Author: Michelle Dryden

Categories
Science Technology

Oticon expands hearing aid solutions, introducing new styles and technologies for people of all ages with hearing loss

SOMERSET, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #Oticon—Oticon, Inc. is expanding its hearing aid portfolio to allow even more individuals with hearing loss to experience the benefits of Oticon’s advanced BrainHearing™ technology. The additions include two new Oticon More™ miniBTE styles that meet the needs of users who prefer small, discreet, behind-the-ear (BTE) options, as well as two new hearing aid families. Oticon Zircon becomes the first hearing aid in the essentials category to deliver the open sound experience, and Oticon Play PX is the world’s first pediatric hearing aid with an on-board Deep Neural Network (DNN) that learned to recognize sounds the way children learn – through experience.


“At Oticon, we never stop pushing the boundaries of what is possible,” said Oticon President Gary Rosenblum. “We are continually looking for opportunities to extend the reach of our life-changing hearing technology to an even broader group of people so they can hear in a more natural way.”

 

Oticon More – new styles, new evidence

Oticon continues to expand the Oticon More family of hearing aids with two new discreet BTE options. The miniBTE R and miniBTE T package the power of Oticon More’s on-board DNN into a small BTE option.

 

For users who prefer the convenience of a rechargeable hearing aid, the reliable lithium-ion batteries of the miniBTE R deliver a full day of battery life,* including streaming, after just 3.5 hours of charging. Meanwhile, the miniBTE T uses disposable zinc air batteries to meet the needs of wearers who prefer a more traditional battery option.

 

Oticon More has proven effective for helping individuals with hearing loss decipher the sounds and speech around them. Previous studies have shown that Oticon More delivers 30% more sound to the brain and increases speech understanding by yet another 15%.** Now, new research examining Oticon More found that the hearing aid reduces sustained listening effort by 30%.***

 

Bringing the open sound experience to the essential hearing aid category

For the first time ever, Oticon is bringing the open sound experience to the essential hearing aid category. Oticon Zircon builds on Oticon’s BrainHearing philosophy and features technologies that deliver the information the brain needs to make sense of sound. The features in Oticon Zircon work synergistically so people with hearing loss can experience clear and well-balanced 360-degree speech even in noisy environments.****

 

Oticon Zircon is available in a choice of rechargeable and non-rechargeable styles, performance levels and colors.

 

New life-changing technology for children with hearing loss

Specifically designed for children, Oticon Play PX is the world’s first pediatric hearing aid with an on-board DNN. The DNN was trained on 12 million real-life sounds and learned to recognize sounds through experience, like children’s brains do naturally. This gives children a more natural listening experience, allowing them to more fully participate in all the experiences childhood has to offer.

 

Oticon Play PX comes in two rechargeable and two non-rechargeable styles, and 12 color options to match children’s personal preferences. It’s also available with a wide range of connectivity options for enhanced learning and communication. This includes compatibility with EduMic, an easy-to-use classroom hearing solution that provides clear and reliable access to a teacher’s voice to help children manage noise, reverberation and distance in the classroom.

 

2-way hands-free communication for iPhone and iPad

For the first time, Oticon More, Oticon Zircon and Oticon Play PX support two-way, hands-free communication with iPhone and iPad.+ The hearing aids can be used as a headset so users can speak hands-free on phone or video calls.

 

The hearing aids are also compatible with the Android™ protocol for Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA), making it possible for users to stream directly from select Android devices.++

 

For more information about Oticon’s expanded product portfolio, please visit www.oticon.com.

 

* Lithium-ion performance varies depending on hearing loss, lifestyle and streaming behavior.

 

** Compared to Oticon Opn S™, Santurette, et al., 2020 Oticon More clinical evidence. Oticon whitepaper.

 

***Murmu Nielsen, R. & Ng, E. 2021. Reducing sustained listening effort: Oticon More new evidence. Oticon whitepaper.

 

****OpenSound Navigator™ is only available in Zircon 1.

 

+ Bi-directional streaming for certified Made for iPhone hearing devices is available with iPhone 11 or later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation and 4th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation and 2nd generation), iPad Air (4th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation), with software updates iOS 15.2 and iPadOS 15.2 or later.

 

++ Android devices need to support ASHA to allow direct streaming to Oticon More. Please visit Oticon.com/support/compatibility for more information.

 

Android™, Google Play, and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

 

Oticon, Inc. – Life-Changing Technology

Oticon is one of the world’s most innovative hearing device manufacturers, with more than 110 years’ experience in the design and development of hearing aids for adults and children. Our comprehensive portfolio of life-changing technology improves not only the quality of hearing but the overall quality of life for people with hearing loss. Oticon challenges conventions and pushes the limits of technology to bring to market hearing solutions that exceed the needs and expectations of people with hearing loss, so that they can live their lives without limit. Our groundbreaking BrainHearing™ technology is helping to provide better hearing with less effort by giving the brain the clearest, purest sound signals to decode. For more information visit www.oticon.com.

Contacts

Denise DiMeglio

Gregory FCA

610-228-2102

Denise@gregoryfca.com

Categories
Business

Best’s Insurance Law Podcast: Background investigations key to improving recorded statements

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — AM Best and Best’s Insurance Professional Resources have released the latest installment of the Best’s Insurance Law Podcast series, which examines timely insurance issues from a legal perspective.

