Category: EIN Presswire

  • Role of TGF-β1 Signaling in Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

    Researchers reveal TGF-β1 promotes scar tissue formation and restricts recovery

    CHINA, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Fibrotic scarring is a major challenge in recovery post spinal cord injury (SCI). Researchers reveal that transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF- β1) signaling promotes scar tissue formation by encouraging fibroblast development from MSCs and pericytes. Using a mouse model, Dr. Dayu Pan and his team of researchers reveal that limiting macrophage-derived TGF-β1 reduced scar formation and improved recovery, suggesting that targeting abnormal TGF- β1 activation may aid in recovery after SCI.

    Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to long-term loss of motor and sensory function, with limited available treatment options to restore the lost function. A major challenge in recovery is the formation of scar tissue at the injury site that prevents damaged nerve fibers from regenerating. Glial scarring has been thoroughly investigated, while fibrotic scar formation has been less studied. Transforming growth factor -β1 (TGF-β1), a signaling molecule that regulates inflammation and tissue repair, has been known to play a critical role in fibrosis in many tissues. Understanding how fibrotic scars form could aid in the development of strategies for recovery improvement after SCI.

    To better understand the mechanisms underlying fibrotic scar formation after SCI, a research team led by Prof. Xu Cao from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA, conducted this comprehensive study. This study, published in Bone Research, Volume 14, Article number 27, on February 25, 2026, reveals that TGF- β1 plays an important role in fibrotic scar tissue formation and limits neural regeneration following SCI. Prof. Cao says, “In adult mice, fibrotic scar formation at injury sites prevents recovery after SCI, and the inhibition of fibrotic scar formation significantly improved SCI recovery.”

    The team investigated the cellular changes that take place at the injury site using an SCI mouse model. They observed that macrophages accumulate at the injury site and become a primary source of activated TGF- β1. This activation of TGF- β1 signaling then triggers downstream recruitment of mesenchymal stromal stem cells (MSCs), promoting their differentiation into fibroblasts and subsequently the development of fibrotic scar tissue. The first author, Dr. Dayu Pan mentions, “Overactive TGF-β1 at SCI sites were found to recruit and induce fibroblast differentiation of MSCs, as well as resident pericytes and thus promoting the formation of fibrotic scar.”

    Further research revealed that TGF- β1 also regulates the surrounding blood vessels in the injured spinal cord. Prof. Cao explains, “In the blood-spinal cord barrier, activated TGF- β1 acts on resident pericytes in the endothelial niche to promote their differentiation into fibroblasts”. The fibroblasts then produce extracellular matrix components such as collagen and fibronectin, which accumulate at the injury site and lead to the formation of dense fibrotic scar tissue that prevents neural recovery.

    Following this, the researchers next examined whether blocking TGF-β1 signaling could reduce fibrotic scar tissue formation. When TGF- β1 was selectively inhibited in the macrophage lineage cells, the injured mice showed significantly reduced fibrotic scar tissue formation and a greater density of nerve fibers in the lesion area. Behavioral tests further revealed improved sensory and motor responses in mice. These findings indicate that restricting macrophage-derived TGF- β1 activity reduces fibrotic scarring and improves functional recovery after SCI. Dr. Pan further explains, “The inhibition of TGF-β1 activity reduced fibrotic scar formation and improved recovery from SCI in mice. Strikingly, neonatal mice did not show TGF-β activity at the SCI site and showed full recovery after injury. Collectively, our findings show that fibrotic scarring results from abnormal TGF-β activity, and that such scarring is the primary obstacle to functional recovery after SCI.”

    Interestingly, neonatal mice recovered from SCI without developing fibrotic scarring and showed no active TGF-β1 signaling at the injury site. In contrast, adult mice showed elevated TGF- β1 activation and pronounced fibrotic scarring that limited recovery. The authors suggest that preventing abnormal activation of TGF- β1 or even neutralizing active TGF- β1 may help improve recovery outcomes after SCI.

    Lastly, the study highlights the central role of TGF-β1 signaling in fibrotic scar formation and offers new insights into the mechanisms that limit recovery after SCI.

    ***

    Reference
    Title of original paper: TGF-β-induced fibrotic scar formation limits recovery of spinal cord injury
    Journal: Bone Research
    DOI: 10.1038/s41413-026-00507-7

    About Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
    Website: https://www.jhu.edu/

    About Prof. Xu Cao at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
    Prof. Xu Cao is the Director and the Lee Riley Professor at the Center for Musculoskeletal Research at Johns Hopkins University.

