Graduate Management Admission Council Welcomes New Members to the Board

New additions reflect the diverse, global perspective of the business school community

RESTON, Va., June 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Graduate Management Admission Council™ (GMAC™), a global association of leading graduate business schools, today announced the addition of four new members to its board of directors. Katy Montgomery, Associate Dean, Degree Programmes, INSEAD; François Ortalo-Magné, Dean, London Business School; and Giuseppe Soda, Dean, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Bocconi University, will begin their terms on July 1. In addition, Yuan Ding, Vice President and Dean of China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), was appointed as a board director in January this year to fill the seat vacated by Enase Okonedo of the Pan-Atlantic University.

“GMAC’s new board of directors represent leading business schools with campuses located in 10 countries across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, and the Middle East,” said Sangeet Chowfla, president and CEO of GMAC. “As student mobility returns and regains in the post-pandemic world, I look forward to working alongside this diverse group of leaders ― and the rest of the GMAC board ― to continue to advance GMAC’s vision to ensure that all talented individuals can benefit from the best business education for them.”

New GMAC Board Members

Yuan Ding, Vice President and Dean, Cathay Capital Chair in Accounting, CEIBS

Yuan Ding is Vice President and Dean and the Cathay Capital Chair Professor in Accounting at CEIBS, where he has been honored three times with the CEIBS Teaching Excellence Award. Prior to joining CEIBS, he was a tenured faculty member of the HEC School of Management, Paris, France. He is a member of the European Accounting Association, French Accounting Association and American Accounting Association. He holds a PhD in Accounting from the Institute of Enterprises Administration at the University Montesquieu Bordeaux IV, France, as well as a Master’s in Enterprises Administration from the University of Poitiers, France. Ding is the author of multiple books on financial reporting and his research appears in leading academic journals.

Katy Montgomery, Associate Dean, Degree Programmes, INSEAD

As the INSEAD Associate Dean of Degree Programmes, Montgomery is responsible for the commercial leadership of the INSEAD Degree Programme portfolio across four campuses: Fontainebleau, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and San Francisco. Her functional responsibilities include strategy, marketing, sales, admissions, financial aid and scholarships, programme operations, student life, psychological services, and career services. Prior to joining INSEAD, she served as Associate Dean of Student Development at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. Montgomery holds a degree in Political Science from Loyola University New Orleans and a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

François Ortalo-Magné, Dean, London Business School

François Ortalo-Magné is the ninth Dean of London Business School (LBS), a position he has held since August 2017. He is leading a strategy focused on (1) academic research and its impact, (2) learning innovations and alumni engagement and (3) inclusion, striving for gender parity and greater socio-economic and ethnic diversity. Since taking up the role, Ortalo-Magné has led the relaunch of the LBS brand, the growth of degree programmes and a significant increase in philanthropic support for scholarships. His research on the economics of land and housing markets has been published in leading academic journals. He has built on his research and leadership experiences to advise a broad range of private, governmental and multi-lateral organisations and share his insights in leading media outlets and at conferences around the world. Prior to his appointment, Ortalo-Magné was the Albert O. Nicholas Dean and Robert E. Wangard Professor of Real Estate at the Wisconsin School of Business. His first academic appointment was at the London School of Economics.

Giuseppe Soda, Dean, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Bocconi University

Giuseppe “Beppe” Soda is the Dean of SDA Bocconi School of Management and Full Professor of Organization Theory and Network Analysis at Bocconi University. Before becoming Dean in 2016, his roles have included serving as the Associate Dean for Research (2007-2013), Director of the Department of Management and Technology (2013-2016) and Head of Organization and HRM Department (2001-2006). He is also serving EFMD as member of the EQUIS Accreditation Board. Soda’s research investigates the performance consequences of the interplay between organizational architectures and organizational networks and his work has been published in top academic management journals.

Besides the aforementioned newly elected board members, Martin Boehm, Professor of Marketing and former Dean of IE Business School and soon the new Rector of EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht, and Themin Suwardy, Dean of Postgraduate Professional Programmes, Singapore Management University, were re-elected for a second term.

GMAC also recognizes its outgoing board members, Leila Guerra, Vice Dean (Education) of Imperial College Business School, and Peter Tufano, Peter Moores Dean and Professor of Finance of Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. GMAC thanks them for their service in the past nearly four years to our organization and contributions to the graduate management education community.

About GMAC

The Graduate Management Admission Council™ (GMAC™) is a mission-driven association of leading graduate business schools worldwide. Founded in 1953, GMAC creates solutions and experiences that enable business schools and candidates to better discover, evaluate, and connect with each other.

GMAC provides world-class research, industry conferences, recruiting tools, and assessments for the graduate management education industry, as well as tools, resources, events, and services that help guide candidates through their higher education journey. Owned and administered by GMAC, the Graduate Management Admission Test™ (GMAT™) exam is the most widely used graduate business school assessment.

GMAC also owns and administers the NMAT by GMAC™ (NMAT™) exam and the Executive Assessment (EA). More than 7 million candidates on their business master’s or MBA journey visited GMAC’s mba.com last year to explore business school options, prepare and register for exams, and get advice on the admissions process. BusinessBecause and The MBA Tour are subsidiaries of GMAC, a global organization with offices in China, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

To learn more about our work, please visit www.gmac.com.

Media Contact:

Teresa Hsu
Sr. Manager, Media Relations
202-390-4180 (mobile)
thsu@gmac.com

RapidPulse Launches With $15 Million Series A Financing for Ischemic Stroke Therapy

Industry Veterans Join Team to Support the Development of Novel Cyclic Aspiration System for Ischemic Stroke

MIAMI, June 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RapidPulse, Inc., a privately-held medical device company developing a novel aspiration system to treat ischemic stroke, today announced the closing of a $15 million Series A financing. The financing was led by Santé Ventures who was joined by Epidarex Capital, Hatteras Venture Partners, Broadview Ventures, and Syntheon. RapidPulse plans to use the proceeds to advance its RapidPulse™ Cyclic Aspiration System through expanded clinical evaluation and build out its platform of proprietary catheters.

