AIM ImmunoTech Files Three Provisional Patent Applications Surrounding Ampligen(R) for Use Against the SARS-like Wuhan 2019 Novel Coronavirus

OCALA, FL / ACCESSWIRE, Feb 11, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – AIM ImmunoTech Inc. (NYSE American:AIM) today announced the filing of three provisional patent applications related to its drug candidate Ampligen in the company's efforts toward joining the global health community in the fight against the deadly Wuhan coronavirus that has so far infected approximately 40,000 people and killed almost one thousand, primarily in China.

Ampligen, a powerful experimental immune system modulator.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, including the deadly Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). After a 2002 SARS outbreak in the Guangdong province of southern China caused more than 8,000 cases and more than 800 deaths, the United States' National Institutes of Health contracted studies to evaluate potential treatments for SARS. Ampligen achieved a 100% survival rate – as compared to 100% mortality – at clinically achievable human dosage levels in animal experiments. The SARS virus is very similar in key RNA sequences to the Wuhan coronavirus, and the company expects Ampligen to be similarly effective with the Wuhan coronavirus.

AIM – which is an immuno-pharma company focused on the research and development of therapeutics to treat immune disorders, viral diseases and multiple types of cancers – is already focused on avenues to provide the company's Ampligen technology to the countries primarily afflicted by the pandemic.

AIM believes that Ampligen has the potential to be both an early-onset treatment for and prophylaxis against the Wuhan coronavirus, which originated in China before quickly spreading to other countries. The company's three provisional patent applications include: 1) Ampligen as a therapy for the Wuhan coronavirus; 2) Ampligen as part of a proposed intranasal universal coronavirus vaccine that combines Ampligen with inactivated Wuhan coronavirus, conveying immunity and cross-protection and; 3) a high-volume manufacturing process for Ampligen. Under the Patent Cooperation Treaty of 1970, which provides international protections for patents, the three provisional patent applications can convert to international patent applications based on the date of their filings. Alternatively, direct national filings in many countries are possible under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of 1883 – an international agreement. China, the epicenter of the epidemic, is a signatory of both the treaty and the agreement.

"Our analysis of the RNA sequences of the SARS virus and the Wuhan coronavirus and our research lead AIM to believe Ampligen has significant therapeutic potential as both an early-onset treatment and prophylaxis against this new and deadly virus," said AIM CEO Thomas K. Equels. "If clinical trials follow the results of SARS animal testing, this means helping people who are already sick as well as a prophylaxis for people directly exposed to the virus as it spreads, which is especially important for the medical professionals in hospital-like settings working to contain the global emergency, and those people quarantined in camps and on cruise ships. AIM's universal coronavirus vaccine concept is primarily meant to inoculate against the Wuhan coronavirus, but, through Ampligen's unique capabilities, could also protect against other forms of coronavirus and future mutations of the Wuhan coronavirus. AIM is a small immunological research company, but we want to do our part. We believe humanity must stand together to defeat such viral threats. This is our effort to make a difference in this worldwide threat posed by the Wuhan coronavirus."

Ampligen is the only known specific Toll-Like Receptor 3 agonist based on synthetic double-stranded RNA with a well-developed intravenous, intraperitoneal and intranasal safety profile while demonstrating strong antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of viruses. The drug is also being used in multiple ongoing immuno-oncology clinical studies. AIM has recently produced more than 10,000 vials of Ampligen.

About AIM ImmunoTech Inc

AIM ImmunoTech Inc. is an immuno-pharma company focused on the research and development of therapeutics to treat immune disorders, viral diseases and multiple types of cancers. AIM's flagship products include the Argentina-approved drug rintatolimod (trade names Ampligen(R) or Rintamod(R)) and the FDA-approved drug Alferon N Injection(R). Based on results of published, peer-reviewed pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, AIM believes that Ampligen(R) may have broad-spectrum anti-viral and anti-cancer properties. Clinical trials of Ampligen(R) include studies of cancer patients with renal cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, colorectal cancer, advanced recurrent ovarian cancer and triple negative metastatic breast cancer. These and other potential uses will require additional clinical trials to confirm the safety and effectiveness data necessary to support regulatory approval and additional funding. Rintatolimod is a double-stranded RNA being developed for globally important debilitating diseases and disorders of the immune system.

