Cross-border partnership starts with Alzheimer's and other brain diseases

PROVIDENCE, R.I. and WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rhode Island Life Science Hub (RILSH) and the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) today announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work toward a shared regional biobank. The partnership will plan how Rhode Island hospitals can join the MLSC-supported biobank network, creating a trusted source of high-quality samples and data, collected the same way under careful controls, that researchers across both states can use.

The current participating Massachusetts hospitals include Baystate Medical Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Medical Center Health System, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and UMass Chan Medical School. Alongside the participating healthcare institutions, industry partners will support the program's core infrastructure. Advarra, DNAnexus, Datavant, and Azenta will provide expertise in ethics and regulatory oversight, secure data systems, privacy-preserving data linkage, and biospecimen management. Additional partners will generate molecular and multi-omic data, further increasing the scientific value of the resource.

The first focus will be Alzheimer's and other brain diseases, a core area of research in Rhode Island. As the program grows, the partners plan to expand into other disease areas. Over the coming months, RILSH and the MLSC will build a shared plan for infrastructure and governance, with the goal of reaching a final agreement.

What this means

- For patients and families: Rhode Island patients will have a new way to help find better treatments for Alzheimer's and other brain diseases. Those who choose to take part can know their donation is handled with care, kept private, and put to work in research that could help families like theirs.

- For researchers: Scientists in both states will gain a larger, high-quality pool of samples and data, all collected the same way, helping speed new discoveries.

- For the region: One shared system means smart use of public dollars, less repeated work, and a stronger New England research community that draws investment and jobs.

"Science and disease don't stop at state lines, and neither should our research. One of the biggest gaps in research today is high-quality data collected the same way, every time. By building one shared platform instead of two, we make smart use of our capital and give the scientific community a trusted baseline of data to advance new treatments. Rhode Island is starting with Alzheimer's because it is a core strength here, and we plan to grow from there," said Bob Cormier, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Life Science Hub.

"Massachusetts has made significant investments in scientific infrastructure, and this partnership presents an exciting opportunity to extend the reach and impact of those investments beyond the Commonwealth. By expanding the MLSC's biobank network into Rhode Island, we can increase access to high-quality biological samples and data, strengthen regional research collaboration, and accelerate discoveries that advance our understanding and treatment of Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases," said Liz Graham, MLSC Interim President and CEO.

"The hardest part of studying brain disease is getting enough good data, collected the same way, from enough people. By joining a regional network, Rhode Island researchers can work at a scale neither state could reach alone, and that's how discoveries move faster," said Bharat Ramratnam, MD, Senior Vice President of Research, Brown University Health and Co-Chief Scientific Officer, Brown Innovation and Research Collaborative for Health (BIRCH).

About the Rhode Island Life Science Hub

The Rhode Island Life Science Hub (RILSH) is a quasi-public state entity working to grow and serve Rhode Island's life-science community â investing in, coordinating, and connecting academia, industry, clinical care, and capital to translate innovation into economic growth and improved health. Its vision is a Rhode Island recognized as a global life-science leader â a destination where companies from anywhere can build and grow, and where discovery becomes better health for people everywhere. As the state's central coordinating organization for life sciences, RILSH is a gateway into Rhode Island's research institutions, health systems, and talent â bringing companies and partners together to advance medical and scientific breakthroughs. For more information, please visit www.rilifescience.com.

About the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center

The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) is a quasi-public economic development investment agency dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the life sciences in Massachusetts, home to the most verdant and productive life sciences ecosystem in the world. Through public-private funding initiatives, the MLSC supports innovation, research and development, commercialization, and manufacturing activities in the fields of biopharma, medical device, diagnostics and digital health. Since 2008, the MLSC has strategically deployed nearly $1.2 billion in Massachusetts, through a combination of grants, loans, capital infrastructure investments, tax incentives and workforce development programs. These investments have created thousands of jobs and propelled the development of new therapies, devices and scientific advancements that are improving patient health and well-being in Massachusetts and beyond.

SOURCE Rhode Island Life Science Hub

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Long-term clinical data continue to support favorable safety and tolerability; new preclinical data show that prosetin corrects TDP-43-related dysfunction in vitro

NEW YORK, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ProJenX, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel, targeted, brain-penetrant therapies for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other debilitating brain diseases, today announced it will present updates on the prosetin development program at the 2026 Network for Excellence in ALS (NEALS) Annual Meeting, taking place Oct 27 â 30 in Clearwater, FL and online. Prosetin is a potent, selective, CNS-penetrant MAP4K inhibitor currently being evaluated in participants with ALS in the Phase 1b study PRO-101.

