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Activating Hope: Immunotherapy May Change the Fight Against Colorectal Cancer

2023-08-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become an epidemic that demands our attention.

Every day, Americans of all ages and walks of life receive a diagnosis of CRC. Unfortunately, this reality upends every aspect of life for both patients and their loved ones, sending them on an urgent quest for answers and for effective treatment options.

CRC is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States in men and women combined. Diagnoses of CRC are on the rise in younger Americans, and it is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50. By 2023, it’s projected to be the leading cause of cancer deaths in all people under 50. Without early screening, CRC can remain undetected until the disease is advanced, leaving patients with limited to no curative treatment options. People living with CRC face numerous challenges throughout their journey, navigating the complex healthcare system, managing the financial burden of treatment, and overcoming the physical and emotional toll.

The oncology community has been listening — and working to bring hope to this crisis. Decades of research have revealed that the most potent tools to fight cancer are within our own bodies, waiting to be unleashed. This approach is called immunotherapy. Immunotherapy drugs are designed to harness the body’s natural immune system to attack and eliminate cancer cells. These therapies activate the body to win the battle against cancer.

Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval of the first immunotherapy for use in melanoma in 2011, this approach has successfully expanded into a wide range of cancers and opened the door to a new generation of cancer therapies.

Dr. Steven O’Day, Chief Medical Officer at Agenus, was part of the team of melanoma researchers that pioneered the immuno-oncology revolution.

“I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of immunotherapy in cancer treatment,” Dr. O’Day says. “Currently, there is a concerning rise in colorectal cancer among young adults, highlighting the urgent need for improved treatment options. I firmly believe that novel immunotherapies have the potential to address this pressing issue.”

This revolutionary approach is changing the way many cancers are treated — a breakthrough that is desperately needed, particularly in advanced-stage CRC.

Clinical trials play a crucial role in the development of new treatments, including novel immunotherapies. These studies provide patients the opportunity to access innovative treatments and high-quality care, while contributing to the advancement of medical science. Clinical trials are designed to improve patient care and establish more effective therapeutic options.

Agenus is committed to patients and understands the urgent need in the CRC community. Together with physicians, patients, caregivers and advocates across the globe, Agenus has activated a mission to improve the lives of those affected by this disease. The company has launched an ongoing clinical trial of its novel immunotherapy for eligible patients with advanced CRC.

To learn more about Agenus’ clinical trial visit: www.Activate-study.com.

Agenus believes that together we can harness the extraordinary power of the immune system to conquer cancer.

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Top 5 accessories to make the most of your tailgating season

2023-08-10T10:35:00

(BPT) – The time is finally here to dust off the jerseys, wrangle up the crew and get ready for football season. But first — the tailgate. From providing shade, space and support to firing up the grill, RealTruck is here to share its favorite truck accessories to make the most of your game day this season. You’ll need additions to your truck that are stylish and reliable — the kind of gear that will have everyone else in the lot envious of your party before kickoff!

1. Body Armor 4×4 Sky Ridge 270XL Awning

No one wants to stand in the hot sun before entering the stadium. Having a cover that protects against all of Mother Nature’s worst elements is an investment worth making. The latest technology in awning creation provides UV protection and waterproof coating while maintaining a lightweight frame. This model from Body Armor mounts to a roof or bed rack with both driver- and passenger-side mount options. Anyone who visits your tailgate will be comfortable and cool — all you have to do is provide the snacks and drinks.

2. Husky Liners Heavy Duty Truck Bed Mat

When you host a great tailgate, as you may already know, your truck bed runs the risk of getting damaged by loading and unloading supplies every weekend. Adding a protective layer can make all the difference. A great solution is the Husky Liners Heavy Duty Bed Mat for its super-tough, rubberized construction that keeps moisture out of the bed. This durable liner provides a secure surface for all your stadium essentials and makes for a quick and easy cleanup so you can beat the post-game traffic.

