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How Solar Generators Revolutionize All-Hazards Preparedness

2024-12-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – By Craig Fugate, former Administrator of FEMA and a lifelong advocate for all-hazards preparedness

When you’ve been in emergency management as long as I have — whether it was leading efforts in Florida or running FEMA — you quickly realize one thing: disasters don’t follow a script. Hurricanes, wildfires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes or even man-made crises like cyberattacks and power grid failures — any of them can leave you in the dark, literally. Without power, critical systems fail. No cold storage for food or medication, no way to communicate with loved ones or emergency services, and no means to keep life-saving medical equipment running.

After major events, whether it’s hurricanes or infrastructure failures, I’ve seen communities struggle without power for days or even weeks. During the 2004 hurricane season, when four hurricanes slammed into Florida, some areas were without electricity for over a month. I know firsthand that a lack of power isn’t just inconvenient — it can halt recovery efforts, compromise public safety, and put lives at risk.

If you live in a disaster-prone area, preparedness isn’t just a seasonal practice — it’s part of life. Whether you’re getting ready for hurricane season or staying ready for unexpected threats like wildfires or grid attacks, one thing is clear: having your own independent power source isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

That’s why I’ve added Jackery’s solar generators to my personal emergency toolkit. Their portable power stations have changed the way I prepare, helping me stay ahead of the curve no matter what hazard comes my way.

A Go-To for All-Hazards Preparedness

During a disaster, even something as small as keeping your phone charged can be critical. Portable power stations and solar generators offer efficient, reliable power when you need it most. I’ve used the Jackery Explorer 1000 during hurricanes and other emergencies, powering everything from my amateur radio station to my cell phone. Thanks to its portability, I can move it wherever it’s needed. And when the skies clear, the solar panels provide renewable energy to recharge — no fuel required.

Jackery’s products aren’t just limited to hurricanes. Their versatility makes them invaluable for all hazards — whether it’s wildfires that force you to evacuate, winter storms that knock out power, or cyberattacks that leave critical infrastructure offline. Even outside of emergencies, these power stations have proven their worth. I’ve taken them on road trips and used them during planned outages. Having quiet, clean energy on hand gives me peace of mind in any situation.

Solar Power: A Game-Changer Across All Emergencies

Traditional gas generators come with a long list of challenges. After storms or disasters, fuel shortages are common, and storing gasoline safely isn’t always possible. The noise from gas generators is another issue — during long recovery efforts, it becomes more than just an annoyance. Worse yet, gas generators pose serious safety risks. Every year, we hear tragic stories of people dying from carbon monoxide poisoning after running generators too close to homes or in garages.

That’s where solar power is a game-changer. Solar generators provide clean, quiet energy without the risks of toxic fumes. They eliminate the need for fuel and are safe to use indoors — no worrying about carbon monoxide buildup or fire hazards. Simply unfold the solar panels, harness the sun’s power, and you’re good to go.

Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes or power grid failures, solar energy offers a sustainable solution when traditional power sources fail. Renewable energy will play a bigger role in the future of disaster response, and Jackery is leading the way.

Preparedness Means Thinking Ahead for Any Scenario

Every year, as hurricane season rolls around, I remind people that preparedness is more than just stocking up on water and canned food. It’s about having the right tools to stay safe and connected — no matter the type of disaster. And that includes making sure you have reliable backup power.

Jackery’s newly released Explorer 5000 Plus is the next step in portable power. It offers even more capacity, flexibility and ease of use, making it perfect for homes, apartments, RVs or anyone on the move. Whether you’re facing down a hurricane, dealing with wildfire evacuations, or preparing for a cyberattack on the power grid, Jackery has a solution tailored to fit your needs.

A Solution for Every Hazard

After decades in emergency management, I don’t make recommendations lightly. But I’ve seen how critical power is during and after disasters. That’s why I trust Jackery as part of my personal preparedness strategy. It’s not just about getting through the storm — it’s about being ready for the long road to recovery, no matter what hazard comes your way.

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Start Strong: Strategic Planning and Insurance for the New Year

2024-12-12T08:31:00

(BPT) – The end of the year provides a natural moment for reflection. Millions of individuals take this time to make resolutions and set themselves up for a productive new year, and your business can benefit from the same approach. An annual review of your business can set the stage for a successful year ahead. From assessing goals and staffing needs to reviewing processes and identifying potential gaps, the new year is an ideal time for strategic alignment and planning.

According to research from Bridges Business Consultancy, 48% of leaders spend less than one day per month discussing strategy. It’s no surprise, then, that 48% of organizations fail to meet at least half of their strategic targets.

