Cannabis

RETRANSMISSION: Sixth Wave & Neocon to Collaborate on the Development of SmartMask(TM) Virus Detection

Published

4 years ago

May 15, 2020

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – May 15, 2020) – Sixth Wave Innovations Inc. (CSE: SIXW) (OTC PINK: ATURF) (FSE: AHUH) (“Sixth Wave”, “SIXW” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has entered into non binding memorandum of understanding (the “MOU“) dated May 14, 2020 with Neocon International Inc. of Halifax, NS (“Neocon“) to design and produce a face mask which incorporates the Company’s patent-pending virus detection technology (“SmartMask^TM“) currently under development.

The Company is not making any express or implied claims that its product has the ability to eliminate, cure or contain the Covid-19 (or SARS-2 Coronavirus) at this time.

SmartMask™ Background

On April 3, 2020, Sixth Wave announced the filing of Patent Application Number 63000977 – The Use of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers for the Rapid Detection of Emerging Viral Outbreaks, such as SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (the “Accelerated Detection Molecularly Imprinted Polymers Patent” or “AMIPs Patent“). SIXW filed a second application on April 17, 2020, covering a variety of practical devices designed to collect, among others, air, water and surface samples in various environments and deliver a rapid indication of the detected virus (the “AMIPs Device Patent“).

A potential application described in the AMIPs Device Patent is the incorporation of the AMIPs technology into an N95 Compliant, or other mask / respirator. The envisioned SmartMask ^TM could provide the standard protective capabilities of an N95 mask, with the added interactive capability to alert the user that a target virus has been detected in the exhaled breath of the user.

The proposed method of alerting the user is a color change in the embedded AMIPs media, to be included in the face mask design. Based on prior experience with colorimetric media (namely, the Company’s legacy Explosives Detection Polymer sold under the tradename “SAFE-T^®“), Sixth Wave believes that AMIPs media can be designed to deliver a positive test result using variable color codes, including optional fluorescence, within minutes of exposure to the virus exhaled in the breath.

The SmartMask™

The capability of Molecular Imprinting technology to detect target molecules with a high degree of sensitivity (ability to detect minute traces of target substances) and accuracy (low false alarms and low false positives) is well established in the scientific literature. SIXW has an extensive history of developing the science in both inorganic and organic applications, including the detection of biogenic amines, cannabinoids, explosives and specialty metals applications.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, readers are cautioned that a SmartMask^TM prototype including the AMIPs technology, has yet to be completed. Independent third party laboratories will be engaged for advanced testing at the appropriate time.

Neocon is a Tier One designer and manufacturer of automotive trim level components, serving multiple international companies such as Nissan, Toyota, Hyundai and General Motors (see “About Neocon“, below). Neocon has extensive experience in material science, quality systems and high-speed manufacturing including in-line thermoforming, robotic assembly and ultra-sonic assembly and has retooled a portion of its factory to produce N95 compliant masks. The company has already produced several versions of an N95 mask which will serve as the foundation product for development of the SmartMask^TM prototype under the proposed arrangement with SIXW. The existing Neocon N95 mask uses machined match-mold aluminum production molds with advanced thermoforming techniques as well as all-in-one assembly fixtures to produce a cost effective, high quality 3-ply mask suitable for high volume production.

“This collaboration between two Atlantic Canadian companies is a great example of how our local businesses can work together to potentially help in the fight against COVID-19,” said The Honourable Geoff Regan, Member of Parliament for Halifax West. “I’m excited by the prospect of products that can change colour in the presence of the virus, and products that can potentially allow event organizers to know instantly if a guest has the virus. This partnership with Neocon will assist Sixth Wave with bringing this important testing technology to market and I wish them the best of success.”

“We’re extremely pleased to be working with Neocon,” said Dr. Jonathan Gluckman, CEO and President of SIXW. “The combination of SIXW’s experienced scientific team with the award-winning and globally recognized product innovation and manufacturing team at Neocon represents excellent synergy. Neocon has repeatedly been recognized with Nova Scotia’s Exporter of the Year Award, and complements our experience engaging with international markets. Our proximity to Neocon is an additional advantage as a potential economic multiplier effect for the Halifax are, Nova Scotia, and Canada. We look forward to working together to design and manufacture the SmartMask^TM and potentially other AMIPs products aimed at meeting the broader needs for testing to ensure people’s safety and return to work, school, and social activities.”

