Daily Archives: May 15, 2020

Philippines evacuates hundreds of thousands as typhoon makes landfall – Yahoo News

Posted: May 15, 2020 at 8:02 am

MANILA, May 14 (Reuters) - Philippine authorities started moving 200,000 people away from their homes in coastal and mountainous areas because of fears of flooding and landslides as a typhoon made landfall on Thursday, disaster officials said.

Typhoon Vongfong, the first to hit the country this year, slammed into the eastern Philippines packing winds of 155 kph and gusts of up to 190 kph, the state weather bureau said.

Social distancing measures to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus are likely to complicate efforts to move thousands of people into evacuation centres, such as classrooms and school gymnasiums.

Provincial disaster officials said they had asked the education department for more schools they could use as temporary shelters.

The Philippines has reported more than 11,000 cases of the new coronavirus, most in the capital Manila, and more than 700 deaths.

Authorities told people in areas in the path of the Category 2 typhoon to brace for intense rain and to be on alert for landslides, storm surges and floods.

An average of 20 typhoons a year hit the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands. (Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales and Karen Lema)

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Coronavirus: Scientists want to investigate if mouthwash kills the infection – Yahoo Lifestyle

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Gargling with mouthwash may prevent infected patients spreading the coronavirus, scientists have claimed. (Getty Images)

Scientists from Cardiff University are calling for research into whether high-street mouthwashes could reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

The virus is surrounded by a fatty membrane. The scientists have argued the membranes of similar pathogens were disrupted when exposed to ingredients commonly found in mouthwashes, like ethanol, povidone-iodine and cetylpyridinium.

Gargling with mouthwash could inactivate the coronavirus in the throat, helping to prevent it spreading via coughs and sneezes, they added.

Although it is unclear whether this would be the case, the team argued there has been no discussion on the potential role of mouthwash in combatting the outbreak.

Early research suggests the coronavirus is mild in four out of five cases, however, it can trigger a respiratory disease called COVID-19.

Safe use of mouthwash as in gargling has so far not been considered by public health bodies in the UK, said Professor Valerie ODonnell, lead author of a paper on the subject.

In test tube experiments and limited clinical studies, some mouthwashes contain enough of known virucidal ingredients to effectively target lipids in similar viruses.

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What we dont know yet is whether existing mouthwashes are active against the lipid membrane of [the coronavirus].

Ourreview of the literature suggests research is needed as a matter of urgency to determine its potential for use against this new virus.

This is an under-researched area of major clinical need and we hope research projects will be quickly mobilised to further evaluate this.

Studies have suggested the coronavirus replicates in the salivary glands and throat, the scientists wrote in the journal Function.

Story continues

They argued the pathogen is highly sensitive to agents that disrupt lipid bio-membranes.

The circulating coronavirus is one of seven strains of a virus class that are known to infect humans.

Other strains cause everything from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars), which killed 774 people during its 2002/3 outbreak.

The scientists argued past research has demonstrated inactivation of coronaviruses by biocidal agents.

Mouthwashes vary widely in composition, with an ethanol content that typically ranges from 14% to 27%.

Ethanol the chemical compound in alcohol has been shown to kill fellow coronaviruses severa acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (Mers) at concentrations of 60% or higher, like in hand sanitisers.

The scientists set out to uncover the effectiveness of oral-based ethanol solutions at dampening or reducing viral load.

They concluded there is a paucity of data on whether lower, and therefore less toxic, ethanol concentrations inactivate viruses with a fatty membrane.

Most studies simply reiterate the use of higher concentrations.

One 2007 paper found 20% ethanol completely inactivated three viruses in the laboratory.

In 2017, scientists found exposing a coronavirus to 34% ethanol completely prevented subsequent viral replication.

Research has also suggested low-concentration ethanol can kill off viruses like herpes and flu when combined with anti-viral essential oils.

These studies indicate that relatively dilute ethanol will be highly effective against enveloped viruses, wrote the Cardiff scientists.

However, there is an urgent need to determine how coronaviruses are impacted by dilute alcohol under biologically-relevant conditions (mucosa, mouth etc), and whether in combination with non-toxic, membrane-disrupting agents, oral inactivation of [the coronavirus] could be achieved.

They argued existing mouthwashes and those specifically-tailored to combat the infection could be tested in the laboratory, clinical trials and at-home settings.

We highlight that already published research on other enveloped viruses, including [other strains of] coronaviruses, directly supports the idea that further research is needed on whether oral rinsing could be considered as a potential way to reduce transmission of [the coronavirus], wrote the scientists.