“With 2025 just around the corner, now is the perfect time to look back on the past year and recalibrate,” says Brittney Passini, director of commercial lines product development at Acuity Insurance. “What have you accomplished this year? Have you made any changes you need to account for in your planning for next year?”

Passini emphasizes that the new year is not only a time to evaluate performance and set business goals but also an opportunity to ensure your insurance coverage reflects your evolving business needs. Below, she offers four tips to help position your business for success:

  1. Review Last Year’s Performance. By analyzing your business’s financial performance, project completion, employee and client relationships, and more, you can identify the best next steps for your business. Reflect on your successes and setbacks to identify operational areas needing attention. Also important, evaluate how changes — such as increased property value, expanded operations or new risks — may impact your insurance coverage. A review of your performance should go hand in hand with a review of your risk exposures.
  2. Update Your Business Plan. Without clear goals, progress is difficult to measure. If you don’t already have specific business goals outlined, consider setting short- and long-term objectives. Rank and prioritize them based on return on investment, efficiency or productivity metrics so you can visualize progress and set priorities. Consider how trends and changes in the market, including shifts in consumer behavior and potential new regulatory requirements, could impact your goals.
  3. Conduct Your Annual Insurance Review. Expanding your business, changes to your operations and increasing property values can all impact your insurance needs. An annual policy review is a great idea to ensure your coverage reflects the realities of your business. Confirming your business has the right coverage can mean the difference between bouncing back from a loss and having to close your doors. This review provides a great opportunity to check if you have enough coverage for your growing business and are covered for risks you may not consider as often, including cyberthreats and supply chain disruptions. Partnering with your local insurance agent during this review can help ensure you have the right coverage tailored to your specific needs.
  4. Put an Emphasis on Safety. Operating safety can benefit your bottom line and retention as well as help maintain your reputation. Engaging with your insurance provider to identify risk management strategies for your business can amplify the benefits. Providers like Acuity offer loss control services that help you identify potential risks and take steps to mitigate them before they become accidents. Some techniques that can improve safety include updating training, completing risk assessments and implementing new safety measures. Working with loss prevention and risk management professionals from your insurance company can help you identify which strategies to take.

The new year is an ideal time to set your business up for success. Strategic planning should involve all aspects of your operations — including your insurance coverage. For help confirming your insurance is adequately serving your business, and to optimize risk management strategies, reach out to an independent insurance agent.

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14 million tons of plastic are dumped into the oceans each year. 6 ways you can help reduce waste

2024-12-12T13:31:00

(BPT) – The world’s oceans are a magical, beautiful ecosystem … and they also need help — urgently. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, by 2050, there will be more plastic by weight than fish in the ocean. Let that sink in.

You may have heard of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch — a floating island the size of the state of Texas that is made of debris. And it is growing, in no small part because of how much plastic ends up in the oceans. The amount will boggle your mind. The U.N. Environment Program reports that the equivalent of a dump truck’s worth of plastic is dumped into the oceans every minute of every day. And every one of those plastic bottles will take more than 450 years to decompose.

The enormity of it is hard to get your mind around. If it makes you wonder what you can do about it, you’re not alone.

Plastics are considered to be an essential part of day-to-day life for humans, but overuse threatens the oceans we rely on for survival. It’s called the Blue Paradox. It has grown into a movement to address the global ocean plastic crisis and preserve the environment before it’s too late.

“As plastic waste finds its way to the ocean, it impacts all of us and the vast majority of species on our planet,” said Dr. M. Sanjayan, CEO of Conservation International, a nonprofit dedicated to improving people’s lives by protecting the oceans, forests and other living ecosystems. “The Blue Paradox brings the ubiquitousness and usefulness of plastic and the permanence and scale of its pollution front-and-center, encouraging individuals and businesses alike to take meaningful action.”

SC Johnson, the maker of Windex and other home cleaning brands, is working to turn the tide on ocean plastic waste. To clean up this plastic crisis, it’s not just about individuals being committed to recycling. It’s a collective effort from all of us — individuals, businesses and governments.

The ocean plastic crisis: How you can help

The problem seems daunting, but if everyone does a little, the changes will make a big difference. Here’s what you can do today to help.

Sign the petition. With over 14 million tons of plastic waste dumped in the oceans each year, according to a 2021 report by International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the ocean plastic crisis will not go away on its own, especially when microplastics are in our food chain. Disruptive change is needed, and the solutions can be complex, but we can work together to solve the crisis. Add your voice to this important issue by signing the petition on The Blue Paradox website to help reduce plastic waste.

