ROARLABS, a trailblazing urban lifestyle services company dedicated to revolutionising smoking cessation, is thrilled to announce its launch party on January 6th, 2024, taking place at 1-3 Mare Street, London from 12pm onwards.
The event promises an exciting lineup with Selecta JJ performing as DJ and Mercston providing live entertainment. This event marks the culmination of ROARLABS’ journey to develop responsible and innovative solutions for combating smoking and smokeless tobacco use.
Attendees will experience an end-user innovation stand for feedback, a carbon monoxide smoking status booth, flavour testing stations, and product sampling.
Founded in East London, ROARLABS was created with the goal of enabling a health-conscious lifestyle that is both socially enjoyable and environmentally responsible.
The event will be led by Co-Founders Beau Keefe, also known as Beau the Beard, and Rob Harvey, a prominent figure in the scientific lifestyle services industry.
Rob Harvey, CEO and Co-Founder, stated, “We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead healthier, tobacco-free lives. Our consistent goal as we expand is to empower people towards healthier, tobacco-free living, while championing equality and inclusivity.”
ROARLABS is addressing health inequality with a vision of a world where lifestyle choices contribute to a lasting life. Recognising the challenges in accessing support, the company is dedicated to educating and providing safer alternatives to the community.
ROARLABS introduces an innovative modular cardboard pod system with a removable battery. This pioneering technology is a sustainable solution for individuals quitting combustible and smokeless tobacco. The product is environmentally friendly, being the first carbon footprint labelled, fully recyclable device with a cardboard casing and food-grade silicone components.
Dedicated to tobacco and betel nut cessation, ROARLABS focuses on making a positive local and global impact.
Celebrate the launch of ROARLABS on January 6th, 2024, at 1 Mare Street, London, and join in fostering a healthier, more inclusive community.
Click2Pharmacy, a prominent online pharmacy in the UK, has recently published an enlightening report on the trends in emergency contraception use during 2023. This report, drawing from a variety of reliable sources including NHS statistics and OpenPrescribing data, unveils significant patterns in emergency contraception usage throughout England.
Key Highlights of the 2023 Emergency Contraceptive Usage Report
Predominance of Oral Contraceptives: The emergency contraceptive statistics 2023 report underscores a notable preference for emergency contraceptive pills. Oral contraceptives have been the leading choice, constituting 90% of all emergency contraception prescriptions.
Most Popular Emergency Contraceptives: In 2023, Ulipristal, marketed as ellaOne, surfaced as the top choice for emergency contraception, followed closely by Levonorgestrel.
The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Impact
The study also sheds light on the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on emergency contraception trends. A marked decline in prescriptions during the pandemic is linked to social distancing and lockdown measures, rather than decreased access to services.
Demographic Insights and Contraceptive Trends
The data reveals women aged 25-34 as the primary demographic engaging with Sexual Reproductive Health services for emergency contraceptives, yet they are comparatively less likely to be prescribed these medications.
There has been a consistent decrease in emergency contraceptive prescriptions since 2004, suggesting shifts in contraceptive preferences and accessibility.
Societal Stigma and Online Searches
The report further explores the societal stigma attached to emergency contraception. This is evident from the high volume of online searches for emergency contraceptive pills, reflecting a societal preference for privacy when acquiring these medications.
Click2Pharmacy’s Role in Sexual Health Education
Sakib Mohammed, Pharmacist at Click2Pharmacy, affirms, “At Click2Pharmacy, we are committed to encouraging open discussions about sexual health and providing reliable information.”
Today, RiskScreen embarks on a thrilling new phase, rebranding itself as KYC360. This new designation reflects the company’s deep-seated commitment to revolutionising Customer Lifecycle Management and aiding clients in achieving compliance and superior performance.
The transformation from RiskScreen to KYC360 is not merely a change of name; it signifies a strategic pivot towards offering a holistic, all-encompassing solution for Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. This includes modular frameworks for customer onboarding, screening, and ongoing KYC processes. Let’s delve into why this shift is a significant stride forward:
Complete Integration: KYC360 represents the full spectrum of our services, spanning from client onboarding to offboarding. This unified platform ensures a smooth, integrated approach to managing the customer lifecycle. The name embodies a commitment to delivering a comprehensive customer lifecycle management solution.
