Author: Mokhtar

  • National trends in the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in South Korea, 1998–2021

    Patient selection and data collection

    This study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), conducted between 1998 and 2021 by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).10,11. The study population included adults aged ≥ 19 years and data collected included information on age, gender, place of residence, body mass index (BMI), education level, income, alcohol consumption, smoking status and history of RA and OA.12. We focused our research on the adult population, which is over 19 years old in South Korea. A nationally representative sample of 163,221 participants was used to examine the prevalence of RA and OA before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey was conducted over 24 years and the number of participants surveyed in each year group was as follows: 51,515 in 1998-2001; 26,996 in 2005-2007; 20,070 in 2008–2010; 17,601 in 2011–2013; 17,129 in 2014–2016; 18,469 in 2017–2019; 5839 in 2020; and 5,602 in 2021.

    The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kyung Hee University (KHUH 2022-06-042) and KDCA, and all participants provided written informed consent. Furthermore, the KNHANES provides accessible public access to its data, which can be used as a valuable resource for various epidemiological studies. This study followed the ethical guidelines established by relevant national and institutional review boards for human research and adhered to the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki, as amended in 2008.

    Determination of RA and OA

    The aim of our study was to investigate the risk factors associated with the two most common forms of arthritis, RA and OA, over a 24-year period, from 1998 to 2021. To achieve our research objective, we collected a large number surveyed participants and asked them the question, “Have you ever been diagnosed with RA or OA by a doctor?” Based on their answers, we divided the participants into three groups: RA, OA, and both13. We collected data on several potential risk factors associated with the development of RA and OA, such as age, gender, lifestyle habits and socio-economic status. We conducted statistical analyzes to examine the associations between these risk factors and the development of RA and OA and to identify patterns or trends that have emerged over 24 years.

    Covariates

    Covariates included age (19–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–79, and ≥ 80 years), gender, region of residence (urban and rural)14,15,16, BMI group, household income (lowest, second, third, and highest quartiles), education level (primary school or less, middle school, high school, and college or higher education), alcohol consumption (1–5 days/month, ≥ 6 days/month, and non-drinker) and smoking status (non-smoker, ex-smoker and smoker). BMI was subdivided into underweight (< 18.5 kg/m2).2), normal weight (18.5–22.9 kg/m2), overweight (23–25 kg/m22), and obese (≥ 25.0 kg/m2) according to Asia-Pacific guidelines17,18.

    static analysis

    The results of this study were presented using qualitative data, expressed in proportions or percentages. Weighted multivariate regression model analyzes were conducted to compare the estimates of each related factor before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, using weighted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).19. The prevalence of RA and OA was calculated using data from the KNHANES, spanning the period 1998 to 2021, stratified by year group. A weighted complex sampling analysis was performed to ensure accurate estimation. Binomial or linear logistic regression models were used to calculate the ORs with 95% CIs or β coefficients with 95% CIs. To ensure the robustness of the main findings, a stratification analysis was performed in all regression models using variables such as gender, education level, region of residence and income. Furthermore, the ratio of ORs was calculated to estimate the interaction duration of each risk factor and identify groups that were more vulnerable to the patient with RA and OA during the pandemic. Overall, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of RA and OA and to identify the factors contributing to vulnerability to these conditions. The SAS software (version 9.4; SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA) was used for statistical analyses, with a two-sided test, and a p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant19.

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  • Xtant Medical Announces Record Third Quarter Revenue of $25 Million

    Xtant Medical Announces Record Third Quarter Revenue of $25 Million

    Increases 2023 annual revenue guidance to $88 million – $91 million

    BELGRADE, Mont., November 09, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: XTNT), a global medical technology company focused on surgical solutions for the treatment of spinal conditions, today reported financial and operating results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

    “Driven by strong organic growth of 18% and contributions from our recent acquisitions, we achieved record third quarter revenue of $25 million, up 73% year over year, and exceeded our 2023 revenue guidance for the second consecutive quarter increased. ” said Sean Browne, president and CEO of Xtant Medical. “I am extremely proud of our team’s efforts to integrate Surgalign’s hardware and biologics businesses while growing our core businesses. These results and execution are a testament to their steadfast commitment and dedication. With the integration with Surgalign running smoothly, we remain focused on optimizing our distribution network and further scaling our operations. We look forward to building on this momentum by providing comprehensive solutions to patients in need and maximizing value for our shareholders.”