The team stressed, however, it is unclear whether mouthwashes would have any effect. Safety and length of exposure also need to be investigated.

While we await potential studies, they insisted the public continue to adhere to official guidance on how to ward off infection.

People should continue to follow the preventive measures issued by the UK government, including washing hands frequently and maintaining social distance, said Prof ODonnell.

Since the coronavirus outbreak was identified, more than 4.3 million cases have been confirmed worldwide,according to Johns Hopkins University.

Of these cases, over 1.5 million are known to have recovered.

Globally, the death toll has exceeded 297,400.

The coronavirus mainly spreads face to face via infected droplets expelled in a cough or sneeze.

There is also evidenceit is transmitted in faecesand cansurvive on surfaces.

Symptoms include fever, cough and slight breathlessness.

The coronavirus has no set treatment, with most patients naturally fighting off the infection.

Those requiring hospitalisation are given supportive care, like ventilation, while their immune system gets to work.

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Former MLB manager Art Howe in ICU with coronavirus – Yahoo Sports

Posted: at 8:02 am

Art Howe, a former MLB player who managed the Houston Astros, Oakland Athletics and New York Mets, is hospitalized in an intensive care unit due to the coronavirus, according to Houstons KPRC 2.

Howe reportedly confirmed the diagnosis himself to the outlet.

[ Coronavirus: How the sports world is responding to the pandemic ]

The 73-year-old Howe said he first felt symptoms on May 3, then was tested and told he had the virus two days later. His symptoms reportedly worsened this week and he was hospitalized on Tuesday.

Howe is reportedly still receiving treatment and needs to go 24 hours without a fever in order to be released, calling the wait for improvement slow.

All of the teams Howe has managed in the past sent out statements in support of the manager.

Known by many fans for his role as manager in the 2002 Oakland Athletics of Moneyball fame Philip Seymour Hoffman played him in the 2011 movie Howe enjoyed an 11-season career as an MLB player and a 14-season career as an MLB manager.

Howe got his start as a player in 1974 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, then broke through as a versatile infielder for the Astros. The Astros also gave him his start as a manager in 1989. He stayed in Houston until his firing in 1993, later managing the As from 1996 to 2002 and the Mets in 2003 and 2004.

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Surviving the coronavirus is one thing. Recovering is another – Yahoo News

Posted: at 8:02 am

Soprano Veronica Antonelli sings "Amazing Grace" from her balcony in Paris despite her continuing struggles with COVID-19. (Nicolas Garriga / Associated Press)

An angelic voice singing Hallelujah echoes off the stately stone and brick canyons of a narrow Montmartre street. It's the voice of Veronica Antonelli, who is still struggling with complications related to COVID-19 two months after falling ill.

The Parisian soprano wanted the impromptu performance from her third-floor balcony to project hope. Hours earlier, her doctor had delivered troubling news: The lung scarring that sometimes makes her too tired to sing may last for months. Or perhaps years.

It makes things a bit complicated, given my profession, Antonelli said.

The coronavirus that has sickened over 4 million people around the world and killed more than 280,000 others is so new that patients face considerable uncertainty about what they can expect in recovery and beyond.

The short answer is that were still learning, said Dr. Jay Varkey, an infectious disease specialist at Emory University in Atlanta. What we know has been gathered mostly by anecdotal reports from COVID-19 survivors.

In support groups created on social media sites, survivors post head-to-toe complaints that read like a medical encyclopedia: anxiety, heart palpitations, muscle aches, bluish toes. Its hard to know which ones are clearly related to the virus, but the accounts help fuel doctors increasing belief that COVID-19 is not just a respiratory disease.

Persistent exhaustion is a common theme, but every survivors story is different, said Brandy Swayze, a coronavirus sufferer who created a Facebook survivors group after developing pneumonia. She was hospitalized in late March and early April. Her fatigue comes and goes. Insomnia is another concern.

Were just people who have more questions than anybody else about this thing because were going through it, said Swayze, 43, of Cabin John, Md.

On top of her lung damage and fatigue, Antonelli has issues with her memory and diminished senses of taste and smell a common early symptom that lingers for many, which doctors say stems from the virus attacking nerves.

Story continues

Two-thirds of patients in a study in Italy had a loss of smell and taste. Some reports suggest these problems last only a few weeks, but its been almost two months for Antonelli. She said that when she asked a voice specialist when she would be able to smell again, his answer was, We know nothing. We just have to be patient. We have no solution.