    About Dr. Dayu Pan at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
    Dr. Dayu Pan is a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

    Funding information
    This study was conducted at the Johns Hopkins University. This research was supported by the following fundings: NIH National Institute on Aging under Award Number P01AG066603, R01AG076783, and R01AG068997 (to X.C.). Animal behaviour test was facilitated by the Pain Research Core funded by the Blaustein Fund and the Neurosurgery Pain Research Institute at the Johns Hopkins University.

    Yini Bao
    Bone Research Editorial Office
    +86 28 8554 6461
    br@scu.edu.cn
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  • GPT Proto Expands AI Model Catalogue with Support for Google’s Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview

    Hong Kong-based API platform adds Google’s latest multimodal model to its growing roster, expanding developer access to frontier AI through a unified gateway

    HONG KONG, HONG KONG, CHINA, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — HONG KONG, March 2026 — GPT Proto, a multi-model AI API platform operated by Talent Tech Global Limited, today announced the integration of Google’s Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview into its developer API gateway. The addition marks the platform’s latest expansion of its model catalogue, which now spans offerings from Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, and other leading AI labs.

    Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview, released by Google in early 2026, is the company’s most capable multimodal model to date. It supports extended context windows, multi-step logical reasoning, and the processing of text, code, and structured data within a single API call. The model has drawn attention from the developer community for its performance on complex reasoning tasks and its applicability to agentic workflows and large-scale document analysis. For a detailed integration guide, see the Nano Banana 2 Guide on the GPT Proto developer blog.

    Expanding Access to Frontier Models

    GPT Proto’s platform provides a unified RESTful API compatible with OpenAI’s SDK, allowing development teams to access multiple AI models through a single integration point. The platform currently supports dozens of models and is designed for use cases ranging from software engineering and scientific research to content generation and business intelligence pipelines.

    According to the company, the inclusion of Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview responds to growing demand from its developer user base for access to Google’s latest generation of models. GPT Proto states that all models on the platform are accessible through a standardised API interface, eliminating the need for teams to manage multiple provider accounts or API keys.

    Executive Commentary

    “Our goal has always been to reduce the barriers between developers and the tools they need to build,” said Sammi Cen, Founder and CEO of Talent Tech Global Limited. “Adding Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview to our platform means that teams working with our API can immediately incorporate Google’s most advanced reasoning model without a separate onboarding process or billing relationship.”

    Platform Capabilities

    The GPT Proto gateway supports streaming responses, function calling, batch processing, and model routing. The platform is used by developers building applications including retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines, code generation tools, automated content systems, and AI-powered analytics dashboards. Documentation for the Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview integration is available on the GPT Proto developer portal.

    Availability

    Gemini 3.1 Pro Preview is now available to all GPT Proto users. Developers can access the model and related documentation at gptproto.com.

    About GPT Proto

    GPT Proto is a multi-model AI API platform operated by Talent Tech Global Limited, headquartered in Hong Kong. The platform provides developer access to large language models from multiple AI providers through a unified API. For more information, visit https://gptproto.com.

    Media Contact
    Sammi Cen, Founder & CEO
    Talent Tech Global Limited
    87–105 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
    Email: sammi@gptproto.com
    Website: https://gptproto.com

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    Talent Tech Global Limited
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  • GPT Proto Launches Full Support for OpenAI’s GPT-5.4 API, Offering Developers Affordable and Scalable Access

    HONG KONG, HONG KONG, CHINA, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Hong Kong, March 2026 — GPT Proto, an AI API gateway platform operated by Talent Tech Global Limited, today announced full integration of OpenAI’s latest flagship model, GPT-5.4, into its developer platform. The launch gives startups, independent developers, and enterprises a new access point to OpenAI’s most advanced model — one designed with cost efficiency, high availability, and developer experience as core priorities.

    GPT Proto serves as a managed API relay layer, enabling teams to integrate leading large language models — including GPT-5.4, Claude, and Gemini — through a single, unified endpoint. The platform is designed to reduce the operational and financial overhead that development teams encounter when working directly with model providers.

    The announcement comes as enterprise demand for capable, production-ready AI infrastructure continues to accelerate in 2026. GPT Proto’s GPT-5.4 integration is intended to lower the barrier to entry for teams exploring advanced AI use cases, including agentic workflows, multimodal processing, and large-context document analysis.

    About OpenAI’s GPT-5.4

    OpenAI officially released GPT-5.4 in early 2026 as a significant advancement in large language model capability. Developers and enterprises can access the GPT-5.4 API endpoint through GPT Proto, while a complete technical guide to GPT-5.4 is available on the GPT Proto blog for those evaluating the model’s architecture, benchmarks, and recommended applications.