    Financial results third quarter 2023

    Third quarter 2023 revenue grew 73% to $25.0 million, compared to $14.5 million for the same quarter in 2022. Revenue includes 18% organic growth plus a 55% increase from products added in the acquisition of the Coflex and CoFix lines and Surgalign hardware and products. biological matters. These sales increases are primarily attributed to increased sales from independent agents and private label brands, sales from the acquired Coflex and CoFix product lines, and sales from the Surgalign acquisition.

    Gross margin for the third quarter of 2023 was 61.3%, compared to 54.6% for the same period in 2022. The increase is primarily due to greater production efficiencies, lower costs for excess and obsolete inventory and product mix, in part offset by higher product yields. cost.

    Operating expenses for the third quarter of 2023 totaled $18.7 million, compared to $9.8 million for the third quarter of 2022. The increase was primarily due to additional independent agent sales commissions, higher personnel costs, legal fees and amortization of intangible assets related to the Coflex and CoFix product lines.

    Net income in the third quarter of 2023 was $9.2 million, or $0.07 per share, compared to the net loss in the third quarter of 2022 of $2.4 million, or $0.03 per share.

    Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2023 was $0.5 million, compared to a Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA loss of $0.9 million in the prior year period. The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income/loss from operations before depreciation, amortization and interest expense and provision for income taxes, and as further adjusted to add or exclude, as applicable, non-cash compensation, acquisition-related expenses, acquisition costs. -related fair value adjustments, gain on bargain purchase and dispute settlement reserve. A calculation and reconciliation of the Adjusted EBITDA with the net loss can be found in the attached financial tables.

    Financial guidance 2023

    Xtant Medical is raising its full-year 2023 revenue guidance to $88 million to $91 million, compared to the company’s previous guidance of $75 million to $77 million. The revised guidance represents annual revenue growth of approximately 52% to 57% compared to full-year 2022 revenue and includes contributions from the Surgalign transaction.

    Conference call

    Xtant Medical will host a webcast and conference call to discuss its third quarter 2023 financial results on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 9:00 AM ET. To access the webcast, click here. To access the conference call, call 877-407-6184 within the US or 201-389-0877 outside the US. A replay of the call will be available at www.xtantmedical.com, under ‘Investor Info’.

    About Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc.

    Xtant Medical’s mission to honor the gift of donation so that our patients can live the fullest and most complete lives possible is the driving force behind our company. Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc. (www.xtantmedical.com) is a global medical technology company focused on the design, development and commercialization of a comprehensive portfolio of orthobiology spinal products and implant systems to facilitate spinal fusion in complex spine, deformity and degenerative procedures. ease . Xtant’s people are dedicated and talented and work with the highest integrity to serve our customers.

    The symbols ™ and ® indicate trademarks and registered trademarks of Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc. or its affiliates, registered as indicated in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and trade names referred to in this press release are the property of their respective owners.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    To supplement the Company’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the Company uses certain non-GAAP financial measures in this press release, including Adjusted EBITDA and Organic Sales Growth. Reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures used in this release to the most comparable GAAP measures for the respective periods can be found in tables later in this release. The Company’s management believes that the presentation of these measures provides useful information to investors. These measures can help investors evaluate the Company’s operations from period to period. Management uses the non-GAAP measures in this release internally to evaluate the company’s performance, including resource allocation. Investors should consider non-GAAP financial measures only as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, that depend on or refer to future events or circumstances, or that contain words such as “intends” , “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “continues”, “future”, “will”, “potential”, “moving forward”, “guidance”, similar expressions or the negative thereof, and the use of future data. Forward-looking statements in this press release include the Company’s 2023 financial guidance. The Company cautions that its forward-looking statements, by their nature, involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially depending on a number of important factors, including among others other: the future operating results and financial performance of the Company; its ability to increase or maintain revenues; risks associated with the recent acquisitions and integration of these companies; expected stem cell shortages that will negatively impact future revenues; possible future impairments on long-lived assets and goodwill and write-downs on excess inventories; the ability to remain competitive; the ability to innovate, develop and introduce new products; the ability to attract and retain new and existing independent distributors and agents and qualified personnel and the Company’s dependence on key independent agents for a significant portion of its revenue; the effect of COVID-19, labor and hospital staff shortages on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition, particularly as they impact key markets; the company’s ability to successfully implement its future growth initiatives and the risks associated therewith; the effect of inflation, higher interest rates and other recessionary factors and supply chain disruptions; the effect of changes in product sales mix on the company’s financial results; government and third party coverage and reimbursement for company products; the ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approvals and comply with government regulations; the effects of product liability claims and other legal proceedings to which the Company may be subject; the effect of product recalls and defects; the ability to obtain and protect the Company’s intellectual property and proprietary rights and operate without violating the rights of others; risks associated with the Company’s clinical trials; international risks; the ability to service the company’s debt, comply with debt covenants and access additional debt; the ability to obtain additional financing on favorable terms or at all; and other factors. Additional risk factors are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on March 8, 2023 and subsequent SEC filings by the Company, including but not limited to the most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2023 is expected to be filed with the SEC. Investors are encouraged to read the company’s filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

