Market Newsdesk

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Harpoon Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: HARP), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a novel class of T cell engagers, today announced that Gerald McMahon, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, will participate in a fireside chat at the virtual Piper Sandler Healthcare Conference, being held December 1-3, 2020. The company will conduct institutional investor meetings on December 2, 2020.

The pre-recorded fireside chat will be accessible beginning November 23, 2020 in the Investors section of Harpoon Therapeutics’ website at www.harpoontx.com. The recording will be available on the website through December 3, 2020.

About
Harpoon
Therapeutics

Harpoon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a novel class of T cell engagers that harness the power of the body’s immune system to treat patients suffering from cancer and other diseases. T cell engagers are engineered proteins that direct a patient’s own T cells to kill target cells that express specific proteins, or antigens, carried by the target cells. Using its proprietary Tri-specific T cell Activating Construct (TriTAC^®) platform, Harpoon is developing a pipeline of novel TriTACs initially focused on the treatment of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. HPN424 targets PSMA and is in a Phase 1/2a trial for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. HPN536 targets mesothelin and is in a Phase 1/2a trial for cancers expressing mesothelin, initially focused on ovarian and pancreatic cancers. HPN217 targets BCMA and is in a Phase 1/2 trial for relapsed, refractory multiple myeloma. HPN328 targets DLL3 and Harpoon plans to initiate a Phase 1/2 trial in the fourth quarter of 2020. Harpoon has also developed a proprietary ProTriTAC^TM platform, which applies a prodrug concept to its TriTAC platform to create a therapeutic T cell engager that remains inactive until it reaches the tumor. For additional information about Harpoon Therapeutics, please visit www.harpoontx.com.

Cautionary Note on Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “target,” “estimate,” “intend” and similar expressions (as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions or circumstances) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Harpoon Therapeutics’ expectations and assumptions as of the date of this press release. Each of these forward-looking statements involves risks and uncertainties that could cause Harpoon Therapeutics’ clinical development programs, future results or performance to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements about the progress, timing, scope and anticipated results of clinical trials, the timing of the presentation of data, the association of data with potential treatment outcomes, the development and advancement of product candidates, the timing of development milestones for product candidates, and the anticipated potential impacts to Harpoon Therapeutics’ business from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many factors may cause differences between current expectations and actual results, including unexpected safety or efficacy data observed during clinical studies, clinical trial site activation or enrollment rates that are lower than expected, unanticipated or greater than anticipated impacts or delays due to COVID-19, changes in expected or existing competition, changes in the regulatory environment, the uncertainties and timing of the regulatory approval process, and unexpected litigation or other disputes. Other factors that may cause Harpoon Therapeutics’ actual results to differ from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements in this press release are discussed in Harpoon Therapeutics’ filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the “Risk Factors” sections contained therein. Except as required by law, Harpoon Therapeutics assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in expectations, even as new information becomes available.

Contacts
:

Harpoon Therapeutics, Inc.
Georgia Erbez
Chief Financial Officer
650-443-7400
[email protected]

Westwicke ICR
Robert H. Uhl
Managing Director
858-356-5932
[email protected]

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Spark Therapeutics, a member of the Roche Group (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) and a fully integrated, commercial gene therapy company dedicated to challenging the inevitability of genetic disease, today announced the appointment of Michael Retterath as chief strategy officer. His visionary leadership and more than 25 years of experience, combined with Spark’s rich gene therapy expertise, further positions the company to reach broader patient populations affected by genetic disease.

“After another year of incredible growth in our hometown of Philadelphia, we are poised to scale and accelerate our gene therapy research like never before as we create the path to the next generation of gene therapies,” said Jeffrey D. Marrazzo, chief executive officer of Spark Therapeutics. “We are thrilled to have Michael at the helm of our long-term strategy as we approach nearly one year since close of the merger with Roche and aim to further leverage the global resources of Roche to accelerate our vision of a world where no life is limited by genetic disease.”

Michael joins Spark Therapeutics from Bain & Company, where he served as a partner in the healthcare practice for a decade. Michael focused on corporate and business unit strategies, organizational transformations, product launches, growth strategies and new market entries. His experience spans multiple therapeutic areas, including rare disease, the central nervous system and ophthalmology across a wide range of modalities.

“This is a pivotal time to spark unprecedented progress in the field of genetic medicine, anchored by strong collaboration and future planning,” said Retterath. “I look forward to working with Spark and Roche leadership to navigate and accelerate the advancement of our science with a sustainable impact for patients, the healthcare system and society.”

Prior to joining Bain in 2010, Michael was a partner at Monitor Group and head of the New York office, where he supported multiple pharmaceutical product launches and growth strategies for 10 years. Before that, Michael was senior vice president at Sanofi Diagnostics Pasteur in Paris and a senior director at Boehringer Mannheim (now Roche) in Mannheim, Germany.

Michael earned an MBA from the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) and holds a M.Sc. in molecular biology and a B.Sc. in biochemistry from the University of Waterloo in Canada.