Sign the pledge. The Blue Paradox website also has a pledge you can take to commit to reducing your plastic footprint. Our actions today can help impact tomorrow. When you sign the pledge, you’ll be kept in the know with information about Blue Paradox’s efforts, and how you’re making a difference.

Take the quiz. Wondering about your own plastic footprint? Here’s a quiz (blueparadox.com/en/plastic-waste-crisis) to let you know for sure. Be honest with your answers, and the quiz will calculate the number of pounds per year you contribute to the plastic landscape.

Reduce your use of single-use plastic where you can. This is easier than you might think. Small, tangible actions such as avoiding single-use plastics like utensils and coffee cups, and swapping out your single-use plastic water bottles for a reusable one, can make a huge difference.

Recycle your plastic. Pop it in the bin! It has never been easier to recycle plastic. Most rigid plastics today are recyclable. One tip: Give yours a quick rinse before tossing it into your recycling bin.

Buy products made from recycled plastic. Industry can do well by doing good … if there’s a market for it. When you’re buying plastic products, look for ones made from recycled plastic. Windex bottles, for example, have been made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic since 2015. Windex also has the industry’s first bottle made with 100% recovered coastal plastic from a major home cleaning brand. Let’s all work together to create a huge market for products made from recycled plastic and watch how quickly we clean up this problem.

If everyone — including industry — does their part, we can reduce the amount of plastics in our oceans. A little effort today can ensure a more beautiful tomorrow. For more information, visit the Blue Paradox website at https://www.blueparadox.com/.

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The impact of summer enrichment programs on personal and academic growth

2024-12-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – For students with college in their future plans, summers are ideal for exploring academic and personal development opportunities. During the school year, students can feel overloaded with classwork and extracurricular activities, but the summer months offer time to delve into one academic interest in greater depth. The College Board recommends that students who intend to go on to college after high school attend advanced summer enrichment programs throughout their high school years to help provide an idea of what to expect from college-level coursework.

If your child might benefit from academic exploration in the summer, you may want to consider options for summer enrichment such as those available next summer through Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies. These programs give your student the chance to engage in topics they’re passionate about, often in advanced subjects rarely taught during high school. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies’ summer programs create an environment where learning is highly valued and actively encouraged — fostering a mindset of curiosity and intellectual growth students will take with them long after the summer is over.

These programs impact students in a variety of ways:

Creating an environment where learning is highly valued and encouraged

Courses in the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies program encourage participants to follow their interests while showing respect for their learning journey.

“The Stanford Summer Humanities Institute was truly eye-opening and the highlight of my summer,” said Helen, Stanford Summer Humanities Institute participant. “The teachers and peers were constantly inspiring, and the course offered so much, helping me learn more about myself along the way.”

Fostering a mindset of curiosity, academic exploration and intellectual growth

Students in grades 8-11 are just beginning to explore the world around them, and their curiosity may feel limited by traditional school curriculum. A program that encourages their curiosity will lead to growth in their critical thinking skills, ability to research, and the capacity to see the wider context as well as the intriguing details of a topic.

Emphasizing the importance of education

Summer courses hosted by an excellent higher education institution and designed to foster deeper learning demonstrate the power and value of education. Program participants will experience firsthand how much their instructors and peers care about the topics they study, and also the very process of learning how to learn.

Motivating to pursue learning

Students involved in these enriching summer programs often feel an educational spark has been lit, inspiring them to go further with subjects that fascinate them.

“My experience was eye-opening, with engaging lectures and enjoyable interactions with like-minded individuals,” said Tawfik, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes participant. “The academic rigor and social activities offered were a perfect balance for making the whole experience memorable.”

Developing a deeper commitment to education

High-quality educational experiences at a young age will foster a desire to continue growing and learning at a deeper level throughout their lives — in college and beyond — which will inspire a greater dedication to learning.

“Being a part of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes was a fantastic experience. I can’t believe how much I learned in just two weeks,” said Divyansha, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes participant. “These invaluable lessons will help me in my academic journey.”

Here are two summer programs to consider.

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

These are online, synchronous enrichment courses for students currently in grades 8–11. This program provides passionate and intellectually curious students with intensive study in a single course from advanced subjects rarely taught in high school, offering students the chance to dive deep into cutting-edge topics.

Students from around the world study and discuss academic topics in small classes, allowing them to participate in real-time discussions in which instructors and students interact with one another. Participants pursue in-depth, interactive exploration of academic material in a single subject per course, in fields including computer science, math, creative writing, social justice, engineering and more.

Stanford Summer Humanities Institute

This three-week residential program on Stanford University’s campus is for students currently in grades 10-11. Students from around the world explore big questions in the humanities through seminars led by Stanford professors and graduate students. Participants engage with one subject from a humanities topic such as literature, politics or philosophy — ranging from ancient Greek philosophy to the American Enlightenment and more.