Worldwide Recognition: KYC360 extends beyond a mere brand; it’s a name synonymous with trust and expertise in the global enterprise regulatory technology (regtech) sector. This reputation paves the way for future expansion, empowering the company to offer superior service with enhanced features and an international scope.
Enhanced Clarity: Although RiskScreen has been effective, the KYC360 moniker clarifies the company’s primary focus. We’re not just about screening; we’re an acclaimed tech enterprise specialising in customer onboarding, screening, and perpetual KYC.
User-Centric Transition: The shift to KYC360 is crafted to be user-friendly. While the brand’s visual identity will be updated, the interface will remain intuitive, preserving the aspects of KYC360’s solutions that customers value, thus ensuring a seamless user experience.
Expanded Resources: All key resources that customers depend on, including the AML Roundup, will effortlessly migrate to the new KYC360.com website. This move centralises information, making it more accessible and user-friendly.
Continuity with RiskScreen Core: The essential features of RiskScreen Core, especially the ad-hoc screening capabilities, will persist under the RiskScreen brand, maintaining consistency and a sense of familiarity for users.
Stephen Platt, founder and CEO of KYC360, expressed: “As we rebrand as KYC360, we complete a transformational journey from a screening solution business to a full SaaS enterprise software company that now helps businesses meet all of their most important KYC challenges. The way businesses comply can be a major point of difference in driving commercial performance and our central philosophy is to help our customers comply and outperform. Their trust has been the foundation of our success and with the rebrand we are poised to deliver to them and the wider market even more transformative technologies.”
Ending 2023 on a high note, Taiwanese storage giant AGI Technology is revolutionising the market with an extraordinary unveiling. The Supreme Pro TF138 2TB microSD card, a fusion of unparalleled efficiency and remarkable capacity, sets a new global standard in microSD technology.
The Supreme Pro TF138 2TB, a first-of-its-kind offering from AGI Technology, boasts an impressive 2TB capacity, a global first in microSD cards. It features state-of-the-art UHS-I U3 V30 A2 specifications, ensuring optimal performance for 4K UHD video recording and app functionality. The card includes StorArt’s newest SA3309 controller, delivering consistent and rapid read-write speeds. Paired with AGI’s specialised card reader, it achieves exceptional transfer speeds of up to 170MB/s read and 160MB/s write, going beyond typical UHS-I limits.
This 2TB memory card caters to the increasing demands of digital storage, ideal for advanced handheld gaming, use with the iPhone 15, and high-resolution Android smartphone recording.
AGI Technology’s launch of this mass-produced 2TB microSD card reinforces their leadership in the global storage market.
Specifications of the Supreme Pro TF138:
Standard: SD6.1
Speed Classification: UHS-I U3 / V30 / A2
Capacity: 2TB
Speed: Up to 170/160 MB/s read/write speeds with the specialised card reader.
“Start Now, Finish Strong!” is the latest offering from PhysioFit Physio and Pilates Studio, designed by founder Alexandra Johnson. This innovative program caters to runners over 40 dealing with injuries, focusing on a personalised path to pain-free running and injury recovery.
Johnson, a triathlete with over 15 years in the physiotherapy field, holds a 2:1 BSc in Physiotherapy from St George’s Medical University. Her career encompasses over a decade in the NHS and six years in private practice specialising in sports injuries.
Battling Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome, Johnson has defied odds by participating in some of the world’s most demanding endurance events, including the Sahara’s Marathon des Sables, the 70.3 Ironman World Championships, and marathons in New York and London. Her condition, which severely affects her leg, poses challenges such as intense pain and muscle weakness, necessitating a medical compression stocking for extended walking.
Following a life-altering cycling accident in January 2017, Johnson, dissatisfied with conventional physiotherapy, embarked on a quest to develop effective techniques for pain-free running, benefiting herself and others in similar situations.
The “Start Now, Finish Strong!” program diverges from generic methods, offering a customised approach for individuals over 40. This eight-week online course covers all aspects of fitness, including mental and physical health, rehabilitation, joint mobility, nutrition, and targeted exercises to prevent common running injuries. A notable success story from the program is Stephen Taylor, who moved from near-retirement due to Achilles problems to pain-free running in a mere eight weeks.