3. AMP Research Bed Step

A bed step is essential for any tailgating host who doesn’t want to miss a minute of the game. The AMP Research Bed Step helps by making sure cleanup is quick, safe and easy. This bed step is anything but ordinary with its versatile features including a non-slip pad. The retractable step mounts directly to the side of the bumper and supports up to 300 pounds. With a frame that fits directly under the rear bumper it stays hidden until you need it. You might even be tempted to hop up and celebrate after your team scores the winning touchdown.

4. BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover

Having the best products combined with an electric atmosphere is essential for an exciting tailgate. Tonneau covers are all about durability and reliability. They get the job done and look good doing it. The BAKflip MX4 is a hard-folding option to manage your full range of supplies to host the most popular pre-game event. Engineered for weather protection and security, this cover will make sure your party gear gets to the lot safely so you can focus on getting that W.

5. Hitchfire F-20 Grill

Last but most importantly, the ultimate tailgate has to have great food ahead of the game. You don’t want to lug around a giant grill or compromise the quality of your game-day grub with a tiny BBQ that cooks one burger at a time. But with the Hitchfire F-20 you can get the latest tech in truck accessories without taking up space. This grill hooks up to your receiver hitch, so you don’t need to store it in the bed. It comes with twin 10,000 BTU burners for speed and quality. You’ll have hungry rival fans switching jerseys for this one.

Tailgate prep for your truck should be the last thing you worry about on game day. Score points with your friends and family with the best products and visit RealTruck.com for more accessories to amp up your football season.

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This baseball player wants you to understand your risk for pneumococcal pneumonia

2023-08-10T06:01:00

(BPT) – Professional baseball player J.D. Martinez is prioritizing his lung health this baseball season. He has asthma, an underlying medical condition that puts him at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia. It’s a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks and can even put you in the hospital or be life-threatening. J.D. doesn’t want pneumococcal pneumonia to get in his way of doing what he loves on the field.

Read tips from J.D. on how he’s helping protect his health this baseball season.

Q: You’re prioritizing your lung health, why should others?

J.D.: Because I’m an adult with asthma, I’m at increased risk for certain illnesses like pneumococcal pneumonia.

That’s why I’m partnering with Pfizer to help other adults 19 or older at increased risk understand the importance of getting vaccinated. I don’t want to let pneumococcal pneumonia strike me out.

Q: Are there any other factors that put people at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia?

J.D.: Yes. Adults aged 19 or older with certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, chronic heart disease, or chronic lung disease—in addition to asthma—are at increased risk. Same goes for those 65 or older: even if they are healthy, their age puts them at increased risk. It’s important to me that they know there are steps they can take to help protect themselves—like asking their doctor or pharmacist about vaccination.

Q: Even if someone’s had a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine in the past, should they still ask about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination?

J.D.: Yes! Even if you’ve been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia before, your doctor or pharmacist may still recommend another vaccination for additional protection. Everyone’s situation is different, so it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider who can give their professional advice.

Q: Do I need to wait for flu season to get vaccinated against PP?

J.D.: Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike any time of year, and vaccination is available all year round. Don’t wait for flu season to strike, stay ahead of the game and ask your doctor or pharmacist about vaccination at any time.

Q: Thanks so much for the information, J.D. Where can people find out more?

J.D.: To learn more about the disease, risks, vaccination, and more, visit KnowPneumonia.com.

Sponsored by Pfizer.

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How to make back-to-school preparation less stressful — and more fun

2023-08-09T10:49:00

(BPT) – Back-to-school is a busy time of year filled with errands and appointments to make sure parents and kids are ready for the upcoming transition. It can also be somewhat stressful — but it doesn’t need to be. By planning ahead and maximizing your time, you can even make it fun. With a little creativity from Crayola, you can turn back-to-school prep into a great opportunity for family time and happy memories.

Plan before shopping

It’s easier than ever to plan shopping ahead by scoping out products online first, whether that’s new shoes and clothes or those all-important school supplies. Limit shopping trips to just a few locations, and don’t try to do everything in one day. Let online searching help you create your to-do list — then enjoy checking off each item as you get it completed!

