Missouri startup support funding gutted amid COVID; Advocates hope reversing course could fuel recovery – Startland News

Its official: the 2021 budget for a popular public-private partnership that once infused millions into the Missouri tech and startup communities has been wholly defunded by the state as Gov. Mike Parson grapples with COVID-19s continued economic fallout.

But supporters of the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) hope Parsons move withholding all of the programs $1 million budget allocation as part of $450 million reduction in expenditures from the 2021 state budget is only a temporary setback.

The budget restrictions that included MTC are directly related to decreased state revenue due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, said the Missouri Department of Economic Development, which oversees MTC, in a statement to Startland News and Missouri Business Alert.

MTC will work with DED and the Governors Office to identify as many near-term opportunities that will allow MTC to infuse capital into the ecosystem, such as CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act Funding or the Federal SSBCI (State Small Business Credit Initiative) program, while working to establish a stronger annual budget allocation once the state rebounds from the current economic issues and tax revenue levels return, the agencys statement continued.

Mike Parson, Missouri governor; Discovery Design Truck & Manufacturing, St. Peters; Photo courtesy of the Missouri Governors Office

Missouris new budget went into effect July 1 a day Parson spent touring Missouri businesses like Discovery Design Truck & Manufacturing in St. Peters and Positronic Industries in Springfield.

A substantial portion of the funds withheld from MTC and nearly 105 other line items in the 2021 budget were redirected to Medicaid and other entitlement programs, said Missouri Sen. Dan Hegeman, R-Crosby, who served as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and also sits on MTCs board of directors.

While MTC has certainly been a priority for me, other folks have different priorities and tough decisions have to be made in the budget process, said Hegeman, who outside the Statehouse works as a spokesman for Evergy in Kansas City.

Click here to read more about the Missouri Legislatures May 8 budget allocation for MTC, which ultimately was struck by the governor.

Ground-level impact

Withholding even a years budget from MTC will have a dramatic limiting effect on the states entrepreneurship ecosystem specifically startups and innovation centers, said Ben Johnson, president of NEXT Missouri, an advocacy coalition that lobbies for increased MTC funding.

What is MTC?

The Missouri Technology Corporation is a state organization that supports startups through direct co-investments and a matching grant program (including through efforts like LaunchKC and Digital Sandbox KC), as well as providing funding to nine innovation centers including those at the University of Missouri in Kansas City and Columbia, as well as Innovation Stockyard in St. Joseph.

MTC supports startups through direct co-investments and a matching grant program (including through efforts like LaunchKC and Digital Sandbox KC), as well as providing funding to nine innovation centers such as those at the University of Missouri in Kansas City and Columbia, as well as Innovation Stockyard in St. Joseph.

Among the most impactful job creation efforts from MTC: the IDEA Fund program, which supports new innovation-based, high-growth companies, Johnson said.

The private markets dont often invest at that early riskiest stage and so MTCs IDEA Funds money helps catalyze that private investment to help companies start and grow, he said.

Investing in the IDEA Funds program has allowed MTC to build and maintain a cash reserve, the Department of Economic Development said in its statement. MTC is expected to use the reserve to supplement state funding for the time being.MTC will continue to support startups and innovation centers across the state to the best of its ability in these unprecedented times, the agency said.

MTC funding also largely supports the Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) Program, which provides funding to nonprofits, universities and other organizations that offer entrepreneurial support programs.

Without its state funding, Johnson said, MTC will have a more difficult time backing such efforts. The reduction in funds certainly hurts the ability for MTC to catalyze private investment or to support organizations that are building on entrepreneurial businesses, he said.

A great friend

This summers hit to MTC funding predates the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson said.

In 2016, MTC received $17 million from the state. The following year, its funding was reduced to $13 million. Johnson described MTC funding as a continued decline.

The state had been making pretty significant investments up to $20 million a year and really created a significant amount of entrepreneurial momentum across the state, he said. Over the last three or four years, thats been chipped away, now down to the million-dollar level.

Sarah Hill, Healium

Sarah Hill, founder of Columbia-based Healium, witnessed firsthand how MTC funding makes a difference in the lives of entrepreneurs, she said.Missouri Technology Corporation has been an incredible partner for us, said Hill, whose company was named one of Startland News Kansas City Startups to Watch in 2020. If it wasnt for their funding, our business would not be alive today MTC allowed us to have credibility as a young company, and when youre trying to raise money, thats incredibly important.

Click here to check out the Missouri Technology Corporations funding portfolio.And MTC doesnt only help business owners but the states economy as a whole, she added.

The state of Missouri has a great friend in MTC, but its not just a friend of entrepreneurs, because that funding directly impacts the states bottom line in the form of jobs, Hill said. We were able to get over that valley of death; We were able to hire more employees; We were able to secure additional IP and secure additional revenue, which ultimately benefits the state of Missouri.

Hegeman remains optimistic that once the pandemic is over, the state will again boost MTC.

MTC is a great resource for startup companies, so anytime we can increase funding for it, it is a positive for those businesses, he said. Startups are very important for the state economy and we need to show that Missouri is a leader for job creators and innovation.

Eighty percent of net new job growth comes from new businesses, Johnson said, noting his belief that investing in entrepreneurship will be critical to COVID-19 recovery.

We think about not just responding to the pandemic and economic crisis that were in now, but really think about recovery, he said. Its going to be new businesses that really drive that recovery and get us back to a buzzing economic engine in the state.

This story was produced through a collaboration betweenMissouri Business Alertand Startland News.

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Missouri startup support funding gutted amid COVID; Advocates hope reversing course could fuel recovery - Startland News

Oil and Gas in Flux: After a Series of Stunning Defeats, What’s Next for the Industry? – The Revelator

When Dominion Energy and Duke Energy unexpectedly cancelled plans to build the Atlantic Coast Pipeline on July 5, environmental advocates throughout the Southeast cheered.

But even a few days later, Mark Sabath, senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, still seemed a bit shocked by the victory. His organization worked for six years to stop the 600-mile-long pipeline, which would have transported fracked gas through West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina.

We were surprised in terms of it happening when it did, he says of the companies decision. But it was certainly something we were thinking for a long time should happen.

Of course, should and would are often a world apart. In fact, just a few weeks earlier, the energy companies had won a substantial victory when the Supreme Court ruled that their pipeline could cross the Appalachian Trail.

So when the word came down that Dominion and Duke were throwing in the towel, it caught a lot of people off guard. And it wasnt unique the announcement came along with a wave of other bad news for the oil and gas industry, including bankruptcies and more stalled pipeline efforts.

In his weekly column for The New Yorker, Bill McKibben summed it all up: Its been a truly awful few days for the fossil-fuel industry, which is another way of saying that its been an unexpectedly good few days for planet Earth.

Indeed, at quick glance, the industry looks like its on the ropes, but what does it all mean in the big picture? Here are some takeaways.

In a statement on the cancellation of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, which had ballooned in cost from an estimated $5 billion to $8 billion, the developers blamed the increasing legal uncertainty that overhangs large-scale energy and industrial infrastructure development in the United States.

But theres much more to the story than that. One of the biggest factors, Sabath says, is that the developers and their government boosters didnt follow the rules.

Cutting corners and pressuring the agencies to cut corners with their environmental reviews certainly slowed things down and made it more difficult to finish the project, he says.

Lorne Stockman, senior research analyst at Oil Change International, an anti-fossil-fuel advocacy group, explained in a blog post that federal agencies rubber-stamped eight permits without proper review.

But none of these could stand up to scrutiny when challenged in a court of law, and all were eventually revoked or suspended, wrote Stockman. The fact that [the Atlantic Coast Pipeline] cant be built without violating the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act or the National Environmental Protection Act should be an important and concerning lesson.

This short-circuiting of environmental review is a common thread Sabath sees in two other pipeline decisions that came just a day after the Atlantic Coast announcement.

On July 6 the Supreme Court nixed an attempt by the Trump administration to jumpstart construction on the Keystone XL pipeline stymied for a decade that would carry 830,000 barrels of oil sands from Alberta, Canada to Nebraska. The effort had been halted, pending further environmental review, because the Army Corps of Engineers didnt properly study how endangered species in rivers would be affected by pipeline crossings.

And that same day a U.S District judge ruled that the already-pumping Dakota Access pipeline, long opposed by the Standing Rock Sioux, needed to halt operations until the Trump administration properly conducted the review required by the National Environmental Policy Act.

We certainly saw with the Atlantic Coast Pipeline there was evidence that political higher-ups, at the developers urgings, were sticking to the developers preferred timeline and urging staff not to conduct the kind of environmental review that should have been done, says Sabath. In the end, I think that backfired and its the same thing thats now causing problems for Dakota Access and Keystone XL.

It turns out that the victory for tribes and environmentalists that halted the Dakota Access pipelines flow is now in limbo.

The company behind that project, Canadas TC Energy, has appealed the ruling and asked for a stay on the decision to shut down the pipeline while that appeal is considered. On July 15, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued a temporary stay meaning oil can keep flowing while it considers whether or not to make that stay permanent during the appeals process.

Its too soon to say yet if this will indeed end up being a win for industry, but minimally it gets a tiny reprieve.

And despite some high-profile setbacks, like with the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, oil and gas companies have also notched a few other victories.

The same Supreme Court ruling that blocked construction of Keystone XL will allow the continued use of Nationwide Permit 12 on dozens of other pipelines. This permit, issued by the Army Corps, is a general Clean Water Act permit that lets developers expedite permitting for projects crossing waterways by allowing the use of a general, instead of project-specific, permit.

And things could get even easier for pipeline developers after the White House issued a rule that would weaken the countrys bedrock environmental law, the National Environmental Policy Act. The new rule would limit public review and speed up permitting for infrastructure projects like pipelines and powerplants.

This new ruling comes after the administration had previously issued three executive orders to help speed up pipeline permitting.

While the industry has faced legal ups and downs, the news is mostly bad from a financial standpoint especially for companies heavily invested in shale gas.

Chesapeake Energy, a pioneer in the fracking industry, filed for bankruptcy protection on June 28 with $10 billion in debts although not before doling out $25 million in bonuses to executives.

Chesapeake may be one of the most well known in the business to falter, but they arent alone. Just a few months ago Whiting Petroleum, once the largest producer in North Dakotas Bakken shale, filed for bankruptcy protection. So too did Denver-based Extraction Oil & Gas. And California Resources Corp, the states largest oil and gas producer, followed them into Chapter 11 in mid-July.

Many more are likely to follow. Rystad Energy, an analytics company, recently warned that 250 oil and gas companies could file for bankruptcy protection by the end of 2021 as demand continues to fall, renewables outcompete them in the energy market, and pressures mount to address climate change.

Even the majors are affected. Last year Chevron wrote down $10 billion in assets, mostly in shale gas holdings.

In many ways, the industry has been its own worst enemy.

Fracking is more resource-intensive than conventional drilling. Companies drilled at a frenetic pace to try to recoup costs, but in the process they produced a glut of gas, further driving prices and profits down.

The reality is that the shale boom peaked without making money for the industry in aggregate, found a report from the financial advisory firm Deloitte. In fact, the U.S. shale industry registered net negative free cash flows of $300 billion, impaired more than $450 billion of invested capital, and saw more than 190 bankruptcies since 2010.

