Past News Items - August 2024

In the News

Daiwa Health Development, Inc. Announces Webinar with Dr. Fred Pescatore on RBAC’s Clinical Applications

Genova Diagnostics Partners with Neurocode to Launch Innovative Alzheimer's Assessment

Science-First™ Supplement Brand Designs for Health® Launches Designs for Beauty™, an Innovative Inside Beauty Whole Practice Solution Line Exclusively for Medical Aesthetic Practitioners

Medtronic announces FDA approval of Simplera™ CGM and global partnership with Abbott

AANP 2024 Annual Convention: Naturopathic Physicians Gather to Learn, Lead the Way to Whole Health

NUNM names Dr. Heather Zwickey as Vice President of Research and Academic Excellence

Daiwa Health Development, Inc. Announces Webinar with Dr. Fred Pescatore on RBAC’s Clinical Applications

Daiwa Health Development, Inc. is excited to announce an upcoming webinar featuring Dr. Fred Pescatore, a renowned integrative medicine expert. The webinar will be held on August 29, 2024, at 1 p.m. (PST) / 2 p.m. (MST) / 4 p.m. (EST), and will delve into the clinical applications of RBAC (Rice Bran Arabinoxylan Compound), Daiwa's patented ingredient that is integral to one of their flagship products.

As Daiwa Health Development celebrates over 30 years of dedication to enhancing health through natural supplements, this event underscores the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and education. Founded by herbalist Yasuo Ninomiya, Daiwa Health Development has consistently bridged the gap between traditional Oriental medicine and modern scientific research. This webinar represents a continuation of that tradition, focusing on the clinical significance and benefits of RBAC.

RBAC, a proprietary ingredient developed by Daiwa, has been at the forefront of their product line, known for its unique health benefits. Dr. Fred Pescatore, an acclaimed figure in integrative medicine, will provide insights into how RBAC functions in a clinical setting, offering a valuable perspective on its applications and effectiveness.

"Dr. Pescatore's expertise and reputation in the field of integrative medicine make this webinar an exceptional opportunity for health professionals and enthusiasts alike," said a spokesperson for Daiwa Health Development. "We are thrilled to bring this knowledge to our audience as part of our 20th anniversary celebrations, reflecting our long-standing mission to support healthier lifestyles through high-quality, natural supplements."

Daiwa Health Development's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their operations. Their products are crafted in small batches, ensuring the highest standards of purity and efficacy. The company's dedication to sourcing ethical ingredients and maintaining rigorous quality control continues to set them apart in the health supplement industry.

RBAC, a proprietary immune-enhancing complex from Daiwa Health Development, Inc., has been shown in clinical studies to enhance the immune system by increasing the activity of white blood cells. Scientific research indicates that the active ingredient in RBAC can enhance Natural Killer (NK) cell function, increase the count of T and B lymphocytes, and strengthen and increase macrophages and cytokines. Derived from rice bran and modified by an enzyme from Shiitake mushrooms, RBAC is an immune modulator known for its safety and lack of harmful side effects. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

For more information and to register for the webinar, visit the Daiwa Health Development website [Daiwa Health Development website __title__ Daiwa Health Development]. Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert insights into RBAC and its clinical applications from one of the leading voices in integrative medicine.

About Daiwa Health Development, Inc.

Daiwa Health Development, Inc. is committed to improving health through high-quality, natural supplements. With over three decades of experience, the company blends traditional Oriental medicine with modern scientific advancements to deliver state-of-the-art health products. Daiwa operates globally, maintaining a focus on ethical practices and the highest standards of product quality.

Genova Diagnostics Partners with Neurocode to Launch Innovative Alzheimer's Assessment

 Genova Diagnostics, a global leader in clinical laboratory services, proudly announces the launch of its groundbreaking Alzheimer's Assessment, a non-invasive blood test utilizing the p-Tau217 biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease. This initiative is enabled by a strategic partnership with Neurocode, a leading innovator in neurological diagnostics and research.