This episode discusses the importance of conducting a thorough background check prior to obtaining a recorded statement.

 

The podcast features James Barbieri, president of independent adjusting and investigation company, Claims Advantage. Mr. Barbieri is a certified insurance fraud investigator (CIFI) and adjuster, and has been conducting insurance fraud investigations for over 30 years.

 

Claims Advantage is a qualified member of Best’s Insurance Professional Resources, an insurance industry resource that has featured qualified legal counsel, independent insurance adjusting services and expert service providers since 1929.

 

Listen or subscribe to the Insurance Law Podcast.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Christopher Sharkey
Manager, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5159
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Jim Peavy
Director, Communications
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5644

james.peavy@ambest.com

Categories
Business

Wiley schedules third quarter fiscal 2022 earnings release and conference call

HOBOKEN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Wiley (NYSE:JWA)(NYSE:JWB), a global leader in scientific research and career-connected education, will release its third quarter 2022 results prior to market open on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. The Company has scheduled a conference call beginning at 10 am ET that day to discuss the results.

  • The live audio webcast and presentation slides will be available at https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3574356/B31C9ADF91B6B0ECEB3B1EE2286E98AF, or on Wiley’s Investor Relations website at investors.wiley.com. An archive of the webcast, presentation, and transcript will be available for a period of one year.
  • US and Canada callers, please dial (888) 210-3346 and enter the participant code 2521217#. Or International callers, please dial (646) 960-0253 and enter the participant code 2521217#.

 

About Wiley

Wiley, a global leader in research and education, is unlocking human potential by enabling discovery, powering education, and shaping workforces. For over 200 years, Wiley has fueled the world’s knowledge ecosystem. Today, our high-impact content, platforms, and services help researchers, learners, institutions, and corporations achieve their goals in an ever-changing world. Visit us at Wiley.com, Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Contacts

Investor Contact:
Brian Campbell

(201) 748-6874

brian.campbell@wiley.com

Categories
Healthcare Technology

Stryker launches PROstep™ MICA® SOLO Guide to simplify minimally invasive bunion procedures

Company to feature new all-in-one guide at 2022 ACFAS and during March 2 live event

 

MAHWAH, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies, will debut the new PROstep™ MICA® SOLO Guide at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ACFAS) 2022 meeting and will host a live event on March 2 at 7 p.m. EST. The all-in-one procedure guide is used during PROstep MICA minimally invasive bunion procedures and is designed for use by a solo surgeon, potentially eliminating the need for additional surgical assistance during the operation.

Traditionally, surgeons conducting MIS bunion procedures use a “freehand” technique, requiring both of the surgeon’s hands to perform different tasks simultaneously, with a sizeable learning curve. The PROstep MICA SOLO is an all-in-one guide that acts as a third hand for the surgeon, providing automatic targeting of the screw, stabilization of the head fragment and a controlled, adjustable shift. The intuitive guide streamlines the procedure, allowing for reproducibility while minimizing the need for a surgical assistant.

 

In addition to the unique surgeon advantages, the PROstep MICA offers patients the following benefits when compared to traditional open bunion surgery:

  • Faster return to function2,3
  • Less pain1
  • Smaller scars1,2
  • Overall increased patient satisfaction1
  • Less need for opioids post-op4

 

“I am delighted that we now have a precision tool for this technique right where the surgeon needs it,” said David Redfern, FRCS, foot and ankle surgeon at Cleveland Clinic London Hospital. “The PROstep MICA SOLO Guide is like having an expert assistant at hand to make the necessary surgical steps in this procedure much easier.”

 

“At Stryker, we’re constantly working with our customers to understand their challenges and develop solutions to address unmet needs,” said Michael Rankin, Vice President of Marketing and Medical Education of Stryker’s Foot & Ankle business. “The PROstep MICA SOLO Guide reflects Stryker’s ongoing commitment to technological innovation, and we see it playing an integral role in the future of minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery.”

 

The PROstep MICA SOLO Guide will be showcased at an industry sponsored “Stryker Experience” event on Feb. 24 at ACFAS and will be featured at Stryker’s exhibit booth (614). On March 2, a live surgeon panel discussion and cadaveric presentation of the new all-in-one procedure guide will be hosted virtually by the creator of the MICA procedure, David Redfern FRCS (Tr&Orth). Those interested in signing up can visit the event registration site.

 

About Stryker

Stryker is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies and, together with its customers, is driven to make healthcare better. The company offers innovative products and services in Medical and Surgical, Neurotechnology, Orthopaedics and Spine that help improve patient and hospital outcomes. More information is available at www.stryker.com.

 

Follow Stryker Foot & Ankle on LinkedIn.

 

A surgeon must always rely on his or her own professional clinical judgment when deciding whether to use a particular product when treating a particular patient. Stryker does not dispense medical advice and recommends that surgeons be trained in the use of any particular product before using it in surgery.

 

The information presented is intended to demonstrate the breadth of Stryker’s product offerings. A surgeon must always refer to the package insert, product label and/or instructions for use before using any of Stryker’s products. Products may not be available in all markets because product availability is subject to the regulatory and/or medical practices in individual markets. Please contact your sales representative if you have questions about the availability of products in your area.