Involve the whole family

According to a recent survey conducted by Crayola, parents view back-to-school shopping as spending quality time with their child and 74% consider it a special bonding experience, so it’s a perfect time to get kids excited about school by letting them help with shopping and prep. Assigning one or two items for young kids to find when you search for supplies makes them feel part of the process. Older kids can do more to help you stock the cart with assigned items from your list. Make sure to offer limited options (such as between two or three different lunch boxes or backpacks) so kids aren’t overwhelmed by too many choices.

Trust the classics for home and school projects

Crayola is the leader for back-to-school season, and for good reason. In fact, Crayola 24 Count Crayons were the top selling non-grocery item in all U.S. retail during back-to-school, outpacing everyday items like paper towels and toilet paper last year, according to Numerator TrueView.

Their staples include 24 Count Classic Crayons, perfect for coloring and creativity at home or at school — with each Crayola crayon double-wrapped for extra strength and durability, and 10 Count Broad Line Markers which are great for any child looking to create with ease. Featuring 10 vibrant colors, these markers are the classic art tool for arts and crafts, school supplies and more. Long-lasting and durable, their conical tips make it easy to color in detailed areas or lay down full coverage lines.

Crayola 12 Count Colored Pencils help kids bring ideas to life with a wide range of vivid colors that inspire their imagination. Each pre-sharpened drawing pencil has a thick, soft point that won’t break easily, making them great for school projects and detailed artwork.

All these items will be must-haves on your school list this year and for many years to come.

Explore new products to amp up the excitement

Further encourage color and creativity with all-new Crayola products to thrill your budding artists.

For younger kids, there’s nothing more enjoyable than scented markers that make art time even better. Crayola Silly Scents Smash Ups add all new scents with their vibrant Broadline Washable Markers, Fine Line Washable Markers, Dual-Ended Markers, Colored Pencils and Twistable Crayons. Delicious new smells include Mint Chocolate Chip, Orange Dreamsicle, Strawberry Shortcake, Key Lime Pie, Red Velvet Cake and more! Each pack also features a new crew of Silly Scents characters to add fun and dimension to kids’ art projects.

For tweens, the new Crayola Doodle and Draw Line offers detail-oriented tools to take their art to the next level:

Stay organized — creatively

Make back-to-school time run smoothly while letting kids enjoy their new supplies by creating tools to manage scheduling and school papers. Have kids help make and decorate a large family wall calendar to keep track of birthdays, appointments and school events. Then let each child decorate a cubby, folder or box where they’ll keep important school notes and homework so everything stays organized this fall — and year-round. Their new markers, crayons and colored pencils will help kids personalize their spot and express their creativity.

Ready to get started? Check out all the items you’ll need for back-to-school prep at Crayola.com.

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Protect yourself and others: Top 5 flammable liquid & fuel container safety tips

2023-08-09T08:01:01

(BPT) – Planning a backyard bonfire, or a summer ride on a motorized vehicle? Make sure that you’re using the utmost care when starting any type of fire or filling a vehicle with fuel, by keeping flammable liquids away from ignition sources.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of people go to emergency departments with burn injuries related to flammable liquids every year. Many of these incidents happen when liquid fuel is used outside on a backyard fire pit, a campfire, a bonfire, or when burning trash. Incidents can also happen when flammable liquids such as gasoline and alcohol are near ignition sources like flames.

To help prevent severe injury or death when using flammable liquids and fuel containers, CPSC wants everyone to follow these top five safety tips.

1. Never use gasoline for fire pits, campfires, bonfires, or when burning trash

You may feel tempted to use gasoline to quickly light an outdoor fire or to keep it going if it dies down. Don’t do it! Pouring gasoline on a fire pit can cause an explosion and release toxic fumes that can harm you and those around you.

Only use appropriate fire starters before lighting the fire. Even the fuel vapors can catch fire before the liquid fuel ever touches the flames, causing a flashback explosion that can severely burn those nearby.

2. Keep a hose or fire extinguisher nearby

Fire is unpredictable and can quickly get out of hand, even under the best circumstances. Be prepared to put out a fire quickly if it becomes dangerous. Before starting a fire, make sure to have a garden hose or fire extinguisher near your fire pit.