The RapidPulse™ system was developed by Syntheon, a medical device incubator focused on developing next generation medical devices. Their various products, commercialized by the largest and most trusted medical device companies in the world, have treated over 50 million patients globally in applications ranging from laparoscopic surgery, cardiovascular, and flexible endoscopy. Syntheon has over 200 issued patents since its inception over 20 years ago.

“We are pleased to have partnered with an outstanding investor syndicate to move our RapidPulse™ technology forward in the clinic,” said Sean McBrayer, CEO of Syntheon who will also serve as initial CEO of RapidPulse. “Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability worldwide, and minutes matter in improving these outcomes. This investment will help us expand our clinical results and move towards regulatory approval in the United States.”

Joining the team are industry veterans Heather Harries and Cynthia Yang. Heather most recently served as General Manager for Terumo’s aortic business and will lead product development and operations for RapidPulse. Cynthia will lead clinical development for the company, after most recently working in the neurovascular division of Medtronic.

Dennis McWilliams, partner at Santé Ventures, added, “Heather and Cynthia bring exceptional domain expertise to the team at RapidPulse, and will complement the significant engineering development experience at Syntheon. RapidPulse is a disruptive platform opportunity in neurovascular, and has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes for ischemic stroke patients.”

ABOUT RAPIDPULSE

RapidPulse, Inc. is a privately held medical device company that develops minimally invasive vascular products for ischemic stroke. The company is advancing the development of the RapidPulse™ Cyclic Aspiration System, which includes a novel aspiration pump to allow rapid and consistent removal of blood clots from the brain. RapidPulse is a spinout of Syntheon LLC., a medical device incubator dedicated to developing innovative products in the medical device industry. Visit www.rapidpulsemed.com for more information.

ABOUT SANTÉ VENTURES

Santé Ventures is a life sciences investment firm that invests in early-stage companies in medical device, biotechnology, and digitally enabled health services. We partner with entrepreneurs to build impactful companies, including Claret Medical (now part of Boston Scientific), TVA Medical (Becton Dickinson), Millipede Medical (Boston Scientific), and Molecular Templates (NASDAQ: MTEM). Founded in 2006, Santé has just under $1 billion in assets under management, and has offices in Austin, TX and Boston, MA. For more information, please visit sante.com.

ABOUT EPIDAREX CAPITAL

Epidarex Capital is a transatlantic venture capital firm that builds exceptional life science companies in emerging hubs in the US and UK. Epidarex’s experienced team of early-stage investors partner with entrepreneurs and leading research institutions to transform world-class science into highly innovative products addressing major unmet needs in global healthcare. For more information, please visit www.epidarex.com

ABOUT HATTERAS VENTURE PARTNERS

Founded in 2000 and based in Durham, NC, Hatteras Venture Partners is a venture capital firm with a focus on seed and early stage healthcare investing. Through six funds and over $600 million under management, the firm has invested in breakthrough science and entrepreneurial grit in the areas of biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, healthcare IT, and related opportunities in human medicine. To learn more, please visit www.hatterasvp.com.

ABOUT BROADVIEW VENTURES

Founded in 2008, Broadview Ventures is a mission-driven investment organization. Broadview’s primary goal is to improve human health in the areas of cardiovascular disease and stroke through investments in early stage companies developing innovative therapeutics, devices, and diagnostics. For more information about Broadview Ventures, visit broadviewventures.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sean McBrayer, info@rapidpulsemed.com, 305-266-3388

Conformis, Inc. Announces Exclusive Distribution Agreement in China

New Agreement expands Conformis’ global reach and brings patient-specific knee replacement systems to the largest market in the Asia-Pacific region

BILLERICA, Mass., June 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Conformis, Inc. (NASDAQ:CFMS) today announced the execution of an agreement to enter the Asia-Pacific market through an exclusive distribution relationship with XR Medical Group (Hong Kong) Limited (XR Medical).

Under the distribution agreement, XR Medical will have exclusive rights for the sale, marketing, and distribution of Conformis’ patient-specific iTotal® CR & PS total knee replacement systems, iTotal® CR & PS patella devices, and iUni® and iDuo® partial knee replacement systems. Other products, such as Conformis’ recently approved Identity Imprint™ knee system and its hip portfolio of products, may be added in the future.

XR Medical’s sales team will provide sales and support exclusively to top-tier facilities in Hainan’s Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone (Pilot Zone) on behalf of Conformis. The region is a major center of medical tourism for dozens of countries.

“This distribution agreement is another example of progress as we execute our overall growth strategy. We are confident that our unique product portfolio will serve to accelerate Conformis’ international growth. And we are pleased to partner with XR Medical, which has an impressive track record of success in China,” said Mark Augusti, President and CEO of Conformis. “What is particularly attractive about XR Medical is its strong performance in the Pilot Zone. With access to patients visiting the region for treatment, this creates an opportunity to introduce a broad audience to the clinical benefits of Conformis technology. We believe that starting in the Pilot Zone positions us well and we anticipate that this relationship will serve as a model for future expansion opportunities in mainland China.”

The Pilot Zone is located on Hainan, a large island off China’s southern coast. It was established in 2019 to attract affluent Chinese citizens who might otherwise go abroad for their medical care. This region of China has developed top-level medical treatment facilities in a popular destination. Currently, medical tourists from dozens of countries, including those in Southeast Asia, are permitted to visit Hainan for a 30-day stay without visas.

The global market for knee joint reconstruction is projected at more than $9 billion. Of this total, the knee joint reconstruction market in the Asia-Pacific region is currently estimated to exceed $1.7 billion. Fortune Business Insights predicts a high growth rate for knee replacements in the region due to the combination of the increased prevalence of knee disorders, booming medical tourism, increased disposable incomes, and improved healthcare infrastructure.