 

Stryker Corporation or its divisions or other corporate affiliated entities own, use or have applied for the following trademarks or service marks: Blueprint, Perform, Stryker, Tornier. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners or holders.

 

Content ID: AP-015815_A

Copyright © 2022 Stryker

References:

  1. Lam P, Lee M, Xing J, Di Nallo M. Percutaneous Surgery for Mild to Moderate Hallux Valgus. Foot Ankle Clin N Am 2016; 21: 459-477.
  2. Lee M, Walsh J, Smith MM, Ling J, Wines A, Lam P. Hallux Valgus Correction Comparing Percutaneous Chevron/Akin (PECA) and Open Scarf/Akin Osteotomies. Foot Ankle Intl 2017; 38(8): 838-846.3
  3. Maffulli N, Longo UG, Oliva F, Denaro V, Coppola C. Bosch Osteotomy and Scarf Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus
  4. Jimmy J. Chan, MD; Javier Z. Guzman, MD; Andrea Nordio, MD; Jesse C. Chan; Carl M. Cirino, MD; Ettore Vulcano, MD. Opioid Consumption and Time to Return to Work After Percutaneous Osteotomy in Foot Surgery. Orthopedics. May 7, 2020.

Contacts

Andrea Sampson, Sampson Public Relations Group

asampson@sampsonprgroup.com
562.304.0301

Categories
Business

Arizona Sonoran updates on metallurgical improvements at the Cactus Mine project

CASA GRANDE, Ariz. & TORONTO — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $ASCU #TSX—Arizona Sonoran Copper Company Inc. (TSX:ASCU) (“ASCU” or the “Company”), an emerging US-based copper developer and near-term producer, today announces interim results from its ongoing metallurgical testing programs, in the form of sequential assaying, bottle roll testing and column testing for the mineral resources at the Cactus Mine, that demonstrates improved overall recoveries of ~1% total soluble copper (“CuSol”) and a decreased net acid consumption of ~2 lb per ton of material. The Cactus Mine project envisages a heap leach oxide and enriched sulfide (chalcocite/covellite dominant) recoveries and a solvent extraction/electrowinning (SX/EW) plant for producing LME Grade A Copper Cathodes.

TABLE 1: Updated Metallurgical Recoveries and Net Acid Consumption

Preliminary Column Tests (PEA)

Updated Column Tests

Resource

Component

Net

Copper

Recovery

(% CuAS)

Net

Copper

Recovery

(% CuCN)

Gross Acid

Consumption

(lb/ton)

Net Acid

Consumption

(lb/ton)

Net

Copper

Recovery

(% CuAS)

Net

Copper

Recovery

(% CuCN)

Gross Acid

Consumption

(lb/ton)

Net Acid

Consumption

(lb/ton)

Stockpile

Oxide

90%

40%

22

18

90%

40%

22

16

(-)

Open Pit & Underground

Oxide

90%

72%

22

18

92%

(+)

73%

(+)

22

16

(-)

Enriched

90%

72%

22

1

92%

(+)

73%

(+)

22

0

(-)

Ian McMullan, Arizona Sonoran COO stated, “Within mineral resource, and from the PEA, we have identified an initial 1 billion pound copper soluble leachable material. These results, now track over 2 years of metallurgical observations and provide us with additional clarity and confidence towards future copper oxide and enriched leaching opportunities. The results further de-risk the technical assumptions used in the Cactus PEA as we move towards increasing levels of confidence for inputs into the PFS due later this year.”

 

A copper heap leach column testing program to delineate the metallurgical performance characteristics of the existing stockpile and remaining unmined copper resources at the Cactus mine has been ongoing since 2020. Results have been progressively reported in PEA, commensurate with Canadian National Instrument NI 43-101 reporting requirements. The PEA has an effective date of August 31, 2021 and is authored by Stantec Consulting Services (“Stantec”).

 

Copper recovery is estimated for acid soluble copper (“CuAS”) and cyanide soluble copper (“CuCN”) content as determined by a standard sequential copper assaying methodology developed at the Skyline Laboratory facility in Tucson, Arizona. The CuCN assay fraction is classified as enriched secondary copper sulfide mineralization (e.g. chalcocite, covellite, digenite). The combined CuAS + CuCN content of the materials represents potentially soluble copper that is recoverable using heap leaching techniques (“CuSol”). Projected copper recovery estimates previously reported have been derived based on this leachable copper content and continues to be validated in the ongoing Prefeasibility Study (“PFS”) testing program.

 

Primary copper in mineralization that is not readily acid or cyanide copper soluble per the assay methods (e.g. native copper, chalcopyrite, bornite) reports in the total copper assay (“CuT”). Copper assayed that does not report in the soluble copper assay methodologies is not expected to provide meaningful recoverable copper contributions with the commercial methodologies anticipated.

 

Oxide Materials

Recoveries

  • No material changes to the Stockpile recoveries vs the PEA, thus leaching and recoveries expected to be similar;
  • Opportunity to increase heap lift heights, resulting from comparable 20-foot-tall and 10-foot-tall column results; and
  • An economic opportunity to crush and/or blast larger material in the oxide ROM feed will be evaluated in conjunction with the ongoing PFS work;

Net Acid Consumption

  • 12% reduction of net acid consumption to 16 lbs per ton, based on the current mine plan tonnages, grades and expected copper recovery.