In addition to sharing long-term clinical data from PRO-101, presentations will highlight preclinical characterization of prosetin and the MAP4K mechanism, including new data demonstrating that prosetin broadly corrects TDP-43-related mis-splicing in human stem cell-derived motor neurons. ProJenX will also present an update on the critical role of its Community Advisory Board across the prosetin development program.

"The body of data we've generated strengthens the case for MAP4K as an important target in ALS and related neurodegenerative diseases," said Stan Abel, Chief Executive Officer of ProJenX. "In PRO-101, we reached target therapeutic exposures, saw target engagement that tracks with exposure, and maintained a favorable safety profile over long-term dosing. Together, these results show for the first time that CNS-penetrant MAP4K inhibition is a viable clinical strategy. We're grateful to the participants, investigators, and community advisors who made this possible."

Presentation Details

Wednesday, October 28

Poster Presentation, 4:50 pm ET, Poster #56

Preclinical characterization of prosetin, a novel, CNS-penetrant MAP4K inhibitor developed for the treatment of ALS

Thursday, October 29

Oral Presentation, 9:50 am ET

Session: A Collaborative Ecosystem for Clinical Trial Innovation

Early Incorporation of Lived Experience in the Prosetin Development Program

Poster Presentation, 4:50 pm ET, Poster #207

Results from PRO-101, a Phase 1b study evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of prosetin in participants with ALS

ABOUT PROSETIN

Prosetin is a potent, selective, CNS-penetrant, orally available MAP4K inhibitor under evaluation for the potential treatment of ALS. While MAP4K was initially identified as a critical regulator of proteotoxic stress-mediated motor neuron loss in a human stem cell-based discovery platform developed by ProJenX scientific founders at Columbia University, more recent internal and independent data have demonstrated that MAP4K inhibition confers broad neuroprotective effects in diverse preclinical ALS models, including significant rescue of TDP-43 pathology in vitro. Prosetin is an investigational new drug and has not been approved by the FDA.

ABOUT PROJENX

ProJenX is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel, brain-penetrant, targeted therapies to address debilitating brain diseases, with an initial focus on ALS. ProJenX was created out of a long-term research collaboration between Project ALS and researchers at Columbia University to rapidly develop and commercialize its lead therapy candidate, prosetin, for people living with ALS. At the heart of ProJenX's approach is an innovative, patient-specific, cell-based drug discovery platform that can be leveraged for research and drug development for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. For more information, visit projenx.com.

SOURCE ProJenX

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With individual awards of up to $25,000, the Live Más Scholarship empowers Taco Bell fans and Team Members to fuel their education, pursue their passions, and bring their ambitions to life.

TLDR:

- Applications are open for Taco Bell Foundation's 12th annual Live Más Scholarship, with more than $13 million available for Taco Bell fans and Team Members ages 16â26.

- Scholarships of $5,000, $10,000 and $25,000 are up for grabs; no GPA or test scores required. Apply by January 5, 2027, with a two-minute video or 250â500-word essay.

- Taco Bell Team Member Jose Q. was surprised with a $25,000 Live Más Scholarship by Taco Bell CEO Sean Tresvant, making him the first recipient of the 2027 class and reigniting his dream of earning a college degree after financial barriers put his education on hold.

- Four-time Live Más Scholar Jamie M. is designing a custom Taco Bell crewneck with guidance from acclaimed fashion designer Willy Chavarria for the Foundation's Giving Tuesday efforts this December, showcasing how the scholarship opens doors beyond financial support.

- Live Más Scholarship assets can be found HERE.

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The next generation has big ideas for where they want to go, and Taco Bell Foundation wants to help them get there. Applications are officially open for the 12th annual Live Más Scholarship, with more than $13 million available to support young people, including Taco Bell fans and Team Members, as they pursue their passions through education.

Individual scholarships of $5,000, $10,000 and $25,000 will be awarded to students aged 16-26 who show what drives them and how they plan to use their education to make an impact. The Live Más Scholarship puts passion at the center: no GPAs, test scores or résumés are required. Instead, applicants submit a two-minute video or written essay (250â500 words) sharing the passion they're pursuing, where they hope it can take them, and the difference they want to make along the way. It's a chance for the next generation of Cultural Rebels to show what "Live Más" looks like to them.

"To Live Más is to believe that your dreams are worth pursuing and that your path to success is yours to define," said Morgan Tabor, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. "With our continued investment in the Live Más Scholarship, we're helping even more Taco Bell fans and Team Members pursue their passions, while surrounding them with the resources, community and support to turn their ambitions into reality."