    Contact person for Investor Relations

    David Carey
    Lazar FIND
    Phone: 212-867-1762
    Email: david.carey@finnpartners.com

    SEE FINANCES HERE

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  • Celebrate bone health at “Our Virtual Table” – Bone Talk

    Celebrate bone health at “Our Virtual Table” – Bone Talk

    shutterstock 2070764900

    As the holidays approach, we enjoy getting together. While the festivities bring joy, they also provide an opportunity to focus on our health, especially the health of our bones. Welcome to ‘Our Virtual Table’, where we celebrate the season with good food and a commitment to taking care of our bodies.

    The basics: nutrition for strong bones

    Amid the Christmas spirit, it’s crucial to remember that our bones need attention too. Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining strong and healthy bones, and our plates can become a vibrant nutritional spectrum. Include calcium-rich options such as leafy greens, dairy and fortified foods in your meals. Don’t forget the importance of vitamin D, found in fatty fish and fortified cereals. Increase magnesium intake by including nuts, seeds and whole grains on your holiday menu. Plus, enjoy the benefits of vitamin K from vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

    But let’s not stop there: consider incorporating other important nutrients into your meals. Ensure adequate protein intake, which is essential for bone structure and maintenance. Potassium, found in foods such as bananas and sweet potatoes, plays a role in maintaining a balance between acids and bases in the body and contributes to bone health. Don’t forget the omega-3 fats, found in oily fish and flaxseed, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can positively influence bone density.

    With this varied range of nutrientsyour meals become not only a celebration of flavors, but also a thoughtful embrace of holistic, bone-nourishing goodness.

    Recipe ideas for bone health

    To make your “Our Virtual Table” experience even more enjoyable, here are a few festive recipes:

    As we enjoy the joys of the holidays, it is essential to find a balance. Treat yourself to something tasty, but make conscious choices about adding nutrient-rich options. Your bones will thank you for finding the sweet spot between indulgence and nourishment. You can also get creative and adapt recipes to your liking. For example, if a recipe calls for mayonnaise, consider substituting Greek yogurt.

    Join “Our Virtual Table” – share your photos and recipes

    Our community is a source of inspiration and encouragement, proving that good health is even more fun when it’s shared. Join “Our Virtual Table” and let’s celebrate health and community together. Share photos and recipes of your own healthy meals on social media using our special hashtags: #OurVirtualTableBHOF #OurBoneHealthyTable

    You can also find us here and tag us:

    Cheers to health, happiness and the warmth of our virtual meeting!

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  • Research links lower testosterone levels to an increased risk of arthritis

    Research links lower testosterone levels to an increased risk of arthritis

    In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers determined the relationship between serological testosterone levels and arthritis in adults in the United States (US).

    Research: Lower serum testosterone is associated with an increased risk of arthritis.  Image credits: airdone/Shutterstock.comStudy: Lower serum testosterone is associated with an increased risk of arthritis. Image credits: airdone/Shutterstock.com

    Background

    Arthritis is a joint disease that affects the hyaline articular cartilage, surrounding tissues and subchondral bone. Hormonal variables, such as testosterone, have been linked to the growth and development of knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

    Studies have shown that androgens activate non-genetic and non-genetic mechanisms, with the most rapid evidence being a rapid increase in intercellular calcium concentration.

    Physiological testosterone doses have been shown to improve cartilage production in men with advanced osteoarthritis, and treatment with testosterone replacement improves articular cartilage regeneration in affected individuals.

    According to research, androgens are also involved in the formation and development of osteoblasts. However, there is minimal evidence for sex-specific relationships between serological testosterone expression and OA, and the association between plasma testosterone in arthritic individuals and disease progression is not clear.

    About the study

    In the current study, researchers examined the influence of serological testosterone levels on the pathophysiology of arthritis.