Johnson’s commitment to reaching a broader audience is evident in her significant investment in business coaching and mentorship, enhancing her ability to support fellow runners over 40.
In her own words, Alexandra Johnson says: “I passionately believe that being over 40 does not equate to giving up on running or enduring pain. With the right approach, understanding, and techniques, individuals can not only resume running but do so better and stronger, embracing a new lease on life.”
Türkiye’s medical tourism sector is experiencing a notable boom, largely driven by the increasing demand for aesthetic procedures such as Mommy Makeover, Brazilian butt lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and breast aesthetics. Illustrious plastic surgeon Dr. Salih Onur Basat observes this upward trend in these extensive surgeries, predicting an even greater demand in 2024.
The health tourism industry in Türkiye is achieving significant landmarks. The EY (Ernst & Young) 2023 Tourism Sector Assessment, released in November, indicates a continuing surge in interest in Türkiye’s health tourism, with almost 750 thousand individuals visiting for health services in the first half of 2023.
Dr. Salih Onur Basat, a distinguished plastic surgeon in Türkiye, discusses the factors behind Türkiye’s growing acclaim in aesthetic surgeries. “I anticipate that the increasing demand for Brazilian butt lift (BBL), tummy tuck, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and breast aesthetic surgeries in Turkey will persist into 2024.”
Türkiye rapidly emerging as a top international choice for elective surgery
Dr. Basat remarks, “Türkiye has become a global destination for high-quality, affordable elective, reconstructive surgery, thanks to its state-of-the-art facilities and the expertise of our medical professionals.” He highlights the outstanding quality of Türkiye’s health infrastructure and its focus on elevating standards with talented medical personnel.
An encompassing strategy for post-pregnancy body refinement
The Mommy Makeover, involving breast surgery, tummy tuck, and liposuction, is extremely popular among international clients. Dr. Basat emphasises its tailored approach, particularly addressing the specific changes women face after childbirth. He stresses the importance of adequate rest and following post-surgery recommendations for successful healing. Türkiye’s cosmetic surgery spectrum extends beyond the Mommy Makeover, with Dr. Basat noting the growing popularity of breast aesthetics, BBL, liposuction, tummy tuck, and rhinoplasty.
International patients seeking a complete medical experience in Türkiye: opt for accredited clinics
“To achieve desired results, it’s crucial to select a specialised surgeon and have realistic post-operative expectations,” Dr. Basat suggests to those planning on undergoing surgery in Türkiye. The health tourism sector in Türkiye, aiming for a US$ 20 billion target, is powered by its robust health infrastructure and the expertise of its medical staff.
As Türkiye continues to excel in health tourism, offering state-of-the-art cosmetic and medical procedures, it stands as a preferred destination for international patients in search of quality, affordability, and medical expertise.
FD Capital, a leading agency in the field of financial recruitment, has issued an analysis critical of the Bank of England’s extended ‘higher for longer’ inflation strategy. This analysis states that the Bank’s approach to inflation has been “too high, too late, and now for too long,” advocating for a cut in interest rates in the first part of 2024.
In its research, FD Capital forecasts that the 12-month rate of CPI inflation will decline to 3.1% by March 2024. The report also predicts a short-term increase in the 6-month CPI rate at the start of 2024, which is expected to stabilise at around 2%.
The agency’s findings challenge the Bank of England’s inflation control strategy, suggesting that the Bank’s response in raising interest rates was sluggish. The report contends that interest rates should have reached their peak in the summer of 2022, a whole year earlier than they did. An earlier imposition of higher inflation could have curbed inflation without necessitating such drastic rate increases.
At present, the peak interest rate is an oppressive 5.25%, yet the analysis argues that it could have peaked at a lower 3.25% had the Bank of England acted sooner. This review implies that the Bank’s ‘higher for longer’ strategy might have ended in the summer of 2023, potentially avoiding a recession.
Unexpectedly, the UK’s inflation in November recorded a substantial drop, falling to 3.9% from October’s 4.6%, primarily due to lower petrol prices. This leaves the UK economy in a precarious state, on the brink of either a deep recession in 2024 or narrowly averting it. FD Capital posits that more timely action from the Bank of England could have circumvented these economic hardships.