    Key capabilities of GPT-5.4 include:
    – Advanced multi-step reasoning with near-zero logical error rates
    – Extended context window supporting over 200,000 tokens per request
    – Native image, audio, and document understanding (multimodal by default)
    – Superior instruction-following accuracy for complex agentic workflows
    – Substantially reduced token generation latency compared to the GPT-4 series

    GPT Proto Platform: Infrastructure for AI Development

    GPT Proto’s platform architecture is built around four capabilities relevant to production AI deployments:

    Cost Efficiency: The platform’s aggregated purchasing model allows it to offer GPT-5.4 access at rates below standard pay-per-token pricing. Pricing is transparent, with no minimum commitments or usage overages.
    Performance: GPT Proto operates globally distributed infrastructure optimized for low-latency routing, supporting real-time applications such as AI assistants, writing tools, and multi-agent pipelines.
    Reliability: A multi-region failover architecture automatically reroutes traffic during service disruptions or rate-limit events, providing higher effective uptime than direct API access for mission-critical applications.
    Technical Support: GPT Proto provides human-staffed technical support from AI integration specialists, available to assist with implementation, prompt engineering, and API behaviour questions.

    Industry Perspective

    “GPT-5.4 represents a genuine step-change in what AI can do for businesses and developers. Our mission at GPT Proto has always been to democratize access to the best AI models — making them faster, cheaper, and more reliable than going direct. We’re proud to be among the first platforms to offer GPT-5.4 API access at scale.”
    — Sammi, Head of Partnerships, GPT Proto / Talent Tech Global Limited

    Availability

    GPT Proto’s GPT-5.4 integration is available immediately. Developers can sign up for free and access the API at gptproto.com.

    About GPT Proto

    GPT Proto, operated by Talent Tech Global Limited, is an AI API gateway platform providing developers and enterprises with access to leading large language models including GPT-5.4, Claude, and Gemini. The platform is designed to simplify AI integration and reduce infrastructure costs without compromising performance. GPT Proto is headquartered in Hong Kong and serves a global developer community.

    Media Contact
    Company: Talent Tech Global Limited
    Contact: Sammi
    Email: sammi@gptproto.com
    Website: https://gptproto.com/
    Country: Hong Kong

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  • OnlineBankingHelp Expands Consumer Guides on Banking Delays and Transaction Issues

    Independent resource helps users understand pending transactions, banking delays, and common online banking issues

    Online banking is part of daily life, but many users still struggle with delays, limits, and app issues. Our goal is to make these systems easier to understand.”
    — Robert Wolfe

    DAYTON, OH, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — OnlineBankingHelp.com, an independent educational platform focused on digital banking, is expanding its library of in-depth guides designed to help consumers better understand how modern banking systems work behind the scenes.

    As online and mobile banking continue to replace traditional in-branch services, many users struggle with delayed transactions, account access issues, and unexpected banking app errors. The platform provides clear, structured explanations to help users navigate these challenges with confidence.

    The website features detailed resources covering topics such as why bank transactions remain pending, how long transfers typically take to process, and the factors that influence banking delays. These guides reflect real-world banking systems and offer practical insights into how transactions move through financial networks.

    In addition to transaction timing, the site provides comprehensive explanations of common online banking problems, including login errors, deposit delays, account restrictions, and mobile app performance issues. Each resource is written to help users understand what is happening and what steps they can take next.

    “Most people use online banking every day, but very few understand how the systems behind it actually work,” said Robert Wolfe, founder of OnlineBankingHelp.com. “We created this platform to break down complex banking processes into simple, practical explanations that people can actually use.”

    The website continues to grow with new content focused on ACH transfers, deposit processing, routing numbers, and transaction timing. In addition to core guides, the platform includes structured directories and glossary resources that help users better understand key banking terms and systems.

    All content is independently written and is not affiliated with any bank, financial institution, or payment provider. The platform is intended strictly for educational purposes and does not request or store personal banking information.

    Consumers are encouraged to contact their bank or credit union directly for account-specific questions or concerns.

    To explore the latest guides, visit: https://www.onlinebankinghelp.com/

    Robert Wolfe
    OnlineBankingHelp
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  • Hollywood Tastemakers Discover The Billion Dollar Impact Ecosystem At Oscars Week Luxury Gifting Suite

    Stacey Lauren introduces a community-powered ecosystem designed to turn relationships into collaboration, revenue and charitable impact.

    When people come together around a shared goal, relationships form, doors open, and communities can generate both opportunity and impact at the same time.”
    — Stacey Lauren

    LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and community-building innovator Stacey Lauren was featured during Oscars Week at A Toast To Hollywood, the signature luxury gifting suite hosted by Heather Marianna and The Marianna Group on March 12 in Beverly Hills.