And while exports of liquified natural gas are rising, The New York Times reported that future profits may be meager.

The COVID-19 pandemic has delivered another huge hit, along with an oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia that sent oil prices to record lows in March. Last month BP announced they would trim $17.5 billion off their assets as energy demand falls.

Its a harbinger of things to come.

BP said that the aftermath of the new coronavirus pandemic would accelerate the transition to a lower-carbon economy, in line with the goals of the 2015 Paris climate agreement, Reuters reported.

For years environmentalists have warned that oil and gas reserves would end up being stranded assets for energy companies when a shift to a less carbon-intensive economy makes those fossil fuels unburnable.

We are beginning to see this taking shape with these recent pipeline decisions. All of these projects have been in the works for at least six years. And in that time the urgency of the climate crisis has come into sharper view and a number of states have decided to push ahead with clean energy commitments, despite federal opposition to action on climate change.

Some of these states are the same places where new pipelines have been proposed.

We certainly saw that with the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, says Sabath. States like Virginia and North Carolina are moving quickly now toward clean energy and zero-carbon goals that are inconsistent with gas and oil infrastructure. It doesnt make sense to have major projects that would lock you into carbon emissions that will not be permitted in your state in a couple of years.

In March Virginia passed the Clean Economy Act to make the states electricity sector carbon free by 2045. And in 2018 North Carolinas Gov. Roy Cooper signed an executive order to help spur a transition to a clean energy economy in his state.

Ups and downs in the oil and gas industry arent new. But the collision of crises in this current moment the pandemic-induced demand reduction, the political and financial realities of climate change, surging clean energy, and legal reckonings on high-profile projects are a steep challenge.

How well oil and gas companies rebound if they do at all may largely depend on Novembers election.

But beyond politics, theres one other big factor that will determine how this all plays out: the people.

Mounting public opposition and effective organizing against projects that risk environmental and human health have become big forces.

The only reason that there were substantial legal challenges in the first place is because of the epic organizing that preceded the lawsuits, McKibben wrote about the three recent pipeline decisions.

And the communities whose voices are rising to the top are ones that have historically been silenced. People are starting to listen to communities of color, low-income rural communities and tribes, says Sabath. I think and hope that some of those groups who might have been marginalized in the past may be heard now.The NEPA changes may reduce one of the primary tools those groups have for voicing their concerns, but the extremely vocal activist networks that have developed over the past few years will continue to protest and organize.

Those voices in combination with a rising global chorus of opposition to fossil fuel dominance could ensure that mounting economic and environmental crises instead become opportunities for change.

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Oil and Gas in Flux: After a Series of Stunning Defeats, What's Next for the Industry? - The Revelator

Private trust companies and the Cook Islands solution – Vantage Asia

This South pacific island country offers convenient, flexible and easy-to-administer options for setting up private trust companies

When establishing a trust for wealth planning, succession, philanthrophropy or any of the many other reasons trusts are established, choosing a trustee is the first and most important decision a settlor will need to make. As creating a trust requires legal ownership of the settlors assets to be transferred to the trustee, the settlor will need to have the utmost confidence in the trustees experience, substance, integrity and professionalism.

There are a number of options available to a settlor when choosing a trustee. Professional corporate trustees in foreign jurisdictions are commonly used, where the trustee is licensed and either institutional or independent. However, due to the settlors understandable reluctance in handing over ownership and control of his/her assets to people he/she doesnt know, and who are based in a country he/she has never visited, another trustee option is becoming increasingly popular.

Private trust companies (PTCs) are established with the sole purpose of acting as a corporate trustee to one or more family, or otherwise related, trusts.

Using a PTC can provide a settlor with numerous benefits and advantages, including:

Peace of mind. The settlor may find greater comfort having the trust assets owned and administered by a PTC that he/she has created;

Control. A PTC allows the settlor, or those he/she nominates, to retain a high degree of control over the administration of trust assets, including investment and distribution decisions. This can be achieved by the settlor and his/her family members and advisers becoming directors of the PTC;

Confidentiality. A PTC enables better control over information confidential to the settlor and his/her family;

Diversification. A PTC will provide the settlor greater opportunity to invest in and hold assets of his/her choice. A trustee has a duty to preserve and diversify trust assets in the best interests of all beneficiaries. A professional corporate trustee may therefore be averse to holding high-risk assets, or a high percentage of the same assets, to avoid breaching its duty;

Expense. A PTC allows the settlor to avoid trustee fees and other professional costs, which for larger trust funds are often charged on an ad valorem basis.

The ownership and management of the PTC are vital to its effectiveness and the efficient operation of the overall structure. The settlors circumstances, and what is best for him/her and his/her family, will ultimately determine ownership and management decisions.

Directors. In determining the composition of the PTC board, the settlor must understand that he/she having total control over trust assets may compromise the validity of the structure as well as its tax effectiveness. In addition, it must be remembered that the PTC is a trustee and owes legal duties to the trusts beneficiaries. The settlor and family members will not (as a professional corporate trustee would) be familiar with the role of the trustee or what is required to discharge those duties. Failure to discharge those duties may lead to personal liability for the directors.

Where the settlor retains too much control over trust assets through the use of the PTC, the structure runs the risk of being considered a sham. Similarly, it may lose tax effectiveness if all substantial decisions are seen to be made in the settlors home jurisdiction.

To avoid such scenarios, it is advisable that directors of a PTC be a combination of family members and professional advisers, including a professional corporate trustee.

It is most unlikely that the settlor and his/her family members would have experience in administering a trust and its assets. It is therefore advisable that the PTC board engages a professional corporate trustee to provide administration services to the PTC to ensure it meets statutory, regulatory and compliance obligations, and properly documents trust activity such as investments, distributions, financial transactions and asset transfers.

Owners. There are a number of options a settlor might consider when deciding on the ownership of the PTC. The most favourable is for the PTC to be ownerless, as this will distance the settlor from ownership reducing the potential for:

(i) the structure to be compromised through the settlor not having divested ownership of trust assets sufficiently; and (ii) the trust being taxable in the hands of the settlor.

Two vehicles commonly used to create an ownerless PTC are: a purpose trust and a foundation.

A purpose trust is a trust established for a particular purpose, as opposed to being for the benefit of named beneficiaries. In the PTC scenario, the trusts sole purpose would be to hold shares in the PTC. A foundation is created by a founder and managed by a foundation council, similar to a board of directors.

Although it is an incorporated entity, the foundation has no shareholders or beneficiaries with proprietary interests. A foundation is established to carry out certain activities or achieve certain objectives. In the PTC scenario, that objective would be to hold shares in the PTC.

Should the settlor wish to hold shares in the PTC directly, he/she should be mindful that in addition to this potentially compromising the overall structure and its tax effectiveness, as mentioned above, in the event of the settlors death the PTC shares will form part of his/her estate and may result in the ownership and control of the PTC, and the succession of the trust assets, being different to what he/she had intended.

Cook Islands law requires that companies carrying on trustee company business be licensed to do so (section 12(3)(a) of the Trustee Companies Act, 2014 [TCA]). However, where such a company is a Cook Islands international company (IC) incorporated under the International Companies Act, 1981-82 (ICA) and it is to act as trustee of no more than three Cook Islands international trusts (ITs) established under the International Trusts Act, 1984 (ITA) the company is deemed not to be carrying on trustee company business, and licensing is not required (TCA section 5(3)(b)). The use of an IC as trustee of an IT meets the ITA requirement that one of the ITs trustees be a Cook Islands licensed trustee company (LTC), a registered foreign company or an IC.

The Cook Islands therefore provides settlors a convenient, flexible and easy to administer PTC option through the use of an IC.

ICs must be incorporated through an LTC, which will provide a registered office and company secretary as required by the ICA. The directors of the IC do not need to be resident, therefore allowing the settlor to determine the composition of the PTC board.

The Cook Islands has a number of LTCs experienced in the establishment and administration of ICs and ITs, and is therefore able to assist the PTC in meeting its statutory and regulatory obligations, as well as other trust activity as the PTC board directs.

When structuring the ownership of the PTC, the Cook Islands can provide an ownerless vehicle to hold the shares of the PTC through either a purpose trust or a foundation. Cook Islands law provides for non-charitable purpose trusts where the specified purpose will be to hold the shares of the PTC. Similarly, a foundation could be established pursuant to the Foundations Act 2012 for the purpose of holding the shares. The LTC will be able to provide a trustee to the purpose trust and a member to the foundations council and administration services to both.

In the event the settlor wishes to hold the PTC shares directly, despite the above-mentioned potential pitfalls, the Cook Islands can provide a solution to assist the settlors succession planning and avoid the PTC shares falling into his/her estate upon death.

Section 228B of the ICA allows the settlor to specify in the PTCs articles of association a person or persons to whom he/she wishes the shares to be automatically transferred to upon his/her death, therefore avoiding the probate process.

Through a carefully structured and professionally administered PTC, a settlor and his/her family are able to actively participate in decisions concerning the trust and its assets. The integrity of the structure can be retained, the settlors succession and tax planning objectives achieved, and legal duties to beneficiaries discharged.

The Cook Islands PTC solution currently involves the use of an IC as a PTC, an LTC to provide administration services to the PTC, and an ownership structure. However, a proposed amendment to the TCA currently being discussed is for Cook Islands foundations and limited liability companies also to be able to act as a PTC of no more than three ITs. This could provide some interesting planning opportunities, especially around the ownership of the PTC.

COOK ISLANDS FINANCEPO Box 3255, Clarkes Building,Parekura, Rarotonga,Cook IslandsTel: +682 21175www.cookislandsfinance.com

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Private trust companies and the Cook Islands solution - Vantage Asia

Telehealth is ‘The Best Tool’ in the Healthcare Toolbox for FQHCs – mHealthIntelligence.com

July 21, 2020 -Federally qualified health centers looking to expand their telehealth footprint need to take a closer look at why their patients are having problems accessing healthcare.

Transportation issues, insurance availability, home life and school and work pressures all can play a part in whether someone can or cant visit the doctor, said Christina Quinlan, director of operations for Islands Community Medical Services on Vinalhaven, an island of some 1,100 people off the Maine coast. And creating a means of identifying those barriers - and using telehealth and mHealth tools to address them - will go a long way toward a value-based care environment.

Telehealth fills the critical gaps, she said.

Quinlan, who presented at a recent virtual conference jointly hosted by the Northeast Telehealth Resource Center (NETRC) and the Mid-Atlantic Telehealth Resource Center (MATRC), highlighted the value of using telehealth to identify and address social determinants of health as the nation shifts to a value-based healthcare system.

The situation is particularly important for FQHCs and Rural Health Centers (RHCs), who deal with a large underserved population that is growing larger as the coronavirus pandemic ravages the economy and pushes more people into Medicare and Medicaid or out of insurance altogether. These clinics have been able to take advantage of telehealth freedoms included in emergency mandates and COVID-19 relief bills to expand access, but the future is hazy and that growing population is and will be there.

READ MORE: Telehealth Offers a Vital Resource to Maines Island Residents

Thats why its important for FQHCs to understand the people theyre serving, Quinlan said.