About Spark Therapeutics

At Spark Therapeutics, a fully integrated, commercial company committed to discovering, developing and delivering gene therapies, we challenge the inevitability of genetic diseases, including blindness, hemophilia, lysosomal storage disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. We currently have four programs in clinical trials. At Spark, a member of the Roche Group, we see the path to a world where no life is limited by genetic disease. For more information, visit www.sparktx.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Kevin Giordano
[email protected]
(215) 294-9942

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Progenity, Inc. (Nasdaq: PROG), a biotechnology company with an established track record of success in developing and commercializing molecular testing products, today announced that Harry Stylli, Ph.D., CEO, chairman of the board, and co-founder of Progenity, will participate in a fireside chat at the virtual Piper Sandler Healthcare Conference, being held December 1-3, 2020.

The pre-recorded fireside chat will be accessible beginning November 23, 2020 by visiting progenity.com/presentations. The recording will be available on the Progenity website through December 3, 2020.

About Progenity

Progenity, Inc. is a biotechnology company with an established track record of success in developing and commercializing molecular testing products, as well as innovating in the field of precision medicine. Progenity provides in vitro molecular tests designed to improve lives by providing actionable information that helps guide patients and physicians in making medical decisions during key life stages. The company applies a multi-omics approach, combining genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to its molecular testing products and to the development of a suite of investigational ingestible devices designed to provide precise diagnostic sampling and drug delivery solutions. Progenity’s vision is to transform healthcare to become more precise and personal by improving diagnoses of disease and improving patient outcomes through localized treatment with targeted therapies. For additional information about Progenity, please visit the company’s website at www.progenity.com.

Investor Contact:

Robert Uhl
Managing Director, Westwicke ICR
[email protected]
(619) 228-5886

Media Contact:

Kate Blom-Lowery
CG Life
[email protected]
(858) 457-2436

NEW YORK, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Full Circle TMS, a supplier of transportation management software (TMS) for carriers and brokers in the expedite, hot-shot and truckload market, has natively integrated FourKites’ market-leading global, multimodal real-time transportation visibility platform into the Enterprise version of their TMS. This new integration delivers third-party logistics providers, brokers and shippers real-time, accurate data on shipment transit times, location, and status.

Growing supply-chain complexity has increased the need for improved visibility on shipments. With this integration, Enterprise TMS users, which include hundreds of expedite, hot-shot and truckload carriers and brokers, can easily send updated shipment status information via FourKites to shippers from within the Full Circle TMS platform. The integration allows them to improve tracking and exception management, reduce costs associated with missing delivery windows, and provide world-class tracking experiences to their shipping customers.

“Our TMS subscribers constantly must give their customers accurate and timely information about the status of their time critical shipments,” said Stuart Sutton, President & CEO of Full Circle TMS. “Our integration with FourKites provides tremendous value to our Enterprise TMS customers. Shipment information, like vehicle position, arrivals, departures and supporting documentation seamlessly flow from the integrated driver productivity app, Circle Mobile, through the TMS out to the shipper in real time. With FourKites, shippers and logistics providers can quickly activate tracking, notifications for exceptions, and get precise ETAs. This integration enhances our Enterprise TMS offering which is a clear win for our subscribers who can expand their market to a whole new set of shippers.”

FourKites’ integration with Full Circle TMS Enterprise level software provides users with instant and normalized carrier data, including transit times, location and status of shipments, directly from capacity providers within the FourKites network.

“We love how Full Circle TMS makes it easy for us to provide real-time shipment transparency and visibility to our shippers,” says Jim Noble, Chief Operating Officer of Issa Logistics. “The TMS has all sorts of visibility integrations for shippers, and the FourKites integration is just another way the ingenious minds at Full Circle TMS keep our company on the leading edge of technology. Now, if a shipper says they will only give me business if I integrate with FourKites, I can easily say YES!”

“With the constant pressure on global supply chains for real-time data, carriers of all sizes are fielding customer demands for more transparency throughout the lifecycle of a shipment,” said Mathew Elenjickal, Founder and CEO of FourKites. “Together with shipment information from Full Circle TMS, our predictive visibility platform leverages machine learning and advanced analytics to provide supply chain professionals with the real-time data needed to make informed, trusted decisions, and to remain agile in the face of any circumstance.”

About Full Circle TMS

Full Circle TMS (www.fullcircletms.com) is web-based, transportation management software (TMS) including customer relationship management, compliance management, order entry (including EDI), rating, planning, dispatch operations, integrated driver mobile app, customer portal, driver portal, carrier portal, fleet management, driver planning, load board, bid board, business process automation with visual workflow, document management and integrations to many 3^rd party applications, all in one integrated system. The TMS is designed to improve the productivity and profitability of transportation companies and grow their businesses. To learn more, visit www.FullCircleTMS.com.

About FourKites

FourKites is the largest predictive supply chain visibility platform, delivering real-time visibility and predictive analytics for the broadest network of Global 1000 companies and third-party logistics firms. Using a proprietary algorithm to calculate shipment arrival times, FourKites enables customers to lower operating costs, improve on-time performance and strengthen end-customer relationships. With a network that spans millions of GPS/ELD devices in 80+ countries, FourKites has 1 million loads and over $100 billion in freight under management at any given time. The platform covers all modes, including truckload, LTL, ocean, rail, air, intermodal, parcel and courier, and extends real-time, in-transit visibility into the yard. FourKites is optimized for mobile and equipped with market-leading end-to-end security. To learn more, visit https://www.FourKites.com/.

About Issa Logistics

Issa Logistics is a family-owned logistics company built on three core pillars: quality, safety, and exceptional customer service. Providing top-quality service to our customers is a privilege, and their continued support and satisfaction ensures our success. To learn more, visit https://issalogistics.net.