Also, remember to check weather conditions in case there is a high risk of wildfire. Embers from even a small fire can blow onto dry leaves or other flammable materials.

3. Play it safe around fire

Teach your children how to “play safe and stay safe” when near a fire. Let them know that only an adult should handle lighting and maintaining a fire, and that a careless mistake could result in burn injuries or even death. Keep matches and fire starters away from children and keep an eye on them when enjoying a backyard bonfire.

4. Store gas cans outside and out of reach of children

If you use a motorcycle, ATV, lawnmower, snowblower, generator or other equipment that requires gasoline, you’ll need to properly store gas cans outside your home and out of reach of children.

Buy a child-resistant gas container with a flame arrestor, a simple device that can help prevent injuries. Keep gas cans in a well-ventilated, cool area outside the home, as vapors can ignite and start a house fire.

5. Transport gas cans safely

Whether you’re buying or refilling a gas can, it’s crucial that you use care when transporting it in your trunk or the bed of a pickup truck. Properly secure it so it won’t spill or tip over.

If buying or filling a gas can is on your “to-do” list, make it your last stop. As soon as you get home, remove the fuel container from your vehicle and store it in a safe, cool place.

Using these five tips, you can reduce your risk of serious burns or life-threatening injuries when using a fire pit or liquid fuel this summer. To learn more about fire safety and proper use of liquid fuel, visit CPSC.Gov/Safety-Education.

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Tips for making a positive impact on your Little League community, according to the 2023 Coach of the Year recipients

2023-08-09T08:01:01

(BPT) – Just in time for the Little League® World Series, Lance Sandwich Crackers and Positive Coaching Alliance are celebrating coaches who inspire players and give back to their communities.

Little League teaches children so much more than the love of the game, from sportsmanship to instilling leadership, having fun, and fostering community spirit. To celebrate all the ways Little League coaches help our kids and communities, Lance® — the Official Snack of Little League Baseball and Softball — and Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) are honoring coaches with the 2023 Little League Coach of the Year Award.

After a record-breaking number of submissions, a panel of judges from Lance, PCA, Little League, former Coach of the Year winners, and former MLB player and Little Leaguer®, Todd Frazier, has identified two incredible individuals as the 2023 Little League Coaches of the Year.

“As a professional athlete, I know firsthand the immense influence coaches have on a player’s development. That’s why I’m honored to partner with Lance and PCA to celebrate Little League coaches with the 2023 Coach of the Year Award,” said Todd Frazier, former Little League and MLB player. “From my Little League days to the majors, I had coaches who not only believed in me but pushed me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the field. The Coach of the Year award is an opportunity to give back to the Little League community and inspire the next generation of coaches.”

Drumroll, please! It’s time to meet our 2023 Little League Coaches of the Year:

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1 in 4 Americans don’t understand retirement planning but are willing to start learning online, new survey says

2023-08-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Will I be able to retire? How much do I need to save? What if I outlive those savings? Questions like these are common across America’s current working population. Whether Gen X, Millennial or Gen Z worker populations, they each have hopes for a financially secure retirement, despite current economic uncertainty.

When it comes to retirement, research shows 70% of Americans plan to but are unsure they will really be able to, according to a recent Prudential survey. Having enough savings is a primary concern for almost half (40%) of Americans who are not confident they can retire. Concerns such as this may cause people to continue to work as they age — be it full time in their career or part time in a less demanding position.

Financial knowledge needed

This lack of confidence is coupled with a lack of financial knowledge. Just over 1 in 4 respondents (26%) said they do not have a strong understanding of what to do when it comes to retirement planning, and over half (59%) do not have a 401(k) account, one of the primary savings vehicles for retirement. Of those who do, 21% are unsure of how much money is currently in their account.

Captured in the survey, which polled 2,000 working adults across generations this spring, was a strong desire to retire and openness to receiving professional advice, yet a general uncertainty about how to begin. Fortunately, online tools are becoming more widely available, and some provide important insights that can bridge the retirement planning gap.