About Conformis, Inc.

Conformis is a medical technology company that uses its proprietary iFit® Image-to-Implant® technology platform to develop, manufacture, and sell joint replacement implants and instruments that are individually sized and shaped, which we refer to as personalized, individualized, or sometimes as customized, to fit and conform to each patient’s unique anatomy. Conformis offers a broad line of sterile, personalized knee and hip implants and standard implants, along with single-use instruments delivered to hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. In clinical studies, the Conformis iTotal® CR knee replacement system demonstrated superior clinical outcomes, including better function and greater patient satisfaction, compared to traditional, off-the-shelf implants. Conformis owns or exclusively in-licenses issued patents and pending patent applications that cover personalized implants and patient-specific instrumentation for all major joints.

For more information, visit www.conformis.com. To receive future releases in e-mail alerts, sign up at http://ir.conformis.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release about our future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as other statements containing the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would” and similar expressions, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from the projections disclosed in the forward-looking statements we make as a result of a variety of risks and uncertainties, including risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” sections of our public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, the forward-looking statements included in this press release represent our views as of the date hereof. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments may cause our views to change. However, while we may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any date subsequent to the date hereof.

Source: Conformis, Inc.

Media Contact:
Investor Relations
ir@conformis.com
(781) 374-5598

Liquid Instruments Introduces Moku:Pro – A High Performance, Software-Defined Instrumentation Platform for Engineers and Scientists

New architecture delivers nine instruments with real-time measurement capabilities to the research lab

Moku:Pro In Lab Setting

Moku:Pro brings test and measurement into the modern age, allowing engineers and researchers to dynamically switch between instruments rather than needing multiple stand-alone devices.

CANBERRA, Australia and SAN DIEGO, June 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liquid Instruments, an innovator in precision software-defined instrumentation, today announced Moku:Pro, a high-performance platform for engineering and research labs.

Moku:Pro accelerates the transition from traditional fixed-function test and measurement hardware to a flexible field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based approach by making high-quality instruments accessible in an integrated, software-upgradeable platform.

“Researchers in engineering and physics face constantly evolving requirements – with changes occurring on timescales much shorter than the lifespan of test equipment,” said Daniel Shaddock, CEO of Liquid Instruments. “Moku:Pro’s software-enabled-hardware architecture allows it to evolve as your applications evolve, something that is simply not possible with conventional test equipment.”

Moku:Pro hosts nine powerful instruments, including an oscilloscope, lock-in amplifier, PID controller, phasemeter, arbitrary waveform generator, data logger, spectrum analyzer, frequency response analyzer, and waveform generator to ensure researchers have the instrumentation they need to quickly characterize their set up and scale their experiments. The platform was designed to meet the needs of researchers in a variety of fields, from aerospace to semiconductor. Moku:Pro’s instrument suite is particularly suited to photonics applications, including spectroscopy, microscopy, metrology, gravitational wave detection, active laser stabilization, and quantum computing.

Moku:Pro

Moku:Pro accelerates the transition from traditional fixed-function test and measurement hardware to a flexible field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based approach by making high-quality instruments accessible in an integrated, software-upgradeable platform.

“Quantum computing pushes the performance limits of electronics, optics, and flexible real-time signal processing. We see software-defined instrumentation as the future of test and measurement systems for quantum computing,” said Andrew Horsley, CEO and Co-founder of Quantum Brilliance, a full-stack quantum computing company working on room temperature diamond technology.  “Moku:Pro is a workhorse of the lab and one of the most versatile photonics tools we’ve seen.”

Bringing Instrumentation Into the Modern Era
Moku:Pro brings test and measurement into the modern age, allowing engineers and researchers to dynamically switch between instruments rather than needing multiple stand-alone devices.  Advanced ADC blending technology ensures that each instrument can function with optimal sensitivity from RF to acoustic frequencies without compromising performance for flexibility. Full connectivity via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB-C ensures industry-standard, hassle-free configuration.

A key benefit of software-defined instrumentation is that it gets better over time. Moku:Pro can receive over-the-air updates to deliver improved specifications, new instruments, or entirely new capabilities. Users can expect to see these benefits as soon as September when Liquid Instruments plans to release a feature that will give Moku:Pro the ability to run multiple instruments in conjunction with one another and hot-swap instruments in and out. In this multi-instrument mode, instruments can be combined and connected to form sophisticated signal-processing pipelines. Also slated for September release is a new cloud-based tool that will allow users to directly program Moku:Pro’s FPGA. With this capability, users can implement unique signal processing algorithms and create their own custom instruments, which will further widen the gap with conventional hardware.

Moku:Pro Specifications

  • 4 analog inputs and outputs
  • Blended ADC input (10-bit+18-bit) for low noise, high bandwidth applications
  • Sampling rate of 5 GSa/s (1 channel), 1.25 GSa/s (4 channels)
  • 9 integrated instruments, including a DC-600 MHz lock-in amplifier
  • 120 GB SSD for high-speed onboard storage
  • API support for Python and MATLAB
  • Starting at $12,000 for the base configuration, ranging up to $20,000 for the full suite.

A History of Success 
The Liquid Instruments technical leadership team brings deep expertise in complex measurements with experience from Australian National University, Max Planck Institute, Lockheed Martin, Caltech, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.  Moku:Pro expands the line of software-defined solutions from Moku:Lab, a twelve-instrument platform for research, and, more recently, Moku:Go, a complete and portable lab solution for undergraduate education.

For more information on Moku:Pro, visit: liquidinstruments.com

About Liquid Instruments
Liquid Instruments is a leader in precision software-defined instrumentation and is revolutionizing the way that students, engineers, and scientists learn, work, and discover. Their product line of hardware and software solutions leverages the computational power of modern FPGAs to create highly customizable instrumentation for controlling experiments and acquiring and analyzing data. The team’s IP in software-defined hardware enables Moku products to be dynamically reconfigurable in the field, serving a wide range of ever-changing experimental and process control situations. For more information, visit https://liquidinstruments.com.