Media Contact: 
Marianna Vyridi 
Big Valley Marketing for FourKites 
(650) 468-3263 
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f9876432-c55f-4872-8f04-df2fee870ae9

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cytokinetics, Incorporated (Nasdaq: CYTK) today announced that preclinical data for CK-3773274 (CK-274) and CK-3772271 (CK-271) were shared in poster presentations at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2020. CK-274 reduced contractility and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) peak pressure gradient in cats with naturally occurring hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). In the Dahl/Salt sensitive rat model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), CK-271 attenuated the development of fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction.

“We’re pleased to share preclinical data that builds on the growing body of evidence for our pipeline of cardiac myosin inhibitors,” said Brad Morgan, Ph.D., Cytokinetics’ Senior Vice President, Research and Non-Clinical Development. “Collectively, these data demonstrate the potential of this mechanism of action to reduce or arrest the development of cardiac hypercontractility in animal models which may support application in patients with diseases of hypercontractility including HCM and HFpEF.”

Previous preclinical data has shown that CK-274 produces exposure related effects on cardiac contractility in healthy animals and mouse models of HCM. New preclinical data demonstrated dose-related changes in left ventricular (LV) systolic function and reductions in LVOT peak pressure gradient in cats with naturally occurring HCM and LVOTO due to the A31P mutation in cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyBP-C). Treatment with CK-274 (1 mg/kg) reduced mean left ventricular (LV) fractional shortening at 6, 24, and 48 hours post-treatment (mean reduction 13.6%, p = 0.03; 15.4%, p = 0.01; 11.6%, p = 0.02, respectively). In addition to lowering the hypercontractility in cats with naturally occurring HCM and LVOTO, CK-274 reduced the left ventricular outflow tract peak pressure gradient in concentration related manner (median pressure gradient at baseline 27.1 mmHg [interquartile range {IQR} 18.3–33.3] vs 24 hours post-drug, 7.3 mmHg [IQR 14.2–19.7], p= 0.01). CK-274 was well tolerated and no changes in heart rate were observed for any treatment group over time.

A preclinical study of CK-271 demonstrated that treatment with this novel small molecule cardiac myosin inhibitor attenuated the development of fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction in an animal model of HFpEF. Previous studies have shown that CK-271 reduces cardiac myosin ATPase activity in vitro and cardiac contractility in vivo in healthy rats and dogs. In this study of the Dahl/Salt Sensitive rat hypertension model of HFpEF, six weeks of treatment with CK-271 reduced fractional shortening (HS: 53.8 ±1.4 vs HS + CK-271: 42.7 ±1.0%, p< 0.0001) and reduced high salt diet-induced diastolic dysfunction, including reductions in isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) (HS: 22.8 ±0.6 vs HS + CK-271: 19.5 ±0.5 ms, p< 0.0001) and left atrial area (HS: 42.5 ±2.2 vs HS + CK-271: 35.4 ±0.8 mm2, p< 0.0001). CK-271 also reduced the development of cardiac fibrosis induced by a high salt diet (HS: 5.0 ±0.6 vs HS + CK-271: 3.5 ±0.3%, p< 0.05). These results suggest that cardiac myosin inhibition may be a novel approach to mitigate the development of HFpEF.

About Cytokinetics

Cytokinetics is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class muscle activators and next-in-class muscle inhibitors as potential treatments for debilitating diseases in which muscle performance is compromised and/or declining. As a leader in muscle biology and the mechanics of muscle performance, the company is developing small molecule drug candidates specifically engineered to impact muscle function and contractility. Cytokinetics is collaborating with Amgen Inc. (Amgen) to develop omecamtivmecarbil, a novel cardiac muscle activator. Omecamtivmecarbil is the subject of an international clinical trials program in patients with heart failure including GALACTIC-HF, of which topline results were recently reported, and METEORIC-HF, which is ongoing. Amgen holds an exclusive worldwide license to develop and commercialize omecamtivmecarbil with a sublicense held by Servier for commercialization in Europe and certain other countries. Cytokinetics is developing reldesemtiv, a fast skeletal muscle troponin activator (FSTA) for the potential treatment of ALS and other neuromuscular indications following conduct of FORTITUDE-ALS and other Phase 2 clinical trials. The company is considering potential advancement of reldesemtiv to Phase 3 pending ongoing regulatory interactions. Cytokinetics is collaborating with Astellas Pharma Inc. (Astellas) to research, develop and commercialize other novel mechanism skeletal sarcomere activators (not including FSTAs). Licenses held by Amgen and Astellas are subject to specified co-development and co-commercialization rights of Cytokinetics. Cytokinetics is also developing CK-274, a novel cardiac myosin inhibitor that company scientists discovered independent of its collaborations, for the potential treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathies. Cytokinetics has granted Ji Xing Pharmaceuticals Limited an exclusive license to develop and commercialize CK-274 in China and Taiwan, in accordance with Cytokinetics’ planned global registration programs. Cytokinetics is conducting REDWOOD-HCM, a Phase 2 clinical trial of CK-274 in patients with obstructive HCM. Cytokinetics continues its over 20-year history of pioneering innovation in muscle biology and related pharmacology focused to diseases of muscle dysfunction and conditions of muscle weakness.