A LAUNCHPAD FOR WHAT'S POSSIBLE

The Live Más Scholarship can make an ambition that once felt out of reach feel possible again. For Jose Q., a Taco Bell Team Member in Los Angeles, that ambition was to pursue a degree in computer engineering and business, a dream he shared with CEO Sean Tresvant when the two first met during one of Sean's first restaurant training shifts in 2024. When Sean returned for another shift this summer, he was surprised to see Jose again and learned that tuition costs had forced him to put his education on hold. Even though his plans had changed, Jose's spirit and optimism were just as Sean remembered.

Months later, Jose was invited to a Taco Bell company event, unaware of the surprise awaiting him. There, he was awarded a $25,000 Live Más Scholarship, with Sean delivering the exciting news and welcoming him as the first member of the 2027 Live Más Scholarship class.

"When I turned and saw the big check, I started crying, because I didn't think that would actually happen," shared Jose. "For those people that are applying for a Live Más Scholarship, advice I can give you would be: never give up. Always trust yourself. Don't let someone â or your own mind â let you down."

For Jamie M., a four-time Live Más Scholar and Taco Bell fan from Phoenix, the Live Más Scholarship has opened doors to opportunities that extend far beyond financial support. Most recently, that meant the chance to bring her creativity to life by designing a one-of-a-kind Taco Bell crewneck sweatshirt, with inspiration and guidance from acclaimed fashion designer and fellow Taco Bell fan Willy Chavarria.

Jamie's custom design will be featured as part of the Taco Bell Foundation's Giving Tuesday efforts this December. Her experience is one of the many ways the Foundation invests in scholars' futures, from mentorship and networking opportunities to career development resources and hands-on learning experiences that help scholars pursue their goals. This ongoing support is made possible in part by the generosity of Taco Bell fans who Round Up their orders. In 2025, donations averaging just 43 cents raised over $51 million for the Taco Bell Foundation, supporting scholarships, Community Grants, and other youth opportunities nationwide.

SCHOLARSHIPS THAT GO THE DISTANCE

Since launching in 2015, the Live Más Scholarship has awarded more than $78 million to thousands of Taco Bell fans and Team Members across all 50 states, supporting their educational journeys at universities, community colleges, vocational programs, and more. Scholars have pursued a wide range of passions, including food innovation, business, fashion & design, medical advancement, and sports management.

The program is designed to grow alongside students, with the opportunity to renew scholarships up to three times. In 2025, over 95% of eligible scholars who applied for renewal received continued support, giving their passions even more room to grow.

The 2026 application period is now open and will close on January 5, 2027. Recipients will be announced in Spring 2027. For more information, including eligibility requirements and frequently asked questions, or to apply, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org/live-mas-scholarship/.

About Taco Bell Foundationâ¯

Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 13 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $278 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.

Courtney Pettaway â Taco Bell Foundation

[email protected] 

Chloe Leuthaeuser â Edelmanâ¯

[email protected]

SOURCE Taco Bell Corp.

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2027 Mazda CX-90: Pricing and Packaging

CX-90 lineup expands with new trims and enhanced capability for further personalization

- New two-row configurations available on CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport and CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport

- Updated rear suspension bushings offer improved passenger comfort

- New exterior color options expand personalization with Navy Blue Mica, Aero Grey Metallic, Melting Copper Metallic and Zircon Sand Metallic1

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations today announces pricing for the 2027 CX-90 crossover. For 2027, all CX-90 models receive a revised rear suspension crossmember designed to improve passenger comfort over rough pavement. Additionally, CX-90 PHEV models feature an update to the electric drive motor, which now features external insulation material, for quieter low speed operation.

The 2027 CX-90 line-up expands with the inclusion of a two-row variant, which will replace the CX-70 in the U.S. market. By bringing the Mazda CX-90 and Mazda CX-70 together into a single, more flexible offering, we're simplifying the lineup and giving customers more intuitive choices based on how they shop today.

In both two- and three-row configurations, CX-90 offers real world value that customers can appreciate in the mid-size segment blending impressive utility and cargo space, along with seating for up to eight, while also offering the peace of mind that comes with the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. With the inclusion of new exterior colors, like Navy Blue Mica and Aero Gray, and improved standard equipment on select trim levels, the 2027 CX-90 is Mazda's most versatile mid-size crossover yet.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO SELECT

CX-90 3.3 Turbo models are powered by the e-Skyactiv G 3.3 Turbo engine which produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular 87 octane fuel. This 3.3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine features M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid assist system for greater efficiency and reduced emissions at low speed. All CX-90 models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard i-Activ AWD.