Cautionary Statement

Some of the statements included in this press release may be forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. For example, the filing of provisional patent applications provides no assurance that patents will ultimately be granted. No assurance can be made as to any future clinical trials related to the matter herein. No assurance can be given as to whether the current or planned trials will be successful or yield favorable data and the trials are subject to many factors including lack of regulatory approval(s), lack of study drug, or a change in priorities at the institutions sponsoring other trials. In addition, initiation of planned clinical trials may not occur secondary to many factors including lack of regulatory approval(s) or lack of study drug. Even if these clinical trials are initiated, we cannot assure that the clinical studies will be successful or yield any useful data or require additional funding. Among other things, for forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements set forth in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. We do not undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof. This press release and prior releases are available at www.aimimmuno.com. The information found on our website is not incorporated by reference into this press release and is included for reference purposes only.

Contacts:
Crescendo Communications, LLC
Phone: 212-671-1021
Email: aim@crescendo-ir.com

AIM ImmunoTech Inc
Phone: 800-778-4042
Email: IR@aimimmuno.com

SOURCE: AIM ImmunoTech Inc.

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Aptorum Group Announces Further Positive Data for its ALS-4 Small Molecule Anti-virulence (Non-bactericidal) Drug Candidate

HONG KONG, Feb 11, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Aptorum Group Limited (NASDAQ: APM) ("Aptorum Group"), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapeutics to address global unmet medical needs, announces further positive data from its current investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies for ALS-4, a small drug molecule candidate indicated for the treatment of infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (or "S. aureus"), including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, one of the "super-bugs"), based on a novel anti-virulence non-bactericidal approach. Subject to completion of the current studies, Aptorum Group targets to submit IND for ALS-4 in second half of 2020 and commence a phase 1 trial in North America.

ALS-4 is a small molecule which inhibits dehydrosqualene desaturase of S. aureus (incl. MRSA), an enzyme that is critically involved in the biosynthesis of staphyloxanthin, a commonly visible "golden pigment" covering the bacteria. Staphyloxanthin is believed to be primarily responsible for the bacteria's defense mechanism against the attack from reactive oxygen species (ROS) deployed by phagocytic cells and neutrophils.1

Through inhibiting the production of staphyloxanthin, we believe that ALS-4 renders S. aureus highly susceptible to the host's immune defense (see below for in vivo data and experimental outline). This novel mechanism is significantly different from the bactericidal approach found in currently marketed antibiotics used to treat S. aureus, which are experiencing increasing drug resistance issues2. Specifically, MRSA infections in humans typically exhibit high rates of morbidity and mortality and can cause metastatic or complicated infections such as infective endocarditis or sepsis, with relapse and hospital readmission after S. aureus bacteremia common and costly3.

Based on our testing in a rat bacteremia survival model, a lethal (109 CFU) dose of MRSA (USA300-LAC) was introduced through the tail vein. ALS-4 was administered orally at 10mg/kg per animal 30 minutes after the infection for twice a day thereafter (N=9). A control untreated group was given a sterile vehicle solution (N=9). Survival was monitored for 7 days. 0 out of 9 animals (0%) in the control untreated group survived past day 4, in contrast, 5 out of 9 animals (56%) treated with ALS-4 survived past day 7, which is determined to be statistically significant compared with the control group (p=0.013).

In addition we conducted a study in a non-lethal rat bacteremia infection model. The animals were challenged with a non-lethal (107 CFU) dose of MRSA (USA300-LAC) through the tail vein. In order to simulate a more realistic clinical scenario, treatment was introduced 14-days after the model induction, where ALS-4 was administered orally twice a day at 10mg/kg per animal (N=8). A control untreated group was given a sterile vehicle solution (N=8). After 7 days of ALS-4 treatment, the kidneys were collected and the bacterial titers were measured. Remarkably, ALS-4 reduced the organ bacterial load by 99.5%, from 63,096 plus-minus 18 CFU/g in the control group to 316 plus-minus 49 CFU/g in the ALS-4 treated group, which is determined to be statistically significant (p=0.01).

Last but not least, ALS-4 has successfully inhibited staphyloxanthin production in 11 strains of S. aureus. These include 5 strains of Methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA): SH1000, HG003, USA300-JE2, Newman, and ATCC29213 with an IC50 of 70.5 plus-minus 6nM, 54.4 plus-minus 4nM, 37.7 plus-minus 4nM, 23.7 plus-minus 1nM, and 30.02 plus-minus 5nM respectively; 5 strains of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA): USA300, USA300-3, USA300-LAC, ST239III, and COL, with an IC50 of 30.8 plus-minus 5nM, 42.8 plus-minus 6nM, 43.6 plus-minus 5nM, 16.3 plus-minus 8nM, and 0.9 plus-minus 1nM respectively; and 1 strain of vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA), Mu3 with an IC50 of 2.6 plus-minus 1nM.