The report also criticises the UK government’s COVID-19 support strategies, like business loans and the furlough programme, for contributing significantly to the inflation spike, overshadowing the effects of quantitative easing or tightening.
With market experts and commentators now considering an interest rate reduction by May and a 50/50 chance of a cut in March, FD Capital’s analysis suggests that the full impact of the Bank of England’s “too high, too late, and now for too long” inflation strategy will be felt in another 9 to 12 months.
LendFusion.com, a leading European loan management platform, proudly announces a trailblazing partnership with Phonexa, the foremost lead distribution software provider in both the United Kingdom and the United States.
This joint venture marks a significant turning point in the lending industry, blending LendFusion’s avant-garde technology with Phonexa’s expansive network and expertise in ROI-focused marketing.
Phonexa, renowned for its comprehensive lead distribution and tracking system, has been a key player in reshaping the lead monetisation process. Incorporating LendFusion’s intuitive lending solution into its repertoire, Phonexa aims to deliver a unified, all-inclusive experience for its clientele.
Through this partnership, lenders are empowered to manage and monetise leads more effectively with advanced pingtree systems, boosting the efficiency and profitability of their business operations.
David Pickard, UK Chief Executive Officer of Phonexa, shares his excitement about the partnership: “We are excited to join forces with LendFusion, a company that shares our vision of innovation and customer-centric services. This collaboration represents a significant leap forward in our ability to offer unparalleled solutions to our clients. Together, we are set to redefine the standards of lead monetisation and lending processes, delivering unmatched value and efficiency.”
Echoing these thoughts, Andres Valdmann, Chief Executive Officer of LendFusion, says: “Our partnership with Phonexa is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in the lending industry. Phonexa’s expansive reach and expertise in lead management, combined with our advanced lending platform, create a powerful synergy that will drive growth and success for both our companies and our clients.”
The partnership is set to provide substantial advantages to the customers of both LendFusion and Phonexa. Clients of LendFusion will benefit from Phonexa’s cutting-edge lead management capabilities, while Phonexa’s clientele will gain from LendFusion’s advanced lending platform, which offers superior loan management and processing features.
As the lending industry evolves, the collaboration between LendFusion and Phonexa promises to set new standards in the field, offering clients a comprehensive suite of tools for optimising their operations and enhancing their revenue opportunities.
Regina Burgher’s in-depth discussion with the esteemed contemporary artist and curator Xi Wang took place on December 21, 2023.
Xi Wang, a prominent figure in the Chinese international art scene, is renowned for his work as an art curator, artist, and writer. His focus lies in contemporary philosophy and art research. A graduate of the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Wang founded the Shanghai Yaosha Cultural Communication Co., Ltd in 2018. He holds memberships in the American Oil Painting Society and the American Oil Painting and Acrylic Society. His career in art curation and exhibitions is distinguished by his extensive international experience, including artistic collaborations and curated exhibitions across numerous countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Monaco, and the Vatican. Wang’s professional life involves frequent travel between Europe and China, underscoring his expertise in international art curation and exhibitions.
XI WANG “Metaphysics – Skipping Rope”
As an artist, Xi Wang’s presence on the international stage has been notable in recent years. His artworks have graced various prestigious venues, including the London Contemporary Art Fair in 2023, the Paris Contemporary Art Juried Exhibition in 2022, the International Contemporary Art Fair at the Carrousel Exhibition Hall of the Louvre in Paris, and the Independent Art Salon of the Grand Palais Museum in Paris. His artistic creations are celebrated for their diverse styles, creative depth, and profound thought, garnering widespread acclaim within the international art fraternity.
XI WANG “Metaphysics – Lilith’s Tentacle”
In his role as a curator, Xi Wang boasts an impressive portfolio of curatorial endeavours both on home soil and internationally. Since 2016, his independent curatorial projects have earned him international acclaim. In recent years, Wang has curated numerous solo and group exhibitions, providing a platform for many artists to showcase their talents. His notable solo exhibitions include those of artists like Remy Ayron, Xu Songbo, Hui Yuge, Guo Yaguan, Yan Zeming, and Wang Shouzhang. His group exhibitions encompass a variety of themes and include the London Contemporary Juried Exhibition, RESTART International Contemporary Art Exhibition, Excellent Chinese and Foreign Art Exhibition, Jing·Jing International Glass Art Exhibition, Modern Art Exhibition, National Oil Painting Famous Invitational Exhibition, and the Beijing Contemporary Art Exhibition.