All CX-90 models are equipped with 10 airbags and feature first and rear seat belt pretensioners with load-limiters, and a variety of standard i-Activsense driver assistance technologies including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring with Vehicle Exit Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-keep Assist, Rear Seat Alert and Driver Attention Alert to help keep everyone safe while in the vehicle.

All CX-90 3.3 Turbo models equipped with the third-row bench seating, allowing for a total of eight passengers. Drivers will appreciate standard black leatherette seats, leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel with paddle shifters, a seven-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display, and an eight-way power adjustable driver seat with lumbar support. Conveniences such as the 10.25-inch full-color center display with Mazda Connect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay⢠and Android Auto⢠integration, an eight-speaker audio system, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, push-button start, front and second-row dual USB-C inputs, rear power windows, and three-zone automatic climate control with third-row AC vents are also standard.

Moving to the exterior, standard features include unique 19-inch silver metallic wheels, a power liftgate, automatic on/off LED headlights with auto-leveling, LED daytime running lamps, LED taillights, High Beam Control, power and heated door mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Black garnishes, black "Inline 6" fender badging and a black honeycomb front grille complete the look for this model.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREFERRED

For 2027, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred continues to offer an elevated level of comfort, convenience and premium features. This model is visually denoted as the next step up in the CX-90 hierarchy with standard 21-inch silver metallic wheels, piano black garnishes and front grille mesh. Additionally, for 2027, CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred adds standard roof rails, providing additional versatility for customers with active lifestyles.

Occupants will enjoy heated and ventilated seats, heated second-row seating, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and memory settings, an eight-way power adjustable passenger seat and a heated steering wheel.

The 3.3 Turbo Preferred also features a larger 12.3-inch full-color infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay⢠and Android Auto⢠connectivity, both with touchscreen capabilities, as well as wireless phone charging. The third row also gains two additional USB-C ports for a total of six. Front and rear parking sensors further enhance convenience and confidence.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREMIUM SPORT

The CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport provides customers with the choice of an eight-passenger seating layout, a seven-passenger configuration with second-row captain chairs, or new for 2027, a two-row configuration. The new two-row configuration features one-touch auto-down second-row seats for added convenience and cargo accessibility.

CX-90 models with the Premium Sport designation feature unique visual cues, including blackout exterior elements such as a Piano Black honeycomb front grille mesh, Black Chrome Signature Wing, Black Chrome "INLINE 6" fender badge, 21-inch wheels in a black metallic finish, black and dark chrome front and rear lower bumper trim, piano black front and rear door garnish, black quarter window and sash molding, piano black door mirror head covers and piano black roof rails.

For 2027, the Premium Sport also adds standard Alexa Built-In, allowing drivers to access compatible features and vehicle functions through natural voice commands.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS

For 2027, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus continues to offer premium craftsmanship, advanced technology and enhanced comfort. This model can be configured with either second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat, providing seating for up to seven or eight passengers.

CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus features Signature headlight and taillight elements paired with the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), allowing the headlights to turn within their housings to follow the bend of the road for optimized visibility in low-light conditions.

For 2027, Mazda Online Navigation is now standard on CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus, providing connected navigation functionality with over-the-air updates.

Inside, customers can enjoy black or white Nappa leather seats, a heated steering wheel, foot lamp illumination and a 150-watt accessory power outlet in the cargo area.

CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus also includes additional i-Activsense driver assistance features such as a 360° View Monitor with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View, Rear View Monitor with dynamic reversing guidelines, Smart Brake Support Rear, Smart Brake Support Front Crossing, Front Cross Traffic Alert and a security system.

CX-90 PHEV PREFERRED

CX-90 PHEV is equipped with the e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain, which is comprised of a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor with a 17.8-kWh high-capacity battery, producing 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended 91-octane premium fuel. To provide owners with flexibility and peace of mind, CX-90 PHEV is designed to operate purely on the electric motor in a variety of driving scenarios, including cruising at freeway speeds, with an all-electric range of up to 27 miles. CX-90 PHEV models are equipped with Mi-Drive including Sport, Off-Road and EV drive modes. EV mode allows the driver to operate CX-90 PHEV using only the electric motor and battery whenever possible.

All CX-90 PHEV models continue to feature 21-inch wheels, a power sunroof, roof rails, heated side mirrors, power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, and full LED lighting.