During the three weeks, students investigate philosophical questions and pursue research topics while learning how to write college-level papers and communicate complex arguments.

These advanced, unique courses are offered for academic enrichment and growth, not for credit or a grade. The greatest value of participating in these programs is the experience itself, which provides growth and development in students’ talents and curiosity that will positively impact their educational journey.

To learn more and to apply to these summer enrichment programs, visit SummerHumanities.SPCS.stanford.edu and SummerInstitutes.SPCS.stanford.edu.

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How to find thoughtful gifts that make a lasting impression

2024-12-12T10:47:00

(BPT) – Every holiday season, finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones can feel overwhelming. This year, let Lowe’s simplify the process with unique, thoughtful options that bring joy and creativity to your celebrations. Whether you’re shopping for kids, the DIY enthusiast, or even that hard-to-buy-for relative, Lowe’s has you covered with an exciting lineup of gifts and services designed to make your holiday stress-free.

Known for their shared passion for creating personalized, functional living spaces, Lowe’s has partnered with Danielle and Kevin Jonas to share their favorite tips and picks for thoughtful gifts and holiday decorating ideas.

Unique gifts for kids of every age and interest

For the little ones, Danielle Jonas loves DIY craft kits that encourage creativity and keep kids entertained for hours. Options like the Build and Grow Kid’s Castle Project Kit or the Make Your Own Holiday Snow Globes inspire imaginative play and seasonal fun.

For fans of TikTok trends, Kevin highlights the versatile Kobalt Mini Tool Box. Its compact size and vibrant color options make it a popular choice — not just for kids, but for adults too! Ideal for storing everything from craft supplies to collectibles, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

“The holidays can get pretty busy with family gatherings, shopping, and finding the perfect gifts. We’re always looking for ways to make things easier and more fun. That’s why we love shopping at Lowe’s — they have it all! Whether we’re picking up tools for a home project, gifts for our little ones or holiday décor to spruce up the house, Lowe’s makes it simple to check everything off our list,” shared Kevin and Danielle Jonas.

Looking for something more? Lowe’s Gift Zone offers a curated selection of stylish and practical presents, while flexible shopping and delivery options, or convenient services like Buy Online, Pick Up In Store, ensure you can shop stress-free.

Deck the halls with ease

Need to refresh your home’s décor for the season? Lowe’s has everything you need to create a warm and inviting space for your gatherings.

Danielle suggests keeping holiday décor cohesive with a simple color scheme or theme — think natural greenery with frosted accents or bold pops of festive red and gold. Kevin loves exploring Lowe’s tech-savvy offerings, like app-controlled Twinkly Smart Lights or Bluetooth-enabled animatronics, which bring a modern twist to traditional decorations.

Whether you’re adding finishing touches or starting fresh, Lowe’s knowledgeable associates are ready to help you find the perfect pieces to make your home shine this season.

Thoughtful gifts, stress-free solutions

From craft kits for kids to innovative gadgets for DIYers, Lowe’s makes it easy to find something special for everyone on your list. And with flexible shopping and delivery options, or convenient services like Buy Online, Pick Up In Store, you can shop when it’s most convenient for you.

Start your holiday shopping today at Lowes.com or visit your local Lowe’s to explore festive décor and gifts for everyone on your list.

Looking for savings and perks? Join MyLowe’s Rewards* to unlock member-only deals and make the most of every shopping trip this season.

*Loyalty program subject to Terms & Conditions. Details at Lowes.com/Terms. Subject to change.

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Got holiday FOMO? 7 ways to stay healthy so you can enjoy the festive season

2024-12-12T11:01:00

(BPT) – Nobody wants to feel sick during the holiday season. From the hustle and bustle of office parties, school programs, holiday concerts, parades and gatherings with loved ones, the festivities are endless. But just as our calendars fill up, cold and flu season hits, creating a perfect storm of germs when we most want to stay healthy.

It’s enough to give anyone a serious case of holiday FOMO. It’s the “fear of missing out” on holiday parties, activities and celebrations because you’ve caught a bug.

Adorable child in overalls with wearing raindeer ears while he and his parents decorate the Christmas Tree.

Walgreens recently commissioned KRC Research to conduct a survey into holiday FOMO and found that if you’re feeling it, you’re not alone. According to the survey, 51% of Gen Z and 36% of millennials are worried they’ll miss a holiday event this year because of an unexpected illness, which isn’t surprising considering 70% of Gen Z and 54% of millennials have missed events in the past because they caught a bug.