We know that value-based medicine isnt a matter of if, (but) a matter of when, she said. Focusing on reducing health disparities will be a huge part of that platform, and the only way we can do it is through telehealth.

The best means of identifying barriers to care is through a patient needs survey or questionnaire. This gives providers a window into the patients daily life, helping them to get a handle on what care needs arent being addressed such as chronic condition management, behavioral health, health and wellness checkups.

Those needs might not be met because of a lack of transportation, Quinlan said, or perhaps a lack of insurance or other family needs that get in the way of going to the doctor.

Her advice? Take on the no-show rate first, addressing why those visits arent being conducted and finding ways to put people in front of providers, either in person or virtually.

READ MORE: Coronavirus Grant Gives Massachusetts FQHCs a Chance to Embrace Telehealth

This may also mean bundling services together, and using telehealth to access other care providers or specialists or even non-medical services.

This is particularly helpful in a place like Vinalhaven, some 75 miles by boat from the mainland. A family coming in for a wellness checkup or some other medical appointment could also be scheduled at the same time for a behavioral health session, a visit with a social worker, maybe even a substance abuse testing or counseling session or a meeting with a probation or parole officer, education specialist, accountant, lawyer or family therapist.

Integrating social care and other services with clinical care will be more prevalent as we move towards value-based medicine, Quinlan says. And a rural or community clinic that can use a telehealth platform to accommodate those services stands a good chance of improving outcomes.

For the first time, were linking medical and non-medical services in ways that can help the provider meet the bottom line, she said. And were removing the transportation issue and using the limited space a center might have to accomplish a wide range of services.

The challenge, as always, is sustainability. Federal and state guidelines have eased in the midst of the pandemic to support more connected health access, and private payers have been accommodating in boosting their coverage, but the future beyond COVID-19 is uncertain.

READ MORE: The MAVEN Project Gives Busy Health Clinics a Telehealth Resource

More to the point, Quinlan says an FQHC or RHC needs to address these issues regardless of whether theyll get paid, because it helps them to establish relationships with patients.

The reimbursement may not always be there, but the value is, she said.

The trick may be in understanding what services can lead to coverage. A Medicaid or Medicare program may allow reimbursement for substance abuse therapy delivered via telehealth to the patients home or behavioral counseling for obesity, or a private plan might cover health and wellness screenings.

As well, questionnaires and screenings might not be reimbursed, Quinlan said, but its where they lead you to. These services identify those critical gaps in care that lead to tests, specialist services and follow-up care that will be covered.

And those follow-ups can be handled through telehealth.

Quinlan sees a lot of uncertainty ahead as federal and state regulators move from a fee-for-service platform to value-based care. Social care will be included in alternative payment models, she said, but in many case it will be up to care providers to raise their voices, point out the value of providing certain services, and show that telehealth can and should be used to provide them. There should be some give and take in the process, she said.

For distant and disparate community health centers, FQHCs and RHCs that sit on the front lines and serve a growing number of people struggling to access care, this is the time to open up about the value of telehealth. This is a movement for advocacy.

Value-based care will require telehealth, she added. Its not just a tool in the toolbox, but the best tool.

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Telehealth is 'The Best Tool' in the Healthcare Toolbox for FQHCs - mHealthIntelligence.com

Baze receives Personalized Nutrition Initiative of the Year Award – NutraIngredients-usa.com

With access to big data, digitalization, cutting-edge research and innovations, the award celebrates the best new initiatives in personalized nutrition. Differences in biochemistry, metabolism, genetics, and microbiota all contribute to the numerous responses to nutrition.In order to tailor dietary recommendations to specific biological requirements, Baze provides supplement recommendations based on an individuals blood micronutrient status. The Baze Marketplace is an extension of the program, which allows consumers to identify food options that address their micronutrient needs.

Additionally, the Baze Food Guide offers foods and ready-to-eat meals that meet strict nutritional criteria set by the company's team of registered dietitians. In a new partnership with Performance Kitchen, Baze now offers nutrient-dense meal recommendations as well.

Winning the Personalized Nutrition Initiative of the Year further validates the growing opportunity we are seeing for personalized nutrition brands to think more broadly beyond supplements to meet consumers needs for more holistic solutions. We truly believe that a solution that provides both targeted foods as well as personalized supplements will set the strongest foundation for optimized micronutrition, said Baze CEO Philipp Schulte.We hope that receiving this award both shines a spotlight on the benefits of our blood-based approach to identifying and resolving micronutrient deficiencies as well as opens the door for more cross-industry partnerships (and awareness) around personalized food and supplements.

The judges commended Bazes in-home blood test capillary cuff system as well as their meaningful effort to personalize through food as well as supplements, which could further advance personalization inside the nutrition industry.

Like many start-ups, the work is both rewarding and challenging.

Determining the micronutrient content of the meal or food was our biggest challengeamong the criteria by far. Only vitamin D, potassium, calcium, and iron are required onthe current nutrition facts panel. Food brands, unless it is a fortified product, typicallydont state what the Percent Daily Value (%DV) is for most of the essential nutrients we test and provide recommendations for. This is not only a gap in the food industry, but also a gap in health and wellness across our country. Micronutrients form the foundation for a wide array ofmetabolic processes necessary for survival such as growth and development, energyproduction, blood clotting, immunity, and cognitive function but this information is notreadily available to customers, explained Baze Content and Growth Operations Manager Alex Lewis, RD, LDN.

Gabrielle McGrath, MS, RD, LDN, said the experience has been especially rewarding because their dietitians envisioned and created this new offering from the ground up. The Baze business development associate added the product offering and additional direction has allowed them to open up new doors and strengthen existing relationships with partners across the industry.

We hope this award provides a call to action for the health, wellness, and food industries to paymore attention to the micronutrient and mineral content in their food products. Were excited tobe a leader and liaison in making this possible, said Lewis.

Traditionally, nutrigenomics were only used in specific medical situations. Today, personalized nutrition uses affordable, self-administered tests that are easily accessible.

The nutrigenomics field is rapidly developing and as we learn more about how people react differently to various foods, the idea of making more personalized nutrition choices is catching on.With such potential to contribute to health and wellness,the personalized nutrition market is forecasted to reach upwards of $11.5 billion by 2025 .

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Baze receives Personalized Nutrition Initiative of the Year Award - NutraIngredients-usa.com

Strategic Analysis to Understand the Competitive Outlook of Food Supplements Market – Cole of Duty

Prophecy Market Insights has recently published a Food Supplements report which represents the latest industry data and future trends, allowing users to recognize the products and driving revenue growth and profitability of the market.

The report offers a broad analysis of key segments, key drivers, regions, and leading market players. The report contains an analysis of different geographical areas and presents a competitive scenario to promote leading market players, new entrants, and investors determine emerging economies. The key highlights offered in the report would benefit market players to formulate strategies for the future and gain a strong position in the Food Supplements market.

Get Sample Copy of This Report @ https://www.prophecymarketinsights.com/market_insight/Insight/request-sample/342

Detailed analysis of the COVID-19 impact will be given in the report, as our analyst and research associates are working hard to understand the impact of COVID-19 disaster on many corporations, sectors and help our clients in taking excellent business decisions. We acknowledge everyone who is doing their part in this financial and healthcare crisis.

The Food Supplements report begins with a brief introduction which contains a market overview of the industry followed by its market size and research scope. Further, the report provides an overview of market segmentation, for example- type, application, and region. The drivers, restraints, and opportunities for the market are also mentioned, along with current policies and trends in the industry. The Food Supplements market also covers PEST analysis for the market. Thisanalysisprovides information based on four external factors (political, economic, social and technological) in relation to your business situation. Basically, it helps to understand how these factorswillaffect the performance and activities of your business in the long-term. The report describes the growth rate of each segment in-depth with the help of charts and tables. Moreover, various regions related to the growth of the Food Supplements market are analyzed in the report. These regions include North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Segmentation Overview:

Food Supplements market report states the overview, historical data along with size, share, growth, demand, and revenue of the global industry. In this research report, there is an accurate analysis of the current and upcoming opportunities in the market by explaining the fastest and largest growing segments across regions. The survey report includes vast investigation of the geographical scene of the Food Supplements market, which is manifestly arranged into the localities

Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia-Pacific

The study presents the performance of each player active in the Food Supplements market. It also provides a summary and highlights the current advancements of each player in the market along with its SWOT analysis. The information provided in the research report is a great source for study investors and stakeholders interested in the market. In addition, the report offers insights on buyers, suppliers, and merchants in the market. There is a comprehensive analysis of consumption, market share, and growth rate of each application is offered for the historic period.

Food SupplementsMarket Key Players:

Natures Products, Inc., Koninklijke DSM N.V., Direct Digital LLC, Bactolac Pharmaceutical, Inc., Superior Supplements, Inc, Balchem Corporation, Barrington Chemical Corporation, Lallemand Bio-Ingredients, Inc., Next Pharmaceuticals Inc, and Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.

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L-Carnitine: Types, benefits, and side effects – Medical News Today

L-carnitine, also known as levocarnitine, is a naturally occurring amino acid structure that the body produces. People can also get it from their diet or take it in the form of an oral supplement. L-carnitine plays a critical role in energy production, as it converts fat into energy.

Most people will get enough L-carnitine from their diet or their bodys production of this compound. Those with low L-carnitine levels may benefit from taking an oral supplement, though.

As well as supporting energy production, L-carnitine may help some other functions in the body, such as maintaining general brain function and reducing the risk of certain disorders.

Some people may experience mild side effects when increasing their L-carnitine intake, especially with long-term use.

In this article, we explore what the current research says about L-carnitine, including its benefits, effectiveness, and side effects.

L-carnitine is a type of carnitine, which is a derivative of amino acids. Amino acids combine to make proteins, which carry out many essential tasks in the body. Carnitine helps the body break down fatty acids and turn them into energy to power the cells.

L-carnitine is a conditionally essential nutrient, meaning that the body can generally make enough of it, but, in some cases, a person may have to get the compound from food or oral supplements if they cannot make enough.

In the body, the liver and kidneys create L-carnitine from the amino acids lysine and methionine. The kidneys can also store L-carnitine for later use and eliminate the excess through the urine stream.

Carnitine is a broad term that describes a few different compounds. L-carnitine is a more common form of carnitine, present in the body and many supplements. Other forms of carnitine include:

L-carnitine, and carnitine in general, is a key component in creating energy for the cells. Its main function, helping break down fatty acids for use as energy, keeps the bodys cells powered and working efficiently.

L-carnitine also has a secondary function of helping remove some waste products from the cells to prevent them from accumulating and causing problems.

In addition to its core functions, L-carnitine may also pose some other benefits to the body. These include:

L-carnitine may help with some markers of heart health, although the research is still ongoing.

Supplementation may help improve L-carnitine levels in a failing heart, which could boost heart health and circulation in the short term following a heart attack. Supplementation may also help with symptoms of heart failure, such as chest pain and arrhythmia.

At times, cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, may cause a person to become deficient in L-carnitine. In these cases, L-carnitine supplements may help reduce symptoms such as fatigue and weakness.

Researchers are currently studying the compound as a possible way to prevent tissue damage due to chemotherapy, but this research is in the early stages.