Inside, CX-90 PHEV Preferred has seating for seven with second-row bench seats and a two-seat third row with a 50/50 split-fold configuration. It also offers ventilated front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and two-position memory settings, an eight-way power adjustable passenger seat and a heated steering wheel as standard equipment, along with three-zone automatic climate control with third-row air vents.

A 12.3-inch full-color center display, as well as a 12.3-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display and two USB-C ports for each of the three rows, along with wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay⢠and Android Auto⢠integration with touchscreen capability, and front and rear parking sensors are all standard.

Standard i-Activsense safety features include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring with Vehicle Exit Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-keep Assist, Rear Seat Alert, Driver Attention Alert and an anti-theft immobilizer system.

CX-90 PHEV PREMIUM SPORT

Similar to the Turbo variant of this model, the CX-90 PHEV Premium Sport features blackout exterior elements including a gloss black honeycomb front grille, black chrome Signature Wing and "PHEV" fender badge, 21-inch wheels in black metallic finish, black front and rear lower bumper trim, front and rear black door garnish, piano black side mirrors and roof rails. The model also features a blacked-out Mazda brand logo, as well as automatic power folding and auto-dimming side mirrors, and a hands-free power liftgate.

The CX-90 PHEV Premium Sport has seating for up to seven with the option of either second-row bench seats with two-seat third row or second-row captain's chairs with three-seat third row.

Long-standing Duck Creek customer extends its relationship with a modern, cloud-based platform spanning policy, billing, data, and digital engagement

BOSTON, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duck Creek, the intelligent core of insurance, today announced that Mutual Benefit Group (MBG) has selected Duck Creek Policy, Duck Creek Billing, Duck Creek Producer Portal, and Duck Creek Clarity Data Foundation to support a greenfield implementation for its future-state platform.

MBG will launch the new business in Delaware, beginning with Businessowners Policy, Commercial Umbrella, and Workers' Compensation. Building on its existing use of Duck Creek's cloud platform, including Duck Creek Claims and Duck Creek OnDemand, MBG is expanding a long-standing relationship and applying the internal platform expertise it has developed over time. This latest initiative extends that foundation into a comprehensive cloud deployment supporting the new lines of business.

The platform will allow MBG to configure products efficiently, streamline quote-to-bind and policy servicing, and deliver modern digital experiences to independent agents and policyholders. Duck Creek's configurable architecture, commercial lines content, analytics, and SaaS operating model are intended to help MBG bring products to market quickly while maintaining a scalable cost structure as the business grows.

"As a mutual entering a new state, we needed a foundation built around how independent agents and policyholders actually want to work, not something we'd have to reshape later," said Gary Williams, President and Chief Executive Officer of MBG. "Duck Creek lets us configure our products and bring this business to market on our own timeline, with room to expand into new states as we prove out the model."

Strategically, the initiative supports MBG's plans to offer competitively priced products aligned to its risk appetite, expand into new markets over time, and pursue profitable growth through disciplined underwriting.

MBG differentiates itself through its mutual company model, community orientation, and commitment to independent agents, personalized guidance, and local expertise. The Duck Creek platform is designed to extend those strengths with greater agility across product development, underwriting, and service.

"Duck Creek is proud to help MBG build a modern commercial insurance business as it enters the Delaware market," said Chris McCloskey, Chief Operating Officer at Duck Creek. "Our scalable platform gives MBG the speed to bring tailored commercial products to market, deliver modern experiences for agents and policyholders, and build a foundation that can evolve with AI as the business grows."

About Mutual Benefit Group

MBG has been providing home, auto, and commercial insurance since 1908; the carrier works diligently each day to help build and protect its policyholders' economic well-being and provide for their security. MBG is known for its strong relationships with policyholders and agents; for its responsive, friendly, knowledgeable staff; and for claims service that consistently garners a nationally competitive level of satisfaction. Learn more at www.mutualbenefitgroup.com.

About Duck Creek

Duck Creek is the intelligent core that leading insurers choose to build on. Purpose-built for property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, Duck Creek unifies the full insurance lifecycle on a single platform with one data foundation. As an agentic platform, it connects intelligence across underwriting, policy, billing, claims, and payments workflows where decisions are made and compliance is non-negotiable. Duck Creek enables carriers to launch products faster, adapt quickly to change, and grow with precision and confidence. Solutions are available individually or as a full suite via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com and follow Duck Creek on LinkedIn, X and BlueSky.