Antonelli, 45, needs her stamina back to resume her offbeat career singing opera a capella at outdoor monuments and historic sites, a profession she chose because she liked how natural environments shaped her voice.

Stuck at home, she sings at her balcony when she can to bring happiness and thank health workers, grocers and others for their service during the pandemic. Some days, though, shes simply too tired to leave her bed.

In Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus emerged late last year, physicians first considered it a type of pneumonia. But they came to realize this virus is so smart. It just attacked everywhere in the body, said Dr. Xin Zheng of Wuhan Union Hospital.

Lungs, hearts, kidneys, even the brain can be affected. Some hospitalized patients develop blood clots, while others have elevated enzymes suggesting liver abnormalities.

Thats a very unique characteristic of it, said Dr. Thomas McGinn of Northwell Health hospitals in New York. He co-authored the largest U.S. study of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, and a follow-up is planned to see how theyre faring in recovery.

Alex Melo, a retired Marine from York, Maine, became critically ill with COVID-19 last month. He spent a few days on a ventilator for pneumonia but also developed blood clots that threatened his heart and lungs. After two weeks in the hospital, he was sent home on blood thinners he must take for at least a few months.

The drugs make him prone to bleeding, and he worries how that will affect his work as a survival instructor for a Department of Defense contractor. But hes not ready for that work anyway. After two weeks at home, his lungs are still recovering, and he cant run without getting winded.

"I need to take this slow," Melo said.

Reports from China suggest those with mild infections recover two to three weeks after first showing symptoms. For those with more serious infections, recovery may take six weeks, said Varkey, the infectious disease specialist.

But recovery may take much longer for those with the most severe infections, including patients who spent time in intensive care on ventilators or dialysis.

Wuhan doctors have reported heart problems in a small portion of hospitalized patients, including inflammation of the heart muscle and irregular heartbeat, both of which can increase risks for heart failure, Varkey noted.

Many of the problems may be caused by the virus itself, a hyperactive immune response to the virus, the treatment involved, or a combination of all three, he said.

Some survivors who had long stays in intensive care may require oxygen therapy or dialysis at home. Some may develop a condition called post-intensive care syndrome, which can include persistent muscle weakness, fatigue, attention and memory problems, and anxiety. The condition has been seen in COVID-19 survivors who were put on ventilators, but it can happen after any critical illness and may be related to treatment, including sedation and prolonged bed rest.

Considering that most COVID-19 patients on ventilators dont survive, western Illinois truck driver Scott Dobbels is making a remarkable recovery.

Dobbels spent 17 days in the hospital, eight of them on a ventilator. He returned to his home in Silvis weighing 20 pounds less and pushing a metal walker. The next day, he went to check in on things out at the lumber yard where he works and returned exhausted.

It put me back in bed for three days. Too much, too soon, he said.

At first, just brushing his teeth was an effort. After several sessions with a physical therapist, hes regaining muscle and strength. And to exercise his damaged lungs, he blows into a special device several times a day.

Dobbels says he feels great, despite lingering muscle pain and some weakness, and plans to return to work this week.

He also has lingering questions about why his case was so severe when his wife, Elizabeth, became infected but experienced only mild symptoms.

Why me? he said. Why did I get it, why did I almost die, when others werent as severely affected?

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This Trippy Oregon Theme Park Is A Low-Key Psychedelic Playground – Thrillist

Posted: at 8:01 am

My most vivid childhood memories of Enchanted Forest are of Storybrook Lane, the parks original attraction. It takes you down a leafy path full of storybook oddities: fairytale figurines that appear poised to come alive; a jumbo Humpty Dumpty grinning atop a wall; a dark, dank Alice In Wonderland tunnel carved out of a faux tree stump; and an anthropomorphic caterpillar perched on a larger-than-life neon pink mushroom.

While my perspective hasnt changed much in the 22 years since, I now have the precise words to describe the place: trippy as shit.

In theme and physical size, this peculiar amusement park in Turner, Oregon -- which turns 50 this year -- caters to small children. But over the years, it's also become a low-key psychedelic playground for grownups thanks to a combination of social media, nostalgia, legal cannabis, and hallucinogens. In a state that fully embraces weirdness, Enchanted Forest is a jewel perfectly at home among the trees just off the highway.

For Sara Rudolph, Enchanted Forest is a reversion to childhood, one thats typically facilitated by psychedelic mushrooms.Rudolph has been going to the park since she was three. She remembers being thrilled and a little alarmed by the folksy handmade attractions -- among them a giant slide you enter through a witch's gnarled maw and a rickety haunted house.

