in-one (radiography, fluoroscopy, and advanced clinical applications) DR system received the US Food Drug Administration’s 510(k) clearance in April 2018. Agfa obtained 510(k) clearance for tomosynthesis in February 2019 and is exploring additional functionalities with the DR 800.

“Designed to deliver outstanding savings and performance, the DR 800 provides value-additions that benefit patient care holistically,” noted Srinivasan. “Overall, Agfa is well-positioned to make the most of the market opportunities in DR replacement with its multi-functional DR system, and its ability to deliver cost-effective, quality healthcare will drive its continued success.”

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that develops an innovative element in a product by leveraging leading-edge technologies. The award recognizes the value-added features/benefits of the product and the increased return on investment it gives customers, which, in turn, raises customer acquisition and overall market penetration potential.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Agfa
Agfa develops, produces and distributes an extensive range of imaging systems and workflow solutions for the printing industry, the healthcare sector, as well as for specific hi-tech industries such as printed electronics & renewable energy solutions.  The headquarters are located in Belgium. The largest production, research and distribution centers are located in Belgium, the United States, Canada, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Austria, China and Brazil. Agfa is commercially active worldwide through wholly owned sales organizations in more than 40 countries.

*DR 800 is not available in Canada.

About Frost & Sullivan
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today’s market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:

Claudia Toscano
P: 210.477.8417
E: claudia.toscano@frost.com

Marc De Fre
Global Marcom Director
Agfa
T +32 (0)3 444 73 19
marc.defre@agfa.com

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Launch of Activated Form of Critical Bacteria B. Infantis in Asia Fulfills Li Ka Shing Foundation’s Vision, Caps First Quarter of Major Activity in the Continent

DAVIS, California, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Evolve BioSystems, makers of Evivo® baby probiotic, today announced that its flagship consumer product Evivo is available in Hong Kong and Singapore. Consumers will be able to purchase Evivo, an activated form of B. infantis, an essential beneficial bacterium for babies, at Evivo.com.

The introduction of Evivo into these markets fulfills a major goal of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Horizons Ventures, the investment arm of the Li Ka Shing Foundation. These two world-renowned public-health organizations led Evolve’s most recent round of funding based on the company’s science, which has shown that B. infantis reduces the abundance of pathogens, such as Clostridium and E. coli, that have been associated with autoimmune conditions common in developed nations, including asthma, allergies, colic, eczema and type-1 diabetes.

“The dramatic spike of autoimmune health challenges over the past several decades has spread in Asia, correlating with the rise of formula feeding, C-sections and antibiotic abuse. Evivo baby probiotic, the essential beneficial bacterium for babies, is critical in laying the foundation for a strong immune system,” said Patrick Zhang at Horizons Ventures. “We were particularly eager to make Evivo available in Asia because we believe that B. infantis is critical for laying the foundation for a strong immune system.”

Evivo is intended specifically for newborns, and provides a crucial strain of Bifidobacterium that was historically present in the infant gut, but has nearly been eliminated over the past century. When Evivo is consumed in combination with breast milk, the B. infantis crowds out pathogens.

“Although the modern medical interventions common in developed societies are often medically necessary, they have some major unintended consequences. The disrupted microbiomes among the infants of these populations is a notable example,” said Tim Brown, CEO of Evolve BioSystems. “Today, the launch of Evivo in Singapore and Hong Kong markets marks the first step toward our larger goal of beneficially remodeling the microbiomes of Asian babies for strong and lifelong immune health.”

Evolve, Zhejiang University Kick Off Study Aimed at Eliminating Antibiotic Usage in Pigs

B. infantis will also be playing a major role in the health of livestock in Asia. The Li Ka Shing Foundation is funding a joint Evolve-Zhejiang University study that will assess whether the company’s product GlycoGuard, which introduces B. infantis into the microbiomes of livestock, could potentially replace antibiotic usage in pigs, thereby drastically reducing incidence of associated antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

In this planned study of 4,000 pigs, Evolve and Zhejiang University seek to uncover how to use probiotics to reduce the region’s porcine mortality rate and aid weight gain, for which pork farmers currently turn to antibiotics to achieve.

“Piglets’ microbiomes are quite fragile, which has created a market need for a safe, natural way to strengthen their immune systems in these first few days of life,” said Dr. WANG Yizhen, Dean at Zhejiang University College of Animal Sciences. “The use of antibiotics in animal husbandry could pose potential risks to food safety, we are hoping to help Chinese pork farmers — who raise 60 percent of the 1 billion pigs farmed annually — lead the fight against the growing pandemic of antibiotic resistance.”