Enriched Materials

Recoveries

  • Improved CuSol recoveries by 3% over the PEA basis to 75% for a two-year leach cycle.

Net Acid Consumption

  • Consumption is expected to be negligible or generating up to 2 lbs of acid per ton leached at PEA average grades, representing a small reduction from the 2021 PEA basis.
  • As envisioned with the PEA basis, the separate enriched leaching pad will benefit the bioleaching scheme. Tails assaying and size fractional recovery data is still pending for the enriched materials tested. There may also be an economic incentive to crush and agglomerate the higher-grade materials, which will be reviewed.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

Metallurgical characterization testing continues at the McClelland Analytical Service Laboratory, a well-established Mineral Processing research and development firm in Reno, Nevada, under the direction of Mr. Jim Sorensen, Samuel Engineering. A summary of the interim results obtained since the Cactus Mine Project Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) with an effective date of August 31, 2021, through January 2022 is discussed in this release. Testing continues and results from future work may affect this interim analysis.

Drilling completed on the project in 2020 and 2021 was supervised by on-site ASCU personnel who prepared core samples for assay and implemented a full QA/QC program using blanks, standards and duplicates to monitor analytical accuracy and precision. The samples were sealed on site and shipped to Skyline Laboratories in Tucson AZ for analysis. Skyline’s quality control system complies with global certifications for Quality ISO9001:2008.

Technical aspects of this news release have been reviewed and verified by Dr. Martin Kuhn, who is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101– Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Neither the TSX nor the regulating authority has approved or disproved the information contained in this press release.

About Arizona Sonoran Copper Company (www.arizonasonoran.com | www.cactusmine.com)

ASCU’s objective is to become a mid-tier copper producer with low operating costs, develop the Cactus Project that could generate robust returns for investors, and provide a long term sustainable and responsible operation for the community and all stakeholders. The Company’s principal asset is a 100% interest in the Cactus Project (former ASARCO, Sacaton mine) which is situated on private land in an infrastructure-rich area of Arizona. The Company is led by an executive management team and Board which have a long-standing track record of successful project delivery in North America complemented by global capital markets expertise.

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of ASCU to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could affect the outcome include, among others: future prices and the supply of metals; the results of drilling; inability to raise the money necessary to incur the expenditures required to retain and advance the properties; environmental liabilities (known and unknown); general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; results of exploration programs; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; political instability, terrorism, insurrection or war; or delays in obtaining governmental approvals, projected cash operating costs, failure to obtain regulatory or shareholder approvals.

Although ASCU has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and ASCU disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Contacts

Alison Dwoskin, Director, Investor Relations

647-233-4348

adwoskin@arizonasonoran.com

George Ogilvie, President, CEO and Director

416-723-0458

gogilvie@arizonasonoran.com

Categories
Business Technology

NICE Actimize wins six 2022 Global Banking and Finance awards highlighting excellence and innovation in enterprise fraud technology

The awards highlight NICE Actimize’s leadership across all major geographical regions, including North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe

 

HOBOKEN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #NICE—NICE Actimize, a NICE (NASDAQ: NICE) business, today announced that Global Banking and Finance Review, a financial media platform with over three million readers worldwide, has awarded the company six honors over three major geographical areas, including Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America, highlighting its excellence in innovation and as a best solutions provider in those regions.

The 2022 Global Banking & Finance Awards® recognitions included the following winning categories for NICE Actimize: Best Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions Provider Asia Pacific 2022, Best Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions Provider Europe 2022; Best Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions Provider North America 2022; Excellence in Innovation – Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions Europe 2022; Excellence in Innovation – Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions Asia Pacific 2022; and Excellence in Innovation- Anti-Fraud/Security Solutions North America 2022.

 

Explains Wanda Rich, Editor, Global Banking and Finance Review, “Our judges and editorial team congratulate NICE Actimize for its outstanding contributions to fighting financial crime with leading enterprise fraud solutions across three major markets around the world. Its strengths in enterprise fraud solutions technology are confirmed by its significant customer base and its dedication to innovation by providing the latest in advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and expertise in the cloud. We are honored to acknowledge NICE Actimize and its enterprise fraud and authentication solutions across North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.”

 

Notes Craig Costigan, CEO, NICE Actimize, “It’s an honor to receive recognition from Global Banking and Finance Review acknowledging our extensive contributions to providing advanced fraud solutions around the world. Wherever our financial institution customers require support, we will continue to offer innovation and advanced technologies in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and high performing cloud-based solutions.”

 

In other leadership achievements, industry analyst firm Aite-Novarica Group recently profiled NICE Actimize in its “2021 Aite Matrix: Leading Fraud & AML Machine Learning Platforms” report. Highlighting NICE Actimize’s areas of expertise, the report cited, “NICE Actimize is a leading provider of enterprise software solutions for financial crime and is well known for developing innovative technology to protect institutions by identifying financial crime, preventing fraud, and providing regulatory compliance.”

 

Please click here for further information on NICE Actimize’s industry-leading IFM-X Enterprise Fraud platform.

 

Please click here to learn more about the Global Banking and Finance Review award wins.