Her last visit to the park was last year, at the age of 43. She says she hasnt gone to Enchanted Forest entirely sober since she was about 16, and as an adult, 'shrooms help her recreate moments of adolescent wonder.

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"There are all these little alcoves with puppets that definitely look like they come alive at night."

Its an immersive experience, something that we are very there for as children, but less so as adults," she says. "If you're high, you have more levels of that [childhood] experience. It's not just visual: You're actually more involved and more affected by the tactile nature of it.

Enchanted Forest can be trippy in a fun way -- or terrifying, depending on how high you are.

Its sort of homemade, which makes it extra creepy, Rudolph says. It's definitely not Disneyland. You're not sitting safe in a little cart. You're walking through it and it's kind of unpredictable and there are '70s-style, weird, lurid colors.

Enchanted Forest dates back to 1964, when Roger Tofte began building it on a 20-acre forested hill outside of Salem, according to the website. The park officially opened in 1971, with a piece of butcher paper that read OPEN alerting people to its existence.

Tofte, an artist and tinkerer who is now 90 years old, wanted to give kids in the sleepy city of Salem (the state capital, about an hour south of Portland) something to do. He built the park by hand with his wife, Mavis, and four kids.

Susan Vaslev, Toftes oldest daughter who now helps run Enchanted Forest, says there have been a couple of dips in attendance throughout the years that threatened the parks survival. The first was in the 1970s, when oil crises led to nationwide gas shortages, and the second was after 9/11. Currently, attendance is at a standstill as nonessential businesses are shuttered. Its 50th anniversary celebration is a big question mark.

Our biggest business is repeat visitors, Vaslev says. We're very thankful to them because that's what keeps us going.

The parks official Instagram -- which features photos of a smiling, wizened Tofte still repairing and shoring up the park by hand -- has over 10,000 followers. On it, youll find collections of fan art, vintage photos, and promos from the time the park was the subject of Travel Channels Ghost Adventures (the crew believed it was haunted). Threads on Twitter and Reddit, though, highlight the more underground aspects of the park.

Venture deep enough down the internet rabbit hole and youll find fan reviews of the Music From Enchanted Forest album, a collection of storybook-synth tunes composed by Vaslev that play on loop throughout the park. Search Reddit and youll find an Ask Me Anything thread with somebody claiming to be an employee in 2018.

What's the strangest thing you've caught visitors doing who didn't know you were watching? a user called IronicallyZen asked.

Definitely pot smoking! the employee responded. Young people think they could come in and sneak a smoke in the dwarf caves or bathrooms, but employees roam around constantly and they are for sure not getting away with it.

I couldnt imagine not going high.

Douglas Elkins, co-owner of Salems OG Collective Dispensary, says cannabis isn't necessarily the drug of choice for Enchanted Forest Visitors, but hes certainly heard of people doing acid and 'shrooms and going to Enchanted Forest.

Vaslev, however, vehemently denies the parks reputation as a destination for psychedelic enthusiasts.Rumors are rumors and not what we see in the park. We're very family-oriented, Vaslev says. If people come intoxicated, on alcohol or drugs or cannabis, we will ask them to leave or call the police.

I couldnt imagine not going high, says Crystal Contreras. It would seem kind of sad.

Contreras, 37, learned about Enchanted Forest after moving to Oregon as an adult.I heard that [taking psychedelics before going to the park] was a thing people do from a friend who grew up here, Contreras says.

Her inaugural visit was with a group of friends, who all took mushrooms. Because it was a sweltering summer day, Contreras opted to be the relatively sober friend and go very, very high on cannabis instead. She learned it was beneficial to have a high tolerance for spookiness.

Theres definitely a contrast between it being cute and fun and really creepy, Contreras says. It has a weird acid-trip aesthetic. There are all these little alcoves with puppets depicting scenes from fairy tales that definitely look like they come alive at night.

At one point, going through one of the little houses, Contreras says she, got a feeling that if I let my friends out of my sight they would disappear forever and Id never find them.

Contreras and Rudolph have advice for adults who decide to microdose before their trip to Enchanted Forest. The best ride, they both agree, is the new Challenge of Mondor, a target-shooting game that winds slowly through a dark tavern.

You get to chill out and shoot targets with a laser gun, who wouldnt like that? Contreras says.

Rudolph also recommends the Fantasy Fountains Water-Light Show -- a beautiful, dazzling water and light show that has 359 water jets, according to the parks website.