The Project received funding from The Australian Government. Liquid Instruments gratefully acknowledges funding and support of the Australian Commonwealth Government through the CRC-P program administered by the Department of Industry Innovation and Science.

Media Contact
Codeword for Liquid Instruments
liquidinstruments@codewordagency.com
801-703-4092

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37cb06a3-2242-4fe9-b6d2-0243a826051f

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8e84cd5f-7bf1-4276-9950-f57a12cfac19

New architecture delivers nine instruments with real-time measurement capabilities to the research lab

Moku:Pro In Lab Setting

Moku:Pro brings test and measurement into the modern age, allowing engineers and researchers to dynamically switch between instruments rather than needing multiple stand-alone devices.

CANBERRA, Australia and SAN DIEGO, June 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liquid Instruments, an innovator in precision software-defined instrumentation, today announced Moku:Pro, a high-performance platform for engineering and research labs.

Moku:Pro accelerates the transition from traditional fixed-function test and measurement hardware to a flexible field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based approach by making high-quality instruments accessible in an integrated, software-upgradeable platform.

“Researchers in engineering and physics face constantly evolving requirements – with changes occurring on timescales much shorter than the lifespan of test equipment,” said Daniel Shaddock, CEO of Liquid Instruments. “Moku:Pro’s software-enabled-hardware architecture allows it to evolve as your applications evolve, something that is simply not possible with conventional test equipment.”

Moku:Pro hosts nine powerful instruments, including an oscilloscope, lock-in amplifier, PID controller, phasemeter, arbitrary waveform generator, data logger, spectrum analyzer, frequency response analyzer, and waveform generator to ensure researchers have the instrumentation they need to quickly characterize their set up and scale their experiments. The platform was designed to meet the needs of researchers in a variety of fields, from aerospace to semiconductor. Moku:Pro’s instrument suite is particularly suited to photonics applications, including spectroscopy, microscopy, metrology, gravitational wave detection, active laser stabilization, and quantum computing.

Moku:Pro

Moku:Pro accelerates the transition from traditional fixed-function test and measurement hardware to a flexible field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based approach by making high-quality instruments accessible in an integrated, software-upgradeable platform.

“Quantum computing pushes the performance limits of electronics, optics, and flexible real-time signal processing. We see software-defined instrumentation as the future of test and measurement systems for quantum computing,” said Andrew Horsley, CEO and Co-founder of Quantum Brilliance, a full-stack quantum computing company working on room temperature diamond technology.  “Moku:Pro is a workhorse of the lab and one of the most versatile photonics tools we’ve seen.”

Bringing Instrumentation Into the Modern Era
Moku:Pro brings test and measurement into the modern age, allowing engineers and researchers to dynamically switch between instruments rather than needing multiple stand-alone devices.  Advanced ADC blending technology ensures that each instrument can function with optimal sensitivity from RF to acoustic frequencies without compromising performance for flexibility. Full connectivity via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB-C ensures industry-standard, hassle-free configuration.

A key benefit of software-defined instrumentation is that it gets better over time. Moku:Pro can receive over-the-air updates to deliver improved specifications, new instruments, or entirely new capabilities. Users can expect to see these benefits as soon as September when Liquid Instruments plans to release a feature that will give Moku:Pro the ability to run multiple instruments in conjunction with one another and hot-swap instruments in and out. In this multi-instrument mode, instruments can be combined and connected to form sophisticated signal-processing pipelines. Also slated for September release is a new cloud-based tool that will allow users to directly program Moku:Pro’s FPGA. With this capability, users can implement unique signal processing algorithms and create their own custom instruments, which will further widen the gap with conventional hardware.

Moku:Pro Specifications

  • 4 analog inputs and outputs
  • Blended ADC input (10-bit+18-bit) for low noise, high bandwidth applications
  • Sampling rate of 5 GSa/s (1 channel), 1.25 GSa/s (4 channels)
  • 9 integrated instruments, including a DC-600 MHz lock-in amplifier
  • 120 GB SSD for high-speed onboard storage
  • API support for Python and MATLAB
  • Starting at $12,000 for the base configuration, ranging up to $20,000 for the full suite.

A History of Success 
The Liquid Instruments technical leadership team brings deep expertise in complex measurements with experience from Australian National University, Max Planck Institute, Lockheed Martin, Caltech, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.  Moku:Pro expands the line of software-defined solutions from Moku:Lab, a twelve-instrument platform for research, and, more recently, Moku:Go, a complete and portable lab solution for undergraduate education.

For more information on Moku:Pro, visit: liquidinstruments.com

About Liquid Instruments
Liquid Instruments is a leader in precision software-defined instrumentation and is revolutionizing the way that students, engineers, and scientists learn, work, and discover. Their product line of hardware and software solutions leverages the computational power of modern FPGAs to create highly customizable instrumentation for controlling experiments and acquiring and analyzing data. The team’s IP in software-defined hardware enables Moku products to be dynamically reconfigurable in the field, serving a wide range of ever-changing experimental and process control situations. For more information, visit https://liquidinstruments.com.

The Project received funding from The Australian Government. Liquid Instruments gratefully acknowledges funding and support of the Australian Commonwealth Government through the CRC-P program administered by the Department of Industry Innovation and Science.