About Evolve BioSystems
Evolve BioSystems, Inc. is a privately-held microbiome company dedicated to developing the next generation of products to establish, restore, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Evolve recently completed a $40M Series C round of funding co-led by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Horizons Ventures, the venture division of the Li Ka Shing Foundation.

Evolve is a spin-out from the Foods for Health Institute (FFHI) at the University of California, Davis and builds on more than a decade of research into understanding the unique partnership of the infant gut microbiome and breast milk components. Having led to the development and commercial launch of products to resolve newborn gut dysbiosis, including Evivo® for infants, Evolve’s discovery platform is now being applied to solving gut dysbiosis throughout the human and animal life cycle. In addition to the landmark proof-of-concept trial, Evolve is undertaking further clinical studies to build out its suite of microbiome-based solutions.

Contact: Crisel Ortiz, 1-415-989-9000, crisel@msrcommunications.com

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Source: Evolve BioSystems, Inc.

AUSTIN, Texas, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — VolitionRx Limited (NYSE American:  VNRX) today announced it will host a conference call on Thursday, May 9 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial and operating results for the first quarter of 2019 in addition to providing a business update.

Event: VolitionRx Limited First Quarter 2019 Earnings and Business Update Conference Call
Date: Thursday, May 9, 2019
Time: 8:30 a.m. Eastern time
U.S. & Canada Dial-in: 1-855-327-6837 (toll free)
U.K. Dial-in: 0 808-101-2791 (toll free)
Toll/International: 1-631-891-4304
Conference ID: 10006803

Cameron Reynolds, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volition, will host the call along with David Vanston, Chief Financial Officer and Scott Powell, Executive Vice President, Investor Relations. The call will provide an update on recent developments and Volition’s activities, including details of new and ongoing clinical trials, important events that have taken place in the first quarter of 2019, and milestones for the remainder of 2019 and beyond.

A live audio webcast of the conference call will also be available on the investor relations page of Volition’s corporate website at http://ir.volitionrx.com. In addition, a telephone replay of the call will be available until May 23, 2019. The replay dial-in numbers are 1-844-512-2921 (toll-free) in the U.S. and Canada and 1-412-317-6671 (toll) internationally. Please use replay pin number 10006803.

About Volition

Volition is a multi-national life sciences company developing simple, easy to use, cost effective blood tests to help diagnose a range of cancers and other diseases. Early diagnosis has the potential to not only prolong the life of patients, but also to improve their quality of life. The tests are based on the science of Nucleosomics^TM, which is the practice of identifying and measuring nucleosomes in the bloodstream or other bodily fluid – an indication that disease is present.

Volition’s research and development activities are currently centered in Belgium, with additional offices in Texas, London and Singapore, as the company focuses on bringing its diagnostic products to market.

Nucleosomics™ is a trademark of Volition and its subsidiaries.

For more information about Volition, visit Volition’s website (http://www.volitionrx.com) or connect with us via:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/volitionrx 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volitionrx 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VolitionRx/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VolitionRx

The contents found at Volition’s website address, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are not incorporated by reference into this document and should not be considered part of this document.  The addresses for Volition’s website, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are included in this document as inactive textual references only.

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SEOUL, South Korea, May 3, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Samsung BioLogics (CEO: Tae Han Kim) and GI Innovation (CEO: Soo Yeon Nam) signed a Contract Development Organization (CDO) contract for immunochemotherapy at Samsung BioLogics headquarters on Thursday.

GI Innovation signed this second contract with Samsung BioLogics based on their satisfaction with the high quality and production services received during their first project with Samsung BioLogics in June of last year.

This agreement is the first among a five, multi-project deal, and Samsung BioLogics will provide CDO services from the development of cell lines to the production of Phase I drug substances to GI Innovation, which is also the world’s first bio-venture company to explore the development of new drugs through the combination of microbiome (human microorganism) and protein drugs.

This deal is expected to further leverage Samsung BioLogics leading CDO technology and capacity with GI Innovation’s competitive candidates to accelerate new drug development.

The CDO market has grown at a CAGR of over 15%, and as the development of new biopharmaceuticals has increased, small and medium-sized biotech companies have outsourced development and production to CDMOs. In addition, the CDO business is becoming more significant in the industry, as it is naturally linked to the CMO (Contract Manufacturing Organization) business in the future.

In 2018, Samsung BioLogics launched its CDO business and within a year secured new drug development projects comprising of eight domestic and overseas companies including GI Innovation, quickly establishing a track record of success as a globally advanced player in terms of speed, price competitiveness, quality, and efficiency.

“As Samsung BioLogics provides consistent services for CRO (contract research), CDO (contract development) and CMO (contract manufacturing), biopharmaceutical companies will dramatically reduce costs and time,” said Dr. Tae Han Kim, “We will do our best to help domestic bio-venture companies, including GI Innovation, advance into the global market and commercialize their products through our CDO technology.”