    Data from 10,439 adults who participated in the 2013–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression modeling, performed to determine odds ratios (ORs).

    The model estimates are adjusted for covariates such as age, gender, race, education level, marital status, income, alcohol consumption, smoking status, test reports, laboratory findings, survey responses, and comorbidities (such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension). ).

    In addition, generalized additivity modeling and smoothed curve fitting were performed. The database samples were selected using stratified multistage sampling.

    Data collection methods include home interviews to collect demographic, nutritional and health-related data, and medical examinations to collect laboratory data [including sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and estradiol] and physical assessment data [including body mass index (BMI) and waistline].

    Individuals were asked whether they had been diagnosed with arthritis by doctors or other medical professionals, and if so, they were asked to report the type of condition as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or other.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) isotope dilution-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC-MS) technique was used to determine TT concentrations.

    Results

    Initially, 20,146 individuals were identified, of whom 5,380 and 4,327 were excluded due to missing data on serological testosterone levels and development of arthritis, respectively. Of the 10,439 study participants, 48% were male, with an average age of 47 years and an average serum testosterone level of 215. Of the participants, 27% developed arthritis.

    Arthritis patients showed lower serum testosterone than their non-arthritic counterparts, in line with previous studies. The findings from linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant negative association between serological testosterone levels and arthritis.

    Similarly, the fourth quarter univariable analyzes using the first quarter as reference showed a significantly lower risk of developing arthritis.

    Specifically, sensitivity analyzes using quartiles of serum testosterone resulted in odds ratios of 1.0, 0.9, 0.5, and 0.5 for the first quartile, second quartile, third quartile, and fourth quartile, respectively, in the fully adjusted model.

    Individuals in the top quartile of serum testosterone levels showed a 51% lower risk of developing arthritis compared to individuals in the lowest quartile.

    Smoothed curve fitting showed a non-linear relationship between the development of arthritis and serological testosterone levels. The subgroup analyzes showed that the negative association between serological testosterone and the development of arthritis was statistically more significant in older female smokers with comorbidities and body mass index (BMI) values ​​of 30 kg per m2 and above.

    Testosterone and estradiol are natural immunosuppressants that suppress antibody and cell-mediated immunity while acting as anti-inflammatory agents. Because women have more active immunity than men, they play a crucial role in lowering men’s susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.

    The primary androgen, testosterone, binds to specialized intracellular receptors to create active forms of testosterone receptor complexes. Androgen and estrogen receptors are present in both male and female osteoblasts, and testosterone binds to both to regulate bone calcium.

    Decreased testosterone levels can affect cartilage metabolism via ion channels and androgen receptors, resulting in cartilage and KOA breakdown. The activation of androgen receptors (AR) and estrogen receptors (ER) has a profound influence on bone metabolism.

    Testosterone increases the glycosaminoglycan content in the extracellular matrix of the chondrocytes, improves the coverage of type II collagen on the cartilage surface and influences the development of the fibrocartilage structures.

    Low testosterone levels may be the cause of obesity rather than its consequence, with BMI having a causal influence on serum testosterone in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the study results indicated that lower levels of serum testosterone were associated with an increased risk of developing arthritis.

    The in-depth investigation of the negative and non-linear association between serological testosterone levels and the development of arthritis was related to BMI and sex.

    The findings could impact the prevention and treatment of arthritis. However, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the impact of serum testosterone on the development of arthritis.

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  • Study sheds new light on the variety of cellular causes of rheumatoid arthritis

    Study sheds new light on the variety of cellular causes of rheumatoid arthritis

    shutterstock 390538711 6b3c40fdd32742caa54307db3553cab1

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation leading to pain, joint damage and disability, affecting approximately 18 million people worldwide. Although RA therapies targeting specific inflammatory pathways have emerged, only some patients’ symptoms improve with treatment, highlighting the need for multiple treatment approaches tailored to different disease subtypes. To more precisely define the cellular causes of RA, an international research consortium, co-led by researchers from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system, analyzed tissues from RA donors to the at the single-cell level, integrating multiple forms of analysis to stratify RA based on six subtypes of inflammation. Findings, published in Natureshed new light on the variety of cellular causes of RA, which may lead to more targeted, effective and patient-tailored therapeutic approaches.