    The exclusive event brought together celebrities, media personalities, influencers, and industry leaders who gathered to discover standout brands, authors, and entrepreneurs across lifestyle, wellness, technology, and business.

    During the event, Stacey Lauren introduced Kelsey Scott, Gilles Marini, King Moore and many other guests to The Billion Dollar Impact Ecosystem, a new model for creating what she calls a “community of communities” – a global network where entrepreneurs, creators, leaders and changemakers collaborate around shared goals to build meaningful relationships, generate business opportunities, and raise money for causes they care about.

    Through this ecosystem, Lauren has created a vehicle that allows communities to grow together while generating both revenue and charitable impact.

    “At the heart of the Billion Dollar Impact is a simple idea,” said Stacey Lauren, founder of Do The Thing and creator of The Billion Dollar Impact. “When people come together around a shared goal, relationships form, doors open, and communities can generate both opportunity and impact at the same time. Our goal is to create a true win-win-win. The creator or entrepreneur earns revenue, the charity or cause receives funding, and the community benefits by coming together around something meaningful.”

    Lauren says the ecosystem reflects a pattern she has seen across philanthropy, entrepreneurship and community-building.

    “One of the things I noticed is that many celebrities have a platform and a desire to give back, but they don’t always know how to connect with the right nonprofit to support,” said Lauren. “Others care deeply about a cause and end up funding it themselves because they don’t yet have the infrastructure to bring people together around it.”

    Through that work, Lauren developed a framework to help people activate communities around meaningful goals and create opportunities for collaboration, visibility, and fundraising.

    The concept was further influenced by Lauren’s participation in global gatherings focused on philanthropy and innovation, including Sir Richard Branson’s “Disrupting for Good” community on Necker Island, where leaders explore new ways business and philanthropy can work together to create large-scale impact.

    Produced by The Marianna Group, A Toast To Hollywood has become one of the most sought-after celebrity gifting experiences during Oscars Week. The event features red carpet interviews, curated brand discovery, tastings, and immersive brand activations where innovative entrepreneurs connect directly with leaders in entertainment and media.

    Guests at A Toast To Hollywood were introduced to Lauren’s expanding Billion Dollar Impact ecosystem, which includes collaborative networking experiences, community activation events, impact auctions, and an upcoming marketplace designed to help entrepreneurs and creators amplify their visibility while generating both business growth and charitable impact.

    For Lauren, the event represented a natural extension of her mission.

    “In a time when many people feel disconnected despite living in a hyper-connected world,” she said, “the solution isn’t more content or more followers. It’s bringing the right people together around a meaningful goal.”

    Through her global platform Do The Thing, Lauren has helped individuals step forward, find their voice, and take action on ideas that matter. Through the broader Billion Dollar Impact ecosystem, she is expanding that work into a movement designed to connect communities, unlock collaboration, and create meaningful impact at scale.

    More information about the Billion Dollar Impact ecosystem can be found at: https://thebilliondollarimpact.com

    About Stacey Lauren
    Stacey Lauren is a speaker, charity fundraising auctioneer, and the founder of Do The Thing, a global platform focused on activating communities around shared goals. Lauren, a former CEO and co-founder of a successful staffing company launched in 2001, spent more than two decades building and scaling businesses before selling her stake in 2022. That transition led her to focus on helping entrepreneurs, organizations, and changemakers build communities that create both business momentum and social impact. Through initiatives such as My People Parties, Community Activation Challenges powered by Do The Thing, and the Billion Dollar Impact ecosystem, Lauren helps people bring others together around meaningful goals to create collaboration, visibility, and opportunity. Lauren has appeared on TEDx stages, spoken at the United Nations, and participated in global gatherings focused on leadership, innovation, and philanthropy. You can learn more at thebilliondollarimpact.com.

    Blair Kaplan Venables
    Blair Kaplan Communications Inc
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    The Billion Dollar Impact Ecosystem

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  • Author Avery Crumrine Gains Hollywood Attention at Beverly Hills Oscars Week Event With Debut Book Intention Into Action

    18-year-old entrepreneur and speaker introduces her debut book, Intention Into Action, to Hollywood tastemakers at the exclusive “A Toast To Hollywood” event.

    What you are doing right here is so important. This is what my wife and I, as grandparents, want to teach our grandkids and kids. This book right here is what life is about.”
    — Mike Singletary, NFL Hall of Fame Linebacker

    LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Rising young author and entrepreneur Avery Brenna Crumrine was featured at A Toast To Hollywood, the signature luxury gifting suite held March 12, 2026, in Beverly Hills during Oscars Week. The highly anticipated event brought together celebrities, media, and VIPs to experience standout brands, authors, and innovators across beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and personal development.