Media Contact
Codeword for Liquid Instruments
liquidinstruments@codewordagency.com
801-703-4092

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37cb06a3-2242-4fe9-b6d2-0243a826051f

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8e84cd5f-7bf1-4276-9950-f57a12cfac19

Centrient Pharmaceuticals boosting statins API manufacturing capacity

Rotterdam, The Netherlands, June 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Summary:

  • Centrient Pharmaceuticals has started production at its newly built statins API manufacturing unit in Toansa, India.
  • With this expansion the company is doubling its production capacity of Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin, meeting the increased demand for its high-quality uniquely produced statins.
  • Centrient Pharmaceuticals’ statins are one of the most sustainably produced in the industry by eliminating harmful solvents, generating less waste, and a reduced carbon footprint of 32% as compared to traditional manufacturers.
  • Using backward integrated manufacturing methods, and dedicated production facilities, Centrient Pharmaceuticals is able to offer its customers security of supply.

Centrient Pharmaceuticals (“Centrient”), the global leader in sustainable antibiotics, next-generation statins and anti-fungals, announced today to have started production at its new statins manufacturing unit. With the building of its second dedicated unit on the Toansa site in India now completed, the company will double its statins production capacity. This will enable Centrient to meet growing demand for its sustainably manufactured Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).

Statins are currently the most prescribed drug class globally for the treatment of high cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases and are among the top-selling drugs worldwide. The markets for Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin in particular, has shown steady growth in the past years, as a result of the continued global prevalence of high cholesterol issues, replacement of older generation statins, and genericization of the market.

Starting almost a decade ago, Centrient has grown today into one of the leading statin API suppliers worldwide, servicing large pharma companies around the globe.

Next to high-quality features like long shelf life and large batch sizes, the company offers security of supply to customers through its dedicated statins production facility and backward integration. Being backward integrated, Centrient is independent from external imports of starting materials. Its enzymatic route of synthesis and patented technology minimise the use of harmful solvents, generate less waste, and reduce the company’s carbon footprint by 32% as compared to traditional manufacturers.

The news of the facility expansion follows major milestones on statins that the company reached in the past years. In 2012, under the name of DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals, it was the first pharmaceutical manufacturer worldwide to offer generic Atorvastatin APIs under a Certificate of Suitability to the Monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia (CEP). Since 2014, it has produced the unique Atorvastatin APIs in its state-of-the-art facility in Toansa, India for third-party customers.

In addition, the company was one of the first three companies worldwide that started to offer generic Rosuvastatin APIs under CEP in 2016. Two years later, the first generic Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin finished dosage forms were launched in Western Europe.

“With the doubling of our production capacity, we demonstrate our commitment to maintain our leadership position in line with our strategy and to continue supporting our customers’ business growth. Guided by our brand promise of Quality, Reliability, and Sustainability, Centrient’s Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin offer superior performance in all three areas to the benefit of our customers and the environment.”, says Frans Vlaar, Chief Commercial Officer at Centrient.

Ground breaking of the new manufacturing unit started at the end of 2019 and commercial supplies from the new unit will start in mid-2021With the new manufacturing line being operational and doubling the production capacity, Centrient will be even better positioned to secure supply, meeting the growing demand from customers and helping to improve the lives of patients who are in need of these medicine.

“We are extremely proud that we have been able to complete this project in a timely way given the challenges of executing such a complex project in the midst of the COVID pandemic,” says Jim McPherson, Chief Quality & Technical Operations Officer. “It reinforces our absolute commitment to meet the expectations of our customers as a partner of choice – delivering reliable and secure supply using leading sustainable technologies. The facility incorporates design features that allow further improvements in GMP and energy utilization, and enable greater automation for improved process control.”

———————————————————————————————————————————–


About Centrient Pharmaceuticals

Centrient Pharmaceuticals is the leading manufacturer of beta-lactam antibiotics, and a provider of next generation statins and antifungals. We produce and sell intermediates, active pharmaceutical ingredients and finished dosage forms.

We stand proudly at the centre of modern healthcare, as a maker of essential and life-saving medicines. With our commitment to Quality, Reliability and Sustainability at the heart of everything we do, our over 2200 employees work continuously to meet our customers’ needs. We work towards a sustainable future by actively participating in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Founded 150 years ago as the ‘Nederlandsche Gist- en Spiritusfabriek’, our company was known as Gist Brocades and more recently DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Rotterdam (Netherlands), we have production facilities and sales offices in China, India, the Netherlands, Spain, Egypt, the United States and Mexico. Centrient Pharmaceuticals is wholly owned by Bain Capital Private Equity, a leading global private investment firm.

For more information please visit www.centrient.com or contact Centrient Pharmaceuticals Corporate Communications, Alice Beijersbergen, Director Branding & Communications. E-Mail: alice.beijersbergen@centrient.com.

Forward-looking statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements with respect to Centrient Pharmaceuticals’ future financial performance and position. Such statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of Centrient and information currently available to the company. Centrient cautions readers that such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and therefore it should be understood that many factors can cause actual performance and position to differ materially from these statements. Centrient has no obligation to update the statements contained in this press release, unless required by law. The English language version of the press release is governing.

Alice Beijersbergen
Centrient Pharmaceuticals
alice.beijersbergen@centrient.com

Janet D’Addario, Co-Founder of D’Addario & Co., and Former President of Providence House, Dies at 72.

Janet D’Addario

Photo provided by D’Addario & Company, Inc.

FARMINGDALE, N.Y., June 17, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Janet D’Addario, a prodigious creative and philanthropic force throughout the world, and wife of D’Addario Chairman, Jim D’Addario, died on June 14th in her home, surrounded by her entire family. She was 72.

The cause was complications from gall bladder cancer, said her husband, Jim D’Addario.

Janet Marie D’Addario was born on December 10th, 1948 in Nassau County. Her education circumnavigated Long Island: St. Brigid in Westbury; St. Dominic’s High School in Oyster Bay, and Nassau Community College in Garden City.

In 1966, the course of her life would forever change when the 18-year-old lead singer of a folk group met another young, budding musician who was instantly smitten by her tender voice and magnetic personality. Jim and Janet D’Addario would go on to marry, sing and perform on stage together, and start an extraordinary 50-year partnership that produced a family, a philanthropic legacy, and the most prestigious music accessories business in the world.