    “In treating people with rheumatoid arthritis, we struggle to find the right treatment for the right patient,” says corresponding author Soumya Raychaudhuri, MD, PhD, of the Brigham’s Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity and the Broad Institute, where he is an institute member. “We wanted to determine why some subgroups of patients do not respond to conventional treatments by looking at the subtypes of inflammation. We did this from many different angles, using multiple advanced, single-cell techniques and by integrating the results in a way that is has not been done before for an inflammatory disease.”

    The study findings represent a major milestone in the Accelerating Medicines Partnership Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus program, a public-private partnership launched in 2014 to advance the understanding of autoimmune diseases at the molecular and cellular levels and identify promising drug targets to identify. Working with researchers and physicians in the US and Britain, the researchers analyzed 79 donor samples of synovial tissue, the inflamed tissue in RA that normally helps soften and support joints. In particular, the researchers examined tissue from patients with new disease and from patients who did not respond to treatment to better identify both the initial causes of RA and those of refractory diseases.

    To ‘deconstruct’ RA pathology at the cellular level, the researchers combined surface protein data and histological analysis with multiple forms of single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing. Despite the variety of methods used to analyze more than 314,000 cells, the researchers consistently found evidence of six major types of inflammation, which they stratified by associated cell type, called cell type abundance phenotypes (CTAPs). Although some CTAPS, such as those enriched in T and B cells, would be expected to be used for an autoimmune disease like RA, the researchers were surprised to see that CTAPs were associated with structural cells such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells, with relatively few inflammatory leukocytes. They also found that patients’ CTAPs were dynamic and could change over time in response to treatment.

    In the future, the researchers want to expand their knowledge of the cell types involved in RA by studying how interconnections between cells promote disease states. Furthermore, they hope that this work will advance the analysis of synovial tissues in RA patients, which is not currently standard practice. Although blood tests are more common in RA patients, findings from this study and others emphasize that the cellular profile of synovial tissue differs substantially from that of blood.

    What this study shows is that tissue matters. Our findings point to the value of obtaining synovial tissue biopsies to evaluate the nature of the pathological process, which can be so different among patients. Future clinical trials will benefit greatly from assessing tissue characteristics in addition to responses to therapy. By providing this atlas of cell types and pathways involved in RA, we are better able to pursue our goal of precision medicine: being able to select the right drug for the right patient and achieve a high response rate.”


    Michael Brenner, MD, co-senior author, Brigham’s Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity

    Source:

    Brigham and Women’s Hospital

    Magazine reference:

    Zhang, F., et al. (2023). Deconstruction of the synovium of rheumatoid arthritis defines inflammatory subtypes. Nature. doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06708-y.

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  • Aclarion Announces Achievement of Goal to Enroll 10 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in Spine Surgery to Support Adoption of Nociscan

    Aclarion Announces Achievement of Goal to Enroll 10 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in Spine Surgery to Support Adoption of Nociscan

    Recruiting a panel of leading KOL surgeons who believe Nociscan can improve the diagnosis and treatment of discogenic low back pain is a critical step in establishing Nociscan as the standard of care.

    Aclarion’s KOL panel represents spine surgeons at some of the largest and most influential academic centers and private practices in the country, including leaders of national associations that advocate for protocols to improve clinical treatments.

    The company plans to activate MRIs for every KOL surgeon to expand Nociscan access for their patients and demonstrate improvements in clinical outcomes to payers.

    Aclarion will release initial scan volume data before the end of the year and begin reporting on quarterly scan volume in 2024, as increasing scan volume is a measure of increasing revenue and the likelihood of a coverage decision the local payer.

    BROOMFIELD, CO, November 8, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via NewMediaWire – Aclarion, Inc., (“Aclarion” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ACON, ACONW), a healthcare technology company that uses biomarkers and proprietary enhanced intelligence algorithms to help physicians identify the location of chronic low back pain, today announced that they have successfully achieved their goal of enrolling ten leading spine surgery KOLs to join the company help bring Nociscan to the standard of care for identifying discogenic low back pain.

    “Since executing our IPO last year, Aclarion has consistently delivered value creation catalysts that fall within a very concise framework of technology readiness, clinical evidence and surgeon advocacy and are proven to bring disruptive technological advances to the standard of care in the healthcare industry. said Brent Ness, Chief Executive Officer of Aclarion. “The steps we have taken in a short period of time demonstrate that our actions follow our stated intentions. We are incredibly proud of the KOL panel that has worked to bring Nociscan to the standard of care.”