Online retirement insights

If you feel anxious about retirement and are confused about where to start, you are not alone. The survey found that among those who expressed confusion about retirement planning or are worried about being behind, most (65%) said they are open and willing to use digital tools. Because of their convenience, digital tools may be a smart option for people looking to take the first step in their retirement planning journey, but they aren’t one size fits all.

One free online option is Prudential Stages for Retirement, a platform that offers a personalized digital experience with access to a team of financial advisors. By answering a few questions, the platform provides customers with a “Retirement Confidence” score and shows them the ways in which they are strong in their retirement preparedness as well as where they may need to adjust to get closer to their goal. Users can also access a retirement calculator to see just how much they need to save to achieve their individual vision for retirement.

A human touch in retirement planning

Even as online tools help bridge the retirement confidence gap, the survey shows that most people still want access to a financial advisor — even if they aren’t physically in the room with them. A whopping 94% of all respondents say they are interested in receiving advice from a financial expert in some manner.

On Prudential Stages for Retirement, people of all age ranges, levels of wealth and retirement preparedness have one-click access to an advisor, virtually or in-person, if desired. There is no minimum savings required to access an advisor, so everyone can ask questions to help them gain more confidence in their retirement planning choices.

Getting started

While most working people across generations have retirement as a goal, many don’t know what to do to plan appropriately. Online retirement planning tools like those from Prudential can be an effective first step in gaining knowledge and boosting confidence that retirement dreams will become reality.

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Understanding symptoms of bipolar I and bipolar II disorder

2023-08-08T11:01:00

(BPT) – From the outside, Teresa’s life looked great. She had a healthy family and lasting friendships. However, she didn’t feel great. She had periods of panic attacks, trouble sleeping, constant fidgeting, difficulty concentrating, and the inability to feel joy.2

Teresa figured these symptoms were due to extreme depression. Even though she worked with her doctor through various treatment and management options, her symptoms continued to get worse. She started having thoughts that scared her, like, “What if I hurt myself?”

Teresa decided it was time to see a new doctor and get another opinion. Dr. Ann Groover reviewed Teresa’s symptoms and medical history over several sessions before diagnosing her with bipolar II depression.

“It turns out that the antidepressant I was taking could have actually exacerbated my bipolar disorder,” recalled Teresa. Unfortunately, Teresa’s story is not unusual. Studies have shown that 3 in 4 patients with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed, most often with major depressive disorder (MDD) (like, persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and lethargy) are one of the key diagnostic features in both conditions.

Understanding bipolar depression

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition which causes extreme changes in mood and behavior. These changes in mood, known as mood episodes, can cause patients to experience lows (bipolar depression) and highs (mania).1,3 Mood episodes can affect a person’s sleep, energy, activity levels, judgement, behavior and the ability to think clearly.

The lows of bipolar, also known as depressive episodes, can make people feel sad or hopeless. They may lose interest or pleasure in most activities, even those they once enjoyed. These depressive episodes may be present throughout their lives and some episodes may even last several months.4

The highs of bipolar, also known as manic or hypomanic episodes, can cause people to feel intense excitement, impulsive, unusually irritable or have an abnormal amount of increased energy.4

“I see a lot of patients who are suffering from bipolar II disorder. People with bipolar II disorder, like Teresa, may experience longer depressive episodes that can be more severe than some patients with bipolar I while not experiencing debilitating bouts of mania or needing to go to the hospital. This can make bipolar II hard to diagnose, as it can be frequently confused with major depressive disorder,” said Dr. Groover.

Treating Teresa’s bipolar II depression

“Even though the diagnosis wasn’t what I expected, it was a relief learning that I might be able to work with my health care provider toward a treatment and management plan that might work for me,” said Teresa. “At a follow-up appointment with my doctor, she told me about a medication called CAPLYTA® (lumateperone).”

CAPLYTA is a prescription medication used to treat depressive episodes associated with bipolar I or bipolar II disorder in adults. CAPLYTA is a once-daily capsule that’s believed to work by affecting chemicals in the brain that are involved in mood, including dopamine and serotonin. The exact way CAPLYTA works is not fully understood.