XI WANG “Metaphysics – The Origin of the Universe”
Xi Wang’s curatorial approach is distinguished by its uniqueness and avant-garde perspective, with a focus on the intrinsic value of artworks and the contemporary diversity of expression. He is fervently dedicated to fostering international art exchange and promotion. Presently, his primary focus is on facilitating dialogues and cultural exchanges between China and Western countries through exhibitions and events held in China, France, the UK, and other nations. His expertise in curation has earned him high praise from internationally acclaimed artists and audiences, including the likes of Prasad Beaven, Leng Jun, and Mark Tangi.
Xi Wang’s artistic and curatorial endeavours have been celebrated both domestically and internationally. Contemporary artists of global renown who have participated in his curated exhibitions, such as Annie Trevorah from the UK, Rémy Aron from France, Phil Hohn from Germany, and Stacy Isenbarger from the US, have all risen to prominence through his exhibitions. Wang’s efforts and talents have significantly contributed to the positive image of Chinese contemporary art on the global stage and have facilitated artistic exchanges between Chinese and international artists. His achievements and contributions extend beyond the art world, playing a vital role in enhancing China’s cultural dialogues and international influence.
XI WANG “Metaphysics – Dislocation”
As a passionate and creative contemporary artist and curator, Xi Wang’s “Metaphysics Series” and curated exhibitions not only showcase his profound love and talent for art but also reflect his deep contemplation and unique insights into the evolution of contemporary art. His contributions to the development of the art world and international cultural exchanges are invaluable. The art community eagerly anticipates more of his remarkable work and achievements in the future.
Europeans, especially affected by hair loss, are increasingly selecting Turkey for hair transplantation procedures. Founder of Sule Hair Transplant Clinic, Şule Ölmez, based in Istanbul, discusses the reasons behind Turkey’s leading status in hair transplantation, drawing from her experience in treating a worldwide patient base.
The issue of severe hair loss in Europe has driven many to seek hair transplantation as a lasting solution. Hair transplant clinics in Turkey, serving thousands of health tourists globally each year, are the preferred choice in Europe. Şule Ölmez, a trailblazing woman entrepreneur in the industry, operating her clinic in Istanbul with an expert team, remarked, “We offer hair transplantation and dental treatment services to thousands of patients from all over the world, especially those coming from the European countries.”
Europe’s Widespread Hair Loss Issue
Studies reveal a significant hair loss problem throughout Europe, with eight of the ten countries most affected being European. The Czech Republic leads this trend, followed by Spain, Germany, France, and the UK. Turkey, known for its affordable and internationally recognised services, is a top choice for those seeking permanent hair loss solutions.
Şule Ölmez on Turkey’s Dominance in Hair Transplantation
“Turkey has become a hub for hair transplantation with its superior success rates and quality services worldwide. We also contribute to this success with our high standard services that prioritise patient satisfaction.”
Patient Satisfaction at 99%
“Our hair transplantation services have achieved a 99% patient satisfaction rate, highlighting our commitment to personalised treatments and exceptional care. We regard our patients as family members, enabling us to design treatment plans that meet each person’s individual requirements and hopes.”
Quality-Oriented Services
Şule Ölmez emphasises the clinic’s dedication to quality, “Although we perform fewer operations, we prefer to provide a higher standard of service in each procedure. We accompany our patients throughout the operation and the recovery phase, ensuring they always feel protected and cared for.”
Hair Transplantation Paired with Tourism
Şule Ölmez points to the unique advantage of combining medical procedures with tourism for overseas patients. “Patients who come to Turkey need to stay for 4 days to complete various procedures. Since hair transplantation process has already been completed in this process, they could use their remaining time by visiting Istanbul. So much so that this opportunity increases the attractiveness of our clinic for European citizens who visit Istanbul the most. We make the most suitable plan for our patients according to the hair transplant package they choose. For instance, in the all-inclusive hair transplant package, we arrange the airport transfer and accommodation. In order for each of our patients to leave Turkey satisfied, we accompany them from the first meeting to the completion of the recovery process. In this way, we make hair transplantation process a pleasant trip while ensuring that they return to their country happily.”