“Neocon has committed engineering and manufacturing resources to fight the pandemic, and has been developing the complete engineering design for N95 certified and as required non-certified face masks,” said Pat Ryan, President of Neocon. “This includes all cost effective and purpose appropriate materials as well as the high-speed manufacturing systems for producing and supplying to escalating market demand. The opportunity to now upgrade and transform that existing engineered product to “smart” status, with front-line remediation and response capabilities, is remarkable. I know that the team at SIXW shares our commitment to excellence, and we look forward to working together to respond to the challenges of ever-changing threat of novel viruses.”

MOU

Pursuant to the terms of the MOU, the Sixth Wave will provide overall management of the project and allow for the use of the AMIPs technology for the development of the SmartMask^TM. Neocon will contribute engineering, manufacturing and technical resources to develop prototype masks, provide quality assurance and quality control expertise in prototyping and design development, assist in material selection, and design the manufacturing processing systems for the masks. Neocon will also assist with obtaining certification from regulatory authorities including, but not limited to the FDA and Health Canada. The parties have agreed to negotiate a definitive agreement in good faith detailing the terms of the collaboration in more detail. A subsequent press release will detail the terms of the definitive agreement once it is finalized and executed.

SmartMask™ Proposed Design Advantages

The contemplated SmartMask^TM prototype is intended to include a completely self-contained and non-invasive sampling device that can be used without training, electronics, or supplemental sampling equipment / reagents. Such a configuration would be an advantage over the current standard for virus detection, known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (“PCR“) tests. PCR technologies often require deep nasal or throat swab-sampling via skilled personnel, and subsequent lab sample preparation and testing with a separate electronic device at the location or a laboratory removed from the sample site. By contrast, SmartMask^TM is envisioned as a practical device, compatible with extended daily use, with passive sampling capability and an easy-to-interpret results indicator such as color change.

The proposed SmartMask^TM configuration under development would additionally offer a marked advantage over other types of Rapid Detection Test (“RDT“) technologies now in use for virus diagnostics. While conventional RDT’s are fundamentally easy to use and provide rapid on-site diagnostics, they retain the need for invasive swab or blood sampling by skilled personnel. They are most commonly designed to detect antibodies produced in response to infection rather than the actual virus. These antibodies are a “lagging indicator” of the presence of the virus and can take days to weeks to develop in the human immune system. Moreover they have limited use during the early asymptomatic period during which the virus incubates and can be unknowingly spread to others which is a particularly vexing hallmark of COVID-19. By contrast, SmartMask^TM proposes to detect the active virus itself, thereby allowing the prospects for detection days to weeks earlier than conventional immunoassay-based RDT’s.

About Neocon International

Neocon International is an award-winning manufacturer with over 25 years in the automotive industry, servicing all major auto companies and noted as an innovative Tier One design and manufacturing house taking projects from concept to prototype through to validation, verification, production system analysis and volume manufacturing. Specific expertise is centered on best-in-class material selection, quality control of designs, quality assurance of processes and on-time delivery with capable high-speed manufacturing using shuttle, in-line and rotary thermoforming, pressure forming, match tool molding, blow molding, injection molding, electroplating, robotic trimming, die cutting, ultra-sonic and one step fixture assembly and fabrication. Neocon has numerous supply, R&D and selling partnerships throughout North America with its’ main headquarters located in the Burnside Business Park, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

For more information, please visit www.neoconinc.com

About Sixth Wave

Sixth Wave is a development stage nanotechnology company with patented technologies that focus on extraction and detection of target substances at the molecular level using highly specialized molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). The Company is in the process of commercializing its Affinity^TM cannabinoid purification system, as well as, IXOS®, a line of extraction polymers for the gold mining industry.