As the kidneys and liver help create and use L-carnitine, disease in these organs or organ failure may lead to L-carnitine deficiency. Doctors may recommend L-carnitine supplementation in these cases to support the function of the kidneys and liver and prevent deficiency.

Most people tolerate L-carnitine well. However, some individuals may experience digestive side effects when taking L-carnitine. These include:

Some people may also complain of a fishy body odor, which is not generally harmful but may be bothersome.

Some studies suggest that high levels of L-creatine may raise the long-term risks of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis.

L-carnitine supplements may interact with certain antibiotics or anticonvulsants. Anyone considering taking L-carnitine should talk to their doctor to discuss any medications they are taking and the possible drug interactions.

The best amount and form of L-carnitine may vary depending on the persons reason for wanting more of this compound.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that healthy people do not need extra L-carnitine from food or supplements. The liver and kidneys will create enough to meet their daily needs.

Even though the body produces it naturally, carnitine is widely available in a number of simple foods. Animal proteins, such as fish, red meat, and poultry, are some of the best sources.

According to the NIH, adults who eat a mixed diet that includes red meat and other animal products get about 60180 milligrams (mg) of carnitine per day. People who avoid animal products, such as those following a vegan diet, may get roughly 1012 mg from their diet.

However, the kidneys can store carnitine for later use, so peoples overall levels will be about the same, regardless of their diet. The kidneys also eliminate excess carnitine through urine to maintain healthful concentrations.

Generally speaking, otherwise healthy adults do not need to take L-carnitine to support their health.

Some athletes take extra L-carnitine, believing that it will boost their athletic performance. L-carnitine availability seems to limit muscle metabolism during very high intensity exercise. So, in theory, supplementing carnitine during workouts may support exercise performance.

However, a study in Molecules notes that the evidence for this practice is lacking. While many athletes take L-carnitine, years of research does not provide conclusive evidence to support these claims.

As L-carnitine helps burn fatty acids for energy, many people assume that taking more of it may help them lose weight. More research is necessary, but some studies support this idea.

In a review of nine different trials, researchers found some evidence to support this claim. They suggest that participants who took L-carnitine lost an average of 1.3 kilograms (2.9 pounds) more than those who did not.

However, L-carnitine cannot replace healthful habits, such as a proper diet and regular exercise.

People who wish to take L-carnitine should talk to a doctor first. The doctor may have additional recommendations to support any treatment that the person needs and can help them avoid possible reactions and interactions.

Most people tolerate L-carnitine well. The recommended dosage is roughly 13 grams per day. However, people with genetic abnormalities or other conditions causing a lack of L-carnitine should talk to their doctor for a more specific dosage.

L-carnitine is an amino acid that the body naturally produces. In people with good health, the liver and kidneys produce and store enough of the compound to prevent deficiency.

People with L-carnitine deficiencies may need to get the compound through their diet or as a supplement. It is advisable to talk to a doctor before taking an L-carnitine supplement.

Some people may wish to take L-carnitine supplements for their potential benefits, such as aiding athletic performance or weight loss. However, more research is necessary to confirm these benefits.

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L-Carnitine: Types, benefits, and side effects - Medical News Today

What Doctors Really Think of Brain-Boosting Dietary Supplements – MSN Money

Hiroshi Watanabe/Getty Images

If you didn't know better, you might think better brain health is just a supplement away. More than 25 percent of adults in the United States, ages 50 and older, take supplements for mental sharpness and brain health, according to the 2019 AARP Brain Health and Dietary Supplements Survey. But do dietary supplements really work?

"Because of the way dietary supplements are regulated, suggestive claims are often without proof," says David Seres, MD, Director of Medical Nutrition and associate professor of medicine in the Institute of Human Nutrition at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements and, unlike drugs, they don't require FDA approval. It's up to the supplement manufacturers to determine that their products are safe and their label claims are truthful and not misleading.

"People take 'brain-boosting supplements' in hopes of reducing the decline in cognitive function as they age," saysPaul M. Coates, PhD, vice president of the American Society for Nutrition and former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements."But the evidence is weak to non-existent that any of them work." Here's what you need to know about eight popular supplements that are believed to have brain benefits.

Ask a green tea lover why they love their drink and they'll likely talk about its de-stressing, concentration-boosting health benefits. They may be on to something. Research, including a study published in 2019 in Nutrients,suggests that L-theaninean amino acid found naturally in green tea leaveshas the potential to improve mental healthin people with stress-related ailments and cognitive impairments. After four weeks of taking an L-theanine supplement, participants' stress-related symptoms (depression, anxiety, and sleep deprivation) decreased and their cognitive function improved.

But the findings come with a caveat: "Given that tea contains both L-theanine and caffeine, and that it is safely consumed worldwide and might benefit mood and cognitive function, drinking tea could be a logical choice for people hoping to reap some benefits," says Carol Haggans, a registered dietitian and scientific and health communications consultant with the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. However, "L-theanine supplements with or without caffeine havent been studied long-term. Although no safety concerns have been identified, their safety hasnt been rigorously studied." (Other foods aren't so unclear. Check out the 9 worst foods for your brain.)

This amino acidwhich is produced by the bodyis taken for everything from Alzheimers and depression to high blood glucose and Peyronies disease. So why take a supplement for something the body supplies naturally?

"This is a classic example of, 'If some is good, more must be better,' says Seres."There is a slew of cellular research that suggests that this amino acid might have a role in regulating pathways that have an impact on these diseases. The problem is, biology is complicated. In every situation, if youalterby supplementationonemechanism of a biological process, there is almost always a dozen or more redundant pathwaysthat will counter that alteration. These can never be fully anticipated. Nor can the potential for harm."

The bottom line? "Research on carnitine and these conditions, to the extent it exists, is preliminary at best, and to the best of our knowledge, no professional society or other expert group recommends taking supplemental carnitine," saysPaul R. Thomas, a doctor of education, registered dietitian, and scientific consultant with the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. "At doses of approximately 3000 mg per day, carnitine supplements can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and a fishy body odor." (If you're looking to stay sharp for work, try these 7 morning brain boosters.)

Phosphatidylserine is a fatty substance known as a phospholipid, and it plays an important role in the brain, contributing to your memory and mental processing. Which helps explain the "claims that this compound may help protect against Alzheimer's disease, improve memory, slow mental decline with age, and treat ADHD," says Thomas. "A few preliminary studies suggested that phosphatidylserine might be of use for these conditions, but any benefits were short-lived and small in relation to other pharmacological and behavioral therapies for these conditions."

Bottom line? "Phosphatidylserine appears to be generally safe when taken as a dietary supplement, but doses over 300 milligrams a day may cause side effects like stomach upset and insomnia," says Thomas. Plus, it "can interact with drugs like atropine and various medications used to treat glaucoma, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and allergies. Speak to a medical professional before taking phosphatidylserine, especially if you take any medications."

Also known as velvet bean, this is a tropical legume that has long been touted for its therapeutic value. One of the compounds found in the plant is L-DOPA, or levodopa, an amino acid that your body uses to make several neurotransmitters, including adrenaline and dopaminewhich plays a role in pleasure and reward centers in the brain. "Mucuna pruriens has significant antioxidant action that works in tandem with L-DOPA to promote brain health," says Edward F. Group III, a doctor of chiropractic and founder of the Global Healing Group. "When L-DOPA crosses the blood-brain barrier, it helps to increase brain levels of dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter associated with regulating mood and cognition." (Want to go the non-supplement route? Check out these 14 weird brain exercises that can help you get smarter.)

More commonly known as PEA, this amphetamine-like compound turns up in small amounts in chocolate, peas, and beans, and it behaves like a neurotransmitter in the body. "Any effects of PEAs may come in part by stimulating the production and reducing the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine," says Thomas. "PEA is very rarely found in dietary supplements. Amphetamine-like compounds can have cardiac and neuropsychiatric side effects, including fast heartbeat, raised blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and seizures." (Learn these50 surprising facts about the brain.)

Ask your doctor whether any of these supplements might be right for you. Research suggests they may have benefits, but more needs to be done.Ginger extract twice a day. Ginger was found in several studies to help reduce knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, as well as improve how the knee worked. Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects, just like ibuprofen.

Vitamin E containing pure alpha-tocopherols. Vitamin E may have anti-inflammatory benefits for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Glucosamine/chondroitin. This combination supplement may provide long-term pain relief and slow the degeneration of cartilage. Some researchers believe that glucosamine and chondroitin may repair damaged cartilage. It appears to help some patients and not others; if it's working for you, you should experience relief within two to three months. If you do experience relief, after about a month you should be able to stop taking ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.If you don't see a benefit by three months, you're probably not going to. Next, don't miss these signs your joint pain could actually be a lot more serious.

There's a small mountain of scientific research exploring the potential health benefits of omega-3s, with those found in foodslike salmon and sardinesand fish oil supplements getting most of the attention as opposed to the omega-3s found in plant-based foods. That's because "omega-3 fatty acids, chiefly the long-chain polyunsaturated ones like DHA and EPA, are important in a variety of metabolic reactions that are involved in inflammation," says Coates.

What's clear is that "eating a diet rich in omega-3s is associated with better health outcomes than eating a diet poor in these compounds," he says. "Whether adding more omega-3s over and above those in the diet makes an additional difference is really the debate."

As for brain health, research suggests that diets high in DHA and EPA omega-3s are associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimers disease, and dementia, according to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. One study, published in 2003 in The British Journal of Nutrition, showed thatpatients with Alzheimers disease have lower levels of omega-3s (specifically, DHA) than cognitively healthy people. A review of studies published in 2015 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming omega-3-rich fish and other sources of DHA lowered the risk for dementia and Alzheimers.

Why is honey so popular among the health-minded crowd? "It's a powerful energy source for our brain," says Keerthy Sunderxn, MD, psychiatrist and chief medical officer of New Day Psychotherapy Group and SUNDERMD & Associates.A review of studies, published in 2015 in Medical Sciences,showed that a specific type of honey called tualang improves memory and reduces cell-damaging oxidative stress in the brain. It also increases the protein BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which is like fertilizer for the brain, triggering the growth of new neurons and helping repair and protect brain cells from degeneration. (Try making a habit of these 38 genius activities your 80-year-old brain will thank you for.)

A single chewable coffee cube can pack 50 milligrams of caffeinethe same as a cup of coffee. It also contains 500 percent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamins B6 and B12, 6 grams of sugar, and 100 milligrams of the amino acid L-theanine, whichenhances caffeine's effects, according toastudy published in 2014 in Nutrition Reviews.

The pairing of"L-theanine combined with caffeine might improve alertness and attention somewhat," says Haggans. "However, its not clear whether the combination is better than either of the compounds alone." Andgetting caffeine in such a concentrated form may not be the best idea; you may set yourself up for a potential caffeine overdose. Here's how much coffee you can safely drink.

Next up, make sure at least some of these 25 brain-boosting foods are among your diet staples.

The post What Doctors Really Think of Brain-Boosting Dietary Supplements appeared first on The Healthy.

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Rare pamphlet added to MASC Hogarth Press collection with employee bequest – WSU News

By Nella Letizia, WSU Libraries

In 1942, Londons Hogarth Press published a pamphlet by British physician Isaac Harris called The Calcium Bread Scandal, a spirited denunciation of the Food Ministrys proposal of adding nutrients, including calcium, to bread as a way to fortify the health of the British public during wartime.