Based on our testing, we believe ALS-4 increases the susceptibility of S. aureus including MRSA to oxidative damage by inhibiting production of staphyloxanthin,. In a hydrogen peroxide killing assay, after the addition of 1.5% H2O2, ALS-4 demonstrated an additional reduction of bacterial CFU by 93.5%, from 61,600 plus-minus 6437 CFU/ml in the untreated group to 4,000 plus-minus 230 CFU/ml in the ALS-4 treated group, which is determined to be statistically significant (p=0.003).

With respect to the study carried out to investigate the capability of ALS-4 to induce antibiotic resistance in S. aureus after prolonged exposure, USA300-LAC was cultured in 3 different conditions for 10 days. For the treatment group 1 micromolar of ALS-4 was added; for the positive control group 0.12 microgram/mL of clindamycin and 16 microgram/mL of erythromycin was added from day 1 to day 4, after which clindamycin was withdrawn. For the negative control group, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was added. On day 11, the bacteria were harvested and then cultured for 16 hr for the determination of the MIC of clindamycin. The prolonged exposure to ALS-4 or DMSO does not affect the MIC value of clindamycin (0.12 microgram/mL); while the prolonged exposure to clindamycin + erythromycin triggers antibiotics resistance rapidly with the MIC increased from 0.12 microgram/mL to greater than 5 microgram/mL.

Based on our study we believe ALS-4 is unlikely to be prone to drug resistance since it is non-bactericidal. Growth inhibition studies were performed on different strains of S. aureus and other bacteria, including 3 strains of MSSA (ATCC29212, SH1000 and HG003), 1 strain of MRSA (USA300), 1 strain of VISA (ATCC700698 Mu3), as well as 6 different bacteria (E. coli, A. baumannii, S. cerevisiae, B. subtilis, E. faecalis, and K. pneumoniae). In all of the tested strains of bacteria, no growth inhibition effect was observed at the highest tested concentration of ALS-4 (250uM). Therefore ALS-4 does not appear to have any direct bacteriostatic or bactericidal activity against many species of bacteria, thus greatly reducing the selection pressure for drug resistance to emerge.

We also assessed the potential impact on the efficacy of vancomycin, the mainstay of treatment for infections caused by MRSA, when used in conjunction with ALS-4. 8 different strains of S. aureus (USA300 FPR3757, USA300-3, USA300-LAC, USA300-JE2, Mu3, HG003, ATCC29213 and clinical isolate ST239III) were used in this study. Our data showed that no effect on the MIC of vancomycin was observed when the concentration of ALS-4 was below 25 microgram/mL. Therefore, we believe that ALS-4 does not interfere with the action of vancomycin.

In addition, compared with the current mainstay of treatment for S. aureus infections such as vancomycin or daptomycin which is typically administered in an IV injectable form (with the exception of an oral form vancomycin specifically for treatment of Clostridium difficile diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis only), an oral active agent enables wider market penetration targeting both outpatient as well as potential prophylactic markets.

GLP Toxicity Data
ALS-4 is currently undergoing IND-enabling studies and has so far shown positive safety profiles. As elucidated in our previous press release dated September 9, 2019, ALS-4 did not show any mutagenicity in the in vitro Ames tests. Our currently generated in vitro micronucleus test results also showed that ALS-4 is not genotoxic, indicating the non-mutagenic nature of the drug. Furthermore, the results of the in vitro hERG assay study predicts a low risk of ALS-4 causing cardiac QT prolongation.

For further general presentation, please visit: http://ir.aptorumgroup.com/static-files/bcf77574-7bd6-4b9d-8110-d53837238f16

For further technical presentation, please visit: http://ir.aptorumgroup.com/static-files/66346f79-7a03-474a-89be-0eaafaa00d9d

About Aptorum Group Limited
Aptorum Group Limited (Nasdaq: APM) is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing novel therapeutics to tackle unmet medical needs. Aptorum Group is pursuing therapeutic projects in orphan diseases, infectious diseases, metabolic diseases and other disease areas.