    At just 18 years old, Crumrine introduced her debut book, Intention Into Action, to Hollywood guests, sharing a message centered on responsibility, resilience, and the power of choosing movement over waiting. The book explores a philosophy that many high achievers understand intuitively: progress is built through action, not perfection.

    “It was incredible to introduce Intention Into Action during Oscars Week and share its message with people in the entertainment industry who understand how much discipline and action it takes to bring ideas to life. Being part of A Toast to Hollywood was such an exciting opportunity to connect with people who are constantly creating and pursuing big visions,” said Avery Crumrine, author of Intention Into Action.

    Raised in an environment shaped by entrepreneurship and creative building, Crumrine developed an early appreciation for responsibility, follow-through, and initiative. From organizing entrepreneur fairs to contributing to charity auctions that raised over six figures, she has consistently gravitated toward projects that combine leadership with meaningful impact.

    Her work has also included media production and public speaking, where she addresses topics such as rejection, confidence, and the importance of showing up before you feel ready. That philosophy became the foundation for Intention Into Action, which she wrote while actively building her own path as a student, entrepreneur, and speaker.

    Unlike many debut authors who write from hindsight, Crumrine wrote this book while still in motion. The result is a perspective that resonates with young leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone learning to take action before they feel fully prepared.

    Guests such as Gilles Marinim, Melanie Marlo and Obba Babatundé attended A Toast To Hollywood, discovering Crumrine’s book alongside an impressive lineup of innovative brands and creators across beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and technology.

    “What you are doing right here is so important. This is what my wife and I, as grandparents, want to teach our grandkids and kids. This book right here is what life is about, said Mike Singletary, NFL Hall of Fame Linebacker, to Crumrine.

    Produced by The Marianna Group, A Toast To Hollywood has become one of the most dynamic celebrity gifting experiences in Beverly Hills during Oscars Week. The event blends curated product discovery, red carpet interviews, tastings, and immersive brand activations, giving guests the opportunity to discover emerging voices and influential brands shaping culture today.

    For Crumrine, participating in the event marked a milestone moment for a young author whose message is already resonating far beyond her years.

    Her book Intention Into Action encourages readers to stop waiting for certainty and instead begin building through consistent, imperfect action. It reflects the mindset she lives by: learning through experience, staying engaged when momentum fades, and choosing progress over hesitation.

    About Avery Brenna Crumrine
    Avery Brenna Crumrine is a writer, speaker, and student based in San Diego, California. Currently studying finance, she has been involved in entrepreneurship and nonprofit work from a young age. Her experience includes organizing entrepreneur fairs, contributing to charity auctions that raised over six figures, producing media, and speaking at events on rejection, confidence, and taking action before feeling ready. Intention Into Action is her debut book and reflects her philosophy of learning by doing and progressing through consistent effort.

    Blair Kaplan Venables
    Blair Kaplan Communications Inc
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    Avery Crumrine on the red carpet

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  • The Chicago Hotel Collection Launches New Loyalty Programs for Planners and Travelers

    The Chicago Hotel Collection introduces Planner Rewards and Guest Loyalty to drive direct bookings, reward repeat business, and elevate the guest experience

    We are incredibly focused on creating meaningful, revenue-driving relationships with both our group partners and our individual guests,”
    — Brandon Falor, Vice President of Asset Management

    CHICAGO, IL, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Chicago Hotel Collection (CHC), a portfolio of boutique hotels in downtown Chicago, today announced the launch of two new loyalty initiatives designed to reward both group meeting and event planners as well as individual travelers, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional value, personalized experiences, and long-term guest relationships.

    The new programs—CHC Planner Rewards and CHC Guest Loyalty—are part of a broader strategic initiative to drive repeat business, increase direct bookings, and further differentiate The Chicago Hotel Collection within the highly competitive Chicago hospitality market.

    CHC Planner Rewards: Designed for Meeting & Event Professionals

    The CHC Planner Rewards Program is tailored specifically for corporate meeting planners, event organizers, wedding coordinators, and social hosts booking events across CHC’s portfolio, including the Ambassador Hotel, Magnificent Mile, River North, and Wrigleyville properties.

    Key benefits include:
    – Points or cash-back incentives based on total event spend
    – Tiered rewards structure offering increasing benefits for repeat bookings
    – Complimentary upgrades and VIP amenities for planners and key attendees
    – Exclusive access to premium event spaces, including the historic Ambassador Room and rooftop venues
    – Flexible redemption options, including future event credits, complimentary stays, and curated experiences

    This program is designed to position CHC as a preferred partner for planners seeking both value and elevated experiences in Chicago.