But she warns against the Ice Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster, a Matterhorn knock-off that was the parks first ride.They put you in a little plastic capsule and it is incredibly claustrophobic, Rudolph says. If you're over five foot four, especially on drugs, maybe skip out.

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EGF Theramed Appoints George Anstey to Board of Directors – Benzinga

Posted: at 8:01 am

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 15, 2020 / EGF THERAMED HEALTH CORP. (CSE:TMED, OTCQB:EVAHF) (the "Company") today announces the appointment of George Anstey, a cannabis industry specialist, to the Company's Board of Directors. Jeff Lipton has stepped down from the board to allow space for this appointment.

Mr. Anstey has well-rounded and lengthy experience in the cannabis industry, which continues to grow rapidly throughout North America, operating in extraction, production, and supply. Among his roles were working with commercial license holders such as Broken Coast Cannabis, which was acquired by Aphria in 2018 for C$230 million. He now consults on compliance matters for early-stage cannabis companies, helping these businesses to navigate license application requirements set by Health Canada. These skills have been easily transferred to the psychedelics market, where he serves as CEO of Pharmadelic Labs, a psilocybin biosynthesis research company in which the Company holds a 30% stake. George's appointment gives the Company an experienced voice as it expands operations.

The opportunities afforded by the role excited Mr. Anstey, who commented: "I spent an inordinate time in this field and, based on the existing lab assets that TMED has in Las Vegas, I feel that I can assist the Company to optimize the utility of this asset to build further value for our shareholders."

The Company is pleased to welcome Mr Anstey's experience. David Bentil, CEO of TMED, stated: "George brings great experience leading companies in both the cannabis and psychedelic markets. His skills are very desirable and with his input we are confident the Company will grow from strength to strength. We would like to thank Jeff Lipton for his services to the Company."

ABOUT PHARMADELIC LABS CORP.

Pharmadelic Labs Corp. is a Nevada biotech company using state-of-the-art technology to create biosynthesis pathways for psilocybin. By editing the genome sequences of industrial brewing yeasts, the company is creating commercially viable compounds derived from psilocybin. The main advantages of this method are threefold: it is significantly quicker than growing and then extracting from mushrooms (days rather than weeks); very safe, through the use of GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) products ready for use in industry; it ensures a controlled and uniform level of psilocybin throughout the finished product; and is much cheaper to produce on a mass scale than greenhouse growing.

Pharmadelic Labs aims to develop a portfolio of intellectual property around biosynthesis pathways using yeast and psilocybin. The company will be working with a wide range of partners across multiple industries, starting with pharmaceutical companies creating products for the nascent psychedelics market.

ABOUT EGF THERAMED HEALTH CORP.

(CSE:TMED, OTC:EVAHF)

EGF Theramed is a consumer technology company engaged in the provision of biomedical online services for monitoring and treating common health problems. The Company, through its subsidiaries, has assets and technologies used in the extraction and purification of botanical extracts and the creation of extract formulations, as well as medical monitoring device technology. The Company is working to collaborate with other companies for medical technology, equipment protocols and laboratory SOPs.

Through the Company's recent acquisition of a 30% equity interest in Pharmadelic Labs Corp. it has begun to research psilocybin and psychedelic extraction and processing for its Las Vegas extraction lab.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

EGF THERAMED HEALTH CORP.

Doug McFaul

Email: dmcfaul@emprisecapital.com

Telephone: (778) 331 8505

Website http://www.theramedhealthcorp.com

CSE Micro-site: http://thecse.com/en/listings/technology/Theramed-Health-Corporation

US OTC Markets (OTCQB): http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/EVAHF/news

Frankfurt Borse: https://www.boerse-frankfurt.de/equity/egf-theramed-health-corp

PHARMADELIC LABS CORP.

George Anstey, CEO

Email: info@pharmadeliclabs.com

Website: https://pharmadeliclabs.com/

CAUTIONARY LANGUAGE

All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including with respect to the expansion of its IP claims in Canada, the United States and other jurisdictions, information surrounding the psilocybin market, as well as the business plans of Pharmadelic Labs Corp. and the Company. The Company provides forward-looking statements for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct, and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited those identified and reported in the Company's public filings under the Company's SEDAR profile at http://www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

SOURCE: EGF Theramed Health Corp.