In any case, the disease [osteoporosis] is so rare that adding calcium to bread for this purpose [preventing osteoporosis] would be like burning a house in order to roast a pig, the good doctor wrote.

WSUs Manuscripts, Archives and Special Collections (MASC) recently acquired Harriss colorful and rare pamphlet, thanks to a $10,000 bequest of former MASC employee Leila Luedeking, who supported the Hogarth Press Collection as well as the Leonard and Virginia Woolf Library during her life.

While working at MASC from 1973 to 1998, Luedeking cataloged many of its rare book collections and especially contributed to the description of the Woolf Library. She served as a crucial resource for Woolf scholars in the United States and the United Kingdom who corresponded with the department. MASCs files include detailed letters and emails that Luedeking wrote to them.

She was a recognized expert on the work of Leonard Woolf and coauthored an important bibliography of his vast literary, political and critical publications, said Trevor Bond, WSU Libraries associate dean of digital initiatives and special collections. This work remains the standard source for Leonard Woolf.

With the acquisition of The Calcium Bread Scandal, MASC reached its goal of holding a copy of every title published by Hogarth Press from its founding by Virginia and Leonard Woolf in 1917 until Leonard sold his interest in the press in 1946, said special collections librarian Greg Matthews.

Harriss pamphlet has two parts: The first is his main diatribe against the Food Ministrys plan, which he explains in 10 points. The second reprints four letters Harris submitted to the editors of newspapers and medical journals arguing against the medical efficacy of adding nutritional supplements to bread. These pieces are more technical.

Harris objected to the Food Ministrys proposal for other reasons than the rarity of osteoporosis in the population. He also pointed out that Vitamin D aids the physiological absorption of calcium, so adding the mineral supplement without its necessary vitamin counterpart would be ineffective. Finally, Harris viewed the bread supplement scheme as a symptom of the very fascism the Allies were fighting against, Matthews said.

To-day it is one food crank who becomes the dictator; to-morrow there may be another, Harris wrote. To-day it is calcium; to-morrow, Heaven knows what else may be imposed upon us.

Matthews appreciates the doctors candor. Harriss writing style was clear as befits an expert writing for a general audience, though he exhibited a flair for simile and rousing rhetoric, encouraging his readers to resist the rise of tyranny at home, he said.

Luedeking came to Pullman in 1956 when her husband, Robert, was hired by WSU to teach chemical engineering. The couple raised five daughters here, and according to her obituary, Luedeking joined her husband at the university first as a graduate student and then as an employee in MASC when her youngest started preschool.

Colleagues who worked with Luedeking found her to be a good bibliographer. Rare books cataloger Julie King, who started working in MASC in 1986, remembers that Luedeking was involved at the start when MASC obtained the Woolf Library in the early 1970s.

Leila catalogued the bulk of the Woolf Library, King said. She was quite protective of the books, and rightly so. At the time, the Woolf Library was interfiled with the other books in MASC, and we have since collected it all into its own section in the book stacks, but Leila provided the foundation work.

Luedeking also initiated getting many MASC collections catalogued online, including those associated with Leonard and Virginia Woolf.

We were members of the Washington Library Network at the time, and Leila got us on the online format, King said. She and humanities librarian Ann Wierum were responsible for acquiring many of our English literature sub-collections: D.H. Lawrence, John Masefield, Vita Sackville-West, Henry James and others.

I could tell she was fussy about details, she added. I am, toothats what makes a good cataloguer, so I made sure to have everything just so.

Luedekings devotion to the Woolf collections didnt stop with her retirement in 1998; Bond said she regularly gave to MASC afterward until her death last November so that the department could continue to collect items.

I had the pleasure of working with Leila for a few months before she retired, he said. I remembered her as a quiet, sharp and dedicated colleague.

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Rare pamphlet added to MASC Hogarth Press collection with employee bequest - WSU News

2020 NutraIngredients-USA Product of the Year Winners – NutraIngredients-usa.com

The awards cover 14 categories, including products of the year. These awards showcase the best in finished product innovations and market successes in specific categories, including omega-3, probiotic and sports nutrition.

The product of the year for Omega-3 recognizes the best branded or own-label supplements, foods and beverages containing omega-3 as a core ingredient.

Winner: Omega-3 with Xtra Absorb by Nature Made

Nature Made Omega-3 with Xtra Absorb technology is made with a specially designed emulsion system to enable nearly 4x better absorption than standard fish oil concentrate.

The judges viewed the smaller pills that can achieve therapeutic blood levels as somewhat of a game changer. This technology, coupled with impressive sales data, made for a winning product.

We are thrilled to have Nature Mades Omega-3 with Xtra Absorb named NutraIngredients Omega-3 Product of the year, commented Tobe Cohen, EVP, Chief Growth Officer at Pharmavite LLC, makers of Nature Made brand vitamins.This honor is a reflection of our deep commitment to delivering high-quality products rooted in science, a mission that is more important now than ever as Americans look for trusted and proven vitamins and supplements to bolster their health and wellness.

The Probiotic Product of the Year award celebrates the best branded or own-label supplements, functional foods and beverages containing probiotics. Interest in probiotics and the potential benefits of a healthy microbiome have led to multiple years of stellar growth for probiotic products.

Winner: Baby's Nordic Flora Probiotic Powder by Nordic Naturals

Babys Nordic Flora Probiotic Powder delivers digestive support for little ones 6-months to 3 years old and combines two extensively studied probiotic strainsLactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis.

The judges called this a well-thought out product for a clearly-defined and under-served category with two strains that are supported by solid science.

What great news! enthused Nick Noloboff, Senior Writer, Nordic Naturals. Winning Product of the Year for our Babys Probiotic Powder is especially meaningful to us given the work that Nordic Naturals has done to expand our supplement line and maintain the product quality that customers rely on. Ever since we introduced a higher standard of fish oil 25 years ago, innovation has been our thing. Weve always believed that with the right approach to ingredients and manufacturingand by always prioritizing qualitythe opportunity to innovate and excel is endless. Thanks for recognizing our commitment to making better supplements.

The Sports Nutrition Product of the Year is a new award for 2020, and it was as competitive as you might expect from such a category. Sports and active nutrition products are positioned for both niche athletic populations and the more mainstream active consumer.

This award celebrates the best branded or own-label supplements, functional foods and beverages positioned to enhance athletic performance and recovery.

Winner: 2before blackcurrant powder by 2before Performance Nutrition

2before is a berry juice powder providing a proven, efficacious dose of polyphenols from Adaptive New Zealand blackcurrants to deliver a significant sports performance improvement.

The judges appreciated the evidence behind this product, its clean sourcing story as well as its third-party lab certification.

Brendan Vercoe, Commercial Development Manager, Plant, New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research, toldNutraIngredients-USA that the award is an honor:Adaptive blackcurrants are a known elite sports nutrition ingredient in New Zealand, but we wanted to create a finished product that would resonate in the US market. So we set out to create a food first performance brand in a format that would allow athletes to create a new pre-ritual. We are extremely honored for NutraIngredients-USA to validate all the hard work we have put into both world-class research, but also ultimately a product that we hope can make a significant difference to athletic performance, recovery and immunity, as we count down a year to the Tokyo Olympics. We will continue to educate dietitians and athletes on the benefits of Adaptive New Zealand blackcurrants and seek to create a category for food first performance nutrition.

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2020 NutraIngredients-USA Product of the Year Winners - NutraIngredients-usa.com

An Overview Of EU Rules On Consumer Advertising Of Over-The-Counter Products In The Life Sciences Sector – Media, Telecoms, IT, Entertainment -…

1. Introduction

Commentary on EU life science advertising regulation frequentlyfocuses on the rules applicable to advertisements for prescriptionproducts directed to healthcare professionals. Less iswritten about other types of products that form part of the EUhealthcare market, and the advertising restrictions that exist inrelation to the marketing of these products to consumers.While advertising restrictions on over-the-counter (OTC) productsare not, generally speaking, as detailed and stringent as thosewhich exist in relation to prescription medicines, it isnevertheless important to be aware of the regulatory framework thatapplies to consumer advertisements for such products. Thischapter is, therefore, intended to provide a summary of theoverarching EU regulatory framework for consumer advertisingof:

The European market for these OTC consumer healthcare productsis made up of over 2,000 companies.1 We summarisehere the general framework of law and industry codes of practicethat exist at EU level to regulate the advertising of thesecategories of products to consumers, with examples from nationalapproaches and commenting, where relevant, on recent developments.

At EU level, Directive 2005/29/EC on unfair commercialpractices2 (the UCP Directive) governsbusiness-to-consumer commercial practices relating to all kinds ofproducts and services including medicines, medical devices andfoods. In particular, the UCP Directive contains a broadprohibition on misleading and aggressive advertising. Forthese purposes, advertising is misleading if it contains falseinformation or in any way (including through overall presentation)deceives or is likely to deceive the average consumer (even if theinformation is factually correct) and causes or is likely to causehim to take a transactional decision that he would have otherwisenot taken. Aggressive commercial practices includeadvertising that applies undue influence, or pressure, in a waywhich significantly limits the consumer's ability to make aninformed decision. There are also restrictions on comparativeadvertising set out in Directive 2006/114/EC3 whichapply to advertising directed at consumers. The EU lawprovisions, as implemented in national laws, are enforcednationally through varying mechanisms; in some Member States it ispossible for companies to bring direct actions against competitors,whereas other countries require actions to be brought only byregulatory authorities. National laws may contain additionalrestrictions on both general and product-specific consumeradvertising.

Several pan-European industry bodies represent the interests ofmanufacturers of consumer healthcare products. These includethe Association of the European Self-Care Industry (AESGP), whichrepresents manufacturers of non-prescription medicines, foodsupplements and self-care medical devices in Europe, and theEuropean Federation of Associations of Health Product Manufacturers(EHPM), which represents specialist health product manufacturers inEurope. Individual companies may be affiliated with theseEuropean bodies directly or indirectly through nationalassociations. For example, the Dutch association representingmanufacturers of self-care products (Neprofarm) is a member ofAESGP while its trade association for operators concerned with foodsupplements (NPN) is a member of EHPM. Some national industrybodies are charged with operating self-regulatory systems ofadvertising control, and have their own enforcement mechanisms inplace. For example, in the UK, advertisements issued bycompanies who are members of the Proprietary Association of GreatBritain (PAGB) will, in the first instance, be supervised by thePAGB, whereas companies which have not agreed to abide by thePAGB's Codes of Practice will be supervised directly by theMedicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Inaddition to sector-specific enforcement agencies, advertising andpromotion of consumer health products is also subject toenforcement by bodies who enforce advertising standards generally,such as the UK Advertising Standards Agency (ASA).

The advertising to consumers of medicines not subject toprescription is regulated by the general advertising rules outlinedabove, and by Directive 2001/83/EC (the Directive) as implementedinto national laws. In addition, guidance is sometimesavailable at a national level from regulatoryauthorities,4 independent advertisingbodies,5 and industry associations.6There does not currently exist any pan-European industry code ofconduct applicable to the advertising of non-prescriptionmedicines,7 although AESGP represents the interests ofmanufacturers of non-prescription medicines at European level.