For additional information about Cytokinetics, visit www.cytokinetics.com and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). Cytokinetics disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements, and claims the protection of the Act’s Safe Harbor for forward-looking statements. Examples of such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the timing, design and results of Cytokinetics’ preclinical trials of CK-274 or CK-271; the potential benefits of CK-274 or CK-271; Cytokinetics’ and its partners’ research and development activities; the timing of enrollment of patients in Cytokinetics’ and its partners’ clinical trials; the design, timing, results, significance and utility of preclinical and clinical results; and the properties and potential benefits of Cytokinetics’ drug candidates. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations, but actual results may differ materially due to various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, potential difficulties or delays in the development, testing, regulatory approvals for trial commencement, progression or product sale or manufacturing, or production of Cytokinetics’ drug candidates that could slow or prevent clinical development or product approval; patient enrollment for or conduct of clinical trials may be difficult or delayed; Cytokinetics’ drug candidates may have adverse side effects or inadequate therapeutic efficacy; the FDA or foreign regulatory agencies may delay or limit Cytokinetics’ or its partners’ ability to conduct clinical trials; Cytokinetics may be unable to obtain or maintain patent or trade secret protection for its intellectual property; Cytokinetics’ partners decisions with respect to research and development activities; standards of care may change, rendering Cytokinetics’ drug candidates obsolete; competitive products or alternative therapies may be developed by others for the treatment of indications Cytokinetics’ drug candidates and potential drug candidates may target; and risks and uncertainties relating to the timing and receipt of payments from its partners, including milestones and royalties on future potential product sales under Cytokinetics’ collaboration agreements with such partners. For further information regarding these and other risks related to Cytokinetics’ business, investors should consult Cytokinetics’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Cytokinetics
Diane Weiser
Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Investor Relations
(415) 290-7757 

MONTREAL, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nuvei Corporation (“Nuvei” or the “Company”) (TSX: NVEI and NVEI.U), the global payment technology partner of thriving brands, today announced that the Company will be participating in the following virtual investor conferences.

• On Monday, November 16, 2020, members of the Company’s management team will be participating in a fireside chat at the TD Securities Technology Virtual Conference. The fireside chat will begin at 11:10AM ET.
• On Wednesday, November 18, 2020, members of the Company’s management team will be participating in a fireside chat at Citi’s 2020 Financial Technology Virtual Conference. The fireside chat will begin at 8:15AM ET.

Live webcasts, as well as replays, will be available from the Company’s investor relations website at https://investors.nuvei.com under the “Events & Presentations” section.

About
Nuvei

We are Nuvei, the payment technology partner of thriving brands. We provide the intelligence and technology businesses need to succeed locally and globally, through one integration – propelling them further, faster. Uniting payment technology and consulting, we help businesses remove payment barriers, optimize operating costs and increase acceptance rates. Our proprietary platform offers direct connections to all major payment card schemes worldwide, supports 450 local and alternative payment methods and nearly 150 currencies. Our purpose is to make our world a local marketplace. For more information, visit www.nuvei.com.

Contact:

Investor Relations
[email protected]

Public Relations
[email protected]

 

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cytokinetics, Incorporated (Nasdaq: CYTK) today announced that new findings from analyses of claims data and electronic health records related to heart failure and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) were shared in three poster presentations at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2020. Two posters related to heart failure included one detailing analyses of outcomes highlighting the high unmet need in these patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and a worsening heart failure event, and another one presenting data on spending for hospitalized Medicare patients with heart failure underscoring the high costs of their healthcare. An additional poster presented demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with HCM.

“These presentations and analyses related to heart failure underscore the growing economic burden of this disease which, despite standard of care, is accompanied by a high risk of hospitalization and cardiovascular death,” said Robert I. Blum, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cytokinetics. “Furthermore, the analyses of patients with HCM adds to our understanding of this complex disease as we continue to advance and refine our clinical development program for CK-274, our next-in-class cardiac myosin inhibitor.”

Findings
in Heart Failure Detail High Risk Population
and
High Spending
Among Hospitalized
Patients

The first analysis, conducted in collaboration with Duke Clinical Research Institute, characterized outcomes of patients with HFrEF and a recent worsening heart failure event (WHF), defined as an emergency department visit or hospitalization with heart failure as the primary discharge diagnosis within 12 months prior to their index echocardiogram. A total of 3,867 patients aged 18-85 with chronic symptomatic HFrEF were identified via electronic health records from the Duke University Health System between January 2008 to December 2018. 1,668 (43.1%) had a WHF event in the year prior to index echocardiogram. Patients with a recent WHF event had more comorbidities, including the presence of renal disease (40.5% vs. 26.7%; p<0.001) as well as higher rates of mortality (hazard ratio 1.59; p<0.001), all-cause hospitalization (hazard ratio 1.51; p<0.001), and heart failure hospitalization (hazard ratio 1.85; p<0.001). Patients with a recent WHF event also had lower ejection fraction (EF) (63.5% with EF <25% vs. 48.4%; p<0.001) and higher NT-proBNP (3864 vs. 2443; p<0.001). Use of heart failure medication was statistically significantly higher in those with a recent WHF event (% on ACE-I, ARB, ARNI/Beta-Blocker/Mineralocorticoid antagonist was 87/76/53 for the WHF group and 78/71/35 for non-WHF). These results suggest that despite broad use of heart failure medication in patients who experienced a worsening heart failure event, a significant unmet need remains for new therapies.