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Empower Clinics and EuroLife Brands Close Definitive Agreement and Sign Multi-Year Multi-National Licence Agreement – GuruFocus.com

Posted: at 8:01 am

Empower Clinics to power online education platform for patients, retail locations, national tele-medicine platform and their expanding network of franchisees with EuroLife's Cannvas.me

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 15th, 2020 / EMPOWER CLINICS INC. (CSE: CBDT) (OTC: EPWCF) (Frankfurt 8EC) ("Empower" or the "Company"), a vertically integrated life sciences company, is pleased to announce that further to the letter of intent announced on February 25, 2020 it has signed a definitive agreement with EuroLife Brands ("EuroLife"), a vertically integrated enterprise focused on the pan-European hemp, cannabinoid, and health and wellness sector. The agreement grants Empower an exclusive license to EuroLife's "Cannvas.me" cloud based online educational platform in certain international jurisdictions. Empower will use the web-based education technology platform to deliver brand, product, and industry knowledge to employees and over 165,000 patients across Empower's six corporate clinics in Arizona, Oregon, its first franchise in Oklahoma and nationwide tele-health platform.

Under the terms of the agreement, Empower has been granted an exclusive license of the Cannvas.me platform in the United States and Mexico with an option to expand to other jurisdictions. The agreement includes a three-year term with a three-year renewable option. A licensing fee will be paid over the life of the agreement, consisting of a mixture of cash and stock totalling $460,000 CAD and includes comprehensive service level agreements from EuroLife and ongoing support from EuroLife team roles including VP of Technology, Senior Developer, Quality Assurance, Creative Designer, Program Management, Account Management and regular support from EuroLife's CEO.

"We needed a robust platform to reach our growing network of owned and franchised locations across the United States and EuroLife's Cannvas.me education platform exceeds all of our requirements," said Steven McAuley, chairman and chief executive officer of Empower. "We now have the ability to reach our employees and the patients they serve through a safe, secure and informative online education portal. I believe the ability to deliver consistent product education quickly and efficiently is a competitive advantage that we will leverage as we continue to grow our patient count and number of locations."

"I am very pleased to announce the agreement with Empower to license our Cannvas.me education portal to reach both employees and medical and retail consumers on an incredibly efficient basis," said Shawn Moniz, Chief Executive Officer, EuroLife Brands Inc. "I look forward to working with Steven and his incredible team at Empower as they expand their footprint across the United States."

Cannvas.me is a consumer education portal launched in 2018 for medical and recreational cannabis consumers. Through many discussions with industry stakeholders the management team discovered there was significant demand for a cloud-based education portal for licensed producers, retail dispensaries and other large to mid-sized companies in the cannabis sector.

ABOUT EMPOWER

Empower is a vertically integrated health & wellness brand with a network of corporate and franchised health & wellness clinics in the U.S. The Company is building its first hemp-derived CBD extraction facility and produces its proprietary line of cannabidiol (CBD) based products. The Company is a leading multi-state operator of a network of physician-staffed wellness clinics, focused on helping patients improve and protect their health, through innovative physician recommended treatment options. The Company has commenced activity on how to connect its significant data, to the potential of the efficacy of alternative treatment options related to hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) therapies, psilocybin and other psychedelic plant-based treatment options. The Company now offers COVID-19 testing options in the United States and physician-based consultations, to address COVID-19 concerns.

About EuroLife Brands Inc.

EuroLife Brands is a leading global markets cannabis brand empowering the medical, recreational and CPG cannabis industry worldwide through a data-driven CBD marketplace supported by exclusive and unbiased physician-backed cannabis education and detailed consumer analytics.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Steven McAuleyChief Executive Officer

CONTACTS:

Investors: Steven McAuley

CEO

[emailprotected]

604-789-2146

Investors: Dustin Klein

SVP, Business Development

[emailprotected]

720-352-1398

For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc., E: [emailprotected], T: (888) 585-MARI