While advertising to the general public of prescription-onlymedicines is prohibited under the Directive, there is no suchrestriction in relation to non-prescription medicines.Provided they have a valid marketing authorisation and do notcontain any narcotic or psychotropic substances, non-prescriptionmedicines (including non-prescription herbal medicines) may,therefore, be advertised both to healthcare professionals and thegeneral public if they comply with the advertising requirements setout in the Directive, and with any further requirements containedin national law (discussed below). In addition to complyingwith the Directive's advertising rules applicable toprescription medicinal products, advertisements of non-prescriptionmedicines to the general public must also:

Advertisements for herbal medicinal products authorised by atraditional herbal registration must be accompanied by a noticestating "traditional herbal medicine for use in specificindication(s) exclusively based on long-standing use".

Homeopathic medicinal products must comply with the general EUlaw advertising requirements applicable to non-prescriptionmedicines, subject to additional limitations on the informationthat may be included in such advertisements. For example,advertisements for homeopathic medicines must include a statementthat the products are "without approved therapeuticindications".

Further restrictions on non-prescription medicines advertisingto consumers may be set out under national law and/or industrycodes. For example, French law prohibits advertising ofnon-prescription medicines to the general public where themedicines are reimbursed under the national social securityschemes. National industry codes of practice frequently setout detailed requirements specific to consumer advertising ofnon-prescription medicines. While compliance with such codesis not legally mandated, it is encouraged and represents industrybest practice. Compliance with the codes, which typicallyreflect and often elaborate on the legal requirements, is usually agood indication of compliance with legal requirements and thereforehelps to minimise enforcement action.

In some European countries, there is a requirement to obtainpre-approval from a regulatory body (e.g., the ANSM in France) oran industry body (e.g., the PAGB in the UK, where membercompanies' advertisements to consumers are concerned) beforeadvertisements for non-prescription medicines may be issued.Obtaining such approval further reduces the risk of enforcementaction for improper advertising.

There is little by way of EU law specifically directed towardsmedical devices advertising. Under the Medical DeviceDirective, only products that are CE-marked may be marketed inEurope, and only in accordance with their intended use. Theseprinciples extend to claims made in advertisements: to make amedicinal claim in an advertisement for a self-care medical device,the device must be CE-marked and the claim must be within the scopeof the device's intended use. Enforcement actions takenat national level in relation to self-care medical devices oftenconcern advertising that has made unauthorised use of medicinalclaims.

The Medical Devices Regulation8 introduces a specificprohibition on advertising that may mislead in relation to adevice's intended purpose, safety and performance.

The position under national laws is patchy, with some countrieshaving introduced laws to further regulate medical deviceadvertising (including, in some cases, laws that specificallygovern the advertising of self-care medical devices) beyond that ofthe EU-wide legislation.

In the context of industry self-regulation, it is important tonote that the Code of Ethical Business Practice issued by theEuropean medical device industry representative body, MedTechEurope, does not govern advertisements directed to consumers.However, several countries have issued national codes of conduct tothis effect; for example, the UK's PAGB Medical DevicesConsumer Code which is applicable to member companies'advertisements concerning self-care medical devices (those thattreat or prevent a self-treatable condition).

Food supplements are regulated as foods under EU law.Regulation (EC) No 1924/20069 (the Claims Regulation),which is directly effective in Member States, places strictcontrols on the use of nutrition and health claims on foodlabelling and in advertising. Under the ClaimsRegulation:

Under the Claims Regulation, only nutrition claims that arelisted in the Annex to the Regulation, and/or health claims thathave been authorised by the European Commission following aEuropean Food Safety Authority scientific review arepermitted. The only exception to these requirements is inrelation to claims that are trade marks (or brand or"fancy" names) and general, non-specific health claims(e.g., "good for you"). These claims may be usedwithout prior approval, provided they are "accompaniedby" an approved claim (which, in the case of a general healthclaim, must be an authorised specific health claim, such as thecalcium example given above).

The Claims Regulation is enforced at national level, andnational regulators have to date taken varying approaches in theirinterpretation of its requirements. A recent decision by theEuropean Court of Justice Case C-524/18Schwabe,10 which followed a referral from aGerman court, has helpfully clarified the meaning of the ClaimsRegulation's use of the phrase "accompaniedby". The European Court held that the concept of"accompanying" includes both a substantive and a visualdimension. The substantive element requires that the contentof the "general" health claim and the specific healthclaim match, meaning that the former is fully supported insubstance by the latter. In relation to the visual element,the Court held that this normally requires "spatial proximityor immediate vicinity" but that, exceptionally, a clearreference, such as an asterisk, between the two claims may suffice(e.g., in cases where the packaging of a food supplement contains areference to general, non-specific health benefits of a nutrient orfood on the front of the packaging, whereas the specific healthclaim intended to accompany it appears only on the back of thatpackaging). This is a more restrictive approach than thatwhich was preferred by the Advocate General,11 but willnevertheless help to inform a more uniform application of therelevant rules across Europe.

Also of importance to food supplements advertising in the EU isDirective 2002/46/EC (the Food Supplements Directive), whichprovides for specific marketing requirements relating to foodsupplements. These include that the labelling, presentationand advertising of food supplements:

There has been a recent flurry of activity by nationalregulators in some European countries in response to advertisementsfor food supplements that purport to prevent or treat infectionwith coronavirus/COVID-19. Such advertisements are contraryto the prohibition on medical claims contained in the FoodSupplements Directive, as implemented in national laws. Forexample, the Finnish Food Authority issued a statement in April2020, noting that marketing of foods (including food supplements)for the purpose of preventing or treating coronavirus had increasedsignificantly on the internet and social media, that these mustimmediately cease, and reminding commercial entities of their legalduties in this regard.13 In the UK, the ASA hasissued several recent decisions which uphold complaints made inrelation to advertisements claiming that various marketed vitamins,minerals and amino acids could help prevent or treatCOVID-19. For example, statements such as "Help protectand prevent against the new strand of virus (known as theCoronavirus) with a REVIV Megaboost IV Therapy containing ahigh dose of Vitamin C" were determined to be contrary to theapplicable regulatory requirements and the advertiser was orderedto remove the material, and refrain from making unauthorisedmedicinal claims going forward.14

Footnotes

1. (Hyperlink) [Accessed 20 May 2020].

2. Directive 2005/29/EC of the European Parliament and ofthe Council of 11 May 2005 concerning unfair business-to-consumercommercial practices in the internal market and amending CouncilDirective 84/450/EEC, Directives 97/7/EC, 98/27/EC and 2002/65/ECof the European Parliament and of the Council and Regulation (EC)No 2006/2004 of the European Parliament and of theCouncil.

3. Directive 2006/114/EC of the European Parliament andof the Council of 12 December 2006 concerning misleading andcomparative advertising.

4. For example, the UK Medicines and Healthcare productsRegulatory Agency (MHRA) "Blue Guide".

5. For example, the UK Advertising Codes applied by theAdvertising Standards Authority (ASA).

6. For example, the UK PAGB's Advertising Codes forMedicines.

7. The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industriesand Associations (EFPIA) Code of Practice does not apply toactivities relating solely to non-prescriptionmedicines.

8. Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 2017/745 of theEuropean Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on medicaldevices, amending Directive 2001/83/EC, Regulation (EC) No 178/2002and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and repealing Council Directives90/385/EEC and 93/42/EEC.

9. Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the EuropeanParliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition andhealth claims made on foods.

10. Case C-524/18, Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH &Co.KG v Queisser Pharma GmbH & Co. KG (30 January2020).

11. Opinion of Advocate General Hogan delivered on 12September 2019.

12. Articles 6(2) and 7 of Directive 2002/46/EC of theEuropean Parliament and of the Council of 10 June 2002 on theapproximation of the laws of the Member States relating to foodsupplements.

13. (Hyperlink) [Accessed 20 May2020].

14. ASA Ruling on REVIV UK Ltd (22 April 2020).Similar decisions were issued by ASA on the same day in relation toadvertisements by the Private Harley Street Clinic and CosmeticMedical Advice UK Ltd t/a Dr Rita Rakus Clinic.

Originally published by ICLG.com.

The content of this article is intended to provide a generalguide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be soughtabout your specific circumstances.

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Protein Supplements Market 2020 | Analyzing The COVID-19 Impact Followed By Restraints, Opportunities And Projected Developments – Cole of Duty

Trusted Business Insights answers what are the scenarios for growth and recovery and whether there will be any lasting structural impact from the unfolding crisis for the Protein Supplements market.

Trusted Business Insights presents an updated and Latest Study on Protein Supplements Market 2019-2026. The report contains market predictions related to market size, revenue, production, CAGR, Consumption, gross margin, price, and other substantial factors. While emphasizing the key driving and restraining forces for this market, the report also offers a complete study of the future trends and developments of the market.The report further elaborates on the micro and macroeconomic aspects including the socio-political landscape that is anticipated to shape the demand of the Protein Supplements market during the forecast period (2019-2029).It also examines the role of the leading market players involved in the industry including their corporate overview, financial summary, and SWOT analysis.

Get Sample Copy of this Report @ Protein Supplements Market Size, Share, Global Market Research and Industry Forecast Report, 2027 (Includes Business Impact of COVID-19)

Industry Insights, Market Size, CAGR, High-Level Analysis: Protein Supplements Market

The global protein supplements market size was estimated at USD 17.55 billion in 2019, and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.0 % during the forecast period, driven by increase in health and fitness centers and consumer health consciousness. Increasing popularity among millennials along with development of innovative protein-based supplements in different forms, coupled with numerous health benefits of the product are some of the major factors driving the growth. Furthermore,positive outlook toward sports nutrition on account of increasing importance of active lifestyle along with rising awareness regarding health benefits of protein is expected to play a crucial role in promoting the use of the supplements.Factors, such as hectic lifestyle and rising health consciousness are anticipated to boost the overall market growth. In addition, growing functional advantages including muscle repair, energy boost, and weight loss are projected to further fuel the demand. Rising usage of snack-based meal replacements and demand for greater ingredient traceability and authenticity are other factors likely to augment the demand for protein supplements in near future.

Various socio-economic factors, including rising disposable income, urbanization, and aging population, are anticipated to positively impact the product demand. In addition, growing concerns regarding obesity, preference for vegan protein sources due to rising veganism, along with rising spending on health-related products is projected to fuel the product demand in near future. Rising penetration of organized retail and e-retailing is expected to further boost the demand in the forthcoming years.A significant rise in gym subscriptions, especially in Asia Pacific along with rising awareness regarding health and fitness among millennials, primarily backed by their robust disposable income is anticipated to further drive the demand for protein supplements. Along with physical activity, millennials prefer including protein powder in the diet. This trend is expected to positively influence the market growth over the forecast period. Rising consumption of packaged nutritional food products such as protein bars and Ready to Drink (RTD) products. Introduction of healthy products by various manufacturers is anticipated to further drive the growth of the market.