“Thanks to Samsung BioLogics’ CDMO business, we can overcome the problem of producing high quality clinical test samples, the biggest barrier of bio venture companies,” said Dr. Nam, “We are very positive that global pharmaceutical companies interested in the R&D pipeline of GI Innovation will be able to access global new drug licensing (BLA) and biotech drug business through Samsung BioLogics’ CDMO service. Through this collaboration, we wish to demonstrate the win-win model of venture firms and large corporations that the people and the government want.”

Additional Information

For more on SBL Website: https://www.samsungbiologics.com
Connect with SBL on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/samsung-biologics
Follow #samsung_biologics on Instagram

Media contact:

Chie Soo Rhee, chiesoo.rhee@samsung.com
Sungtae Nam, sungtae1.nam@samsung.com  

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Multiplex Test Panel for binx io® Point-of-Care Platform Positioned to Radically Reduce Time to Treatment, Expand Access to Care

BOSTON, May 2, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — binx health™, the pioneer in anywhere care today announced that its proprietary Chlamydia and Gonorrhea (CT/NG) test has received European CE Mark approval. The new multiplex test works with the binx io platform, delivering a laboratory-quality result in about 30 minutes, creating a new model for “test-and-treat” care for two of the most prevalent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) globally.

More than one million STIs are acquired worldwide every day with chlamydia and gonorrhea representing two of the most prevalent^[1].  Recent data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) notes a striking rise in the cases of gonorrhea – up 17% between 2016 and 2017 across the reporting EU/EEA countries, with some countries noting year-over-year spikes of more than 40%^[2].  Similarly, in the United States, infection rates have risen an astonishing 67% since 2013, with rates continuing to be highest in the 20-24 year-old age group.^[3]

Today, the majority of CT/NG tests are sent to central laboratories, meaning there can be up to a seven day waiting period from first visit to treatment, during which time patients may continue to spread infection, with up to 40% of positive patients never returning for treatment^[4]. binx is positioned to radically change this paradigm, enabling patients and consumers to leave a retail pharmacy, primary care office, clinic, urgent care facility and any other brick-and-mortar location, with treatment in hand in a single visit (while the binx point-of-care platform is not yet available in the United States, the company recently completed its multi-center clinical study for submission to FDA for 510(k) clearance). The binx io platform is designed for ease-of-use, enabling non-laboratory-trained users to run a test with the same accuracy as a central lab test, making it ideal for use in a variety of approved medical and consumer settings. 

“Achieving a 30-minute diagnostic turnaround time for two of the most common STIs is a major public health breakthrough,” explains Howard Heller, MD MPH, binx health’s Chief Medical Officer. “Rapid results equal rapid, appropriate treatment.  This new panel enables a path to not just same day, but same visit testing and treatment, eliminating an immense barrier to care and cure.”

“Modern healthcare delivery requires tools that meet consumers’ needs where they live, work and shop,” said Jeffrey Luber, binx health’s Chief Executive Officer. “Doing this effectively means delivering fast, accurate, cost-effective solutions at brick-and-mortar locations, as well as physician-ordered, medical guideline-based testing online, that work to bring consumers from ‘worry to well’ in the locations most convenient for them. Through scientific rigor, guideline-based testing, and an ‘anywhere’ mindset that puts the consumer at the center of all we do, today we embark on a path to deliver omnichannel, high quality care in family health, starting with young people and STIs as our launching point.”

About binx health 
binx health™  is the pioneer in anywhere care for consumers where they live, work and shop. We do this with (1) proprietary, rapid desktop PCR instruments for retail pharmacy, urgent care, primary care, health centers, and any other brick-and-mortar location where onsite, on demand testing and rapid results on par with central lab testing, are paramount, and (2) mobile solutions for at-home, physician-ordered testing that aim to bring consumers from “worry-to-well” in the palm of their hands. Starting with sexually-transmitted infections, we aim to reverse trends of rising infections among young people, and move into broader family health through the expansion of our point-of-care and at home offerings. binx health’s investors include financial investors, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, Novartis Venture Fund, LSP Venture Capital, BB Biotech, RMI Investments and Technology Venture Partners and strategic investors, Consort Medical (whose wholly owned subsidiary Bespak are the makers of the company’s low-cost, proprietary multi-plex cartridges) and China-based Wondfo Biotech.

¹ WHO Key facts 28 Feb 2019
²ECDC EUROPE 
³ Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
⁴ Gift, Thomas L. et al. Sex Tran Dis: April 1999 – Volume 26 – Issue 4 – p 232–240

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