DISCLAIMER FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws.All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release.Forward-looking statements can frequently be identified by words such as "plans", "continues", "expects", "projects", "intends", "believes", "anticipates", "estimates", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or information that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding: the Company's expected timing of filing of its Annual Filings, the Company's intention to create psilocybin and psychedelics divisions, that market research on advancements in psilocybin and psychedelics in North America and globally will create greater shareholder value, the Company's intention to open a hemp-based CBD extraction facility, the expected benefits to the Company and its shareholders as a result of the proposed acquisitions and partnerships; the effectiveness of the extraction technology; the expected benefits for Empower's patient base and customers; the benefits of CBD based products; the effect of the approval of the Farm Bill; the growth of the Company's patient list and that the Company will be positioned to be a market-leading service provider for complex patient requirements in 2019 and beyond; the ability of the Company to complete or execute phases One, Two, Three or Four of COVID-19 test programs, and Psychedelic substances remain illegal in most countries, so please reference your local laws in relation to medical or recreational use. Such statements are only projections, are based on assumptions known to management at this time, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, including; that the Company may not open a hemp-based CBD extraction facility; that legislative changes may have an adverse effect on the Company's business and product development; that the Company may not be able to obtain adequate financing to pursue its business plan; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; failure to obtain any necessary approvals in connection with the proposed acquisitions and partnerships; and other factors beyond the Company's control. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this release, which are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable laws.

SOURCE: Empower Clinics Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/589992/Empower-Clinics-and-EuroLife-Brands-Close-Definitive-Agreement-and-Sign-Multi-Year-Multi-National-Licence-Agreement

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Empower Clinics and EuroLife Brands Close Definitive Agreement and Sign Multi-Year Multi-National Licence Agreement - GuruFocus.com

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Spain to extend restrictions on international travelers until June 15 – EL PAS in English

Posted: at 8:00 am

Spains Official State Gazette (BOE) on Friday published an order extending restrictions on non-essential travel for people coming into Spanish territory until June 15.

The move acknowledges a recommendation by the European Commission to prolong the temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU until 15 June. The restrictions on travel into the EU space went into effect on March 17, although Brussels asked member states to allow free internal movement for European citizens.

Exceptional travel conditions are part of the fight against the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed over 27,000 lives in Spain, according to the official count.

The Spanish government recently announced a 14-day self-quarantine for international travelers, effective today and until the end of the state of alarm.

Besides the quarantine, non-essential travel will be heavily restricted

Besides the quarantine, non-essential travel to Spain will be heavily restricted. As a rule, Spanish authorities will only let in Spanish citizens, permanent residents of Spain, and regular residents of the Schengen area (30 countries that include the EU members, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Andorra) who are in transit to their place of residence.

Exceptions are also made for cross-border workers, healthcare professionals and caregivers on their way to work, diplomats and individuals who can prove an essential reason to travel, including for humanitarian reasons.

The order stipulates that authorities may also turn away EU citizens and their relatives for public health reasons if they are not registered as residents of Spain, or headed directly to their place of residence in another member state, Schengen-associated state or Andorra.

An exception is also made for the spouse of a Spanish citizen, or partner in a similar relationship that is registered in a public registry, and for descendants and parents living with the citizen, as long as they are traveling with this citizen or on their way to reunite with him or her.

The order goes into effect on Saturday, May 16 and will remain in place until midnight on June 15. This pushes the travel restrictions beyond May 24, the date when the current state of alarm is due to end in Spain, although Prime Minister Pedro Snchez, of the Socialist Party (PSOE), will ask Congress for permission to extend it to June 29.

After two months under one of Europes strictest lockdowns, Spaniards have gradually recovered some mobility through a deescalation plan that is currently underway.

English version by Susana Urra.

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Spain to extend restrictions on international travelers until June 15 - EL PAS in English

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The 100 Series Finale Trailer Teases Screams, Space Travel, And Drastic Haircuts – Gizmodo Australia

Posted: at 8:00 am

So, is The 100 becoming Stargate now?

The new trailer for the seventh and final season of The 100 is here and, as with most things, it all starts fairly expectedly. But as the trailer moves on, the show takes a hard right turn into What the Living Hell Land. Take a look for yourself.

Wormholes to other dimensions? Space charts? Snow planets? What the hell happened to the seemingly simple story of humanitys attempt to repopulate the Earth after total Armageddon? Well, things are ending, thats what, and its time for The 100 to try and answer all the questions, even if this latest look seems to be opening up a bunch of new ones. Though to be fair, the more things change, the more they stay the same too. Everyone, especially Clarke, still seems to be fighting the same battles theyve fought since season one.

The seventh and final season begins on the CW on May 21, but if youre not ready to say goodbye to this wild concept just yet, dont forget there may be a prequel on the way.

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The 100 Series Finale Trailer Teases Screams, Space Travel, And Drastic Haircuts - Gizmodo Australia

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On the Road Review: Ram 2500 Limited Crew Cab Diesel – Press Herald

Posted: at 8:00 am

For ten years Chrysler/FCA has been trying to convince consumers that its pickup brand is now called Ram, but drivers of every ilk still prefer the Dodge label. The thing is, these new Ram pickups are so different from anything Dodge built, and now so popular, that perhaps the shift to Ram was the name change needed to separate history from a new present.