Product Insights of Protein Supplements Market

The protein powder segment held around 64.0% of the protein supplements market in terms of revenue in 2019. Factors such as the strong online sales, mass distribution channels, and increasing number of standalone mass facing brands by various companies, such as Glanbia, NBTY, and IOVATE are expected to drive the growth. Rising demand from body builders, elite athletes, and casual exercisers is anticipated to further propel the growth of the segment in the forthcoming years.The RTD segment is anticipated to register the fastest growth in terms of revenue from 2020 to 2027. Ready to drink protein supplements are pre-formulated drinks that are easily available. These drinks offer a high dose of protein that can consumed pre-workout, post-workout, or on the go. These products are easily absorbed by the body, they promote muscle recovery, and aid in lean muscle growth. The increasing demand for sports nutritional supplements coupled with rising demand for easy and readily available supplementation is expected to fuel the growth over the forecast period.

Application Insights of Protein Supplements Market

Sports nutrition segment held around 66.8% of the overall market share in terms of revenue in 2019. Increasing demand for sport nutritional supplements from core, strength, endurance athletes, weekend warriors, fitness enthusiasts, and professional athletes is expected to drive the demand. In addition, growing demand for sports nutritional supplementation to promote lean muscle growth, improve performance, stamina, and weight loss is projected to drive the growth.The functional food segment is projected to hold a significant market share over the forecast period. The increasing efforts to lead a healthy and active lifestyle coupled with the growing understanding about the link between exercising and maintaining a balanced and nutrient rich diet is driving the demand for protein-rich functional foods and beverages.Distribution Channel InsightsOnline stores segment held around 59.5% of the overall market share in 2019. The increasing number of internet users, ease of access, 24/7 availability, and lots of options to choose from are the factors driving online sales. Moreover, discussion portals, discounts and offers on products, and implementation of various promotion strategies will fuel online sales over the forecast period.Consumers can save money while purchasing products of their choice online within their range of budget without compromising on content, brand, and quality. Trust of consumers plays a crucial role in determining demand for a specific product, wherein the customer orders are largely reckoned through websites such as amazon, Walmart, and eBay, wherein these e-commerce focus on having a brand follow ups on regular basis.Direct to Customer (DTC) held a significant revenue share in 2019. DTC channel involves direct marketing aimed at the end consumers, companies are developing user friendly and specialized websites to market their products without the need for any third-party distribution. Major companies including Glanbia, Quest Nutrition, IOVATE, Amway, and NBTY and investing in direct to consumer channels to expand their consumer base and to extend their reach to other regions. Major retailers in U.S., including Walmart, are moving into this industry and are investing in private label varieties to promote the sale of products.Retail sale is expected to witness slower growth over the forecast period owing to strong competition from other distribution channels, such as online stores and DTC channels.Source InsightsAnimal-based segment held around 67.9% of the overall market share in terms of revenue in 2019. It consists of meat and dairy proteins including whey, casein, egg, beef, poultry, and fish. Animal based products are complete sources owing to the presence of all the essential amino acids. Milk and egg proteins are the most consumed animal based products. In addition, the presence of various nutrients including vitamin B12, vitamin D, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), heme-iron, and zinc makes animal-based products the preferred source. Hence, the segment is anticipated to drive growth of the overall market during the forecast period.

Plant-based product segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period, owing to the growing popularity among vegans, vegetarians, and people allergic to dairy and egg proteins. Plant-based products consists of proteins derived from various sources, such as soy, peas, hemp, wheat, rice, quinoa, canola, cranberry, pumpkin, potato, flax and oat. Among these sources, soy and pea were some of the dominant segments. However, plant based products are not considered to be complete sources, owing to the lack of one or more essential amino acids. So various plant based products are often blended together to account for all the essential nutrients.

Regional Insights of Protein Supplements Market

North America emerged as the largest regional market in 2019 with a share of 50.3% in terms of revenue and is expected to retain its pole position throughout the forecast period. Led by countries, such as U.S. and Canada, the regional market has been witnessing a surge in demand for sports nutritional supplements. From a raw material sourcing standpoint, key players operating in the region have been benefiting from an abundant supply of raw materials, thereby facilitating large scale production across the region.Asia Pacific is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR of 8.6% over the forecast period. Increasing consumer focus on preventive healthcare, shifting consumption patterns, westernization of diet, and increasing cost of public health care systems are some of the factors contributing to the regional market growth.In addition, factors such as the rising middle-class population and penetration of organized retail are anticipated fuel the demand for protein supplements in the forthcoming years. However, in Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration has proposed reclassification of the supplements as a therapeutic good or medicine from 2020. This development is expected to hamper the current growth in the country, which in turn expected to negatively impact the regional market growth.

Market Share Insights of Protein Supplements Market

The market is exceptionally aggressive with organizations undertaking activities including regular mergers, acquisitions, and capital extensions. Established players are concentrating on expanding their overall market share alongside productivity through technological innovation. Numerous global and regional players are currently operating in the market. Key protein supplement manufacturers are implementing various growth strategies to keep up with the rising demand for sports nutritional supplements from various consumers including athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday people seeking active and healthier lifestyles.In October 2018, Glanbia plc acquired SlimFast one of the leading weight management and health and wellness brand manufacturing ready to mix powders, ready to drink products, and gluten free meal replacement shakes to name a few. This transition complements Glanbia Plc existing portfolio by targeting lifestyle consumers. It will also help the global consumer trends focused on convenient formats and snacking.Most major players currently hold a strong position, which is likely to pose as a barrier for new entrants. However, technological breakthrough and research expertise are likely to improve the chances of new entrants. Distribution and sales locations are other beneficial factors helping the companies enhance their overall market positioning. Prominent players have set up distribution networks for product supply in developing regions including Central and South America and Asia Pacific, owing to increasing demand from these regions.The market is dominated by major players, such as Glanbia Plc, AMCO Proteins, Quest Nutrition, NOW Foods, NBTY, MusclePharm Corp, Abbot Laboratories, Cyto Sport, IOVATE, and Transparent Labs.

Segmentations, Sub Segmentations, CAGR, & High-Level Analysis overview of Protein Supplements Market Research ReportThis report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2019 to 2030. For the purpose of this study, this market research report has segmented the global protein supplements market report on the basis of source, product, distribution channels, application, and region:

Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2019 2030)

Animal-based

Whey

Casein

Egg

Fish

Others

Plant-based

Soy

Spirulina

Pumpkin Seed

Hemp

Rice

Pea

Others

Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2019 2030)

Protein Powder

Protein Bars

Ready to Drink

Others

Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2019 2030)

Supermarkets

Online Stores

Direct to Customers (DTC)

Others

Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2019 2030)

Sports Nutrition

Functional Food

Quick Read Table of Contents of this Report @ Protein Supplements Market Size, Share, Global Market Research and Industry Forecast Report, 2027 (Includes Business Impact of COVID-19)

Trusted Business InsightsShelly ArnoldMedia & Marketing ExecutiveEmail Me For Any ClarificationsConnect on LinkedInClick to follow Trusted Business Insights LinkedIn for Market Data and Updates.US: +1 646 568 9797UK: +44 330 808 0580

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US Army Requests Information on Tools to Track Cryptocurrency Transactions | News – Bitcoin News

The U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Army have requested information on web-based cryptocurrency tracking tools. The tools must enable U.S. government agencies worldwide to conduct in-depth investigations into the source of crypto transactions and provide multi-currency analysis from bitcoin to other top cryptocurrencies.

The U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Army have posted a request for information (RFI) entitled cryptocurrency investigative web-based application. The request was published on the U.S. governments website on July 10.

All information submitted in response to this announcement is voluntary, the notice states, adding that The U.S. Army Contracting Command-New Jersey (CC-NJ) located at Fort Dix, NJ is surveying the market for potential contractors capable of providing one license for one user of a cloud, web based application capable of assisting law enforcement to identify and stop actors who are using cryptocurrencies for illicit activity such as fraud, extortion, and money laundering.

The requests accompanying Statement of Work (SOW) describes that the contractor must provide access to a reliable cryptocurrency investigation service, also referred to as a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution required for use in criminal investigations and the other missions conducted by the US Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC). The USACIDC is the premier Military Criminal Investigative Organization within the Department of Defense, responsible for conducting worldwide criminal investigations wherever there is a U.S. Army interest. The notice elaborates:

Application must enables users to conduct in-depth investigation into the source of cryptocurrency transactions and provides multi-currency analysis from bitcoin to other top cryptocurrencies.

The USACIDCs Major Cybercrime Unit in Quantico, VA, will administer the service but users can be located anywhere in the U.S. and overseas. Intended users include those in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The service must be a tested product, without hardware or software to install. It must meet the SOW requirements, including providing real-time bitcoin and other cryptocurrency transaction tracing and be able to spot transaction patterns and interactions with other entities. The contract will be for one year with the option to extend four more years. Responses to the information request must be made by July 20.

The Department of Defenses request came after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service awarded a contract for blockchain analytics software to Coinbase, as news.Bitcoin.com reported.

What do you think about the U.S. Army looking for crypto tracking tools? Let us know in the comments section below.

Image Credits: Shutterstock, Pixabay, Wiki Commons

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a direct offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or a recommendation or endorsement of any products, services, or companies. Bitcoin.com does not provide investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Neither the company nor the author is responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article.

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US Army Requests Information on Tools to Track Cryptocurrency Transactions | News - Bitcoin News

These Two Cryptocurrency Marks For In Which Way The Bitcoin Is Headed – Inventiva

For the last few weeks, we know that the cryptocurrency market is going into a ride as a lot of new coins are being introduced. While zCash is making the run for correction in the bitcoin price rising, XLM is making up for the leading run-ups in the market.

The flagship to which the cryptocurrency is headed is being determined by a lot of factors. For the current part, the flagship between Bitcoin and the other altcoins are making the round.

It is a highly correlated and dependant market

When the price of a bitcoin rises then subsequently, the price of the other altcoins rises as well. This happens because they are dependable and connected. Crypto is a group of a bonded chain which are connected.

With all the elements present in the cryptocurrency, every crypto has its own value. Data from the Crypto watch have said the following. The BTC between the following bitcoin and other altcoins are correlated. There is a completely linear relationship between the cryptocurrency.

ZCash and XLM making turns for the new business

For the future of the new business, ZCash and XLM are making a variety of turns.

ZCash on one hand can lead to the downturn fall of the cryptocurrency market. Each time the ZEC value of the coins market rises, the bitcoin does not follow. The same does not happen with XLM. XLM is a completely alternative where the price and the value might surge with the surge in the value of bitcoins.

There is a complete upswing in the market of the bitcoin industry

The bitcoin industry is highly fragile and there is a completely uptight condition in the market and the other key factors. There is a 100-day average moving correlation period on which the moving speed of bitcoin is judged.

But the thing is, the value of bitcoin is dependent on both factors. There are the short term priced features and even the long term ones. Dependant on the idea, there is a list of fundamental objectives that can determine the actual value of Bitcoin for trading over time.

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These Two Cryptocurrency Marks For In Which Way The Bitcoin Is Headed - Inventiva

The US Army Wants to Track Cryptocurrency Transactions Heres Why – The Daily Hodl

The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC) is looking for a web-based application that will allow it to trace cryptocurrency transactions.

According to public records, the U.S. Army is looking to enhance its cryptocurrency investigative capabilities. The Army says it needs the application to limit criminal activities where cryptocurrencies are involved.