For more information about Aptorum Group, please visit www.aptorumgroup.com.

Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes statements concerning Aptorum Group Limited 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. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as "may," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "could," "intends," "target," "projects," "contemplates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," or "continue," or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Aptorum Group has based these forward-looking statements, which include statements regarding projected timelines for application submissions and trials, largely on its current expectations and projections about future events and 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 related to its announced management and organizational changes, the continued service and availability of key personnel, its ability to expand its product assortments by offering additional products for additional consumer segments, development results, the company's anticipated growth strategies, anticipated trends and challenges in its business, and its expectations regarding, and the stability of, its supply chain, and the risks more fully described in Aptorum Group's Form 20-F and other filings that Aptorum Group may make with the SEC in the future. As a result, the projections included in such forward-looking statements are subject to change. Aptorum Group assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

1 mBio 2017 8(5): e01224-17
2 Microbiol Spectr. 2019 Mar;7(2)
3 Clin Infect Dis. 2019 Nov 27;69(12):2112-2118

Contacts
Investors:
Tel: +852 2117 6611
Email: investor.relations@aptorumgroup.com

Media:
Tel: + 852 2117 6611
Email: info@aptorumgroup.com

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Bayer, Meiogenix Collaborate to Accelerate Agricultural Innovation Through the Development of Unique Technologies

Monheim, Germany and Paris, France, Feb 10, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Bayer and Meiogenix, a biotech company focused on next-generation breeding technologies, announced today a collaboration to advance agricultural research and development by accelerating the development of Meiogenix's proprietary technologies related to plant breeding and genome editing applications. This new research collaboration has the potential to deliver much-needed plant health and nutrition improvements to food crops so farmers can more efficiently and sustainably grow improved plant varieties that deliver the types of foods consumers want.

Figure 1: Plants Genetic Diversity – To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6942/52265_3248f08fd41dbbdb_001full.jpg

"Farmers need innovative solutions as they face limited natural resources and a changing climate," said Jeremy Williams, Head of Plant Biotechnology, Crop Science Research & Development (R&D) at Bayer. "Access to Meiogenix's proprietary technologies could improve the precision and speed with which our breeders enhance crops, which could ultimately accelerate those solutions for the diverse needs of people and our planet."

Meiogenix's proprietary technologies are used to induce the exchange of genomic regions between chromosomes of plant cells during meiosis, the natural process that generates genetic diversity during plant breeding. Technologies based on meiotic recombination provide commercial crops with access to a broader genetic diversity, including complex traits for improved food quality, plants' resistance to diseases and pests, and higher yield potential. The resulting hybrids and varieties have the potential to deliver value throughout the food chain, from farmers to consumers.

"Over the past decade, we have assembled unique know-how, intellectual property portfolio and network of experts to help generate biodiversity and accelerate breeding through modulating meiotic recombination. We are proud to collaborate with Bayer to develop the next generations of crops," said Giacomo Bastianelli, Co-founder & CEO of Meiogenix.

"Agriculture is facing the challenge of adjusting plant physiology to rapid climate, pest and disease changes, as well as preparing the next generation of healthier food. Collaborating on these new breeding technologies will be key to bringing innovative solutions to farmers and consumers," said Luc Mathis, strategic advisor of Meiogenix.

As part of the project, Meiogenix will collaborate with top academic institutes to advance these technologies in crops.

Bayer offers a wide range of educational materials regarding plant breeding and gene editing technologies on its website.

Find more information at www.bayer.com and at www.meiogenix.com

Press Contact
Bayer: Holger Elfes, +49 2173 38-3270, holger.elfes@bayer.com
Meiogenix: Caroline Carmagnol, +33 6 64 18 99 59, caroline@alizerp.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Related Links
Meiogenix Technologies https://www.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/bL0xiyao
Breeding and gene editing at Bayer https://www.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/3ALgsvEX

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/52265

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Malaysians Rush for Anti-Virus Sanitiser, Natshield(TM), after Pharmacies Restock on Concerns of Spread of Deadly Disease

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 6, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Amidst growing concerns of infection by the Wuhan coronavirus, Malaysians queued up today at local pharmacies to stock up on a handheld NatShield(TM) sanitizer containing an active ingredient that has been proven to be effective in combating over 170 deadly pathogens including previously known coronaviruses.