The second analysis, conducted in collaboration with Yale University School of Medicine, examined payments spanning the index hospitalization through 30-days post-discharge for Medicare beneficiaries with heart failure (HF). Using Medicare fee-for-service administrative claims data, patients hospitalized with HF from 2016-2018 were identified with the following primary discharge diagnoses (ICD-10 codes): systolic HF (50.2 and 50.4), diastolic HF (50.3), hypertensive heart disease (HHD) with HF (I11), and HHD with HF and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (I13). Of the 935,962 patients hospitalized with HF included in the analysis, 365,274 (39.0%) were hospitalized with HHD with HF and CKD, 226,929 (24.2%) with HHD with HF, 165,156 (17.6%) with diastolic HF, and 178,603 (19.1%) with systolic HF. Over time, there was a substantial increase in hospital admissions with a primary diagnosis of HHD with HF with or without CKD. Payments varied across HF diagnosis, with the highest payments for patients with HHD with HF and CKD. The total estimated mean Medicare 30-day payments for HF care were approximately $16.5 billion over the 3-year study period, with little change in spending year to year. These results underscore the high cost of heart failure related health care, especially for hospitalizations.

Demographics and Clinical Characteristics of
Patients with Obstructive
HCM

In a retrospective analysis of demographics and clinical characteristics of adult patients with obstructive HCM (oHCM), patients were identified from electronic health records from 39 Integrated Delivery Networks (IDN) in the IBM Explorys database from 2010 through 2018. Of 8,792 patients, 53.0% were female, and 81.2% Caucasian (mean index age: 61.8 years). Primary insurance type was private (58.9%) and 54.9% of patients lived in the Midwest. Mean BMI at index was 30.4 and 30.9% were nondrinkers. The mean Quan-Charlson Comorbidity Index was 6.35% with the most common comorbidities being congestive heart failure (31.9%), chronic pulmonary disease (20.1%), and diabetes without chronic complications (16.9%). Cardiovascular (CV) drug rates included beta blockers (80.5%), calcium channel blockers (46.0%), ACE inhibitors (27.7%), ARBs (18.8%), disopyramide (2.4%) and amiodarone (13.0%). Surgical procedure rates included septal myectomy (22%), ablation (19.8%), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (11.2%), and heart transplantation (0.3%). Major residual side effects subsequent to surgical procedures included atrial fibrillation (31.4%) and reintervention (15.6%). Common reintervention procedures included ablation and septal myectomy. The results from this analysis of a large, diverse, national sample of patients with obstructive HCM may be used to compare the characteristics of patients with obstructive HCM in the general population and those treated in centers of excellence.

About Cytokinetics

Cytokinetics is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class muscle activators and next-in-class muscle inhibitors as potential treatments for debilitating diseases in which muscle performance is compromised and/or declining. As a leader in muscle biology and the mechanics of muscle performance, the company is developing small molecule drug candidates specifically engineered to impact muscle function and contractility. Cytokinetics is collaborating with Amgen Inc. (Amgen) to develop omecamtiv mecarbil, a novel cardiac muscle activator. Omecamtiv mecarbil is the subject of an international clinical trials program in patients with heart failure including GALACTIC-HF, of which topline results were recently reported, and METEORIC-HF, which is ongoing. Amgen holds an exclusive worldwide license to develop and commercialize omecamtiv mecarbil with a sublicense held by Servier for commercialization in Europe and certain other countries. Cytokinetics is developing reldesemtiv, a fast skeletal muscle troponin activator (FSTA) for the potential treatment of ALS and other neuromuscular indications following conduct of FORTITUDE-ALS and other Phase 2 clinical trials. The company is considering potential advancement of reldesemtiv to Phase 3 pending ongoing regulatory interactions. Cytokinetics is collaborating with Astellas Pharma Inc. (Astellas) to research, develop and commercialize other novel mechanism skeletal sarcomere activators (not including FSTAs). Licenses held by Amgen and Astellas are subject to specified co-development and co-commercialization rights of Cytokinetics. Cytokinetics is also developing CK-274, a novel cardiac myosin inhibitor that company scientists discovered independent of its collaborations, for the potential treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathies. Cytokinetics has granted Ji Xing Pharmaceuticals Limited an exclusive license to develop and commercialize CK-274 in China and Taiwan, in accordance with Cytokinetics’ planned global registration programs. Cytokinetics is conducting REDWOOD-HCM, a Phase 2 clinical trial of CK-274 in patients with obstructive HCM. Cytokinetics continues its over 20-year history of pioneering innovation in muscle biology and related pharmacology focused to diseases of muscle dysfunction and conditions of muscle weakness.