Last yearfor the first timeRam outsold Chevys Silverado to become the second most-popular nameplate in America, trailing only Fords venerable F-series. This sales race wasnt a squeaker either; Ram clobbered the Silverado by 58,000 units, or, 10% more sales than the Chevy.

The Ram 2500 was also named Motor Trend Magazines Truck of the Year, making two years in a row that Ram earned such accolades. Sense a trend?

Like its 1500 series sibling, the heavy duty 2500/3500 series pickups receive the industrys best interior design, with textures, surfaces, controls, and technology that match luxury carmakers, along with chassis upgrades including an optional auto-levelling air-ride suspension, as well as an upgraded Cummins turbodiesel engine that produces a segment-leading 1,000-pound/feet of peak torque in 3500-series models.

Long a cornerstone to the heavy duty Dodge/Ram pickups, the latest Cummins in-line six-cylinder diesel comes in two versions. The base 6.7-liter six makes 370-hp and 850-lb./ft. of torque and can tow up to 19,780-pounds. The HOHigh Output6.7 liter is optional on the one-ton 3500 series trucks with dual rear wheels and spins out 400-hp and can pull up to 35,000 pounds with its six-speed automatic.

For comparison, the gas engined version of the 2500-series Ram uses a 6.4-liter V-8 making 410-hp that can pull 14,370-pounds with its eight-speed automatic.

The Cummins motor has been significantly quieted. Yes, you can hear the exploding clatter of the compression engine outside, but insideyou hear almost nothing. There is some big-truck thrum at certain engine speeds, which Cummins fans love, yet highway cruising is effortlessly serene. So smooth is the big Ram that you must mind the speedometer as beyond-the-pace speeding is too easily accomplished in this hushed workhorse.

The EPA does not render fuel economy numbers for heavy-duty pickups. Plus these trucks are usually working, towing, or plowing something, so fuel economy is relative to the task at hand. In over 1,400-miles of cold, winter driving, our Granite Crystal Limited returned 18.5-mpg. On the days when the mercury climbed above freezing, the on-board computer generated mileage over 21-mpg.

For truck buyers out of the market for more than four or five years, you will be shocked at the level of content in the Ram. From the 17-speaker Harman Kardon audio system (fabulous), to the heated and cooled leather seating (excellent), to the surround-view camera system (how did we live without?), to the massive, 12-inch, iPad-like vertical touchscreenthe largest in the segment, the Ram is bristling with features and technology.

Safety is available too; blind-spot detection, cross-traffic alerts, parking sensors front and rear, front camera, dynamic adaptable cruise control, forward collision braking system, plus remote starting are all part of the Limited offering, while other expected pieces like push-button access and ignition, heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats are also included. With power-folding running boards, a pickup bed camera (extremely handy!), plus a trailer reverse guidance system, the Ram Limited stretches the boundaries of what pickup buyers can expect.

Options include a 12,000-pound Warn ZEON power winch, a 50-gallon fuel tank, as well as a trailer-tire pressure monitoring system.

Ram Heavy Duty pricing starts at $33,645 for a 4X2 regular cab. Add $2,900 for 4X4. A Tradesman Crew Cab 4X4 starts at $40,395, then climbing past Lone Star, Big Horn, Laramie, and Power Wagon to our Limited Crew Cab which starts at $68,090. Our sample truck carried a Monroney sticker of $82,290 with the $9,100 diesel engine option.

High points; the Ram proved to be much more compliant down the road than reasonably expected. The truck tracked perfectly on the highway and drove with an ease that was downright impressive. The interior was richly finished and detailed like no rival has yet achieved, an isolation chamber for space travel. The audio system is special, the turning lamps up front a boon to rural road travel, the heated seating and wheel excellent company on zero-degree mornings.

Complaints are few. As much as the 12-inch screen stretches the paradigm in trucksit is massiveit was often difficult to make changes with one finger-strike as a touchpad lacks any tactile feedback. There are plenty of redundant buttons for climate and other repetitive controls, yet it felt like a screen this big should be canted or rotated towards the driver more, an angle that would make both visibility and access easier. Perhaps mounting this much screen on a movable pedestal could be the next step.

The Ram is worthy of its honors. There is a lot here for discerning pickup buyers. Just remember to call it Ram.

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On the Road Review: Ram 2500 Limited Crew Cab Diesel - Press Herald

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