 

About Global Banking and Finance Review

Global Banking & Finance Review® is a leading Financial Platform established in 2010 – A Media Powerhouse with its own Online Portal, Print & Digital magazine reaching over 3 million readers worldwide on an annual basis. Since the inception of the Global Banking & Finance Awards® in 2011, The Awards reflect the innovation, achievement, strategy, progressive and inspirational changes taking place within the Global Financial community. The awards were created to recognize companies of all sizes which are prominent in particular areas of expertise and excellence within the financial world. The Banking Awards & the Financial Awards are known throughout the global banking and financial community as a symbol of excellence.

 

About NICE Actimize

NICE Actimize is the largest and broadest provider of financial crime, risk and compliance solutions for regional and global financial institutions, as well as government regulators. Consistently ranked as number one in the space, NICE Actimize experts apply innovative technology to protect institutions and safeguard consumers’ and investors’ assets by identifying financial crime, preventing fraud and providing regulatory compliance. The company provides real-time, cross-channel fraud prevention, anti-money laundering detection, and trading surveillance solutions that address such concerns as payment fraud, cybercrime, sanctions monitoring, market abuse, customer due diligence and insider trading. Find us at www.niceactimize.com, @NICE_Actimize or Nasdaq: NICE.

 

About NICE

With NICE (Nasdaq: NICE), it’s never been easier for organizations of all sizes around the globe to create extraordinary customer experiences while meeting key business metrics. Featuring the world’s #1 cloud native customer experience platform, CXone, NICE is a worldwide leader in AI-powered self-service and agent-assisted CX software for the contact center – and beyond. Over 25,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies, partner with NICE to transform – and elevate – every customer interaction. www.nice.com.

 

Trademark Note: NICE and the NICE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NICE Ltd. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners. For a full list of NICE’s marks, please see: www.nice.com/nice-trademarks.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements, including the statements by Mr. Costigan, are based on the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of NICE Ltd. (the “Company”). In some cases, such forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “seek,” “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “project,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to differ materially from those described herein, including but not limited to the impact of changes in economic and business conditions, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; competition; successful execution of the Company’s growth strategy; success and growth of the Company’s cloud Software-as-a-Service business; changes in technology and market requirements; decline in demand for the Company’s products; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; difficulties or delays in absorbing and integrating acquired operations, products, technologies and personnel; loss of market share; an inability to maintain certain marketing and distribution arrangements; the Company’s dependency on third-party cloud computing platform providers, hosting facilities and service partners;, cyber security attacks or other security breaches against the Company; the effect of newly enacted or modified laws, regulation or standards on the Company and our products and various other factors and uncertainties discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting the company, refer to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them, except as required by law.

Contacts

Corporate Media Contact:

Cindy Morgan-Olson, +1 646 408 5896, ET, NICE Actimize, cindy.morgan-olson@niceactimize.com

Investors
Marty Cohen, +1 551 256 5354, ET, ir@nice.com
Omri Arens, +972 3 763 0127, CET, ir@nice.com

Categories
Business Healthcare Lifestyle

Legal cannabis industry is the most prolific job creator in America – Supporting more than 428,000 jobs

Leafly’s sixth annual Cannabis Jobs Report shows America’s cannabis industry sold nearly $25 billion in products and created more than 100,000 new jobs in 2021 – enough people to fill the Rose Bowl.

 

SEATTLE — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Leafly (LFLY), one of the leading online cannabis discovery marketplaces and resources for cannabis consumers, today released its sixth annual cannabis industry jobs report. This year’s report found there are now 428,059 full-time equivalent jobs supported by the legal cannabis industry in the U.S. Leafly’s research also shows that America’s 11 operating adult-use markets and 27 medical states combined sold just under $25 billion worth of cannabis products – more than $6 billion more from the previous year. Looking ahead, the report forecasts that the total employment potential in a mature US legal cannabis market will be approximately 1.5 to 1.75 million workers, almost 4 times as many workers as in this year’s report.


This year’s report, created in partnership with Whitney Economics, shows that despite the ongoing economic and employment challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, cannabis continues to be the most powerful job creator in America – with no other industry coming close. 2021 was the fifth year in a row the cannabis industry saw an annual job growth rate higher than 27% – with a 33% increase in cannabis jobs in just a single year. To put that in perspective, employment in business and financial occupations is only projected to grow 8% through the decade. With states like New Mexico, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut expected to open their first adult-use cannabis stores within the next 18 months, America’s cannabis job creation boom is expected to continue through at least 2025.

 

There has never been a better time to land a job in the legal cannabis industry. The Leafly Jobs Report found that nationwide cannabis sales increased 33% in 2021, and the investment capital that fled the cannabis space in early 2020 has largely returned, giving companies the money needed to increase payroll. One problem: not enough applicants. As with other industries, cannabis companies are struggling to find new employees in this era of the Great Resignation. And they’ll need them soon. With stores in New York, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Connecticut opening soon, the demand for workers—experienced or not—is only expected to get hotter.

 

Key findings from the 2022 Leafly Cannabis Jobs Report include:

  • 2021 marked the first year that cannabis job creation hit six figures. After adding 32,700 jobs in 2019 and 77,300 jobs in 2020, the industry added 107,059 new jobs in 2021.
  • The United States now has three times as many cannabis workers as dentists.
  • There are more people employed in the cannabis industry than there are hair stylists, barbers, and cosmetologists—combined.
  • In 2022, three out of four Americans live in a state where cannabis is medically legal.
  • The total cannabis sales figure found in this year’s report—$25 billion—represents only about 25% of the total potential US cannabis market.
  • By 2025, America’s total annual legal cannabis revenue is forecast to be closer to $45 billion, which is still less than half the total potential market.
  • Last year, America’s legal cannabis industry created more than 280 new jobs every day. In 2021, someone was hired for a cannabis-supported job every 2 minutes of the work day.