Media Contacts:

Marianne Dempsey / Tara Stred

[email protected]

SOURCE Duck Creek

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Slingshot Insurance and Skyward Group Partner to Accelerate Growth in Embedded Insurance

After a strategic investment in Slingshot's $27 million seed round, Skyward is now the company's primary carrier partner, giving customers immediate access to A-rated capacity nationwide

MINNEAPOLIS and HOUSTON, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Slingshot Insurance, the AI-native insurance company built for the embedded economy, today announced a strategic partnership with Skyward Group, the specialty insurance organization whose operating businesses include Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.® and Apollo Group Holdings Ltd. Skyward Group now serves as Slingshot's primary carrier partner, providing its customers with immediate access to an AM Best A-rated carrier across all 50 states.

The announcement comes after Slingshot recently emerged from stealth with a $27 million seed funding round co-led by Skyward Group. As embedded insurance establishes itself as one of the fastest-growing segments of the P&C market, Slingshot is purpose-built to deliver the technology, capacity, and speed to launch and scale insurance products for those niche and rapidly evolving embedded opportunities, such as amateur sports, travel, and the gig- and independent-work economy.

Through the strategic investment and partnership, Slingshot will harness Skyward's insurance expertise, innovation capabilities, digital economy expertise, and strength and scale to accelerate the speed and value it can deliver to customers. Combining these capabilities with Slingshot's infrastructure provides a powerful foundation for identifying and bringing new opportunities to this dynamic market.

"Slingshot was built around the belief that a new generation of insurance opportunities requires a different kind of carrier infrastructure. Our AI-native platform is designed to dramatically reduce the time and cost required to build, launch and scale insurance products, particularly in markets where high transaction volumes and lower premiums have historically been difficult for traditional carrier models to serve," said Ethan Genteman, co-founder and CEO of Slingshot Insurance. "Skyward is an ideal, complementary partner because they bring deep specialty insurance expertise, financial strength, experience with emerging risks, a culture that moves quickly, and a strong commitment to innovation. Together, we have an opportunity to bring new insurance products to market faster and expand what is economically possible in embedded insurance."

"Embedded insurance solutions represent an important evolution in how specialty insurance can reach customers, particularly as businesses increasingly seek to distribute products and services through digital platforms," said Andrew Robinson, Chairman and CEO of Skyward Group. "With every business opportunity we pursue, we contemplate a build versus partner approach, and we believe Slingshot is the ideal partner for Skyward to pursue the embedded market. Slingshot's platform and knowledge of this market, combined with Skyward's underwriting, product, and technical insurance know-how, as well as our experience in emerging risk, including across the digital economy, make this a compelling partnership and attractive strategic investment for Skyward Group. With our strategic support, Slingshot will more rapidly scale its embedded insurance model and extend Skyward's specialty into an entirely new market that we do not serve today."

About Slingshot Insurance

Slingshot Insurance is an AI-native insurance company built for the embedded economy. For managing general agents (MGAs) and others looking to capitalize on the fast-growing embedded insurance market, Slingshot provides the infrastructure to replace the fragmented legacy tools and inefficient processes that have historically hindered innovation in higher-frequency, lower-severity insurance products.

The AI-native platform automates complex, data-heavy workflows while ensuring every decision is fully auditable, reconcilable, and explainable, providing the transparency and speed required to operate embedded products profitably and at scale across emerging markets such as travel, amateur sports, and the gig economy.

For more information, visit www.slingshotinsurance.com.

About Skyward Group

Skyward Group (Nasdaq: SKWD) is the holding company brand for its U.S. and U.K. businesses, Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.® and Apollo Holding Group, respectively, delivering a comprehensive suite of specialized insurance solutions across global specialty property and casualty markets. Focused on the specialty industry's most niche, complex risks of today and the emerging challenges of tomorrow, Skyward Group leverages the forward-looking insight and disciplined execution of each organization to drive sustainable growth and long-term value for its shareholders, distribution partners and other stakeholders. For more information about Skyward Group, Skyward Specialty and Apollo, please visit skywardgroup.com.

SOURCE Slingshot

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mainelove Wins Double Gold at Inaugural Water Choice Awards, Builds Momentum with Florida and Hospitality Expansion

PORTLAND, Maine, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- mainelove, the Maine-sourced water brand focused on sustainability and community, has earned Double Gold for its Perfectly Still Water in the Non-Carbonated Water category at the inaugural 2026 Water Choice Awards, presented by The Daily Pour. The honor places mainelove among a select group of Double Gold winners from around the world and among the few U.S. water brands to receive this distinction.

The recognition comes as mainelove expands into Florida and grows its hospitality presence, with placements of co-branded cans at the Mandarin Oriental, Boston Harbor Hotel, and select Westin locations.