Studies have also shown CAPLYTA is proven to provide significant relief from depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder and can reduce the overall severity of bipolar depression. Unlike some medications that only treat bipolar I depression, CAPLYTA treats both bipolar I and bipolar II depression and can be taken alone or with lithium or valproate.

“For patients experiencing bipolar I or II depression, I often prescribe CAPLYTA. I feel that the combined efficacy and safety data along with the convenient once-a-day dosing makes CAPLYTA an excellent choice for some adult patients like Teresa with bipolar depression. Every patient’s experience will be unique,” said Dr. Groover.

Medicines like CAPLYTA can raise the risk of death in elderly people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia). CAPLYTA is not approved for treating people with dementia-related psychosis.

CAPLYTA and antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some children, adolescents, and young adults especially within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. Patients and their families or caregivers should watch for new or worsening depression symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when CAPLYTA or an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed. Report any change in these symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. See additional important safety information below.

Finding the LYTE and breaking the stigma

“CAPLYTA has helped me light up the darkness. And I’m happy with the success I’ve had,” said Teresa. “I’m grateful for my work with my doctor to talk through options that could work for me. I hope others can find the same success I did, and together we can fight the stigma of bipolar II depression.” At first, Teresa was worried about weight gain with CAPLYTA. But her healthcare provider reassured her that most people who took CAPLYTA did not gain weight or have changes in their blood sugar or cholesterol in the short- or long-term clinical trials. At 6 months, the average weight change for people on CAPLYTA was -0.02 lbs.

CAPLYTA may cause problems with your metabolism including high blood sugar, diabetes, increased fat (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels in your blood and weight gain. Your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar, fat levels and weight before you start and periodically during treatment with CAPLYTA.

Teresa and her healthcare provider have been happy with the results. Over time, the depressive symptoms decreased with CAPLYTA. Teresa said, “I can laugh again and feel more like myself.”

The most common side effects experienced by people with bipolar depression taking CAPLYTA were sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth. CAPLYTA can cause sleepiness and difficulty thinking. Until a patient is aware of how CAPLYTA may affect them, they should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities.

If you or a loved one is struggling with the lows of bipolar depression, CAPLYTA may be able to help. Talk to your health care provider and ask if CAPLYTA is right for you. To learn more, visit Caplyta.com.

Important Safety Information

Medicines like CAPLYTA can raise the risk of death in elderly people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia). CAPLYTA is not approved for treating people with dementia-related psychosis.

CAPLYTA and antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some children, adolescents, and young adults especially within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. Patients and their families or caregivers should watch for new or worsening depression symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when CAPLYTA or an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed. Report any change in these symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

Do not take CAPLYTA if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Get emergency medical help if you are having an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, hives, swelling of the tongue, lip, face, or throat).

CAPLYTA may cause serious side effects, including:
• Stroke (cerebrovascular problems) in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis that can lead to death.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): high fever, confusion, changes in your breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, stiff muscles, and increased sweating; these may be symptoms of a rare but potentially fatal condition. Contact your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room if you experience signs and symptoms of NMS.
• Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia, TD) in your face, tongue, or other body parts. TD may not go away, even if you stop taking CAPLYTA. It may also occur after you stop taking CAPLYTA.
• Problems with your metabolism including high blood sugar, diabetes, increased fat (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels in your blood and weight gain. Your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar, fat levels and weight before you start and during your treatment with CAPLYTA. Extremely high blood sugar levels can lead to coma or death. Call your healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms of high blood sugar: feeling very thirsty, hungry, sick to your stomach, needing to urinate more than usual, weak/tired, or confused, or your breath smells fruity.
• Low white blood cell count. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests during the first few months of treatment with CAPLYTA.
• Decreased blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). You may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or faint when you rise too quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Falls. CAPLYTA may make you sleepy or dizzy, may cause a decrease in your blood pressure when changing position (orthostatic hypotension), and can slow your thinking and motor skills which may lead to falls that can cause broken bones or other injuries.
• Seizures (convulsions).
• Sleepiness, drowsiness, feeling tired, difficulty thinking and doing normal activities. Until you know how CAPLYTA affects you, do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities.
• Problems controlling your body temperature so that you feel too warm. Avoid getting overheated or dehydrated while taking CAPLYTA.
• Difficulty swallowing that can cause food or liquid to get into the lungs.