The new Alzheimer's Assessment is a significant advancement in the early detection of Alzheimer's disease. By leveraging the p-Tau217 biomarker, this simple blood test provides highly accurate results that can identify Alzheimer's disease years before clinical symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention and management of the disease. The test offers a less invasive alternative to traditional cerebrospinal fluid and imaging tests, making it an accessible and convenient tool in the fight against Alzheimer's.

Genova Diagnostics has long been at the forefront of diagnostic innovation, providing healthcare practitioners and individuals with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health. The collaboration with Neurocode exemplifies Genova's commitment to advancing medical research and expanding its portfolio of diagnostic solutions.

"Our partnership with Neurocode has enabled us to bring this state-of-the-art Alzheimer's Assessment to the market," said Jeff Ledford, CEO of Genova Diagnostics. "By combining our expertise in laboratory services with Neurocode's cutting-edge neurological research, we can offer a test that significantly impacts the early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This is a significant step forward in our mission to provide innovative, science-based diagnostic services that improve patient outcomes."

"Neurocode is honored to work with Genova in the clinical launch of Alzpath pTau217 assay for accurately detecting amyloid pathology of Alzheimer's type," said Hans Frykman, Chief Science Officer of Neurocode. "Neurocode has performed the most extensive clinical validation in the industry, making our test very trustworthy even for people with very minor memory issues."

"Offering the pTau217 biomarker through partnership with Genova Diagnostics gives drastic accessibility to a larger segment of people that can now monitor amyloid activity in their brains with a simple blood draw," said Roopa Reddy, CEO at Neurocode. "Neurocode is very excited to realize this potential."

The Alzheimer's Assessment is available now to healthcare providers. Results include personalized assessments and clinical context for patient care. For more information about the Alzheimer's Assessment and other diagnostic services offered by Genova Diagnostics, visit www.gdx.net.

About Genova Diagnostics: Genova Diagnostics is a global leader in comprehensive diagnostic testing, offering innovative assessments that provide insights into gut health, nutrition, metabolic function, hormonal health, and more for personalized healthcare. With a commitment to advancing medical research and improving patient outcomes, Genova Diagnostics serves healthcare practitioners and individuals around the world. To learn more, visit www.gdx.net.

Science-First™ Supplement Brand Designs for Health® Launches Designs for Beauty™, an Innovative Inside Beauty Whole Practice Solution Line Exclusively for Medical Aesthetic Practitioners

Science-First™ Supplement Brand Designs for Health® Launches Designs for Beauty™, an Innovative Inside Beauty Whole Practice Solution Line Exclusively for Medical Aesthetic Practitioners

Designs for Health^®, the expert-recommended and preferred brand for high-quality, professional strength, research-backed supplements, today announced the launch of Designs for Beauty^®, a turnkey Inside Beauty Whole Practice Solution for medical aesthetic providers. The brand has launched eleven products spanning ingestibles and topicals, in addition to sophisticated protocols for patients seeking to address some of today's most common skincare concerns.

All Designs for Beauty^™ products are available on DesignsforBeauty.com and DesignsforHealth.com. 

"As nutritional science experts, we understand that one of the most visible places you can truly see health is in your skin," said Dr. David M. Brady, Chief Medical Officer at Designs for Health. "Designs for Beauty^™ was founded to further support medical aesthetic professionals and their patients by putting research-backed premium ingestibles, specially formulated topicals, and personalized protocols together that are rooted in clinical research."

Designs for Beauty^™ is a product suite steeped in the Designs for Health approach to supplementation. A noteworthy product in the line, Dipped in Gold^™, is a groundbreaking topical peptide lotion used to rejuvenate the skin from the outside in for a more youthful appearance. This innovative topical features the patented peptide called PeptiYouth^™, the first artificial intelligence (AI)-discovered anti-aging peptide tested clinically to improve the skin's visible signs of aging. Dipped in Gold^™ also contains unique ingredients synergistically combined to support radiant, smooth skin during the natural aging process, including vitamin E tocotrienols (as DeltaGold®) and geranylgeraniol (as GG-Gold^™) from the annatto seed, CoQ10, stabilized vitamin C, and polyphenols. This product takes skin nutrition to the next level when combined with synergistic ingestibles from the Designs for Beauty^™ line.