 

“Since 2014, when the nation’s first adult-use cannabis stores opened, the industry has created hundreds of thousands of new American jobs – and there are still plenty more yet to be created. We know the potential cannabis has as both an economic driver and force for good, and it’s heartening to see employment numbers continue to reflect this strong growth,” said Leafly CEO Yoko Miyashita. “Leafly is proud to step up and fill the gap created by a lack of federal reporting, and to advocate for federal legalization that’s equitable and accessible to all communities. During this midterm election year, it’s essential our elected officials recognize the reality that cannabis is a leading, homegrown American industry, and help us achieve our goal of an inclusive and profitable cannabis industry for all.”

 

The 2022 Leafly Cannabis Jobs Report includes detailed state-level data for nine states at various stages of legalization, and can be accessed here.

 

Methodology

The 2022 Leafly Jobs Report calculates the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) American jobs supported by legal cannabis. Working in partnership with Whitney Economics, Leafly undertakes this annual project to provide data missing from state and national labor studies, which refuse to count cannabis jobs due to federal prohibition. Each of the 38 states with some form of legal cannabis maintains its own unique set of regulations, which can profoundly affect the opportunity for cannabis sales and employment. Thus, each state requires a custom job-support calculation.

 

The Leafly/Whitney Economics team drills down into each state’s specific regulatory environment, investment climate, cannabis license data, and past performance to shape each state’s employment calculation. Macro events—like 2020’s Covid pandemic, investment scarcity, and hiring pessimism—are factored in, as are other data points like a state’s number of active cannabis worker cards. Added to that information are spot-check interviews with cannabis business owners and managers, as well as financial statements published by publicly traded cannabis companies.

 

About Leafly

Cannabis discovery marketplace Leafly aims to help more than 100 million visitors discover cannabis this year. Our powerful ecommerce tools help shoppers make informed purchase decisions and empower cannabis businesses to attract and retain loyal customers through advertising and technology services. Learn more at Leafly.com or download the Leafly mobile app through Apple’s App Store or Google Play.

 

About Whitney Economics

Whitney Economics is a global leader in cannabis and hemp business consulting, data, and economic research. The firm regularly consults with private companies as well as local, state, and national government agencies, applying economic principles to create actionable policies and strategies.

Contacts

Josh deBerge, pr@leafly.com

Categories
Business Culture

P.F. Chang’s debuts new location in Rockaway, New Jersey

New Rockaway location offers specialty menu favorites and an immersive Asian dining experience

 

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — P.F. Chang’s today announced the opening of its newest restaurant location in Rockaway, New Jersey, continuing the expansion of the company’s presence in the region.

From inspired menu favorites to elaborate décor, guests at the new Bistro are guaranteed an elevated dining experience. The Rockaway location features a unique 7-foot-tall hand-crafted golden dragon head, which compliments the beautiful exterior mural and welcomes guests in upon arrival.

 

Culinary offerings include P.F. Chang’s scratch-made favorites, such as Chang’s Spicy Chicken, Mongolian Beef and Chang’s Lettuce Wraps. The Lunar New Year specialty cocktail, Iwai of the Tiger is also available for a limited time now through April 19.

 

“P.F. Chang’s offers a premier destination for guests to celebrate with family and friends on any occasion,” said Art Kilmer, COO of P.F. Chang’s. “We’re dedicated to providing unforgettable moments for our guests, and we’re excited to partner with the Rockaway community to bring our immersive Asian dining experience to even more people in New Jersey.”

 

P.F. Chang’s Rockaway is located at 301 Mount Hope Avenue, Rockaway, N.J., 07866. The location, inside the Rockaway Mall, will operate Monday through Sunday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

 

The new 5,433-square-foot location, which features a patio area and seats around 200 guests, is part of an exciting nationwide brand refresh. It is also part of a broader expansion in New Jersey, with another opening in Toms River, N.J. later this spring. Additionally, there are P.F. Chang’s To Go restaurants opening across the country, including both urban and suburban locations in places such as Colorado, Florida, Texas, New York, Louisiana, Nevada and Arizona.

 

P.F. Chang’s Rockaway brings 150+ new job opportunities to the community. Qualified job candidates interested in a career at P.F. Chang’s may apply at pfchangs.com/careers.

 

About P.F. Chang’s

Founded in 1993 by Philip Chiang and Paul Fleming, P.F. Chang’s is the first internationally recognized multi-unit Asian culinary brand to honor and celebrate the 2,000-year-old tradition of wok cooking as the center of the guest experience. With roots in Chinese cuisine, today’s menu at P.F. Chang’s spans across all of Asia, honoring cultures and recipes from Japan, Korea, Thailand, and beyond. Each item offers a unique exploration of flavor, whether it’s a handcrafted cocktail, wok-fired lunch bowl, or celebratory multi-course dinner. Worldwide, P.F. Chang’s has more than 300 restaurants in 22 countries and U.S. airport locations, including a growing number of convenient P.F. Chang’s To Go locations offering takeout and delivery. For more P.F. Chang’s News visit pfchangs.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @pfchangs.