    CHC Guest Loyalty: A New Standard for Individual Travelers

    In parallel, The Chicago Hotel Collection is introducing CHC Guest Loyalty, a program designed for individual travelers booking directly through CHC channels.

    Members will receive:
    – Exclusive member-only rates and offers
    – Complimentary enhanced guest benefits packages, including breakfast, cocktails, and added amenities
    – Priority early check-in and late check-out
    – Room upgrades based on availability
    – Access to curated local experiences and partner offers

    The program is structured to reward direct engagement while enhancing the overall guest journey—from booking through post-stay engagement.

    Executive Commentary

    “We are incredibly focused on creating meaningful, revenue-driving relationships with both our group partners and our individual guests,” said Brandon Falor, Vice President of Asset Management at Chicago Hotel Collection. “These new loyalty programs are not just about rewards—they’re about recognition, personalization, and delivering tangible value at every touchpoint. Whether you’re planning a large-scale event or staying with us for a weekend getaway, we want every interaction with Chicago Hotel Collection to feel elevated, seamless, and worth returning for.”

    Strategic Impact

    The launch of these programs aligns with CHC’s broader strategy to increase direct booking penetration, strengthen group and event sales pipelines, enhance guest lifetime value, and build a differentiated boutique hospitality brand rooted in experience-driven offerings.

    With a growing calendar of events, curated programming, and premium guest benefits, Chicago Hotel Collection continues to redefine the traditional hotel model in Chicago.

    About The Chicago Hotel Collection

    The Chicago Hotel Collection is a portfolio of boutique hotels located throughout downtown Chicago, including properties in the Magnificent Mile, River North, Gold Coast, and Wrigleyville neighborhoods. Known for its distinctive guest benefit programs, experiential offerings, and prime locations, CHC delivers a modern hospitality experience tailored to both business and leisure travelers.

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    The Chicago Hotel Collection
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    Turn Your Events Into Global Travel Rewards! 🌎✈️

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  • Nonprofit Launches National Campaign Linking America’s 250th Anniversary with Veteran Support

    Campaign Highlights the Impact of Service While Expanding Access to Free Trauma-Informed Care

    Our veterans deserve continued care, understanding, and support as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.”
    — Annie Damato

    RICHMOND, VA, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — For Immediate Release

    As the United States marks its 250th anniversary in 2026, After The Action Healing Foundation is launching a national awareness campaign titled “250 Years of Strength. Still Standing.” The initiative honors the courage and resilience that built the nation — while drawing attention to the often unseen emotional and neurological cost carried by military veterans and retired law enforcement professionals.

    For 250 years, America has endured war, reconstruction, social change, global conflict, and cultural evolution. Its story is one of strength and perseverance. Yet behind every chapter of national resilience are the individuals who stepped forward in service — often at great personal cost.

    “America’s strength has always been rooted in courage,” said Annie Damato, Co-Founder of After The Action Healing Foundation. “But strength has never been abstract. It has always had a face, a name, a uniform. As we celebrate 250 years of freedom, we must also acknowledge the nervous systems, families, and lives that carried that weight.”

    After The Action Healing Foundation provides free, trauma-informed clinical hypnotherapy to military veterans and retired law enforcement professionals experiencing service-related stress and trauma. The organization focuses on nervous system regulation, emotional recovery, and long-term resilience through evidence-informed therapeutic approaches.

    The supportive services are designed to help veterans heal emotionally, restore personal purpose, and successfully reintegrate into civilian life. Through these specialized programs and clinical hypnotherapy services, the organization addresses the unique challenges veterans often face after their service ends.

    “Celebrating America’s 250th anniversary is also about honoring those who protected the freedoms we cherish,” said Annie Damato, Co-Founder of After The Action Healing Foundation. “Our veterans deserve continued care, understanding, and support as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.”

    While national celebrations focus on milestones and historical achievements, the Foundation is bringing attention to what often goes unspoken — that resilience does not mean silence, and strength does not require suppression.

    As part of the America 250 theme, the Foundation is launching a community awareness and fundraising campaign to expand access to veteran healing programs. Individuals and organizations can support the mission through donations, community partnerships, and purchases from the Foundation’s purpose-driven apparel store (https://store.aftertheaction.org), where proceeds directly fund veteran support services.

    “America has evolved over 250 years,” Annie Damato added. “The way we care for those who protected it must evolve as well.”

    The Foundation also plans to collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and veteran groups to host awareness events and strengthen community-based support networks. Community members, businesses, and organizations interested in supporting veterans are encouraged to get involved.