When D’Addario & Co. was first founded in 1973, Janet used her creative talents to design the company’s advertising as well as the packaging design for all of their products. As a fledgling organization, Janet’s vision and compassion had a tremendous influence on the development of the culture that guides the organization today.

She would go on to wear many hats, including head of Artist Relations and co-founder of the D’Addario Foundation, which continues to provide music education to young children in underserved communities. Janet served as the Managing Director of the Foundation for 20 years—helping to raise awareness for the cause by producing classical music concerts in cities around the world.

Ms. D’Addario was known by family and friends for her peerless compassion and generosity—fervently believing that actions mean far more than just words. She would go on to serve 11 years on the Board of Long Island Cares, the charity created by Harry Chapin to eradicate hunger on Long island. As a devout Catholic, she supported numerous Catholic charities across the globe, the Long Island Catholic Hospital system as well as her own, personal parish, St. Brigid.

The one charity that held a particularly special place in her heart was Providence House, a New York institution that provides transitional housing for homeless women and children.

“Providence House is, in so many ways, the very embodiment of my wife…when she saw pain, she wanted to ease it. When she saw hunger, she brought food. When she saw homelessness, she provided shelter. But most importantly when Janet saw someone with no hope, she worked hard to provide them with the tools to restore their will to overcome the challenges they were facing.,” said Jim D’Addario.

Ms. D’Addario served as a Board Member of Providence House for 21 years and as its President from 2004-2019. Over those years, she helped raise millions of dollars to ensure thousands of women and children would have a pathway to a brighter future. Her invaluable work led to Janet and Jim being named the first People of Hope in 2002 and the construction of the 43-unit D’Addario Residence in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.

In addition to her philanthropic work, Janet was an avid foodie and prolific painter. Not surprisingly, her greatest joy was bringing friends and family together for a homemade meal and the occasional musical performance by she and Jim, as well as their many musical friends.

Janet D’Addario was the daughter of Robert James Carbone and Annabelle (Eannaccone) Carbone of Westbury, New York. She is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, Jim D’Addario, and their three children: Julie (Pat); Amy (Marcus) and Robert (Gina). She is also survived by eight grandchildren, and her beloved dogs, Dave and Blue.

In lieu of any gifts or flowers, the family is asking anyone wishing to pay their respects to consider a modest donation to Providence House (https://www.providencehouse.org/support-our-work).

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/88f5885b-1766-4876-89ab-810766a28ed6

Natalie Morrison
natalie.morrison@daddario.com

 

Synchronoss Announces CFO Transition Plan

Company Reaffirms Fiscal Year 2021 Guidance

BRIDGEWATER, N.J., June 16, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNCR), a global leader and innovator of cloud, messaging and digital products and platforms, today announced a CFO transition plan with current Chief Financial Officer (CFO) David Clark stepping down from his role on August 9, 2021, to pursue other personal and career interests. Clark’s transition is unrelated to the Company’s financial reporting and business performance, and the Company is reaffirming 2021 guidance previously provided on May 10, 2021, in parallel with today’s announcement. Clark was appointed CFO in August 2018.

Commenting on Clark’s departure, Jeff Miller, President and CEO of Synchronoss, said: “I’ve enjoyed working alongside David and thank him for his commitment to the Company. David joined Synchronoss to make enhancements to our operational controls and reporting. During his tenure he has helped Synchronoss navigate successfully through significant improvements in management of operating expenses and implementation of financial governance and controls. I firmly believe his contributions have positioned us for future growth and success. On a personal note, I wish him only the best with his future endeavors and appreciate his support during this leadership transition.”

An executive search for Clark’s replacement is currently underway. He will remain in his current role until his departure date and will support Synchronoss as it transitions the CFO role to a successor.

About Synchronoss
Synchronoss Technologies (NASDAQ: SNCR) builds software that empowers companies around the world to connect with their subscribers in trusted and meaningful ways. The company’s collection of products helps streamline networks, simplify onboarding and engage subscribers to unleash new revenue streams, reduce costs and increase speed to market. Hundreds of millions of subscribers trust Synchronoss products to stay in sync with the people, services and content they love. That’s why more than 1,500 talented Synchronoss employees worldwide strive each day to reimagine a world in sync. Learn more at www.synchronoss.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes statements concerning Synchronoss and its future expectations, plans and prospects that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For this purpose, any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “may,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “believes,” “potential” or “continue” or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Synchronoss has based these forward-looking statements largely on its current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that it believes may affect its business, financial condition and results of operations. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions including, without limitation, risks relating to the Company’s ability to sustain or increase revenue from its larger customers and generate revenue from new customers, the Company’s expectations regarding expenses and revenue, the sufficiency of the Company’s cash resources, the Company’s growth strategies, the anticipated trends and challenges in the business and the market in which the Company operates, the Company’s expectations regarding federal, state and foreign regulatory requirements, the pending lawsuits against the Company described in its most recent SEC filings, and other risks and factors that are described in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, which are on file with the SEC and available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contacts

For Synchronoss:
Anais Merlin, CCgroup UK
Diane Rose, CCgroup US
E: synchronoss@ccgrouppr.com

Investor Contact
For Synchronoss: Todd Kehrli/Joo-Hun Kim, MKR Investor Relations, Inc., E: investor@synchronoss.com

Spark™ Aligners Receive FDA Clearance For Orthodontic Treatment Of Kids, Giving Parents A New Option With Significant Treatment Advantages Over The Leading Competitor

— Newest Doctor-Directed Clear Aligner System For Straightening Teeth Now Treats Younger Patients with Both Primary & Secondary Teeth with Simple to Complex Orthodontic Issues —

BREA, Calif., June 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Ormco Corporation, a global leader of orthodontic solutions, today announced it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for the use of its Spark™ Clear Aligner System for orthodontic treatment in patients with both primary and secondary teeth (mixed dentition), providing the green light for orthodontists to treat their younger patients who can benefit from clear aligner therapy.