Younger woman hugging her grandmother at a family gathering with other people and a Christmas tree in the background.

That’s why the vast majority of those two groups, 89% of Gen Z and 87% of millennials, plan to put additional effort into prioritizing their health and well-being this holiday season. In fact, one in five respondents of all ages reported they’re planning to adopt a full health and wellness routine during the holiday season this year.

Mother and small child curl up on the floor next to the Christmas tree with lights and packages all around.

Looking to navigate the germ gauntlet and stay healthy? The experts at Walgreens share seven tips to keep you well throughout the holidays.

Make sure your vaccines are up to date. Vaccines are the number one way to protect against respiratory illnesses and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. And don’t be afraid to double or triple up! Walgreens makes it simple for you and your family to get all the vaccines you need in one visit, and is offering flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia (pneumococcal) vaccination appointments nationwide.1 Walk in to your local pharmacy, use the Walgreens app, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine or call 1-800-WALGREENS.

Eat right. Sticking to a healthy, balanced diet at this time of year can seem like a holiday miracle with all the deliciousness available at every turn. You don’t have to forgo all the sweet treats and savory dishes. Indulge a little! Just make sure you’re balancing it with healthy salads, veggies, fruits, protein and fiber.

Consider if supplements are right for you. Vitamin D and Vitamin C can help boost your immune system and a good probiotic can help keep your gut healthy, which helps with holiday overindulgence and can be an immune system boost. Confused about what to take? Your Walgreens pharmacist can offer guidance. They’re the experts in prescription and OTC drugs and supplements. Just ask! They’re happy to help.

Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep seems to fix almost anything, right? Making sure you get enough rest helps your body ward off illness as well. Amid the festivities, try to prioritize your sleep so you’re ready to tackle the next day, whether it’s holiday shopping or attending your child’s school program. Consider self-care with products like Walgreens Lavender Epsom Salt, Walgreens Multipurpose Vibration Therapy Wrap or Walgreens Sleep Aid De-Stress Gummies to help unwind.

Manage stress. Not easy to do at any time of the year, nearly impossible around the holidays. Some easy ways to manage stress: Choose a theme for your holiday gift giving by getting everyone cozy pajamas and slippers, or family-friendly games, or even health and well-being essentials they can use year-round. That way you’ll have one-stop shopping and your list is slayed. Also cut down on running around doing errands. At Walgreens, you can pick up many of these gifts, holiday cards, wrapping paper, stocking stuffers, a new lipstick for your holiday party and all your prescriptions in one fell swoop. Customers may also take advantage of holiday shopping conveniences like Same Day Refill for eligible prescriptions, 30-minute in-store Pickup, or 1-hour Delivery all season long.2 One and done. Another stress buster? Exercise. Make some time for it, even if it’s just a walk on a snowy evening.

Stock up on OTC medications. If you or your family comes down with a bug despite your best efforts, having medications on hand can help you feel better faster without having to run to the store. Stock your medicine cabinet with cough syrup for you and the kids, antihistamines, mucus fighters, pain relievers and other OTC medications that can help ease your symptoms and shorten colds. Not sure what to get? Your Walgreens pharmacist can help in person or via Pharmacy Chat.

If you’re sick, stay home. Don’t risk passing your illness on to others. Stay home and curl up with a holiday movie and a cup of tea. If you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19, Walgreens offers an easy combination test for both, with results in 30 minutes or less.

Don’t miss out on the magic of the season because you’re feeling unwell. With a little planning and effort, you can keep yourself healthy to enjoy the holidays with friends and family.

[1] Vaccines subject to availability. State, age and health-related restrictions may apply.

[2] Exclusions and restrictions apply. See Walgreens.com for details.

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Self-flying AI drones are transforming warehouses and optimizing inventory management

2024-12-11T10:01:00

(BPT) – AI, drones, and e-commerce technology advancements, increasingly global supply chains, and today’s instant delivery expectations are changing the way businesses manage their inventory. To meet and exceed customer expectations and effectively control costs, business leaders must constantly improve the tracking and accounting of product at physical locations to ensure counts are synchronized across e-commerce sites, backend warehouse management, and accounting systems. It is becoming increasingly critical for revenue growth and cost management for any retail, manufacturing, or fulfillment business, that inventory optimization is achieved through accurate forecasting, inventory cycle counts, and removing manual processes from the work of warehouse and logistics staff.

One recent publicly listed company, ZenaTech (Nasdaq: Zena), and its subsidiary ZenaDrone are set to lead the charge for this innovation. Their indoor self-flying or autonomous drones are transforming the inventory management and stocktake process by doing more accurate full physical counts of inventory as frequently as on an hourly basis. They are also changing the face of decision-making and planning particularly for “available-to-promise” (ATP) or “capable-to-promise” (CTP) forecasting and leveraging machine learning and predictive tools to automate and bring accuracy that can further improve the entire process.