The most common side effects of CAPLYTA include sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth.

These are not all the possible side effects of CAPLYTA. Tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had heart problems or a stroke, high or low blood pressure, diabetes, or high blood sugar, problems with cholesterol, have or have had seizures (convulsions), kidney or liver problems, or a low white blood cell count. CAPLYTA may cause fertility problems in females and males. You should notify your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking CAPLYTA. CAPLYTA may cause abnormal involuntary movements and/or withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies exposed to CAPLYTA during the third trimester. CAPLYTA passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding and the best way to feed your baby during treatment with CAPLYTA. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you’re taking. CAPLYTA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how CAPLYTA works, causing possible serious side effects. Do not start or stop any medicines while taking CAPLYTA without talking to your healthcare provider. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs. Contact Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. at 1-888-611-4824 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

CAPLYTA is available in 10.5 mg, 21 mg, and 42 mg capsules.

Please see Medication Guide, including Boxed Warnings.

1. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder. Accessed April 21, 2023.
2. Bipolar disorder. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955. February 16, 2021. Accessed April 20, 2023.
3. Miller S, Dell’Ossa B, Kettera TA. The prevalence and burden of bipolar depression. J Affect Disorder. 2014; 169(1): S3-S11. Accessed April 19, 2023.
4. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/bipolar-disorder. Accessed April 21, 2023.

©2023 Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. All rights reserved. CAPLYTA is a registered trademark of Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

US-CAP-2300251 7/2023

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How one company is centering the customer experience in the smart home industry

2023-08-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Smart home automation is top of mind for many homeowners. According to a report by Grand View Research, the smart home market is currently worth over $79 billion and is expected to continue to grow at a rapid pace.

With so many smart home product options, such as cameras, smart lights, kitchen appliances and more — as well as the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) — it’s no surprise that homeowners are seeking products that make life easier in an increasingly tech-forward world. From convenience to security and more, home automation through smart technology offers consumers many benefits that simplify life while providing peace of mind.

One company that understands the benefits of home automation and continues innovating with customers in mind is Vivint Smart Home. While known for years as a trusted home security company, it’s also an innovative smart home provider that prides itself on being customer-centric, currently serving over 2 million customers across the U.S. Below are some thoughts on what the company believes are the benefits of home automation and how it can only be improved through prioritizing the user experience.

The benefits of home automation

Integrating smart technology into your home can help you in your day-to-day life, allowing you to control virtually everything in your home, even when you’re away.

Did your teen get locked out of the house? No worries. You can unlock the doors from your mobile device, view the feed from your indoor cameras and even talk to them through the cameras. Or did you forget to shut the garage, shut off the lights or turn on your security alarm? With smart home device integration, you can check all these details and control these products from anywhere.

Beyond convenience, smart technology can help you save money, especially when it comes to reducing your utility bills. For example, a smart thermostat can automatically adjust your home’s temperature according to the time of day, who’s at home and local weather. These small adjustments add up, shaving off up to 12% of your energy bill.

If security and safety are important to you, smart home security systems are a must. From motion sensors to smart locks to security cameras, with smart home security products, you can rest easy throughout the day knowing your home is protected. Using mobile apps, you can get real-time notifications to your phone whenever the system detects suspicious activity, a water leak, fire and other types of danger and security threats.

These are just a few of the many benefits of smart home automation. Of course, with so many gadgets, you’ll want to be able to control them easily. Unfortunately, not all smart technology companies create user-friendly apps or integrated platforms that allow you to control all your devices in one place.

If smart home products are designed without customer experience at the center, what was supposed to be a convenient, secure and helpful device can become a chore to use.