    A cornerstone of the company’s strategy is Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) advocacy. Aclarion has now achieved its goal of engaging 10 leading spine physicians who are deploying Nociscan in their practices to close a major gap with conventional lumbar MR imaging, which cannot distinguish between pain and aging. Our KOL advisors are focused on advancing value-based healthcare through improved outcomes while advocating for societies and payers that leverage patient data and peer-reviewed, published clinical evidence. “KOL’s interest in Nociscan directly reflects the challenge of diagnosing and treating low back pain, and we are pleased that these physicians are advancing spine care with Nociscan,” said Ryan Bond, Chief Strategy Officer of Aclarion.

    KOLs, consultants and advisors now include:

    • Chris Ames, MD; University of CA San Francisco
    • Gregory Basil, MD MBA; University of Miami
    • Sigurd Berven, MD; University of CA San Francisco
    • George Frey, MD; Advent Health Colorado
    • Roger Hartl, MD; Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center, New York, NY
    • Dean Karahalios, MD; Advocate for the Aroura Health System
    • James Keller, MD; University of Michigan Health West
    • Alpesh Patel, MD MBA; Northwest
    • Eric Potts, MD; St. Vincent’s, Ascension Day
    • Juan Uribe, MD; Barrow Neurological Institute
    • Bob Eastlack, MD; Scripps (surgeon consultant)
    • Timothy Ryken, MD; (Consultant)
    • Lawrence Tannenbaum, MD; RadNet (MD advisor)
    • Jeffrey Lotz, PhD; University of CA San Francisco (Scientific Advisor)

    The company will announce expansion of MRI access for each KOL once their MRIs are onboard. Dr. Frey and Hartl already have access to Nociscan and have used it in their clinical practice. As access to MRI increases, so will the potential scan volume, peer-reviewed evidence, and revenue.

    For more information about the BEST trial, please visit: www.besttrial.org
    For information about BACPAC, please visit: https://heal.nih.gov/research/clinical-research/back-pain
    For more information about REACH, please visit: www.bacpac-reach.org
    For more information about our published evidence, please visit: www.aclarion.com
    For information about accessing Nociscan, please visit: www.aclarion.com

    About Aclarion, Inc.
    Aclarion is a healthcare technology company that uses magnetic resonance spectroscopy (“MRS”), proprietary signal processing techniques, biomarkers and enhanced intelligence algorithms to optimize clinical treatments. The company is entering the chronic low back pain market for the first time with Nociscan, the first evidence-based SaaS platform that helps physicians non-invasively distinguish between painful and non-painful discs in the lumbar spine. Through a cloud connection, Nociscan receives magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) data from an MRI machine for each lumbar disc being evaluated. In the cloud, proprietary signal processing techniques extract and quantify chemical biomarkers shown to be associated with disc pain. Biomarker data is fed into proprietary algorithms to indicate whether a disc may be a source of pain. When combined with other diagnostic tools, Nociscan provides critical insights into the location of a patient’s low back pain, giving clinicians clarity to optimize treatment strategies. For more information please visit www.aclarion.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 about the Company’s current expectations about future results, performance, prospects and opportunities. Statements that are not historical facts, such as “anticipates,” “believes” and “expects” or similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current plans and expectations and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could materially affect the company’s current plans and expectations, as well as its future results of operations and financial condition. These and other risks and uncertainties are discussed in more detail in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are encouraged to read the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s April 21, 2022 Prospectus as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 25, 2022 under Rule 424(b)(4), as well as other disclosures. included in the Prospectus and subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements in this announcement are made as of this date and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Investor contacts:
    Kirin M. Smith
    PCG Advice, Inc.
    646.823.8656
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

    Media contacts:
    Jodi Lamberti
    SPRIG advice
    612.812.7477
    jodi@sprigconsulting.com

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  • As hospital ASC development continues to accelerate, healthcare systems are seeking larger equity stakes – key findings from the fifth Avanza Intelligence Hospital Leadership ASC survey

    As hospital ASC development continues to accelerate, healthcare systems are seeking larger equity stakes – key findings from the fifth Avanza Intelligence Hospital Leadership ASC survey

    Survey available for download; podcast planned with further data analysis

    WESTCHESTER, Ill., Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Avanza Healthcare Strategies, a leading expert in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and outpatient services, has released the results of the 5th Avanza Intelligence Hospital Leadership ASC Survey.