The complete Designs for Beauty^™ line also offers products that support collagen; clear skin; hormone balance; radiant hair, skin, and nails; and more:*

• Dipped in Gold^™: An AI-Discovered Peptide Lotion
• Hit the Lights^™: A Vitamin C Soluble
• Beyond Brilliance^™: A Biotin-Rich Collagen Powder
• The Big Glow^™: A Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails Supplement*
• The Foundation of You^™: A Whole Nutrient Multivitamin
• Perfect Equilibrium^™: A Broad-Spectrum Probiotic Supplement
• Clear the Chaos^™: A Clarifying Supplement for Healthy Skin*
• Balance Her Out^™: A Support for Female Hormonal Balance*
• Calm the Storm^™: A Concentrated Omega-3 Softgel
• Control Freak^™: A Supplement for Blood Sugar Metabolism*
• The Capital E^™: A Concentrated Vitamin E Tocotrienol Softgel

The Designs for Beauty^™ team will be attending the Aesthetics Next 6.0 Tradeshow taking place September 5^th- 8^th, 2024, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, TX, to discuss this transformative new line in addition to the launch of a revolutionary and proprietary genetic test, the Spotlight on Skin Test™, which will be available in September 2024. This nutrigenomics (NGX) test from Designs for Beauty™ helps practitioners uncover genetic clues to better understand key factors that influence clients' skin health and aging, leading to truly personalized lifestyle and nutritional protocol recommendations for patients.

Medical aesthetic practitioners already know that good nutrition can elevate their procedures to the next level, but many in the field haven't had formal training in nutrition and are unsure of how to seamlessly incorporate it into their practice. Our Inside Beauty Whole Practice Solution offers a turnkey program including comprehensive staff training on inside-out nutrition and how to start conversations with patients about the subject. The outcome? Enhanced client results and a new lucrative revenue stream.

Designs for Beauty^™ is on a mission to transform the way individuals perceive, achieve, and maintain beauty by prioritizing integrative health and well-being. To learn more about Designs for Beauty^™ and its product offerings, visit DesignsforBeauty.com and tune in to their new podcast, "Supplements and Skin Health for Radiant Beauty with Dr. Mark Tager" on Conversations for Health, and immerse yourself in the current landscape of Functional Medicine.

About Designs for Health, Inc., the Creators of Designs for Beauty^™:

Family-owned Designs for Health, Inc. offers high-quality dietary supplements and functional foods to health-care professionals and their patients. Guided by its founding philosophy of "Science-First^™," the company holds an unwavering commitment to creating research-driven formulations with meaningful quantities of functional ingredients that maximize the potential for successful health outcomes. For over 35 years, Designs for Health has been many health-care professionals' trusted source for not only innovation but also leadership in clinical education and practice development solutions.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Medtronic announces FDA approval of Simplera™ CGM and global partnership with Abbott

 Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT), a global leader in healthcare technology, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its Simplera™ continuous glucose monitor (CGM) — the company's first disposable, all-in-one CGM that's half the size of previous Medtronic CGMs. The discreet design simplifies the insertion and wear experience, eliminating the need for overtape.

The Simplera™ platform featuring the company's newest CGM form factor, includes the Simplera™ CGM, designed to be used as part of a Smart MDI system with the InPen™ smart insulin pen and the Simplera Sync™ sensor, which is designed to be integrated with the MiniMed™ 780G system.

The Simplera™ CGM and Simplera Sync™ sensor are CE Marked in Europe and launched earlier this year with positive feedback around ease of use and insertion, adding to the existing high satisfaction with the MiniMed™ 780G system.

The recent FDA approval for Simplera™ CGM lays the groundwork for future submission of the updated InPen™ smart insulin pen app, which would facilitate integration with Simplera™ CGM, as a Smart MDI system. Once FDA clearance is obtained, Medtronic will initiate a limited market release in the U.S. beginning with existing standalone CGM and InPen™ customers. The Simplera Sync™ sensor is under review by the FDA in a separate regulatory filing. It is investigational in the U.S. and not approved for commercial use.