Centering customer experience for business excellence

Vivint is dedicated to centering the customer experience, which is evident in its smart home platform. Vivint’s platform is seamless, secure and intelligent, enabling customers to effortlessly manage their home appliances, enjoy convenience and comfort and protect their homes all from one central app. That means you can get rid of extra, clunky apps on your phone and stop worrying about apps refreshing and disconnecting from each other. Prioritizing the customer experience and simplifying the smart home process is likely why, on average, customers interact with the Vivint app 15 times per day.

Because smart home technology can be complex and confusing, the company offers professional in-home consultations and installations. This service helps customers pick the right system to fit their individual needs, and ensures that everything is accurately set up for the optimal experience from day one.

By focusing on the user experience and delivering innovative, reliable experiences, Vivint has secured its customers’ loyalty, with the average customer staying with the company for nine years. If you’re considering home automation and want to learn more about the various smart home products that can add safety, security and convenience to your life, visit Vivint.com.

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5 tips for a seamless back-to-school transition

2023-08-08T08:03:00

(BPT) – From shopping for school supplies and new clothes to organizing schedules and carpooling to extracurricular activities, the back-to-school season can become a hectic time for parents and children alike. This can leave the entire family feeling overwhelmed.

Fortunately, with some strategic planning, families can ease the transition and create a smoother, happier back-to-school experience. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares a few tips and tricks to ensure you get an A+ on the school year ahead.

1. Prep early

Procrastination can be a significant source of stress during the back-to-school season. To avoid last-minute panic, plan ahead by creating a checklist or family calendar of all the essential tasks that need to be completed so you can stay organized. This can include making note of any needed school supplies, getting everyone back to a normal sleep schedule and building out a list of healthy school lunch and snack ideas.

2. Involve the kids

Getting the kids involved in the back-to-school preparations lightens your workload and makes them feel more responsible and excited about the academic year ahead. Take them along shopping for school supplies and encourage them to organize their study space. When kids feel a sense of ownership in the process, it can reduce stress for parents.

3. Implement good hygiene habits

Avoid unwanted sickness during the school year by teaching children the importance of good hygiene. Before heading back to school, you can teach children tips like handwashing before meals and after using the restroom, covering their mouths and noses when they cough or sneeze and reinforcing the habit of carrying hand sanitizer in their backpacks.

4. Sign up for after-school activities

Whether it be sports, art or music classes, enrolling your kids in after-school activities is important for getting them structure, allowing them to socialize and burn off extra energy. Extracurriculars help kids to develop positive habits and promote emotional, physical and social development, according to WebMD. Plus, it gives parents more time to prepare dinner and other aspects of the nighttime routine!

5. Meal and snack prep

Healthy eating is vital for your family’s overall well-being and academic performance. To save time and ensure nutritious meals, plan ahead with weekly menus. Prepare lunchboxes the night before with a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains and protein-rich items. Blatner recommends incorporating Eggland’s Best eggs into your meal prep, which have more than double the Vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs and provide a natural energy boost throughout the day. They’re also an excellent source of Vitamin B2, which helps manage stress — ideal for busy school days.

Try these Bacon-and-Egg Breakfast Tacos from Eggland’s Best! They’re a delicious and easy way to prep for the week ahead and are guaranteed to keep your family feeling happy and satisfied all day.

Bacon-and-Egg Breakfast Tacos

Ingredients:

4 large Eggland’s Best eggs
1/8 teaspoon table salt
Pinch pepper
1 slice bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 scallion, sliced thin
4 (6-inch) flour or corn tortillas
1/2 cup tomato salsa
1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 lime, cut into wedges

Directions:

1. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, salt and pepper until well combined and uniform yellow color, about 1 minute. Set aside.

2. In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally with rubber spatula until crispy, about 4 minutes.

3. Stir scallion into skillet and cook until just softened, about 1 minute.

4. Add eggs to skillet and gently stir, scraping bottom of skillet, until eggs have clumped and are still slightly wet, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn off heat and slide skillet to cool burner.

5. Stack tortillas on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp dish towel, and heat in microwave until warm, about 20 seconds.

6. Divide egg mixture among warm tortillas. Serve with salsa, cheese and lime wedges.