Malaysians queue up to buy NatShield(TM) Sanitizer to combat coronavirus

Homegrown healthcare company Holista CollTech ("Holista") said, since 29 January 2020, it had rushed out the first 5,000 bottles of the initial order of 60,000 bottles of NatShield(TM) to local pharmaceutical chains including Big Pharmacy after stocks ran out earlier in January. The next batch of 15,000 bottles is being despatched to Malaysian pharmacies this week.

The 20-ml sanitizer retails in Malaysian pharmacies for around MYR25.00. Each bottle of NatShield(TM) sanitizer contains 5% of Path-Away(R), a plant-based active ingredient approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Authority as well as Malaysia's Ministry of Health. It is also tested at several World Health Organization laboratories worldwide.

Developed by Global Infections Control Consultants LLC ("GICC LLC") of South Carolina, U.S.A., Path-Away(R) attacks the cell walls of the microbes, inhibiting their uptake of amino acids needed for reproduction. The microbes then clump together and kill themselves in the process. The alcohol-free Path-Away(R) is not harmful to humans and is currently sent for testing its effectiveness against the Wuhan-originated novel coronavirus.

Kuala Lumpur-based Holista, which is listed in Australia, is the exclusive Path-Away(R) distributor in the ASEAN region. It ships in the active ingredients which are then bottled under strict guidelines at several bottling plants in Malaysia. Holista distributes NatShield(TM) to three chains representing over 3,000 pharmacies across Malaysia.

At a briefing at Big Pharmacy's outlet in Petaling Jaya, Dr Rajen Manicka, Holista's CEO, said: "The response has been overwhelming. After stocks ran out on 29th January 2020, we have been working around the clock to fulfill orders in Malaysia. To date, we have received confirmed orders for 42,000 bottles of which 5,000 bottles were sold by the end of last week."

"To cope with the demand, we intend to raise shipments to Malaysia from the original 60,000 bottles to 145,000 bottles by the end of February and include both 20-ml and 30-ml sizes. We also plan to offer a 60-ml family-sized bottle in the coming weeks. Beyond Malaysia, we have also received many overseas enquiries and we will update on shipment increases in the next few weeks," he added.

Adding on to this, Lee Meng Chuan, the CEO of Big Pharmacy, said, "We are doing our best to cope with demand across all 71 outlets. The health and well-being of our customers are the priority. We will work closely with Holista in the coming weeks to meet customer orders."

Holista has agreed to participate in an initiative by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation ("MATRADE"), the national trade promotion agency, to support victims of the Wuhan coronavirus. This initiative is known as 'HELP WUHAN'. Holista has donated RM10,000 as an initial donation and will further donate 2% of its sales revenue of the NatShield (TM) sanitizers.

Dato' Dr Rajen also announced that Holista will also accelerate the development of a nasal balm, using the Path-Away(R) active ingredient, which can reduce risk of infection. Holista intends to file by March 2020 its own global patent for the nasal balm with a view to offer a consumer product to the international consumer market by Q3 2020.

The ingredients of Path-Away(R) are certified as Generally Regarded As Safe ("GRAS") and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and exempted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is listed in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and has undergone successful USP-51 testing as a disinfectant.

Path-Away(R) is also approved by the Food and Safety Authority and Environmental Protection Authority of New Zealand. It is approved for use by Malaysia's Ministry of Health, with special reference to the H1N1 virus.

Holista is licensed to manufacture and distribute NatShield(TM) in Southeast Asia.

About Holista CollTech Ltd

Holista CollTech Ltd ("Holista") is a research-driven biotech company, the result of a merger between Holista Biotech Sdn Bhd and CollTech Australia Ltd. Headquartered in Perth and with extensive operations in Malaysia, the company is dedicated to delivering first-class natural ingredients and wellness products globally. Holista is a leader in the research of herbs and ingredients for the making of healthier food.

Listed on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"), Holista researches, develops, manufactures and markets "health-style" products to address the unmet and evolving needs of natural medicine. Holista's suite of ingredients, among other things, includes low-GI baked products, reduced-sodium salts, low-fat fried foods and low calories sugar without compromising taste, odour and mouthfeel. Holista remains the only company to produce sheep (ovine) collagen using patented extraction methods. For more information, please refer to http://www.holistaco.com

Contact:
Corporate Affairs & Business Opportunities
Dr Rajen Manicka: rajen.m@holistaco.com
General Enquiries: enquiries@holistaco.com

Media and Investor Relations:
WeR1 Consultants Pte Ltd
E: holista@wer1.net; P: +65 67374844

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Livingstone Health Unveils New Corporate Identity; Adds Cardiology and Family Medicine Capabilities

SINGAPORE, Feb 5, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Singapore-based Livingstone Health (formerly known as Ardmore Medical Group) has unveiled a new corporate identity after adding new capabilities and specialists to position itself as a holistic ASEAN-focused healthcare services player with at least five specialisations.