Inventory carrying costs (ICC) are so important for any business to manage as they can eat significantly into the bottom line. Not just the actual product or material storage, but the associated handling costs, insurance, taxes, shrinkage, depreciation — and the opportunity cost of having capital tied up in inventory. It is easy to see how quickly the costs of holding and storing unsold or work-in-process goods add up.

AI self-flying or autonomous drones are a modern way to help reduce ICC — while also improving inventory management, stocktaking, and verifying the physical goods in your warehouse or storage facility, they also minimize labor costs.

This is one company to watch that addresses these problems directly and has a great future ahead.

Upgrade and innovate your inventory systems

ZenaTech‘s ZenaDrone has developed the new IQ Nano, a 10×10-inch drone designed to perform regular and frequent inspections including bar code or RFID scanning, facility maintenance inspections, security monitoring, 3D indoor mapping and other applications in a warehouse or distribution facility.

The IQ Nano is designed for autonomous use with integrated sensors, high-quality cameras, data collection and analysis, and AI capabilities. Weighing just 3.3 pounds and with a flight time of up to 20 minutes before autonomously touching down and recharging using its automatic battery charging station, the IQ Nano is designed for hovering stability and safety, thanks to its built-in obstacle avoidance capabilities.

“The IQ Nano is a breakthrough technology that dramatically reduces the burden of inventory management in terms of both labor and cost,” said ZenaTech CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. “This dramatically improves decision-making and efficient operations by being able to assess and manage physical inventory cost-effectively by the hour instead of once every quarter, as is often done. This easily results in inventory cost savings in millions of dollars per year for multi-warehouse facility customers.”

Transform your warehouse processes for a single facility or a network

Inventory management has become increasingly complex due to global facilities, information, and supply chains. According to Forrester research, omnichannel fulfillment across multiple stores, sales channels, and online marketplaces is a high or top priority for 94% of retailers. Ultimately, this is a much larger network than many traditional inventory management systems were designed to track and manage.

By adopting ZenaTech’s ZenaDrone solutions, warehouse facilities can improve their operations and more easily account for inventory in addition to optimizing costs, compliance, and financial reporting:

1. Reduce costs and eliminate manual processes: Move from occasional or regular quarterly/annual stocktakes, to continuous inventory data, ensuring more accuracy and efficiency across the enterprise. This will boost productivity and cost reduction by eliminating the need for time-consuming and tedious manual counts.

2. Improve safety in the warehouse: Drones can reduce the need to climb up ladders and reach top shelves or other hard-to-reach areas, dramatically reducing safety issues and improving safety compliance.

3. Improve inventory carrying costs: Better accuracy knowing what is sitting in inventory or work-in-process for better decision making to lower overall inventory costs.

4. Instant identification of misplaced items: Swiftly identify and rectify misplaced pallets, boxes, and SKUs, streamlining picking, replenishment, and shipment processes.

5. Optimized goods tracking: Always know the exact location of goods, minimizing search times and maximizing resource utilization plus synchronizing with accounting systems.

Learn more ways this cutting-edge drone technology can improve your warehouse and logistic business at ZenaDrone.com. To learn more about investing in the next generation of drone solutions, visit ZenaTech.com.

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Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate

2024-12-11T15:05:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific

Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85.1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine.1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available.2

Comparison image between a normal and enlarged prostate

What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?

Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more.2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms.3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine.3

Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?

It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin.3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:

  • Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms.4
  • Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland.5
  • Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself.5

Are there alternatives to surgery?

For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia.6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH.7

Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years.6

Illustration of prostate before

Illustration of prostate during

Illustration of prostate after


Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.

To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.

As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.

Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.

All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

References

1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.

2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.

3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.

4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.

5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.

6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.

7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.

Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate
(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific
Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85. 1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine. 1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available. 2
What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?
Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more. 2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms. 3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine. 3
Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?
It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin. 3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:
• Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms. 4
• Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland. 5
• Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself. 5
Are there alternatives to surgery?
For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia. 6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH. 7
Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years. 6
Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.
To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.
Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.
All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
References
1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.
2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.
3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.
4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.
5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.
6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.
7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.
Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate
(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific
Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85. 1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine. 1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available. 2
What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?
Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more. 2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms. 3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine. 3
Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?
It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin. 3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:
• Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms. 4
• Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland. 5
• Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself. 5
Are there alternatives to surgery?
For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia. 6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH. 7
Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years. 6
Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.
To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.
Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.
All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
References
1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.
2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.
3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.
4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.
5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.
6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.
7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.