Additional global regulatory submissions and approvals of the Simplera™ CGM and Simplera Sync™ sensor are pending.

Global Partnership to Complement Future Medtronic CGM Offerings

Medtronic is excited to announce a global partnership with Abbott to expand CGM options for people living with diabetes. Under this unique agreement, the companies will collaborate on an integrated CGM based on Abbott's most advanced CGM platform. Abbott will supply Medtronic with a CGM that will work exclusively with Medtronic smart dosing devices and software across both automated insulin delivery and Smart MDI systems. These systems, including the Abbott-based CGM, will be sold exclusively by Medtronic. Medtronic expects this original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement to be accretive to Diabetes revenue and neutral to Diabetes gross margin. Additional financial terms of the partnership and timing for commercial availability were not disclosed.

"Our partnership with Abbott allows us to expand access to our advanced automated insulin delivery and Smart MDI systems that deliver best-in-class outcomes with the most widely used CGM in the world. We look forward to offering our Simplera™ platform alongside this integrated CGM to bring more choice to people living with diabetes within one seamless Medtronic experience," said Que Dallara, executive vice president and president, Medtronic Diabetes.

Medtronic continues to advance its pipeline for people requiring intensive insulin delivery, including next-generation durable and patch automated insulin delivery systems, smart pens, CGMs, algorithms, software and services and will continue to expand therapy indications.

"This partnership pairs two global leaders in glucose sensing technology and insulin delivery," said Jared Watkin, executive vice president of Abbott's diabetes care business. "Abbott's CGM technology has set the standard for accurate, accessible, easy-to-use and reliable continuous glucose monitoring. Connecting this CGM built for Medtronic's advanced insulin delivery systems and algorithms makes it easier for people to spend less time thinking about their diabetes and more time living."

About the Diabetes Business at Medtronic (www.medtronicdiabetes.com)
Medtronic Diabetes is on a mission to alleviate the burden of diabetes by empowering individuals to live life on their terms, with the most advanced diabetes technology and always-on support when and how they need it. We've pioneered first-of-its-kind innovations for over 40 years and are committed to designing the future of diabetes management through next-generation sensors (CGM), intelligent dosing systems, and the power of data science and AI while always putting the customer experience at the forefront.

About Medtronic
Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic, visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.

Any forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the partnership between Medtronic and Abbott, strategic and other potential benefits of the partnership, Abbott's products and product candidates, and other statements about Medtronic managements' future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans or prospects, are subject to risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the ability to obtain regulatory approvals, and other risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's reports and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results. Medtronic cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document, and Medtronic undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements except to the extent required by law.

AANP 2024 Annual Convention: Naturopathic Physicians Gather to Learn, Lead the Way to Whole Health

Over 500 NDs, students, and supporters of naturopathic medicine convened in Chicago, IL to explore and promote the latest advancements in naturopathic medicine under the theme "Architects of Wellness: Leading the Way to Whole Health." 

“This Convention was the AANP’s first time visiting Chicago, creating an opportunity to showcase our profession and the importance of Naturopathic Medicine in the city where many healthcare organizations are headquartered,” said Laura Farr, AANP executive director.“Over the past year, many of the established healthcare organizations have taken divisive actions to block patient access to emerging professions like naturopathic medicine, at a time when our country and healthcare system is struggling with dire shortages of healthcare providers.”

“We are in a crisis of patient access to primary and specialty care in our country,” said Dr. Kasra Pournadeali, president of the AANP. “It is incomprehensible that at this time, the AMA would be leading a campaign against naturopathic physician licensure — attempting to block access to physicians trained in modern and traditional healing methods. At the AANP, we are committed to helping people access qualified providers, and also committed to finding innovative solutions to the declining health of our nation.” He added, “We invite any organization, stakeholder, and lawmaker interested in partnering to address these health crises, to join us.”