Contacts

Katie Erwin

Katie.erwin@fleishman.com

Categories
Healthcare International & World

Italian patients receive Samsara Vision’s SING IMT™, a new technology for age-related macular degeneration

Miniature, Implantable Telescope Is Proven to Restore Vision and Improve Quality of Life

 

FAR HILLS, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #AMD—Samsara Vision, a company focused on bringing vision and freedom back to late-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients through advanced visual prosthetic devices, today announced the first three successful clinical cases in Italy using its SING IMT™ (Smaller-Incision New-Generation Implantable Miniature Telescope) for people living with late-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The SING IMT™ was successfully implanted in patients in early February by Professor Stanislao Rizzo, director of the Ophthalmology Unit of the Agostino Gemelli IRCCS University Polyclinic Foundation and Ordinary of Ophthalmology Clinic at the Catholic University campus in Rome.

Nearly invisible inside the eye, the SING IMT™ is a Galilean telescope implant designed to improve visual acuity and quality of life for patients with late-stage AMD. Comprised of ultra-precise micro-optics, the SING IMT is implanted during typical, out-patient cataract surgery. After recovering from surgery, the patients work closely with a low vision specialist and occupational therapists to learn how to use their new vision, often practicing with exercises designed with their specific vision goals in mind. Images seen in “straight-ahead” vision are magnified 2.7x and projected onto healthy, undamaged areas of the macula in the back of the eye, reducing the impact of the AMD “blind spot” in central vision and allowing patients to see images that may have been unrecognizable before.

 

“It is incredibly exciting to introduce the SING IMT™ as a treatment option to patients in Italy whose vision has been severely compromised by late-stage AMD. Macular degeneration not only robs people of their vision, but of their independence as they have to rely on others to read to them or describe what is right in front of them. It can be isolating,” explained Professor Rizzo. “It’s a privilege to offer my patients high quality care and access to the most advanced treatment options. I’m hopeful that these first three patients are just the first of many who will experience improved vision and then reconnect to the people and activities that they enjoy.”

 

Advanced Technology Restores Vision for Older Adults

The leading cause of blindness in older adults, late-stage AMD is a disease which can result in a loss of central or “straight-ahead” vision, creating a blind spot that is uncorrectable by glasses, drugs, injections or cataract surgery. Other currently available treatments for late-stage AMD, such as intraocular injections, may slow or delay the progression of the disease but do not have a direct effect in regaining vision that SING IMT™ offers to eligible candidates. This blind spot makes it difficult or impossible for patients to recognize faces, read, and perform the tasks of everyday living such as watching TV, preparing meals, and performing self-care. A study published in British Journal of Ophthalmology determined that approximately 67 million people in the European Union are affected by AMD and this number is expected to grow by 15 percent until 2050.

 

“We’re gratified that Professor Stanislao Rizzo reports encouraging results from the first three Italian clinical cases using the SING IMT™ and appreciate his enthusiasm for bringing the latest ophthalmic innovations to patients in Italy,” said Dr. Maura Arsiero, Director, Global Market Development, Samsara Vision. “We are also currently working with other key opinion leaders across Europe to bring our novel and life-changing technology to their patients and meet the demands of these older adults who are eager to see more and see better, thereby enhancing their quality of life.”

 

Because AMD is a progressive disease, over time, patients have adapted with the loss of vision in the central field of vision. Before receiving the SING IMT™, patients must understand the possible and realistic outcomes post-op and commit to working with their ophthalmological team to use visual techniques and exercises to maximize the effectiveness of SING IMT™. Patients must also meet age, vision, cornea health, and other requirements noted in the Patient Information Booklet to determine if they are a candidate for the SING IMT™.

 

The telescopic implant is not a cure for late-stage AMD. It will not return your vision to the level a patient had before AMD, nor will it completely make up for vision loss. The most common risks of the SING IMT™ surgery include inflammatory deposits or precipitates on the device and increased intraocular pressure. Significant adverse events include corneal edema, vision-impairing corneal edema, corneal transplant, and decrease in visual acuity. There is a risk that having the telescope implantation surgery could worsen your vision rather than improve it. Individual results may vary.

 

The SING IMT™ is approved for late-stage AMD patients who are 55 years of age or older in CE Referenced Countries and is not currently FDA approved in the United States. To learn more about SING IMT™, visit http://singimt.samsaravision.com

 

About Samsara Vision

Samsara Vision is a privately held specialty medical device company headquartered in the United States and engaged in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of proprietary implantable ophthalmic devices and technologies that are intended to significantly improve vision and quality of life for individuals with untreatable retinal disorders. We believe that rejuvenating eyesight revives the spirit, allowing people to reconnect to the things in life that they love to see and do. Our approach includes working collaboratively with health care providers, researchers, payers, and advocates to ensure that people living with deteriorating vision have access to our novel technologies and support paths thereby better ensuring a future where they can see anew. Learn more at https://www.samsaravision.com

 