Sixth Wave can design, develop and commercialize MIP solutions across a broad spectrum of industries. The company is focused on nanotechnology architectures that are highly relevant for detection and separation of viruses, biogenic amines and other pathogens, for which the Company has products at various stages of development.

For more information about Sixth Wave, please visit: www.sixthwave.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

“Jon Gluckman“
Jonathan Gluckman, Ph.D., President & CEO

For information, please contact the Company:
Phone: (801) 582-0559
E-mail: [email protected]

Cautionary Notes

This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements” including statements regarding the planned features of the AMIPs technology and the proposed SmartMask^TM technology. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address future events or developments that the Company expects, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual events or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause the Company’s actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In particular, successful development and commercialization of the AMIPs technology are subject the risk that the AMIPs technology may not prove to be successful in detecting virus targets effectively or at all, uncertainty of medical product development, uncertainty of timing or availability of required regulatory approvals, lack of track record of developing products for medical applications and the need for additional capital to carry out product development activities. The value of any products ultimately developed could be negatively impacted if its patent application is not successful. The Company has not yet completed development of a prototype for the product that is subject of its patent application and has not yet applied for regulatory approval for the use of this product from any regulatory agency.

Corporate Logo

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/55934

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Cannabis

IM Cannabis Announces Appointment of Shmulik Arbel to Board of Directors

Published

1 day ago

September 11, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

im-cannabis-announces-appointment-of-shmulik-arbel-to-board-of-directors

TORONTO and GLIL YAM, Israel, Sept. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — IM Cannabis Corp. (“IMC” or the “Company“) (NASDAQ: IMCC) (CSE: IMCC), a leading medical cannabis company with operations in Israel and Germany, is pleased to announce that Mr. Shmulik Arbel has been appointed to the Company’s board of directors (the “Board“) effective September 9, 2024. Mr. Arbel brings a wealth of experience in strategic plans that drive profitability, as well as, finance and corporate governance, further strengthening the company’s commitment to driving growth while focusing on sustainable profitability.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shmulik to our Board of Directors,” said Oren Shuster, Chief Executive Officer of IM Cannabis. “Shmulik’s extensive international experience at Leumi, coupled with his proven track record in banking and finance will be invaluable as we continue to deliver on our strategic initiatives.”

Mr. Arbel retired as Deputy CEO from Leumi, Israel’s largest banking group, in April 2023, where he was instrumental in business growth and leading the service revolution. With over 25 years of experience at Leumi, Arbel has held senior roles throughout the organization, such as head of retail banking, head of the corporate division, and as chairman of Leumi UK. With key roles in Israel, New York and London, Mr. Arbel has a wide view on international business.

“I am honored to join the Board of Directors at IMCC,” said Mr. Arbel. “I look forward to leveraging my experience in banking and finance, providing guidance as IMCC continues to establish itself as the go-to brand in the cannabis world. I look forward to contributing to the company’s growth.”

Arbel holds a BA and MBA from Tel Aviv University.

About IM Cannabis Corp.

IMC (Nasdaq: IMCC) (CSE: IMCC) is an international cannabis company that provides premium cannabis products to medical patients in Israel and Germany, two of the largest medical cannabis markets. The Company has focused its resources to achieve sustainable and profitable growth in its highest value markets, Israel and Germany. The Company leverages a transnational ecosystem powered by a unique data-driven approach and a globally sourced product supply chain. With an unwavering commitment to responsible growth and compliance with the strictest regulatory environments, the Company strives to amplify its commercial and brand power to become a global high-quality cannabis player.