The U.S. Army Contracting New Jersey (CC-NJ) located at Fort Dix, NJ is surveying the market for potential contractors capable of providing one license for one user of a cloud, web-based application capable of assisting law enforcement to identify and stop actors who are using cryptocurrencies for illicit activity such as fraud, extortion, and money laundering.

The Army says it needs to track Bitcoin and other top cryptocurrencies that could be used for illicit activities.

Application must enables [sic] users to conduct in-depth investigation into the source of cryptocurrency transactions and provides [sic] multi-currency analysis from Bitcoin to other top cryptocurrencies

This is a requirement for an already developed web-based application that meets the requirements of the attached Statement of Work (SOW).

Many government agencies are looking to enhance their cryptocurrency tracing capabilities. Recently, Coinbase was awarded a multiyear contract by the Secret Service.

The period for the Army contract will be a minimum of 1 year with up to 4 additional years based on the needs of the agency.

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The US Army Wants to Track Cryptocurrency Transactions Heres Why - The Daily Hodl

Euthanasia performed on cow badly hurt after eating food stuffed with explosives in Mysuru – The New Indian Express

Express News Service

MYSURU: A cow which suffered severe injuries in the mouth after eating food stuffed with firecrackers at GB Sarguru gram panchayat in HD Kote taluk in Mysuru was euthanised on Monday.

Dr Amardeep Singh, veterinary doctor of People for Animals (PFA), said, "The cow's tongue along with the jaw had been blown into pieces and the whole of the larynx was severely damaged. The prognosis for the cow's survival was very low and dogs were attacking it. Thus, euthanasia was done and the cow was buried."

Savitha Nagabhushan, managing trustee of PFA, said, Our team rushed to the spot along with an ambulance to treat the cow and injected painkillers into it. Several animals have sustained injuries and succumbed due to explosives. We will create awareness among villagers about the harm to animals by placing explosives and educate them about animal protection. Gram panchayats will be roped in for the programme."

According to villagers, it is common in forest fringes to stuff food with 'Natti Sidimaddu' (local explosives). The explosives are planted for two reasons -- mainly to hunt wild boars for meat and also to prevent them from entering agricultural fields.

The seven-year old cow belongs to cowherd Narasimhegowda, a villager of Bettadabeedu. He said, Usually, we leave the cows to graze in agriculture fields. But due to severe rains, we freed the cows near forest fringes for grazing on Monday. It accidentally ate food packed with explosives and sustained severe injuries around 12.30 pm. I own three cows and this one had given birth to three calves. We regret what has happened. Coming close on the heels of the Kerala elephant which died after eating explosives and the dogs poisoned in Mysuru, the incident has deeply hurt animal lovers. L Bhavani, an animal lover, said this is an utterly inhuman act and the government should take strict action even against those who place explosives to catch wild boars.

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Euthanasia performed on cow badly hurt after eating food stuffed with explosives in Mysuru - The New Indian Express

Euthanasia referendum: Should Kiwis have the right to die with ‘dignity’? – Stuff.co.nz

123RF

How do you think you would feel if a close relative battling a terminally illness chose voluntary euthanasia?

Kiwis are set tovote on whether euthanasia should be legalisedinone of two referendums at this year's general election in September.

If endorsed by the public in a referendum,the new lawwill allow those who are terminally ill to request assisted dying.

The patient must be the first to suggest assisted dying, and two doctors must agree that the patient is well-informed and other legal criteria are met.

Euthanasia is a debate this country has had before. It's divisive, emotive and a hugely important debate to be had over personal rightsthat should not be shiedaway from.

Thebill to legalise voluntary euthanasiawas originally introduced in September 2015following a landmark right-to-die case fromLecretiaSeales, the 42-year-old Wellington lawyer, whodied of natural causes.

Her legal battle reignited the right to die with dignity debate. And now the issue is back on the table.

What are your views?

How do you think you would feel if a close relative battling a terminallyillness chose voluntary euthanasia?

Do you think the proposed legislation is thorough enough? Or do you believe more changes are needed?

To share your thoughts withStuff, hit the bigbutton below. We prefer submissions between 400-800 words. App users: emailstuffnation@stuff.co.nz.

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Euthanasia referendum: Should Kiwis have the right to die with 'dignity'? - Stuff.co.nz

Canine champion donates winnings to pet food pantry… – Journal of the San Juan Islands

Submitted by Animal Protection Society Friday Harbor

Canaan, a Friday Harbor local, is Bob Andersons champion agility dog. Canaan has been in approximately 120 agility trials and 1500 individual agility runs. He has come in first place more than 400 times and placed second or third in as many events. Canaan is seen in the photo above with only a fraction of the ribbons and metals he has earned over his years of competing. Canaan, now nine and a half years old, will be running in just a few veteran events at each trial as Zeke, the newest member of Bobs pack, steps into the arena.

When an agility dog wins at a big event, they receive their winnings in the form of a check but, at smaller events, they win a few dollars in cash. Bob stuffed Canaans smaller winnings into an envelope over the years and never counted the money. When Canaan retired, Bob and Canaan brought Canaans cash winnings into APS-FH to donate it to the Pet Food Pantry. We gathered to count the cash and found that Canaans generous donation added up to $657 for the APS-FH Pet Food Pantry.

The Pet Food Pantry is a community pet food bank to help keep pets in their homes by providing pet food for families in need. The Pet Food Pantry is located at the Treasure Hounds store at 365-C Spring Street in Friday Harbor. Hours for pet food distribution are from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. every other Wednesday. Both cat and dog food are available.

Thank you, Canaan and Bob, for supporting this important program!

APS-FH Mission

Our mission is to provide compassionate care and brighter futures for homeless animals.

We commit to the following:

Provide a safe haven for homeless and lost animals

Reunite lost pets with their owners

Place animals in our care in qualified, loving homes

Reduce pet overpopulation with spay/neuter education and assistance

Advise and advocate for the protection of animals

Network with other shelters and pet rescue groups impacted by overcrowding or natural disasters to decrease euthanasia rates and ultimately save lives

Advance animal welfare through education, outreach and assistance

Promote a stronger sense of the animal/human bond

Always adhere to our no-kill philosophy for adoptable animals

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram or visit apsfh.com for more information.

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Canine champion donates winnings to pet food pantry... - Journal of the San Juan Islands

The shape of things to come from artificial wombs to suicide coffins – Spectator.co.uk

Sex Robots and Vegan Meat: Adventures at the Frontier of Birth, Food, Sex and Death

Jenny Kleeman

Picador, pp. 368, 16.99

It wasnt until half way through Jenny Kleemans Sex Robots and Vegan Meat that I was able to put my finger on why it was making me uncomfortable. Sometimes you read a book where the authors mindset is so alien to your own that you feel almost as though youre translating from a foreign language; this was one of those times. But on page 143 I found the Rosetta Stone.

Kleeman was talking about vegan meat cultured steaks and burgers developed in a laboratory. She had met various scientists and entrepreneurs who were trying to make it happen (including some, it should be admitted, who come across as spivs and carnival barkers). And then she said: Vegan meat depends on a pessimistic view of human beings: the belief that we are incapable of changing the way we eat. Instead, we should, as humanity, lose our taste for meat altogether.

That was when I realised why the whole book felt bizarre. To me, lab-grown meat represents an optimistic view: that we can still have things we like (meat) at hugely reduced costs (of animal suffering and environmental damage) seems to me a positive. But Kleeman thinks giving people what they want is harmful. Instead, she says, we should try to change our attitudes so that we dont want those things.

The book focuses on four areas of technology: sex robots, lab-grown meat, artificial wombs and on-demand euthanasia machines. They are all, Kleeman says, on the horizon, and all have the capacity to transform human society.

That said, I think two of them at least are further off than she thinks. The sex robots chapter is mainly concerned with sex dolls, while showcasing a few laughable attempts at making some of them AI-enabled; the challenges of making AI good enough to achieve human conversation, or robotics advanced enough to make a humanoid robot that can walk around in a busy environment, are left largely unaddressed. Meanwhile, the euthanasia machines section focuses on one deeply weird guy who wants to make 3D-printed suicide coffins. The public may be in favour of assisted dying, but I dont get the impression theyre clamouring for that.

Its an often interesting look at some strange people. But Kleeman keeps returning to the same point: we shouldnt try to develop this new way of providing things that people want, whether its vegan meat or a way of having children without getting pregnant. In each case, she says, it could make humanity worse off. Ectogenesis, the growing of babies in artificial wombs, will mean there is even less reason to solve the social problems that make it so difficult for women to have babies. Lab-grown meat may perpetuate the taste for meat among people who might one day go over to a plant-based diet. Sex robots will make men objectify women even more. Death machines will reduce the drive for palliative care.

Many people may agree with her; but I found myself wishing that she would back her point up. No doubt all these things will have some negative consequences. But the question is whether the benefits gained will outweigh them: the reduction in animal suffering, the improvement to womens careers. Even sex robots, icky as they are, might make lonely people feel less isolated. They are empirical questions, but Kleeman doesnt seem interested in answering them. She just declares that the technologies are bad.

She also works hard to make the groups she meets seem more important than they are. The pro-euthanasia one founded by the suicide coffin guy has 3,500 members worldwide. I suppose pro-euthanasia groups will be naturally quite self-limiting in size, but thats not much of a global movement. And, inevitably enough, Kleeman links sex robots to incels, but then says, in apparent shock, that the now shut-down incels page on Reddit had 40,000 members. Well thats not very many either.

Shes an engaging writer, and the book is often moving, especially when she talks about how her own experience of miscarriage has affected her attitude towards artificial wombs, and during the discussion of an assisted death (which flirts somewhat with breaking the Samaritans guidelines for reporting suicide). But the history of humanity is full of the creation of new technologies which often have downsides, yet generally improve our lives. Kleeman doesnt do enough to convince me that these will be any different. And when she concludes by quoting approvingly someone decrying technical fixes instead of revolution, I think: actually, I prefer the sound of the technical fixes.

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The shape of things to come from artificial wombs to suicide coffins - Spectator.co.uk

Your letters: Live the ‘Golden Rule’ – wear your face mask – Wadena Pioneer Journal

Many of us grew up learning the Bible's "Golden Rule." This tells us that we should do to others as we want them to do to us.

During this COVID-19 crisis, this means I should wear a mask to protect you from the virus, and you should extend the same protection to me and others. Wear your mask!

Countries such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, New Zealand and Australia immediately implemented many safeguards in January and February, including nearly universal wearing of masks. Taiwan, with a population of 24 million, has had only 447 infections and seven deaths since the outbreak.

Australia with a population slightly larger than Florida, has had fewer total infections in six months than Florida had recently in one day. Masks are not the only reason, but they have played a key role in limiting the spread of COVID-19 in these countries.

Contrary to the President's false assertions that 99% of cases are "totally harmless," and that "by April, you know, in theory, when it gets warmer, it miraculously goes away," between 15-20% of COVID cases require hospitalizations, with 3-5% of total cases resulting in death. Clearly this is not harmless! In addition, the pandemic is projected to last at least another year.

Wearing masks is not about "individual freedoms." It is about protecting our families and neighbors. Please, please wear a mask. Live the Golden Rule!

Paul Anderson

Wadena

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Your letters: Live the 'Golden Rule' - wear your face mask - Wadena Pioneer Journal