For additional information about Cytokinetics, visit www.cytokinetics.com and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). Cytokinetics disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements and claims the protection of the Act’s Safe Harbor for forward-looking statements. Examples of such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the GALACTIC-HF clinical trial, including the results thereof; statements relating to the METEORIC-HF clinical trial; the potential benefits of omecamtiv mecarbil, including its ability to represent a novel therapeutic strategy to increase cardiac muscle function and restore cardiac performance; the timing and likelihood of regulatory approval for omecamtiv mecarbil, Cytokinetics’ and its partners’ research and development activities; the design, timing, results, significance and utility of preclinical and clinical results; and the properties and potential benefits of Cytokinetics’ other drug candidates. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations, but actual results may differ materially due to various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, potential difficulties or delays in the development, testing, regulatory approvals for trial commencement, progression or product sale or manufacturing, or production of Cytokinetics’ drug candidates that could slow or prevent clinical development or product approval; Cytokinetics’ drug candidates may have adverse side effects or inadequate therapeutic efficacy; the FDA or foreign regulatory agencies may delay or limit Cytokinetics’ or its partners’ ability to conduct clinical trials; Cytokinetics may be unable to obtain or maintain patent or trade secret protection for its intellectual property; the nature of Amgen’s decisions with respect to the design, initiation, conduct, timing and continuation of development activities for omecamtiv mecarbil; standards of care may change, rendering Cytokinetics’ drug candidates obsolete; competitive products or alternative therapies may be developed by others for the treatment of indications Cytokinetics’ drug candidates and potential drug candidates may target; and risks and uncertainties relating to the timing and receipt of payments from its partners, including milestones and royalties on future potential product sales under Cytokinetics’ collaboration agreements with such partners. For further information regarding these and other risks related to Cytokinetics’ business, investors should consult Cytokinetics’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Cytokinetics
Diane Weiser
Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Investor Relations
(415) 290-7757

• Biogen
  earns
  top scores
  on areas including
  access to medicine, talent attraction,
  innovation management
  and climate
  performance and
  reporting
  
• In 2013
  Biogen
  became
  the 1
  
  ^st
  
  U.S. biotech company to appear on the DJSI World
  Index
• 2020 marks the 8
  
  ^th
  
  consecutive year that Biogen was listed among top performers
  

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Biogen Inc. (Nasdaq: BIIB) today announced that it has been ranked the number one biotechnology company on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World Index) for the fifth time, more than any other biotechnology company. The DJSI World Index recognizes the top 10 percent of companies in the S&P Global Broad Market Index for performance on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, which S&P Global considers key to generating long-term stakeholder value.

Of the 318 companies named to DJSI World Index, Biogen led the biotechnology industry with the top scores in areas such as strategies to improve access to medicine and cost burden, innovation management, talent attraction, climate performance and reporting. In 2013 Biogen was the first U.S.-based biotech company to appear on DJSI World Index, and 2020 marks the eighth consecutive year that Biogen was listed among top corporate performers.

“At Biogen, we believe that responsible corporate leadership is a defining part of our culture and our ongoing business success. We are proud to top the DJSI World Index for the fifth time, an achievement that reflects Biogen’s longstanding commitment to making advances in climate, health, equity and other urgent issues of our time while pioneering neuroscience,” said Michel Vounatsos, Chief Executive Officer of Biogen.

The DJSI World Index ranking results from Biogen’s outstanding performance on multiple dimensions of corporate responsibility, including an ongoing focus on health equity and access; ethical marketing practices; and human capital development with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. It also reflects Biogen’s emphasis on transparency and expanded public reporting on emerging risks, employee benefits and philanthropic contributions, among other issues.

“We congratulate Biogen for being included in the DJSI World Index. A DJSI distinction is a reflection of being a sustainability leader in your industry,” said Manjit Jus, Global Head of ESG Research and Data, S&P Global. “With a record number of companies participating in the 2020 Corporate Sustainability Assessment and more stringent rules for inclusion this year, this sets your company apart and rewards your continued commitment to people and planet.”

To bolster its ESG commitments, Biogen recently launched Healthy Climate, Healthy Lives^TM, a 20-year initiative to eliminate fossil fuels across its operations and collaborate with renowned institutions to advance human health. The program includes research into the potential link between dementia and air pollution.

Details on Biogen’s ESG commitments can be found in its 2019 Year In Review, which is based on internationally recognized Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 Guidelines.

About Biogen

At Biogen, our mission is clear: we are pioneers in neuroscience. Biogen discovers, develops and delivers worldwide innovative therapies for people living with serious neurological and neurodegenerative diseases as well as related therapeutic adjacencies. One of the world’s first global biotechnology companies, Biogen was founded in 1978 by Charles Weissmann, Heinz Schaller, Kenneth Murray and Nobel Prize winners Walter Gilbert and Phillip Sharp. Today Biogen has the leading portfolio of medicines to treat multiple sclerosis, has introduced the first approved treatment for spinal muscular atrophy, commercializes biosimilars of advanced biologics and is focused on advancing research programs in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, neuromuscular disorders, movement disorders, ophthalmology, immunology, neurocognitive disorders, acute neurology and pain.

We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.biogen.com. To learn more, please visit www.biogen.com and follow us on social media – Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook,YouTube.

Biogen Safe Harbor

This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, about our strategy and plans; and our ability to achieve our ESG goals, commitments and targets. These statements may be identified by words such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “will,” “would” and other words and terms of similar meaning. You should not place undue reliance on these statements.