    The 2023 results continue to illustrate the fluidity of the surgery center industry and how the overall outpatient market continues to mature. Key findings include:

    • ASC investments are accelerating and becoming central to the overall health care system strategy. More than seven in 10 hospitals and health care systems plan to continue investing in and joining ASCs.
    • Ownership dynamics and equity incentives remain fluid. Hospitals prefer to have an ownership stake of more than 50%, and a growing number prefer to own 100% of their ASC.
    • The maturing market continues to impact operational strategies. Hospitals and healthcare systems are considering alternative approaches to external partnerships.

    “Investments in ASCs continue to increase and we are seeing increasing attention to outpatient strategies as part of larger strategic planning,” said Avanza founder Joan Dentler, MBA. “The market is experiencing a confluence of events due to price pressure, government regulation and the acceleration of complex business conducted in ASCs. This is a dynamic market and many of our clients are working to stay ahead of these competitive forces by developing a comprehensive, long-term strategy around ASC development.”

    The survey, which can be downloaded here, was conducted by HealthLeaders Media on behalf of Avanza, with input from C-suite and board members, as well as financial, operational and clinical leaders from across the country.

    Digging deeper into ownership trends, approximately two-thirds of leaders surveyed indicated that when their hospital or healthcare system partners or is considering partnering with physicians for an ASC joint venture, their organization owns or prefers to own a majority stake in the operating room . Centre. The survey found that the number of hospitals owning 100% of their ASCs increased by 61% from the previous survey.

    “There is a growing desire to have control over record migration for both clinical and financial reporting purposes,” said Erik Miller, president of Avanza and parent company MedHQ. “Physician partners are increasingly favoring larger equity stakes in hospitals and healthcare systems to leverage contract relationships between payers and clinical operations.”

    Later this month, Joan Dentler will elaborate on the study’s findings in a podcast with industry leaders.

    About Avanza care strategies

    Avanza is an ASC and healthcare consulting organization that supports leading healthcare organizations in planning, developing, executing and executing their ASC and outpatient strategies. Over the past 20 years, Avanza has worked with more than 150 organizations and participated in more than 500 ASC projects, representing more than $200 million in customer revenue. Avanza Healthcare Strategies is a subsidiary of MedHQ, a leading technology-based services provider that leverages expertise in human resources, accounting, clinical staffing and revenue cycles to strengthen outpatient strategies.

    For more information:
    Phone: 512.479.6700
    Email: 368317@email4pr.com
    Find Avanza on LinkedIn

    SOURCE Avanza Healthcare Strategies

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  • Your Survival Guide for Cold and Flu Season – Bone Talk

    Your Survival Guide for Cold and Flu Season – Bone Talk

    shutterstock 1868337850

    It goes by many names: cold and flu season, ‘tripledemic’ season and respiratory virus season are just a few. Whatever you call it, we know that the colder months and more time indoors mean that many of us are coming down with coughs, colds or the flu. If you or your loved ones do get sick and you’re taking over-the-counter medications to treat your symptoms, there are a few things you should keep in mind to keep your family healthy and safe.

    Did you know that many commonly used fever reducers and multi-symptom cold and flu medications contain a drug ingredient called acetaminophen? Acetaminophen medicines can be a safe and effective way to control your cough, cold, and flu symptoms, but taking more acetaminophen than prescribed is an overdose and can lead to liver damage. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has established a maximum daily dose of 4,000 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period.

    Follow these four steps to use acetaminophen medicines safely:

    • Always read and follow the medicine label.

    • Know if your medications contain acetaminophen.

    • Only take one medicine that contains paracetamol at a time.

    • Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about dosing instructions or medications containing acetaminophen.

    Visit for more information KnowYourDose.org and follow @KnowYourDose further X/Twitter And Facebook.



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  • AlloSource Announces First Implantation of AceConnex™ Pre-Sutured Fascia Device in Hip Labral Reconstruction Procedure

    AlloSource Announces First Implantation of AceConnex™ Pre-Sutured Fascia Device in Hip Labral Reconstruction Procedure

    Pre-sutured fascia allograft designed for hip arthroscopy specialists to help the surgeon increase the efficiency of their procedures and return their patients to an active lifestyle

    CENTENNIAL, Colo., Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — AlloSource®, one of the largest allograft providers creating innovative tissue products to help surgeons heal their patients, today announced the first implant of the AceConnex Pre-Sourd Fascia Device for hip-labral reconstruction announced and augmentation. The labral reconstruction procedure was performed by Dr. Winston Gwathmey of University of Virginia Health as part of AceConnex’s limited market launch, marking the next step in the advancement of AlloSource’s products to support hip arthroscopy.