The inaugural competition evaluated 49 entries across seven categories. Waters were tasted blind, with judges evaluating entries in coded glasses without visible branding. mainelove Perfectly Still Water was one of five Double Gold recipients in the Non-Carbonated Water category.

In their tasting notes, judges described mainelove as smooth and crisp, with a subtle sweetness. One judge noted its "so smooth" taste and lack of bitter notes, while others highlighted its refreshing, cooling quality and creamy texture.

"Earning Double Gold is a validating moment for our team and a celebration of the quality we're bringing from Maine to every can," said Jen Millard, CEO at mainelove. "As we expand into Florida and welcome more hospitality customers, we're proud to introduce mainelove to new guests and communities while staying connected to the place that inspired us."

Sourced from the greatest lakes and watersheds of Maine, mainelove brings a taste of Maine to everyday hydration. Its aluminum packaging offers hotels and hospitality operators an alternative to single-use plastic water bottles, with a format suited to guest rooms, meetings, events and on-the-go service.

The brand's expansion into Florida extends its reach beyond New England, while its growing hospitality presence introduces mainelove to travelers through established hotel destinations. Together, these developments mark the next stage of growth for a company built around Maine water, thoughtful packaging and a love of its home state.

mainelove is also a member of 1% for the Planet, committing 1% of annual sales to environmental causes.

To learn more about mainelove or inquire about hospitality and distribution opportunities, visit mainelove.com.

About mainelove

mainelove is a Maine-sourced water brand bringing water from Sebago Lake to consumers in aluminum cans. With a growing presence in retail and hospitality, mainelove pairs quality water with a commitment to reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles and supporting environmental causes through 1% for the Planet. Learn more at mainelove.com.

Media Contact

Jeannie Assimos

[email protected]

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DNB Launches new fund focusing on Europe's energy security

News provided by

DNB Bank ASA

Oct 27, 2026, 07:52 ET

OSLO, Norway, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Europe is facing a historic wave of investments in energy and critical infrastructure. DNB is now launching DNB Fund European Energy Security, a new mutual fund designed to invest in companies helping secure Europe's future energy supply.

"Energy security has become one of Europe's most important strategic priorities. To maintain competitiveness, industrial strength and living standards, Europe needs an energy system that is more resilient, flexible and less dependent on imports," says Mikkel Nyholt, manager of DNB Fund European Energy Security.

The fund invests in companies that provide solutions within energy generation, power grids, energy storage and the protection of critical infrastructure.

Positioned to benefit from major investment needs

Europe faces significant investments in its energy systems over the coming decades. Increased electrification, growing power demand and the need for greater energy independence are driving demand for new infrastructure and technology.

"We are not investing in politics. We are investing in the companies that can win contracts as Europe upgrades and modernises its energy system. This is where we see significant potential for long-term value creation," says Nyholt.

Investing across the entire energy value chain

The fund targets companies operating in four key areas:

- Secure energy supply â power generation, renewable energy, nuclear power and alternative gas suppliers.

- Resilient energy systems â power grids, cables and transformers.

- Flexible energy solutions â energy storage and backup power.

- Protection of infrastructure â cybersecurity and monitoring solutions.

"Energy security is about much more than producing electricity. Energy must also be transmitted, stored and protected. That is why we take a broad approach, investing in companies that are essential across the entire energy value chain," says Nyholt.

A long-term investment theme

According to Nyholt, energy security is a long-term trend that will shape Europe for years to come.

"Europe is undergoing a structural transformation of its energy systems. We believe this will drive substantial investments for decades, and we want to provide our clients with exposure to the companies that can become key beneficiaries of this development," he says.

For further information:

Mikkel Nyholt (+47 93409354 / [email protected])

Fund manager

DNB Asset Management

Photo: Porteføljeforvalter | Visuell identitet | Point

CONTACT:

Vidar Korsberg Dalsbø 

[email protected] 

+47 99380389 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

U.S. Gold Corp. to Participate in the Emerging Growth Conference October 29, 2026

CHEYENNE, Wyo., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Gold Corp. (Nasdaq: USAU) ("U.S. Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its participation in the upcoming Emerging Growth Conference on October 29, 2026 (the "Conference").

U.S. Gold Chairman, Mr. Luke Norman, will deliver a corporate presentation on Wednesday, October 29, 2026 at 12:00 pm EDT.

U.S Gold Corp. invites individual and institutional investors as well as advisors and analysts to attend its real-time, interactive presentation at the Conference. Please submit your questions in advance to [email protected] or ask your questions during the presentation and Mr. Norman will do his best to get through as many of them as possible.