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Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: A Closer Look at Symptoms, Diagnosis and Clinical Research Underway

2024-12-11T16:19:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting movement and posture that begins in early childhood development. It is the most common cause of motor disability in children, affecting about one in 345 children in the United States.1-2 It may happen as a result of lack of oxygen during or around birth, stroke, infection, a problem with metabolism or other problems that cause injury or affect the development of parts of the brain involved in movement control in the first few years of life.3 CP is a permanent condition, affecting a person for their entire life.

People living with CP typically have motor problems, which may include spasticity (abnormal muscle tightness), dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements) or ataxia (poor muscle control), and many people have a mix of these motor disorders.4 Dyskinesia due to CP (DCP) is one of the most disabling forms of CP and impacts approximately 10% to 20% of people living with CP.5-6

According to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF), the combination of irregular and unpredictable movements (chorea) and twisting and repeating movements (dystonia) often disrupt activities and cause significant functional impairment, including the ability to maintain balance, walk or fine motor control.7 Heather Riordan, M.D., Neurologist and Movement Disorders Specialist, Director of the Phelps Center for Cerebral Palsy at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, discusses the symptoms of chorea and impact on patients in a video shared on the CPF website here.

About 30% of people with DCP are affected mostly by these involuntary and irregular movements (chorea), while dystonia is the predominant motor finding in the remaining 70%.8 However, it is common for both chorea and dystonia movements to be present together.6

For people living with DCP, these movements can occur in any region of the body, including the arms and legs, torso and face and may vary in severity. They are often triggered or made worse by stimulation or stress. Because dyskinesia can occur at rest and/or when actively using the body, the problems with movement are very burdensome in day-to-day living, with discomfort and pain affecting the quality of life for people and their caregivers.9

Jen Lyman, mom to a son with DCP, highlights how dyskinesia makes communicating more difficult. “The most difficult thing about dyskinesia is watching my son struggle to do things that he wants to do, but the extra movements get in the way…special things, such as using a touch screen to video chat with his grandmother, are nearly impossible despite his best efforts to use his hands and fingers. Something so simple, yet so special for him should be effortless.”

DCP has a wide-ranging impact on the individual, including lifelong challenges with movement, a higher risk of other medical issues, a higher rate of mental health challenges and difficulties with communication.10-12

“Those of us who have the privilege to serve patients with dyskinetic, hyperkinetic or mixed cerebral palsy see the functional impact of this very challenging type of tone every day,” said Susan Biffl, M.D., Rehabilitation Medicine Specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego and Assistant Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine. “Patients face challenges with self-care, independence, mobility, communication, fine motor skills that affect occupational and recreational activities, swallowing, social interactions and even sleep. As this tone is variable, it is much more challenging to treat than more consistent tone issues, such as spasticity.”

Treatment Options

There are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for DCP. Dystonia and chorea are often managed separately as they respond differently to various treatments, which can make treatment challenging.3 Most drugs being investigated for DCP have focused on dystonia, and more research is needed to determine potential treatments for chorea. New treatment options are needed to help manage these movement disorders and improve daily function and quality of life for those affected.

“After 20 years of caring for individuals with cerebral palsy, I continue to find those with dyskinetic cerebral palsy among the most challenging to treat, largely due to the limited effectiveness of available pharmacologic options,” said Joyce Oleszek, M.D., Professor, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine. “There is an urgent need for more robust evidence to support pharmacologic treatments for this condition, given its profound impact on function, comfort and quality of life.”

Ongoing Research

Clinical studies are important in the development of treatment options, allowing researchers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new medicines. The data from clinical studies are used to determine if an investigational treatment can be approved for use to treat certain disorders.

There are ongoing clinical studies evaluating potential treatments for DCP, including one for chorea. Neurocrine Biosciences is conducting the KINECT®-DCP clinical study, a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study investigating the study drug, valbenazine, for the treatment of DCP. The clinical study is currently enrolling children, adolescents and adults six to 70 years of age who have been diagnosed with DCP.

“The Cerebral Palsy Foundation is excited to partner with Neurocrine Biosciences on this study,” said Rachel Byrne, Executive Director of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. “We are proud to support strong research that can potentially bring meaningful change to the lives of those living with cerebral palsy.”

If you or someone you know may be eligible for this research study, please visit the study website for additional information here: FindADCPStudy.com.