The IMC ecosystem operates in Israel through its commercial relationship with Focus Medical Herbs Ltd., which imports and distributes cannabis to medical patients, leveraging years of proprietary data and patient insights. The Company also operates medical cannabis retail pharmacies, online platforms, distribution centers, and logistical hubs in Israel that enable the safe delivery and quality control of IMC products throughout the entire value chain. In Germany, the IMC ecosystem operates through Adjupharm GmbH, where it distributes cannabis to pharmacies for medical cannabis patients.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian and United States securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements“). All information that addresses activities or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “likely” and “intend” and statements that an event or result “may”, “will”, “should”, “could” or “might” occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management on the date the statements are made. In the press release, such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the stated benefits Mr. Arbel’s appointment, including the further strengthening the Company’s commitment to driving growth in the German market while focusing on sustainable profitability; and Mr. Arbel’s international experience and track record in banking and finance will be invaluable to the Company.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, including but not limited to: the Company’s ability to realize upon the stated benefits Mr. Arbel’s appointment; and Mr. Arbel’s international experience and track record in banking and finance becoming invaluable to the Company.

The above lists of forward-looking statements and assumptions are not exhaustive. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated or implied by such forward-looking statements due to a number of factors and risks. These include: the failure of the Company to comply with applicable regulatory requirements in a highly regulated industry; unexpected changes in governmental policies and regulations in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates; the Company’s ability to continue to meet the listing requirements of the Canadian Securities Exchange and the NASDAQ Capital Market; any unexpected failure to maintain in good standing or renew its licenses; the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group“) to deliver on their sales commitments or growth objectives; the reliance of the Group on third-party supply agreements to provide sufficient quantities of medical cannabis to fulfil the Group’s obligations; the Group’s possible exposure to liability, the perceived level of risk related thereto, and the anticipated results of any litigation or other similar disputes or legal proceedings involving the Group; the impact of increasing competition; any lack of merger and acquisition opportunities; adverse market conditions; the inherent uncertainty of production quantities, qualities and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; risks of product liability and other safety-related liability from the usage of the Group’s cannabis products; supply chain constraints; reliance on key personnel; the risk of defaulting on existing debt; risks surrounding war, conflict and civil unrest in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, including the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on the Company, its operations and the medical cannabis industry in Israel; risks associated with the Company focusing on the Israel and Germany markets; the inability of the Company to achieve sustainable profitability and/or increase shareholder value; the inability of the Company to actively manage costs and/or improve margins; the inability of the company to grow and/or maintain sales; the inability of the Company to meet its goals and/or strategic plans; the inability of the Company to reduce costs and/or maintain revenues; the Company’s inability to take advantage of the legalization of medicinal cannabis in Germany; and the Company’s inability to realize upon the stated benefits Mr. Arbel’s appointment; and Mr. Arbel’s international experience and track record in banking and finance not becoming valuable to the Company.

Please see the other risks, uncertainties and factors set out under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual report dated March 28, 2024, which is available on the Company’s issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and Edgar at www.sec.gov/edgar. Any forward-looking statement included in this press release is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward looking information is made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Company Contact:

Anna Taranko, Director Investor & Public Relations
IM Cannabis Corp.
+49 157 80554338
[email protected]

Oren Shuster, CEO
IM Cannabis Corp.
[email protected]

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1742228/IM_Cannabis_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/im-cannabis-announces-appointment-of-shmulik-arbel-to-board-of-directors-302244961.html

Cannabis

One World Products Issues Shareholder Update Letter

Published

1 day ago

September 11, 2024

GlobeNewswire

Cannabis

Europe Medical Cannabis Market Forecast 2024-2032: Tilray, Aurora Cannabis, and GW Pharmaceuticals Dominate the Market Landscape

Published

2 weeks ago

August 29, 2024

GlobeNewswire

Dublin, Aug. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The “Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Size, Industry Dynamics, Opportunity Analysis and Forecast 2024-2032.” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.

The Europe Medical Cannabis Oil market is poised for significant growth, projected to escalate from US$ 0.91 billion in 2023 to US$ 2.40 billion by 2032, advancing at a CAGR of 12.08%. In this comprehensive research report, the market is analyzed by:

Derivatives;
Source;
Application;
Route of Administration;
End-user;
Distribution Channel; and
Country.

Market Highlights Identified in the Report

Progressive legalization across Europe is creating a favorable regulatory environment, enhancing market expansion for medical cannabis oil products.
Germany leads the market with a robust infrastructure and supportive regulations, while other countries like the UK, Italy, and Spain show significant growth potential based on evolving regulatory landscapes and market dynamics.
Key players such as Tilray, Aurora Cannabis Inc., and GW Pharmaceuticals dominate the market, emphasizing research, strategic partnerships, and innovation to maintain competitive edge amidst evolving industry dynamics.