Following an internal reorganisation and rebranding, Livingstone has added Cardiology as a fourth specialisation and Family Medicine as a fifth, after Orthopaedic Surgery, Pain Management and Anaesthesiology, and Aesthetics and Wellness.

Dr Wilson Tay, Chief Executive Officer of Livingstone, said: "The new corporate identity reflects a bigger team with a clearer value proposition, offering a suite of medical specialisations that will raise our profile and positioning as a provider of healthcare services for ASEAN, a region of rapid economic growth."

Joining Dr Tay in executive leadership is Chief Business Officer Mr Dax Ng, Chief Operating Officer Dr Rachel Lim and Chief Medical Officer Dr Sebastian Chua.

The Cardiology practice, Livingstone Cardiology, is headed by Dr Ang Teck Kee, a Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Livingstone Cardiology offers a comprehensive range of cardiac services from screening to treatment procedures. The clinic is located at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre.

The fifth and latest healthcare discipline is Family Medicine, through a partnership between Livingstone and Phoenix Medical Group. The latter focuses mainly on primary healthcare such as chronic disease management and early prevention through its four clinics located across different parts of Singapore.

With the addition of Cardiology and Family Medicine, Livingstone's roster has grown from five to 11 doctors, and from 30 to 50 staff.

As part of its new business strategy, Livingstone will also offer design and operations consultancy services to third-party healthcare service providers to set up and operate medical centres in emerging ASEAN countries. On 19 November 2019, Livingstone successfully launched an aesthetics and wellness clinic in Phnom Penh, Cambodia – a joint-venture between Livingstone and Soriya Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in the country.

Dr Tay said, "We are pleased to welcome Phoenix Medical Group and all the new doctors to the Livingstone family. With the added expertise of Cardiology and Family Medicine, Livingstone is able to offer a more holistic service to our patients and also expand our footprint within Singapore and the larger Southeast Asia region."

The ASEAN healthcare landscape has changed very significantly since the 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis. While patients once came to Singapore for specialist care, local costs have risen at a time when medical specialisation has improved in some parts of ASEAN, which groups 10 countries in Southeast Asia.

"We want to bring the Livingstone brand and medical expertise to patients in ASEAN countries. We have started this process through a partnership in Cambodia to offer health screening and aesthetics and wellness services. In Vietnam we have tied up with a local hospital to offer pain management services," said Dr Tay.

"We intend to build upon this track record to expand further across ASEAN. As we do so we also increase opportunities for doctors and specialists working under the Livingstone brand," he added.

About Livingstone Health

Livingstone Health is a Singapore-based multidisciplinary healthcare group specialising in Cardiology, Orthopaedic Surgery, Pain Management & Anaesthesiology, Aesthetics & Wellness, and Family Medicine.

The name "Livingstone" is derived from the succulent plant Lithops, which are often called "living stones". Both a stone and a plant, living stones symbolise Livingstone Health's resilience, growth and determination to be recognised as a trusted integrated healthcare provider for patients, as well as a centre of excellence of growth opportunities for medical professionals.

The Livingstone Health emblem is made up of a group of multi-coloured stones to represent its focus on multidisciplinary healthcare, while the trunk of the tree and its branches signify the vast and established network that connects these healthcare disciplines. For more information, please visit: www.livingstonehealth.com.sg

Media Contact:
Regine Lee
Marketing Assistant Manager
T: +65 6592 4855
E: hello@livingstonehealth.com.sg

Investor/Media Contact:
WeR1 Consultants Pte Ltd
Jordan Teo
T: +65 6737 4844
E: livingstone@wer1.net

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Swallowing difficulty may be caused by spinal disease, says study by Hong Kong Chiropractors

HONG KONG, Feb 3, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – A stiff neck or difficulties swallowing could be caused by spinal degeneration, a new study suggests. Researchers found that changes in the spinal curvature could cause changes in swallowing, according to a study in the latest Journal of Clinical Medicine Insight, Case Studies.