REFERENCES

  1. Krigger KW. Cerebral palsy: a review. Am Fam Physician. 2006;73(1):91-100.
  2. Michael-Asalu A, Taylor G, Campbell H, Lelea LL, Kirby RS. Cerebral palsy: diagnosis, epidemiology, genetics, and clinical update. Adv Pediatr2019;66:189-208. doi:10.1016/j.yapd.2019.04.002
  3. Monbaliu E, Himmelmann K, Lin JP, et al. Clinical presentation and management of dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Lancet Neurol. 2017;16(9):741-749. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30252-1
  4. Christine C, Dolk H, Platt MJ, Colver A, Prasauskiene A, Krägeloh-Mann I; SCPE Collaborative Group. Recommendations from the SCPE collaborative group for defining and classifying cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol Suppl. 2007;109:35-38. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8749.2007.tb12626.x
  5. Lumsden DE, Crowe B, Basu A, et al. Pharmacological management of abnormal tone and movement in cerebral palsy. Arch Dis Child. 2019;104(8):775-780. doi:10.1136/archdischild-2018-316309
  6. Monbaliu E, de Cock P, Ortibus E, Heyrman L, Klingels K, Feys H. Clinical patterns of dystonia and choreoathetosis in participants with dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2016;58(2):138-144. doi:10.1111/dmcn.12846
  7. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Published December 20, 2022. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://cpresource.org/understanding-cerebral-palsy/types-cerebral-palsy/dyskinetic-cerebral-palsy
  8. Himmelmann K, Hagberg G, Wiklund LM, Eek MN, Uvebrant P. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy: a population-based study of children born between 1991 and 1998. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2007;49(4):246-251. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8749.2007.00246.x
  9. Masson R, Pagliano E, Baranello G. Efficacy of oral pharmacological treatments in dyskinetic cerebral palsy: a systematic review. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2017; 59:1237-1248. doi:10.1111/dmcn.13532
  10. What is cerebral palsy? Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/what-cerebral-palsy
  11. Adults & adolescence. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/adults
  12. Communication. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/communication

© 2024 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CAP-NBI-US-0115 12/2024
NBI-98854-DCP3018_11DecMatRelease_v1.0_25November2024

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Why Quality Control Matters to Pet Food Safety and the Planet

2024-12-11T09:07:00

(BPT) – When you pick up a bag of pet food from the store or click “add to cart” online, you deserve peace of mind knowing that the product you are buying is a safe and high-quality food.

At Purina, this commitment to safety and quality is at the heart of everything the company does. With millions of pets in the U.S. enjoying Purina products, the company is as committed to safety as it is devoted to pet health and the opportunity to enrich the lives of pets and the people who love them.

The science behind peace of mind

Purina is dedicated to ensuring that every pet food product meets its high standards of quality and safety. To support this mission, nearly 500 scientists, veterinarians and pet nutrition experts work to innovate and improve formulations, helping pets lead longer, healthier lives. But science is just one part of the equation. Manufacturing teams conduct 100,000 quality checks every day across its operations using a 7-step process to ensure that Purina’s stringent standards are met.

100,000 daily quality checks

Rather than relying solely on suppliers’ assurances, Purina goes the extra mile, conducting its own audits and sampling to verify quality directly from the source. By doing this, Purina helps to ensure that the company’s strict standards are upheld.

Manufacturing with precision

Every batch of pet food is carefully monitored to ensure that the correct proportions of ingredients are used, adhering to expert-developed recipes. Additionally, at multiple points throughout the production process, samples are taken and analyzed to ensure that pets receive complete and balanced meals that support their nutritional needs and life stage.

Made in the U.S.A. in Purina-owned factories

Factory team members help ensure that packages are filled correctly and labeled with a unique code that allows Purina to track everything back to its source. Because 99% of Purina’s products are crafted in the U.S. at one of its 23 factories, every aspect of the 7-step process can be watched closely. Direct oversight into every batch of pet food means Purina knows exactly when and where it was made and where it’s going.

Helping care for the planet

Purina is not only committed to pet health and safety but also to environmental sustainability. When sourcing ingredients and packaging materials, Purina is mindful of the environmental impact.

Purina does this by supporting farmers as they transition to regenerative agriculture practices to improve soil health and ultimately increase soil organic matter, which helps to sequester carbon.

Another way Purina cares for the environment is through their efforts to reduce water consumption in factories and continually assess process improvements throughout its business and manufacturing operations.

Through strategic partnerships, Purina has invested in wind and solar power to achieve 100% renewable electricity across all its facilities within North America.

Purina’s mission is built on providing high-quality, nutritious food for pets while being responsible stewards of the environment. Rigorous processes and unwavering commitment help ensure that pet owners can feel confident in their choice, knowing they’re providing the very best for their beloved companions.