To register for the Emerging Growth Conference please click on the following link: Registration Link.

If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the Conference, an archived webcast will also be made available on EmergingGrowth.com and on the Emerging Growth YouTube Channel.

About U.S. Gold Corp.

U.S. Gold Corp. is a publicly traded, U.S.-focused gold and copper exploration and development company. The Company has a portfolio of exploration properties. The flagship CK Gold Project is located in southeast Wyoming. The Keystone exploration property is on the Cortez Trend in Nevada. The Challis Gold Project is located in Idaho. For more information, visit www.usgoldcorp.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "plans," "expects" or "does not expect," "is expected," "budget," "scheduled," "intends," "anticipates" or "does not anticipate," "proposed," "aims," "forecast," "estimates," "believes," "continues" and "intend," among others, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions events or results "may," "could," "would," "might," or "will be taken," "occur" or "be achieved", although not all forward-looking statements include these words or phrases. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections, guidance, potential or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may include statements related to the Company's CK Gold Project, including its anticipated benefits, the exploration potential at the Keystone and Challis Gold projects, the Company's business position, and the investor conference discussed in this release and the Company's participation therein and topics to be discussed. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts nor assurances of future performance but instead represent management's expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances. Forward-looking statements are based on our opinions, estimates and assumptions that we considered appropriate and reasonable as of the date such information is stated, subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to those risks described in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which can be reviewed at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no duty to correct or update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

For additional information, please contact:

U.S. Gold Corp.

Investor Relations

+1 800 557 4550

[email protected]

www.usgoldcorp.com

SOURCE U.S. Gold Corp.

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New capability gives patients flexibility to manage healthcare expenses through self-service

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- RevSpring, a leading provider of healthcare engagement and payment solutions, today announced that Let's Talkâ¢, its conversational intelligent virtual agent (IVA), now enables patients to establish payment plans over the phone. Integrated with PersonaPayâ¢, RevSpring's Best in KLAS® patient payment portal, Let's Talk gives patients another convenient, self-service way to manage healthcare expenses. Because Let's Talk uses the same decisioning engine that powers PersonaPay, payment plan options are aligned to what each patient can afford, ensuring consistency across voice, digital, and staff-assisted channels.

For decades, RevSpring has automated healthcare payment conversations by phone, consistently reducing call center volume for billing and payment questions by more than 30%. RevSpring's voice platform handles more than 1.2 million inbound payment calls a month for hundreds of provider organizations and thousands of care locations. Let's Talk builds on that foundation with conversational AI, expanding the range of interactions patients can complete through self-service, such as call containment, making a payment, answering questions, or responding to RevSpring's outbound voice reminders.

"Healthcare organizations are looking for ways to automate more patient interactions and improve financial outcomes without losing sight of the need for patient empathy," said Scott MacKenzie, chief executive officer at RevSpring. "Adding payment plans to Let's Talk expands what patients can accomplish through conversational self-service, helping more callers resolve their needs without transferring to a representative. We're building on years of proven payment automation to help providers improve efficiency and scale self-service across the patient financial experience."

Initial customer results demonstrate increased automation and self-service: transitioning from traditional voice automation to conversational AI. Results include:

- An increase in patient payment rates by 36% while lowering transfers to live agents by 27%.

- A reduction in the average call duration by 25%, demonstrating how a conversational experience enables patients to self-serve faster.

- An additional 7% of calls with non-payment requests resolved. This represents additional call containment over and above the traditional interactive voice response (IVR), demonstrating the power of a conversational AI to reduce staff burden by expanding voice automation.

Automated payment interactions also cost approximately 80% less than comparable staff-assisted calls, helping healthcare organizations lower operating costs while allowing staff to focus on interactions that require greater support.

Let's Talk extends beyond billing and payment. Patients can also get answers to facility and location questions, hours and directions, and general call routing, resolving more patient inquiries in a single call.

To learn more about Let's Talk, please visit the website.

About RevSpring

RevSpring turns data into smart guidance, so every interaction drives the best possible outcome. From the first search to the final payment, experiences feel personalized, trustworthy, and actionable. We support care access, provider matching, engagement, and payment with an omnichannel strategy powered by science-backed applied analytics. Hospitals, health systems, and payers use RevSpring to guide in-network, high-value care while improving satisfaction, data accuracy, staff efficiency, clinical decisions, and financial performance. We integrate with EHRs, practice management, and other technologies to reduce friction. By meeting consumers at the moment they search, we guide them to the right care the first time. Learn more at revspring.com. Follow us on LinkedIn.

SOURCE RevSpring

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