    To sustain and expand its mission, After The Action Healing Foundation is accepting tax-deductible donations. Contributions directly fund free clinical hypnotherapy services for veterans and retired law enforcement professionals seeking support.

    For more information about the “250 Years of Strength” campaign, partnership opportunities, or to make a donation, visit www.aftertheaction.org

    About After The Action Healing Foundation:

    After The Action Healing Foundation is a nonprofit organization, created by the founders of Imagination Hypnotherapy (www.ImaginationHypnotherapy.com) that provides free, trauma-informed clinical hypnotherapy to military veterans and retired law enforcement professionals experiencing service-related stress and trauma. The Foundation is dedicated to supporting mental and emotional recovery in a respectful, evidence-informed manner that honors the lasting impact of service.

    Annie Damato
    After the Action Healing Foundation
    +1 757-703-2236
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
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  • Mindpeak Announces Global Reseller Agreement with Leica Biosystems to Expand Access to AI Pathology Solutions

    Mindpeak today announced a global reseller agreement with Leica Biosystems, a Danaher company and a global leader in anatomic and digital pathology solutions.

    Laboratories and biopharma teams worldwide can access Mindpeak’s AI applications directly within the Leica Biosystems ecosystem. We are supporting greater efficiency, reproducibility and scalability.”
    — Felix Faber, CEO, Mindpeak

    HAMBURG, GERMANY, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Mindpeak, a developer of AI-powered pathology solutions, today announced a global reseller agreement with Leica Biosystems, a Danaher company and a global leader in anatomic and digital pathology solutions.

    Under the agreement, Leica Biosystems becomes an authorized global reseller of Mindpeak’s AI applications within the Leica Biosystems digital pathology ecosystem. The collaboration expands global access to AI-powered pathology analysis, enabling laboratories and research teams to integrate advanced AI applications within their existing digital pathology workflows.

    Mindpeak’s AI applications will be made available through the Aperio HALO AP digital pathology platform and the Aperio AI Store, part of Leica Biosystems’ expanding ecosystem of AI-enabled pathology tools designed to support interoperable digital pathology workflows.

    AI Applications for Biomarker and Tissue Analysis

    Through the collaboration, Mindpeak will make its portfolio of AI-powered pathology applications available within Leica Biosystems’ Aperio digital pathology ecosystem via the Aperio AI Store. These applications can support automated biomarker quantification and tissue analysis across key clinical and research workflows.

    At launch, the integration will include nine AI applications covering biomarkers such as Ki-67, HER2, ER/PR, p53 and PD-L1, alongside H&E-based image analysis applications for prostate, breast and macrodissection workflows. Mindpeak applications launch directly inside the Aperio HALO AP image management environment, creating a streamlined experience for pathologists and researchers while maintaining established workflows.

    Felix Faber, CEO and Co-Founder of Mindpeak, said: “Through this partnership with Leica Biosystems, laboratories and biopharma teams worldwide will be able to access Mindpeak’s AI applications directly within the Leica Biosystems digital pathology ecosystem. By combining Mindpeak’s Frontier AI Model with Leica Biosystems’ global digital pathology infrastructure, we can support greater efficiency, reproducibility and scalability across biomarker quantification and tissue analysis workflows.”

    “Our collaboration with Mindpeak reflects our commitment to expanding the Aperio AI Store with best in class AI solutions,” said Naveen Chandra, Vice President and General Manager of Digital Pathology at Leica Biosystems. “Seamless integration of Mindpeak’s AI capabilities within the Aperio HALO AP platform enables users to consolidate data, images, and AI outputs in a single workflow, which is an essential step in scaling AI enabled assays and advancing digital pathology workflows.”

    By combining Mindpeak’s AI-powered analysis with Leica Biosystems’ established digital pathology platform, the collaboration aims to support broader adoption of AI-assisted pathology by:
    • Improving efficiency and scalability across digital pathology workflows worldwide
    • Enabling robust, reproducible biomarker quantification for clinical and research applications
    • Accelerating biomarker discovery and enabling AI-powered biomarker analysis across the full clinical development lifecycle, from early research to global deployment

    The collaboration will also be highlighted during the USCAP Annual Meeting, where both companies will showcase their digital pathology solutions and AI-powered analysis tools.

    Mindpeak will be exhibiting at Booth 718, while Leica Biosystems will be present at Booth 223.

    For Research Use Only. Not for Use in Diagnostic Procedures.

    Notes to Editors

    About Mindpeak

    Mindpeak is a leading company in AI-powered digital pathology, bridging the gap from biomarker development to clinical diagnostics. Founded in 2018, Mindpeak’s AI technology enables laboratories to extract actionable insights from H&E, IHC and mIF tissue images, ranging from subcellular biomarker quantification to predictive patient stratification. The solutions support both routine diagnostics and the translation of novel biomarkers into real-world clinical applications.