These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such statements, including without limitation the risks of unexpected hurdles, costs or delays; uncertainty of success in the execution of our strategy and plans; the direct and indirect impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on our business, results of operations and financial condition; and the risks and uncertainties that are described in the Risk Factors section of our most recent annual or quarterly report and in other reports we have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The foregoing sets forth many, but not all, of the factors that could cause actual results to differ from our expectations in any forward-looking statement. Investors should consider this cautionary statement, as well as the risk factors identified in our most recent annual or quarterly report and in other reports we have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations and speak only as of the date of this news release. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

MEDIA CONTACT : David Caouette + 1 617 679 4945 [email protected]

INVESTOR CONTACT: Joe Mara +1 781 464 2442 [email protected]

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NexTech AR Solutions (NexTech) (OTCQB: NEXCF) (CSE: NTAR) (FSE: N29), an emerging leader in augmented reality for eCommerce, AR learning applications, AR-enhanced video conferencing and virtual events today announced that President Paul Duffy will deliver a presentation on leveraging the power of AR for virtual experiences during techsytalk Global. Duffy’s presentation will take place on November 18 at 11:40am ET. NexTech is also serving as a Gold Sponsor of the event which runs from November 17-18, 2020.

Tickets for techsytalk Global can be purchased here.

techsytalk Global anticipates an international audience of more than 2,000 attendees from the corporate, association and independent event planning industries. In his presentation, Duffy will highlight how AR is making the difference in the way event managers can immerse attendees in virtual environments and share creative ideas to increase engagement, sponsor ROI and fun during virtual events using AR.

The techsytalk brand was founded by event planners with over a decade of experience planning meetings, conferences, and corporate events in both live and virtual settings. techsytalk’s live event offers event planners a setting in which they can discuss the discovery and implementation of novel event solutions and ideas. As the industry and event professionals face a rapidly changing event landscape amid the COVID-19 pandemic, techsytalk made the decision to re-launch the signature event as a global, virtual experience in 2020.

“I spend every day planning events for clients and working with various teams to better understand the challenges that event planners have with technology. When we decided to reimagine techsytalk Global as a virtual event it was because we really saw the power in the various platforms that were available to planners, many of which they just aren’t aware of,” said Liz King Caruso, CEO of techsytalk & Liz King Events. “NexTech is an example of a really powerful company doing interesting and innovative things for the event industry. We love the possibilities for AR and VR in our digital-first world and believe Paul’s presentation during techsytalk Global will enable attendees to embrace these technologies and their implications for our events.”

“I’m thrilled to be highlighting the power of AR for virtual events during techsytalk Global 2020. This event has an impressive history within the event management industry and has the unique advantage of being crafted by event professionals for event professionals.” said Paul Duffy, President of NexTech AR, “Attendees understand the challenges that come with transforming events, conferences and meetings into virtual experiences. At NexTech, we firmly believe that virtual events are here to stay, and AR-driven applications should be considered by any event managers looking to boost attendance, engagement and take their experience to the next level.”

To learn more about NexTech AR, please visit www.nextechar.com

About techsytalk

techsytalk was founded by event planners with over a decade of experience planning meetings, conferences, and other corporate events in both live and virtual settings. techsytalk LIVE Global promises to be a resource to facilitate the evolution of the events and meeting industry in an increasingly tech-centric world.

About NexTech AR

NexTech is one of the leaders in the rapidly growing Augmented Reality market estimated to grow from USD $10.7B in 2019 and projected to reach USD $72.7B by 2024 according to Markets & Markets Research; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 46.6% from 2019 to 2024.

The company is pursuing four verticals:

InfernoAR:
An advanced Augmented Reality and Video Learning Experience Platform for Events, is a SaaS video platform that integrates Interactive Video, Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality in one secure platform to allow enterprises the ability to create the world’s most engaging virtual event management and learning experiences. Automated closed captions and translations to over 64 languages. According to Grandview Research the global virtual events market in 2020 is $90B and expected to reach more than $400B by 2027, growing at a 23% CAGR. With NexTech’s InfernoAR platform having augmented reality, AI, end-to-end encryption and built in language translation for 64 languages, the company is well positioned to rapidly take market share as the growth accelerates globally.

ARitize™ For eCommerce:
The company launched its SaaS platform for webAR in eCommerce early in 2019. NexTech has a ​‘full funnel’ end-to-end eCommerce solution for the AR industry including its Aritize360 app for 3D product capture, 3D/AR ads, its ARitize white label app it’s ‘Try it On’ technology for online apparel, 3D and 360-degree product views, and ‘one click buy’.

ARitize™ 3D/AR Advertising Plat


form:
Launched in Q1 2020 the ad platform will be the industry’s first end-to-end solution whereby the company will leverage its 3D asset creation into 3D/AR ads. In 2019, according to IDC, global advertising spend will be about $725 billion.

ARitize™ Holl


ywood Studios
: The studio is in development producing immersive content using 360 video, and augmented reality as the primary display platform.

To learn more, please follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or visit our website: https://www.nextechar.com.

On behalf of the Board of NexTech AR Solutions Corp.

“Evan Gappelberg”
CEO and Director

For further information, please contact:

Evan Gappelberg
Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]   

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain in
formation contained herein may constitute “forward-looking information” under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, “will be”, “looking forward” or varia
tions of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “will” occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the Company increasing investors awareness are based on the Company’s estimates and are subject to known and unknown ri
sks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of NexTech to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information,
including capital expenditures and other costs.  There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should n
ot place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. NexTech will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securit
ies laws. 