The medical cannabis oil market has experienced substantial growth as legalization and acceptance of cannabis-based treatments expand globally. Cannabis oil, derived from the cannabis plant through extraction methods, contains cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, known for their therapeutic properties. Increasing recognition of cannabis oil’s potential in alleviating symptoms of various medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, and anxiety disorders, has driven its adoption in medical settings.

Governments in several countries are progressively legalizing medical cannabis, creating a conducive regulatory environment for market expansion. Additionally, growing consumer awareness about alternative and natural therapies has fueled the demand for cannabis oil products. The market is characterized by diverse product offerings, including full-spectrum and CBD-isolate oils, catering to different therapeutic needs and preferences.

Despite regulatory challenges and stigma associated with cannabis, the medical cannabis oil market continues to evolve, driven by ongoing research, favorable legislative changes, and shifting attitudes toward cannabis-based therapies in healthcare.

Regional Insights

Germany is likely to maintain its leadership position in the European medical cannabis oil market due to its established infrastructure, supportive regulations, and strong healthcare system. Germany legalized medical cannabis in 2017, giving the market a head start compared to many other European countries. This established infrastructure and experience position Germany as a leader in the field. As awareness and acceptance of medical cannabis increase, the number of patients seeking treatment in Germany is steadily rising. This fuels market growth and incentivizes further investment in research and development.

Germany’s regulatory framework for medical cannabis is considered relatively patient-friendly compared to some other European countries. This facilitates access for patients with qualifying conditions. The UK legalized medical cannabis in 2018 and is experiencing an increase in patient access programs. This, coupled with ongoing research, could lead to significant market growth. Italy legalized medical cannabis in 2006 but has faced challenges with availability. As regulations become more streamlined and patient access expands, the Italian market holds significant growth potential. Spain has a well-established medical cannabis industry with a focus on domestic production. As regulations evolve and export opportunities increase, the Spanish market could see a boost.

Competitive Landscape

The Medical Cannabis Oil market is characterized by a vigorous competitive landscape, with prominent entities like Tilray, Aurora Cannabis Inc., GW Pharmaceuticals, Almiral, Bedrocan, and others at the forefront, collectively accounting for approximately 41 % of the overall market share. This competitive milieu is fueled by their intensive efforts in research and development as well as strategic partnerships and collaborations, underscoring their commitment to solidifying market presence and diversifying their offerings.

The primary competitive factors include pricing, product caliber, and technological innovation. As the Medical Cannabis Oil industry continues to expand, the competitive fervor among these key players is anticipated to intensify. The impetus for ongoing innovation and alignment with evolving customer preferences and stringent regulations is high. The industry’s fluidity anticipates an uptick in novel innovations and strategic growth tactics from these leading corporations, which in turn propels the sector’s comprehensive growth and transformation.

Key Topics Covered

Chapter 1. Research Framework
Chapter 2. Research Methodology
Chapter 3. Executive Summary: Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market
Chapter 4. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Overview
Chapter 5. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Derivatives
Chapter 6. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Source
Chapter 7. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Application
Chapter 8. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Route of Administration
Chapter 9. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by End-user
Chapter 10. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Distribution Channel
Chapter 11. Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis, by Country
Chapter 12. The UK Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 13. Germany Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 14. The Netherlands Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 15. Italy Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 16. Spain Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 17. Poland Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 18. Rest of Europe Medical Cannabis Oil Market Analysis
Chapter 19. Company Profiles (Company Overview, Financial Matrix, Key Product Landscape, Key Personnel, Key Competitors, Contact Address, and Business Strategy Outlook)

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

Aurora Cannabis Inc.
Bedrocan
Biocann
BIOTA Biosciences LLC
Cannamedical
Mary Jane CBD
Sanity Group GmbH
Tilray
Valcon Medical

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/dh7q46

About ResearchAndMarkets.com
ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world’s leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.