    For more information, visit www.mindpeak.ai or follow Mindpeak on LinkedIn.

    About Leica Biosystems

    Leica Biosystems is a cancer diagnostics company and a global leader in anatomic and digital pathology solutions. The company offers a comprehensive product range for each step in the pathology process, from sample preparation and staining to imaging and reporting. As the only company to own the full workflow from biopsy to diagnosis, Leica Biosystems is uniquely positioned to break down the barriers between each step. The company’s mission of “Advancing Cancer Diagnostics, Improving Lives” is at the heart of its corporate culture. Leica Biosystems is proud to be a Danaher Corporation subsidiary.

    Contact:
    Matthew McCutcheon, External Communications Senior Manager, Leica Biosystems matthew.mccutcheon@leicabiosystems.com
    Tanya von Ahlefeldt, Director, MD Comms Group on behalf of Mindpeak tanya.vonahlefeldt@mdcommsgroup.com

    Confidental, Company Proprietary

    Tanya von Ahlefeldt (on behalf of Mindpeak)
    MD Comms Group
    +44 7950 754906
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
    LinkedIn

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  • LeydenJar Sets New Density Benchmark at International Battery Seminar with Launch of 1350 Wh/L Silyte Technology

    LeydenJar will exhibit at Booth 834 and present new data on scaling pure silicon anodes for AI-enabled wearables and next-gen devices on March 26 in Orlando

    ORLANDO, FL, UNITED STATES, March 19, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — LeydenJar arrived at the International Battery Seminar & Exhibit this week with a commercial announcement years in the making: Silyte™, the world’s most energy-dense anode roll, made from 100% silicon, is now available for sampling. The Dutch battery materials company is exhibiting at Booth 834 March 24 – 26, where engineers and product teams can see Silyte firsthand and discuss integration with LeydenJar’s technical and commercial teams.

    The battery industry has spent decades squeezing incremental improvements out of graphite. Silyte is not an incremental improvement. Using a proprietary Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) process adapted from the semiconductor industry, LeydenJar grows a porous nano-column silicon structure directly onto copper foil. That architecture internalizes silicon’s expansion during lithiation eliminating the need for the heavy external pressure that has long plagued silicon-dominant cell designs.

    The result is a step change in performance. Silyte delivers 1,350 Wh/L of volumetric energy density at stack level, 50% more capacity in the same form factor, reaches 80% charge in just 7 minutes, and achieves 500+ cycles at 80% capacity retention with no external pressure. Its dry, roll-to-roll manufacturing process cuts CO₂ emissions 85% compared to graphite production.

    “Silyte has moved from laboratory wonder to commercial reality,” said Evan Sanders, Chief Commercial Officer at LeydenJar. “With our PlantOne mass production facility under development, we are uniquely positioned to power the next generation of high-performance electronics.”

    Thursday Presentation: Scaling Silicon for the Next Generation of Devices
    On Thursday, March 26 at 9:30 AM, Tim Aanhane, Business Development at LeydenJar, will present “The Pure Silicon Anode Roll: Scaling 100% Silicon for the Next Generation of Devices.” The session takes a direct look at where consumer electronics are heading, toward AI-on-device processing and slimmer wearable form factors, and why graphite has run out of road to get there.

    Aanhane will present data on how Silyte’s nano-column architecture manages silicon swelling at scale, and what that means in practice: device OEMs can shrink battery footprints by 40%, freeing space for additional sensors and AI processing hardware. For cell manufacturers, Silyte’s 10x thinner anode profile is designed to run on existing roll-to-roll production lines without retooling.

    With PlantOne under development, LeydenJar is building the production infrastructure to supply Silyte at commercial scale. Sampling is available now for qualified cell manufacturers and device OEMs. LeydenJar’s team is available at Booth 834 throughout the show to discuss technical specifications, integration requirements, and sampling timelines.

    About LeydenJar
    LeydenJar is a Dutch deep-tech company developing the world’s first commercially viable 100% pure silicon anode for lithium-ion batteries. Its proprietary technology delivers significantly higher energy density, faster charging, and a dramatically lower carbon footprint. Founded in 2016 as a spin-off from ECN, LeydenJar is headquartered in Leiden with operations in Eindhoven. More information about LeydenJar can be found on www.leyden-jar.com.

    Media Contact
    Evan Sanders
    Chief Commercial Officer
    LeydenJar
    evan.sanders@leyden-jar.com

    Evan Sanders
    LeydenJar
    email us here
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