Stockholders
Approve RareGen
Acquisition

Merger Expected to
Close on
or
A
bout
November
18
, 2020

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liquidia Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: LQDA), a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel products using its proprietary PRINT® technology, today announced that its stockholders voted to adopt and approve the previously announced merger agreement, dated as of June 29, 2020, among the Company, RareGen, LLC (“RareGen”), Liquidia Corporation (“Liquidia Corporation”), Gemini Merger Sub I, Inc. (“Liquidia Merger Sub”), Gemini Merger Sub II, LLC and PBM RG Holdings, LLC (the “Merger Agreement”), including the merger of the Company with and into Liquidia Merger Sub (the “Liquidia Merger”), with the Company and RareGen surviving as wholly owned subsidiaries of Liquidia Corporation post-merger, at a special meeting of stockholders held on November 13, 2020. In addition, Liquidia stockholders voted to approve all other matters related to the Merger Agreement and the Liquidia Merger.

At the close of business on September 14, 2020, the record date for the special meeting, there were 37,752,027 shares of Company common stock outstanding. Approximately 71 percent of the shares outstanding as of September 14, 2020 voted to adopt and approve the Merger Agreement. Further, among other proposals, stockholders voted to approve the Liquidia Corporation 2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan and the Liquidia Corporation 2020 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, both of which will be effective upon completion of the merger.

The closing of the merger transaction is expected to occur on or about November 18, 2020, subject to the satisfaction of the closing conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement.

About Liquidia

Liquidia is a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel products using its proprietary PRINT® technology to transform the lives of patients. PRINT is a particle engineering platform that enables precise production of uniform drug particles designed to improve the safety, efficacy and performance of a wide range of therapies. Currently, Liquidia is focused on the development of two product candidates for which it holds worldwide commercial rights: LIQ861 for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and LIQ865 for the treatment of local post-operative pain. Liquidia is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, NC. For more information, please visit www.liquidia.com.

About RareGen

RareGen, LLC is a portfolio company of PBM Capital Group, a healthcare investment firm. RareGen provides strategy, investment, and commercialization for rare disease pharmaceutical products. RareGen has a national sales force focused on cardiology and pulmonology specialties.

Important Information About the Transaction and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed merger transaction, the Company and Liquidia Corporation have filed documents with the SEC, including the filing by Liquidia Corporation of a registration statement on Form S-4, which was declared effective on September 16, 2020, and a final proxy statement/prospectus (including the supplements thereto), and the Company mailed a proxy statement (and supplements thereto) regarding the proposed merger transaction to its stockholders that also constitutes a prospectus of the Company. This document is not a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or registration statement or any other document which the Company or Liquidia Corporation have filed with the SEC. Investors and security holders of the Company and RareGen are urged to read the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and any other relevant documents, as well as any amendments or supplements to these documents, carefully and in their entirety because they will contain important information. Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the registration statement and the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by the Company through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by contacting the investor relations department of the Company at the following:

Liquidia Technologies, Inc.
Jason Adair
Investor Relations
(919) 328-4350
[email protected]

Participants in the Solicitation

The Company, RareGen and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction and related matters. Information regarding the Company’s directors and executive officers, including a description of their direct interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is contained in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 and its proxy statement filed on April 28, 2020, which are filed with the SEC. Additional information is available in the registration statement on Form S-4 and the proxy statement/prospectus (as supplemented).

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote of approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Statements 

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance and financial condition, and often contain words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “see,” “will,” “would,” “target,” similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such as statements about the potential timing or consummation of the proposed merger transaction or the anticipated benefits thereof, including, without limitation, future financial and operating results. The Company cautions readers that these and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include, but are not limited to risks and uncertainties related to (i) the risk that a condition to closing of the merger transaction may not be satisfied, (ii) the ability of the Company and RareGen to integrate their businesses successfully and to achieve anticipated cost savings and other synergies, (iii) the possibility that other anticipated benefits of the proposed merger transaction will not be realized, including without limitation, anticipated revenues, expenses, earnings and other financial results, and growth and expansion of the new combined company’s operations, and the anticipated tax treatment, (iv) potential litigation relating to the proposed merger transaction that has and could be instituted against the Company, RareGen or their respective officers or directors, (v) possible disruptions from the proposed merger transaction that could harm the Company’s or RareGen’s business, including current plans and operations, (vi) the ability of the Company or RareGen to retain, attract and hire key personnel, (vii) potential adverse reactions or changes to relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, licensees, collaborators, business partners or other parties resulting from the announcement or completion of the merger transaction, (viii) potential business uncertainty, including changes to existing business relationships, during the pendency of the merger transaction that could affect the Company’s and/or RareGen’s financial performance, (ix) certain restrictions during the pendency of the merger transaction that may impact the Company’s or RareGen’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions, (x) continued availability of capital and financing and rating agency actions, (xi) legislative, regulatory and economic developments and (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, global pandemics such as coronavirus, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed merger transaction, as more fully discussed in the proxy statement/prospectus in connection with the proposed merger transaction, which was declared effective on September 16, 2020, as subsequently supplemented. While the list of factors presented here is, and the list of factors to be presented in the registration statement on Form S-4 are, considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Consequences of material differences in results as compared with those anticipated in the forward-looking statements could include, among other things, business disruption, operational problems, financial loss, legal liability to third parties and similar risks, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s or RareGen’s consolidated financial condition, results of operations, credit rating or liquidity. Neither the Company nor RareGen assumes any obligation to provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

Contact Information

Media:
Michael Parks
Corporate Communications
484.356.7105
[email protected]

Investors:
Jason Adair
Vice President, Corporate Development and Strategy
919.328.4400
[email protected]