Dr. Eric Chun-Pu Chu, chairman of Chiropractic Doctors Association of Hong Kong.

The study finds that "changes in spinal structure and functional dimension can impact the dimensions of the pharynx and cervical esophagus," said study leader Eric Chun-Pu Chu, chairman of Chiropractic Doctors Association of Hong Kong.

"The possible mechanisms of cervicogenic dysphasia, or difficulty in swallowing, include direct compression of the esophagus, impeded closure of the laryngeal inlet due to epiglottic tilt, paraesophageal inflammation, and upper esophageal sphincter spasms.

"Bad posture, such as kyphosis and scoliosis, could also be causing dysphagia," Chu said. "The predisposing factors include increasing age, short stature, and spinal abnormalities."

An elderly woman with neck stiffness and difficulty in swallowing solid foods and even liquids for 3 years sought chiropractic treatment in Hong Kong. She demonstrated a moderate hunch back and limited neck movement; her X-ray indicated misalignment of the first and second vertebrae and degeneration of the cervical spine.

The woman was diagnosed cervical spondylosis with a vertical atlantoaxial subluxation. Her therapeutic treatment consisted of stabilizing cervical subluxation and restoring joint mobility, with emphasis on cervical mobilization and strengthening exercises. After 20 sessions of chiropractic therapy, the woman had complete relief from neck problems and difficulty in swallowing.

Swallowing is a complex sensorimotor function. It is controlled by the brain stem (the medulla oblongata) and reflexes of the pharynx and esophagus. The aim of chiropractic treatment for this patient was to relieve the brainstem compression, stabilize the joint subluxation, stretch the shortened muscles, and mobilize the joint stiffness.

Still, the researchers note, it was possible that the woman experienced spontaneous recovery. However, the long-term clinical course prior to chiropractic intervention, the significant improvement of symptoms, and post-treatment radiographic parameters weigh against such coincidental effects.

The study finds that, though an interpretation of the findings, patients experiencing swallowing difficulty and cervical subluxation respond well to chiropractic treatment.

SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Medicine Insight: Case Reports, December 2019.
www.cda.org.hk/index.php/news_f/detail?lang=en&id=309

Dr Eric Chun-Pu Chu
Chairman@cda.org.hk
Chiropractic Doctors Association of Hong Kong

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Orders for NatShield(TM) Sanitizer Disinfectant Spike after Outbreak of Coronavirus

KUALA LUMPUR/PERTH, Jan 29, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – ASX-listed Holista CollTech (ASX:HCT, "Holista") announced today a strong spike in demand in Malaysia for it all-natural disinfectant spray NatShield(TM) Sanitizer, that contains the powerful Path-Away(R) anti-microbial compound. The increased demand follows the recent outbreak of the deadly coronavirus originating from Wuhan, China.

NatShield

Letter from Malaysian MOH

Holista confirmed that since mid-January 2020 it had sold out all NatShield(TM) Sanitizer in its inventory. Each bottle of NatShield(TM) Sanitizer contains 5% of Path-Away(R) which is made from natural plant-based substances that have been approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug of Authority and tested by World Health Organization ("WHO") approved laboratories in numerous countries around the world.

Developed by Global Infection Control Consultants LLC ("GICC LLC") based in South Carolina, USA, Path-Away(R) (www.path-away.com) is distributed in Malaysia by Holista as NatShield(TM) Sanitizer. Holista is the exclusive distributor of Path-Away(R) for the ASEAN region. ASEAN countries with confirmed cases of the coronavirus include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Cambodia.

Based on requests from seven chains representing over 3,000 pharmacies in Malaysia, Holista has ordered 60,000 bottles of NatShield(TM) Sanitizer to be air-freighted to Malaysia from the U.S.A. by mid-February.

The novel coronavirus was first reported to WHO on 31 December 2019 and has been under investigation ever since. Countries with confirmed infections include the U.S.A., Canada, France, Australia, Japan, South Korea and Nepal.

The active substance in the spray weakens the cell walls of the virus, causing the infectious organisms to clump together, in the process killing themselves, almost instantly. The potent compound is environmentally safe with very low toxicity and hence is not harmful to humans and pets even if accidentally swallowed. It is free of alcohol and other potentially toxic chemicals.