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains express or implied forward-looking statements pursuant to U.S. Federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include those about the belief that the company’s name change better reflects Samsara’s patient centricity and focus and the belief that rejuvenating eyesight revives the spirit, allowing people to reconnect to the things in life that they love to see and do. These forward-looking statements and their implications are based on the current expectations of the management of Samsara only, and are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: claims by other companies and persons regarding ownership over intellectual property; changes in technology and market requirements; Samsara may encounter delays or obstacles in launching and/or successfully completing its clinical trials; Samsara’s products may not be approved by regulatory agencies, Samsara’s technology may not be validated as it progresses further and its methods may not be accepted by the scientific community; Samsara may be unable to retain or attract key employees whose knowledge is essential to the development of its products; unforeseen scientific difficulties may develop with Samsara’s process; Samsara’s products may wind up being more expensive than it anticipates; results in the laboratory may not translate to equally good results in real clinical settings; results of preclinical studies may not correlate with the results of human clinical trials; Samsara’s patents may not be sufficient; Samsara’s products may harm recipients; changes in legislation may adversely impact Samsara; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; loss of market share and pressure on pricing resulting from competition, which could cause the actual results or performance of Samsara to differ materially from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, Samsara undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Contacts

Media Contact:
Amina Piiciotti, Media Ambience

a.piciotti@media-ambience.com
Tel + 39 02 85458311

Categories
Business Lifestyle

NICE Nexidia Analytics bolsters digital transformation for leading universal bank

Capturing and analyzing 100% of customer calls, Siam Commercial Bank sees 27% increase in customer satisfaction scores and dramatic improvements in AHT and agent compliance

 

HOBOKEN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #NICE—NICE (Nasdaq: NICE) today announced that Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) has seen rapid and significant advances in contact center agent productivity and customer service after implementing NICE Nexidia Analytics. With all calls automatically tracked and evaluated by the interaction analytics solution, the bank’s contact center succeeded in reducing average handle times, increasing compliance with service level expectations, and improving customer satisfaction.

Siam Commercial Bank, Thailand’s first indigenous bank, and the first financial institution in Thailand to implement NICE Nexidia Analytics, offers a full range of financial services and an extensive branch network. Its contact center staff of 1,500 agents handles more than 1.5 million outbound and inbound calls each month. Because the NICE Nexidia Analytics solution is fully integrated with Workforce Management and NICE Performance Management, the contact center’s agents can facilitate rapid, targeted action based on in-depth interaction analysis.

 

Since implementing the solution, SCB has benefited from increases in agent productivity, service quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction. Average handle times were reduced, thanks to Nexidia’s capability to drill down into long calls and identify root causes related to agent behavior or technical bottlenecks. Similarly, agent compliance with script and service requirements improved with the introduction of Nexidia’s actionable intelligence, leading to a 27% jump in customer satisfaction.

 

“Our services are backed by our continual pursuit of technological innovation,” said Surawat Shinawatra, Head of Customer Service, Siam Commercial Bank. “With NICE Nexidia Analytics we gained insight into 100% of our calls, which allowed us to understand where we had to improve and what advantages we could leverage to improve our customers’ experiences. It was a simple-to-implement, quick-win solution, delivering business value in a short period of time, with significant improvement in agent performance across multiple dimensions of contact center interactions.”

 

In response to rapid changes in the financial services industry, which is being reshaped by digital technology, regulatory change and new customer behavior, SCB has established a strategic plan called SCB Transformation. The program is designed to upgrade the bank’s infrastructure and enhance its long-term competitiveness.

 

“NICE is pleased to be a part of Siam Commercial Bank’s digital transformation, helping them achieve advanced customer service and agent performance,” said Darren Rushworth, APAC President, NICE. “With Nexidia Analytics, the bank’s contact center team is benefiting from a deeper understanding of consumer expectations, leading to the confidence, stability and personalization that is so critical in the financial services industry.”

 

About NICE

With NICE (Nasdaq: NICE), it’s never been easier for organizations of all sizes around the globe to create extraordinary customer experiences while meeting key business metrics. Featuring the world’s #1 cloud native customer experience platform, CXone, NICE is a worldwide leader in AI-powered self-service and agent-assisted CX software for the contact center – and beyond. Over 25,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies, partner with NICE to transform – and elevate – every customer interaction. www.nice.com

 

Trademark Note: NICE and the NICE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NICE Ltd. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners. For a full list of NICE’s marks, please see: www.nice.com/nice-trademarks.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements, including the statements of Mr. Rushworth, are based on the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of NICE Ltd. (the “Company”). In some cases, such forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “seek,” “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “project,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to differ materially from those described herein, including but not limited to the impact of changes in economic and business conditions, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; competition; successful execution of the Company’s growth strategy; success and growth of the Company’s cloud Software-as-a-Service business; changes in technology and market requirements; decline in demand for the Company’s products; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; difficulties or delays in absorbing and integrating acquired operations, products, technologies and personnel; loss of market share; an inability to maintain certain marketing and distribution arrangements; the Company’s dependency on third-party cloud computing platform providers, hosting facilities and service partners;, cyber security attacks or other security breaches against the Company; the effect of newly enacted or modified laws, regulation or standards on the Company and our products and various other factors and uncertainties discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting the company, refer to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them, except as required by law.

Contacts

Corporate Media
Christopher Irwin-Dudek, +1 201 561 4442, chris.irwin-dudek@nice.com, ET

Investors
Marty Cohen, +1 551 256 5354, ir@nice.com, ET

Omri Arens, +972 3 763 0127, ir@nice.com, CET