Spark for Kids & Teens II

Designed to fit the lifestyle of today’s active kids and teens, Spark Clear Aligners are now one of the few brands approved by the FDA to safely and effectively treat younger patients with cases that range from simple to more complex. Spark Aligners are a doctor-directed treatment option that is clearer, more comfortable, and stains less than the leading aligner brand. In fact, 96% of patients prefer Spark Clear Aligners to the leading brand based on clarity and comfort.1 Spark Aligners have created thousands of healthy smiles worldwide since 2019.

Spark for Kids & Teens I“My son and I have been so happy with his experience using Spark Aligners,” said Mrs. Strecker, a parent of a 9-year-old who needed treatment for spacing as well as AP correction. “Our orthodontist recommended Spark because he achieved outstanding results with other patients and told us the material used in Spark Aligners would be the clearest option while also being more comfortable than the leading competitive alternative. Because people could barely notice he was wearing aligners, my son felt confident during his entire treatment. We saw his smile change dramatically in about 3 months and treatment completion with a beautiful smile in 5 months. We are big Spark fans!”

Spark Aligners are made with TruGENTM material, the latest innovation in proprietary branded aligner material. TruGEN resists stains better and is even clearer than the leading aligner material. The edges are polished and smoother to avoid the occasional discomfort that can result from other aligner brands. Unlike online or at-home aligner products that eliminate the important role of the orthodontic specialist, Spark Aligners involve an experienced doctor in every aspect of treatment.

Spark Aligner Competitive Comparisons “My practice has been impressed with the results we are achieving for our patients with Spark Aligners,” said Dr. Bill Dischinger* of Dischinger Team Orthodontics. “The TruGEN material from which the aligners are made delivers better surface contact providing faster and more reliable tooth movements. With Spark Aligners, we’re seeing stronger and more predictable outcomes than we’ve achieved with other aligners, so the expanded indication of usage is great news for my younger patients who lead busy lifestyles filled with sports, music and other activities. My entire team and our patients are thrilled with the efficient, reliable treatment experience that Spark Aligners deliver.”

Doctors worldwide have successfully used Spark Aligners to treat a wide variety of patient orthodontic issues including open bite, deep bite, overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowding, spacing, semi-erupted teeth and extractions.

Spark logo “Spark Aligners were made in collaboration with leading orthodontists. This along with TruGEN™, the most advanced material available, ensures a better treatment experience for patients,” said Sheila Tan, Vice President of Global Marketing & Clinical Education. “We are delighted with the FDA clearance to expand our treatment options to include kids and teens. Now Spark Aligners can be used to treat young children that do not have all of their permanent teeth.”

Parents and other consumers can learn more about the Spark Clear Aligner System, view patient before & after images, and find a Spark Aligners doctor at sparkaligners.com

About the Spark™ Clear Aligner System

Spark™ Aligners are manufactured by Ormco™, a global leader in innovative orthodontics products, with 60 years of orthodontics expertise, R&D and high manufacturing standards. Ormco has helped doctors create more than 20 million smiles in more than 130 countries. Spark Aligners offer the latest advancements in clear aligners and a better patient experience. Spark Approver 3D application and advanced clear aligner technology with TruGEN™ material is designed to meet the needs of orthodontists, providing more efficient and effective tooth movement, compared to the leading aligner brand. Spark Aligners are designed to give orthodontists more control and flexibility so that they can more easily achieve healthy, confident smiles.

Trusted by orthodontists worldwide, Spark Aligners are clearer, more comfortable and stain less than the leading aligner brand. Spark Aligners are loved by patients: 100 percent of Spark patients surveyed would recommend Spark Clear Aligners to a friend.¹  For more information about Spark Aligners, visit www.sparkaligners.com.

*Dr. Bill Dischinger is a paid consultant of Ormco. The opinions expressed are those of Dr. Dischinger. Ormco is a medical device manufacturer and does not dispense medical advice. Clinicians should use their own professional judgment in treating their patients.

Basis for Release: Claims Matrix Form 045:

New Indications for Use: “The Spark ™ Clear Aligner System is indicated for the alignment of teeth during orthodontic treatment of malocclusion.” Formerly the indication was: “The Ormco Spark Clear Aligner System is indicated for the treatment of tooth malocclusion in patients with permanent dentition (i.e., all second molars). The Ormco Clear Aligner System positions teeth by way of continuous gentle force.

3.  Spark™ Aligners are a nearly invisible, discrete aligner treatment system.

13. Spark Aligners are designed to provide a more comfortable and productive treatment.

17. Spark Clear Aligners are proven to have minimal aligner stains, which helps keep your smile shining during treatment.

20. TruGEN™ material is proven to provide advanced force retention compared the leading aligner material. Force retention has been found to result in more increased tooth movement. This may result in more efficient and effective tooth movement compared to the leading aligner material.

21. Spark Clear Aligners are designed to be clearer than the leading competitor.

32. “Doctors worldwide are using Spark Clear Aligners to treat a wide variety of patient malocclusions including open bite, deep bite, overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowding, spacing.”

33. 100% of patients surveyed would recommend Spark Aligners to a friend.