    “I appreciated having AceConnex Pre-Surtured Fascia for this labral reconstruction procedure because it made my process in the operating room more efficient compared to the extra time I spent suturing myself,” said Dr. Gwathmey. “I am honored to be the first surgeon in the United States to implant AceConnex. This device will be a true innovation for this procedure as it will allow the surgeon to suture an allograft preoperatively.”

    AceConnex Pre-Sutured Fascia is a device intended for use as part of soft tissue surgical procedures where constructs, including those containing allograft tissue, are used for reconstruction, replacement or augmentation of the labrum. The off-the-shelf, sterile device will be available in multiple pre-sutured lengths and diameters, with trimmable areas that allow adjustments of the allograft to match the patient’s anatomy. Additionally, AceConnex Pre-Surtured Fascia is manufactured to ensure consistency and minimize variability compared to allografts that are manually sutured intraoperatively. For many years, fascia allografts have been documented as an effective allograft for labral reconstruction. 1,2

    “The AceConnex Pre-Sutured Fascia allograft device represents a commitment to developing patient-specific solutions for the treatment of hip labral injuries as part of our comprehensive sports medicine and hip arthroscopy portfolio,” said Kevin Whitten, Chief Commercial Officer of AlloSource.

    Surgeons have trusted and implanted AlloSource fascia for labral procedures since 2012.

    For more information about the new AceConnex pre-bonded fascia, please email info@allosource.org.

    About AlloSource
    AlloSource, one of the largest suppliers of human tissue, honors tissue donors by creating innovative dermis, cartilage, tendon, fascia, bone and amnion allografts to help patients heal. Since 1994, the Colorado-based nonprofit organization has continued to develop its allografts to improve patient outcomes and serves as a trusted tissue partner to the medical community. AlloSource® is registered with the FDA as a tissue establishment and accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks. Learn more at allosource.org.

    References

    1. Carreira DS, Kruchten MC, Emmons BR, et al. Arthroscopic labral reconstruction using fascia lata allograft: shuttle technique and results over at least two years. J Hip conservation surgeon. 2018;5(3):247-58.
    2. Rathi R, Mazek J. Arthroscopic acetabular-labral reconstruction with fascia lata allograft: clinical results at a minimum one-year follow-up. Open Orthop J. 2017;11:554-61.

    Media contact
    Cindy Mason
    AlloBron
    720. 873. 4744
    cmason@allosource.org

    SOURCE AlloSource

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LG-P., KDD, DT, AC, GSF, MM, IS, AB-A., AMM, A. Nerviani, FR, CP, LBH and DH recruited patients and obtained synovial tissues. LWM, SMG, HP, VMH, AF, VPB, and JHA contributed to sample acquisition and processing and design of the AMP study. ED, EMG and BFB performed histological assessment of tissues. DW, KPL, AF, and VPB compiled and analyzed histological and clinical data. WA provided project management and compiled histological and clinical data. K. Wei, AHJ, GFMW, A. Nathan, and MBB designed and implemented the tissue disaggregation, cell sorting, and single-cell sequencing pipeline. AHJ, K. Wei, and GFMW oversaw and executed the tissue disaggregation pipeline. S.N., J.R.-M. and N. Meednu. performed immunofluorescence microscopy and analyzed these data together with MC and AHJKEM and IM performed and analyzed functional cellular assays. MJL, FR, and CP contributed unpublished clinical trial data. FZ, A. Nathan, N. Millard, MC, QX, MG-A., JBK, K. Weinand, JM, LR, and SR performed computational and statistical analyses. AHJ, K. Wei, MBB, JHA, LTD, DAR, FZ, A. Nathan, SR, DEO, JR-M. and AF provided input on cellular analysis and interpretation. DEO, JR-M., AF and JHA provided input for histological analyses. N. Millard and KS implemented the website. SR, MBB, JHA, LTD, and DAR supervised the study. FZ, AHJ, A. Nathan, N. Millard, QX, and SR wrote the first draft. FZ, AHJ, A. Nathan, K. Wei, N. Millard, DAR, LTD, JHA, MBB, and SR edited the draft. Members of the AMP RA/SLE Network contributed to this work by managing patient recruitment, managing clinical data, obtaining and processing synovial tissue samples, managing biorepositories, performing histological or computational analyses, providing software code, providing website support and/or providing input for data analysis. and interpretation. All authors participated in editing the final manuscript.

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