Highlights of the 39th AANP Convention include: 

- A dynamic pre-conference workshop, “Impact Medicine: Building a Signature Care System in One Day,” expertly led by Dr. Meghan Walker. This immersive session focused participants for the educational three days that followed.
- The opening keynote, "Promoting Diversity in Naturopathic Medicine Through Mentorship," delivered by Dr. Baljit Kaur Khamba, highlighted the importance of mentorship and diversity within the field, setting a powerful tone for the Convention. 
- Dr. Lise Alschuler concluded the event with her enlightening keynote, “Innate Healing Capacity: Harnessing the Power of Imagination,” leaving attendees motivated to integrate these concepts into their practices.
- Attendees engaged in a wide array of sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, earning Continuing Education (CE) credits to further their professional development. Topics ranged from cutting-edge research in naturopathic medicine to hands-on workshops focusing on craniosacral therapy and physical manipulation.
- The AANP hosted its first-ever Career Fair, providing a unique opportunity for NDs and ND students to connect with companies and residency sites actively seeking new hires.

An additional highlight was both the AANP Membership Meeting & the Gala Dinner Cruise where the prestigious annual awards were presented:
- Margaret “Maggi” Beeson, ND, received The Vis Award, celebrating her embodiment of the Healing Power of Nature and dedication to naturopathic principles; 
- Brothers Farhang Khosh, ND & Mehdi Khosh, ND were presented with the President’s Award, bestowed by AANP President, Dr. Kasra Pournadeali, for their tenacity in getting Kansas State to regulate naturopathic medicine in 2001;
- Christa Louise, MS, PhD, executive director of the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE) & Naturopathic Physician Licensing Examination (NPLEX), won the Champion of Naturopathic Medicine Award for her exemplary leadership, continuously improving the standards of naturopathic medical education and standardizing a national exam for licensure of naturopathic physicians;
- Daniel Rubin, ND, FABNO, received the Physician of the Year Award for his remarkable direction as a founder and developer of the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians (ONCANP) and Fellow by the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology (FABNO) and for his commitment to the future of naturopathic oncology and continued mentorship;
- Protocol for Life Balance/NOW Foods won this year’s Corporation of the Year Award for their continued commitment to helping the profession expand.

The 2025-2026 Board of Directors election results were also announced at the AANP 2024 Convention. The new Directors, who will begin their term January 1, 2025 are:
- Secretary: Audrey Schenewerk, ND
- Director: Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO
- Director: Greg Jones, NMD
- Director: Kelsey Klausmeyer, ND
- Director: Jessica Mitchell, ND, FABNP

The AANP Convention also addressed the current challenges licensed naturopathic physicians face, particularly as they convened in the national headquarters of the American Medical Association (AMA), which has been actively attempting to marginalize naturopathic doctors, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, and nurse practitioners from the broader medical field. 

The AANP continues to advocate for the recognition and licensure of naturopathic physicians across all US states, emphasizing the rigorous education and training that NDs undergo. The AANP’s commitment to ensuring that patients have access to licensed naturopathic care remains steadfast.

As the AANP 2024 Annual Convention wraps up, anticipation is already building for next year’s event. Mark your calendars for the AANP 2025 Annual Convention, set to take place July 10-12, 2025, in Palm Springs, California. The AANP looks forward to continuing its mission to advance naturopathic medicine and foster a thriving community of healthcare professionals dedicated to whole health and patient-centered care.

NUNM names Dr. Heather Zwickey as Vice President of Research and Academic Excellence

The National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) has named Dr. Heather Zwickey, professor and founding director of the Helfgott Research Institute, as its Vice President of Research and Academic Excellence. 

In her new leadership role, Zwickey will now serve as chief academic officer for NUNM overseeing the School of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies and the College of Classical Chinese Medicine. She will also continue to teach coursework and manage operations at the university’s esteemed Helfgott Research Institute.

“She teaches in every single program on campus, supports our admissions department, and has always played a key role in supporting faculty and students,” said NUNM President and CEO Dr. Melanie Henriksen. “Unquestionably, she already holds a reputation as a leader and one of the most loved individuals here.” 

Zwickey, who earned her Ph.D. in immunology and microbiology from the University of  Colorado Health Sciences Center, first joined NUNM in 2002. Since then, she has led a seasoned career as both an educator and researcher and played an instrumental role in the university’s transformation over the past two decades.