40. More clear. More comfortable.

41. Patients agree that Spark Aligners are more comfortable to wear.

MEDIA CONTACT:                                                    
Sharon Scott, SparkPR@secondlyco.com
310.594.6545

1 Data on file with Ormco™

Spark Aligners Does It Again With Market Leading Innovation And New FDA Approval To Give Doctors Greater Control And Flexibility

— New Features in Release 11 Combined with Expanded Indication for Mixed Dentition  to Treat Kids and Teens is a Home Run for Doctors —

BREA, Calif., June 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Ormco Corporation, a global leader of orthodontic solutions, today announced it has received FDA clearance to treat mixed dentition with its Spark™ Clear Aligner System, enabling orthodontists to treat younger patients. The clearance by the FDA makes Spark Clear Aligners one of a few doctor-directed aligners cleared in the U.S. for the treatment of younger patients. The robust Release 11 features new innovations and an improved user experience including new anatomical beveled attachments for patient comfort, redesigned bite ramps that enable doctors to customize for each specific tooth type to enhance engagement between the bite ramps and the teeth and downloadable STL files to offer doctors in-office solutions.

“With more than 75 percent of orthodontic case starts each year being kids and teens, we are excited that we can now enable doctors to offer the same innovative benefits of Spark treatment to younger patients,” said Eric Conley, President of Spark Clear Aligners and Digital Orthodontics. “We are also confident the advancements of this new release will solidify Spark as the aligner of choice for orthodontists seeking great clinical outcomes and providing industry leading comfort and clarity for their patients.”

Bevel Attachments

Release 11 Key Features Enable Improved Clinical Outcomes, More Predictable and Efficient Treatment Planning & Greater Patient Comfort

  • Anatomical beveled attachments conform to the surface of each tooth to provide a more uniform active attachment surface and to minimize sharp edges for patient comfort*.

    “This enhances the product’s appeal to the patient. You already have the best-performing plastic, clearest plastic, most stain-resistant plastic, and more comfortable edges on the market. Now, Ormco has enhanced the attachment comfort; you have the whole package,” said Dr. Bill Dischinger**.

  • Redesigned bite ramps enhance the engagement between the bite ramps and the teeth and enable doctors to customize bite ramps for each specific tooth (incisors, canines, premolars) so that the active surface is oriented parallel to the occlusal plane. The new bite ramps have been lab tested for strength and durability*.
    Bite Ramps

    “Deep bite cases are known for their difficulty. Paralleled bite ramps will offer more predictable intrusive movement as they direct the force down the long axis of the tooth and will create less undesired tipping and friction points within the aligner leading to more efficient and predictable intrusion,” said Dr. Trevor Nichols**.

  • Mixed detention support in the Approver software allows doctors to treat younger patients (kids and teens) with mixed dentition, including providing eruption guides for semi-erupted teeth and numbering primary teeth.

    This is a significant step to creating a Phase I/Phase II aligner approach to cases. Not only will Approver software enable doctors to better treat interceptive cases, but eruption guides will help control the eruption of the permanent dentition,” said Dr. Trevor Nichols**.

  • Downloadable STL files of the first three stages and the last stage are now available for doctors to download from the Spark portal.
    Mixed Dentition

    “With the ability to print the starter aligners, doctors can get a jump start on their cases and increase their case load and profitability. The last stage aligner allows the doctor and patient to have final models to use for retention for years to come,” said Dr. Trevor Nichols. Dr. Nicole Scheffler** added, “This really is a game-changer for patients, doctors and treatment coordinators.”

Spark Approver Software Enhancements

Spark Release 11 includes the following Approver software enhancements:

  • Continued Evolution of CBCT integration based on doctor input. Spark Approver now features several new improvements for more seamless and effective integration of CBCT data for Spark Aligners. Additional diagnostic tools include a 2D clipping plane featuring multiple views, new tooth identification options, and enhanced CBCT performance and visual rendering.
  • An enhanced tooth movement table now includes both crown and root movement values, as well as the addition of both tip and torque movement for intermediate and challenging movement.
  • User interface improvements based on doctor input include a new preset for overjet, a new panel docking/undocking feature, redesigned and more friendly menu options, and simpler dialog boxes.

Enhancements for Easier Case Management

  • New packaging improvements require less storage by including more aligners per box and reduces packaging waste. The introduction of connected aligner bags and Spark Aligners’ packaging inserts will help ensure that aligner bags remain in order.
  • More efficient workflow through staff accounts allows orthodontic team members the ability to submit and manage Spark Aligner patients through the Spark Portal and Approver software. Support for multiple billing addresses for practices that have multiple offices will be available in August 2021.

For more information on the Spark Aligner product and software enhancements, please visit ormco.com/Spark.

Spark logo

About the Spark ™ Clear Aligner System

Spark™ Aligners are manufactured by Ormco™, a global leader in innovative orthodontics products, with 60 years of orthodontics expertise, R&D and high manufacturing standards. Ormco has helped doctors create more than 20 million smiles in more than 130 countries. Spark Aligners offer the latest advancements in clear aligners and a better patient experience. Spark Approver 3D application and advanced clear aligner technology with TruGEN™ material is designed to meet the needs of orthodontists, providing more efficient and effective tooth movement, compared to the leading aligner brand. Spark Aligners are designed to give orthodontists more control and flexibility so that they can more easily achieve healthy, confident smiles.

Trusted by orthodontists worldwide, Spark Aligners are clearer, more comfortable and stain less than the leading aligner brand. Spark Aligners are liked by patients: 100 percent of Spark patients surveyed would recommend Spark Clear Aligners to a friend.** For more information about Spark Aligners, visit www.sparkaligners.com.

# # #

*Data on file at Ormco™
** Dr. Bill Dischinger, Dr. Trevor Nichols and Dr. Nicole Scheffler are paid consultants of Ormco. The opinions expressed are those of Drs. Dischinger, Nichols and Scheffler. Ormco is a medical device manufacturer and does not dispense medical advice. Clinicians should use their own professional judgment in treating their patients.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sharon Scott, SparkPR@Secondlyco.com
310.594.6545

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532043/Ormco___Spark_Aligners.mp4
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532039/Ormco___Spark_Aligners_Bevel_Attachment.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532041/Ormco___Spark_Aligners_Bite_Ramps.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532042/Ormco___Spark_Aligners_Mixed_Dentition.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1357605/Spark_Logo.jpg