It is approved for use by Malaysia's Ministry of Health, with special reference to the H1N1 virus – another coronavirus, similar to one in this outbreak which led to more than 70 deaths in 2009. It has also been approved by the Food and Safety Authority of New Zealand, and the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority ("EPA"). It is also approved by the United States Pharmacopeia ("USP") and has undergone successful USP-51 testing as a disinfectant.

"This is not a drug. It acts by sanitising body parts. It had been consistently shown to be effective and safe to users and the environment in the most advanced biosafety laboratories in the world," said Dr Rajen Manicka, the CEO of Holista which is headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and listed on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX").

"NatShield(TM) Sanitizer was created to treat previously known coronaviruses. It can be used as a precautionary spray in crowded areas including public transport. Three to five sprays are all that is needed to disinfect hands, toilet seats, doorknobs, countertops and trolley bars, with efficacy lasting up to two hours. We plan to sell it in all infected ASEAN countries," he said.

Dr Arthur Martin, the President of GICC LLC (www.giccllc.com) said, "The Path-Away(R) formula has been proven in world-renowned laboratories including those working with WHO, to be able to kill over 170 deadly pathogens including previously existing forms of coronaviruses. Path-Away(R) is currently undergoing testing on the newly emerged coronavirus designated as the "Wuhan Virus."

Dr Martin is a globally respected scientist and a member of the WHO's Stop Tuberculosis ("T.B."). Board who had been previously nominated for the prestigious "Kochon Prize" for his work on T.B. "Humans of all ages can use Path-Away(R) with little or no risk of toxic effects. It retains its efficacy for hours even under extremes of temperature and is not corrosive and can be used even in sensitive installations," he said.

Contact:
Corporate Affairs & Business Opportunities
Dr Rajen Manicka: rajen.m@holistaco.com
General Enquiries: enquiries@holistaco.com

Media and Investor Relations:
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Karishma Ailsinghani
E: holista@wer1.net; P: +65 84792656

About Holista CollTech Ltd

Holista CollTech Ltd ("Holista") is a research-driven biotech company, the result of a merger between Holista Biotech Sdn Bhd and CollTech Australia Ltd. Headquartered in Perth and with extensive operations in Malaysia, the company is dedicated to delivering first-class natural ingredients and wellness products globally. Holista is a leader in the research of herbs and ingredients for the making of healthier food.

Listed on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"), Holista researches, develops, manufactures and markets "health-style" products to address the unmet and evolving needs of natural medicine. Holista's suite of ingredients, among other things, includes low-GI baked products, reduced-sodium salts, low-fat fried foods and low calories sugar without compromising taste, odour and mouthfeel. Holista remains the only company to produce sheep (ovine) collagen using patented extraction methods. For more information, please refer to http://www.holistaco.com

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

New Disinfectant Stops Spread of Virus, Including Coronavirus Strain from China

SYDNEY, Jan 23, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Australian researcher Steven Kritzler says his new Evocide disinfectant is able to stop the spread of virus, such as the present outbreak in Wuhan City, China. This new strain of Coronavirus is a SARS-like virus that has caused hundreds of infections in China, and has spread to Thailand, Japan and South Korea. Symptoms include fever, cough or chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.

"Both the Wuhan virus, known as 2019-nCoV, and SARS belong to the family of viruses known as Coronaviridae, which are not strong and can be deactivated by many materials," says Kritzler, who is based at Novapharm Research near Sydney, and is a committee member of the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Kritzler garnered attention at the Hong Kong Symposium on Advanced Infection Control in November when he presented his new Evocide Extra disinfectant. "Coronavirus is a type of enveloped virus — a virus that develops viruses. My formulation can deactivate any virus, including enveloped and non-enveloped viruses."

"Coronavirus is microscopic, hence face masks alone cannot effectively prevent spreading the virus. I suggest that the best way to protect from spreading the virus is to wash your hands regularly, for example when you touch the door handle. And remember to use the disinfectants in time," says Kritzler.

Southern Cross Paper is another formulation by Kritzler. He explains these bio-degradable, eco-friendly paper wipes can deactivate viruses such as rabies virus, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), hand-foot-mouth virus (EV71), influenza A (H1N1) and measles virus, and can kill 99.999% bacterial and fungal pathogens including super bacteria.

The Chinese Spring Festival holiday begins later this week, increasing the risk of spread of the new virus. The holiday period typically sees hundreds of millions of Chinese traveling throughout the country and overseas.

Contact: Kenny Kong, kz@fromau.com
Southern Cross Biotechnology Pty Ltd.

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com