Le Beau Excel has announced three new additions to its team: Belinda Ruckman, Louise Renshaw, and Debbi DePape.

Belinda Ruckman:

Ruckman has joined LeBeau Excel Sales & Marketing as Territory Manager for Lower Mainland BC. Belinda is a veteran salesperson with 15 years of experience with companies such as U-Be Living Foods, Villa Anna Sales & Marketing and most recently Habibi’s Mediterranean Foods.

Belinda is taking on many of the lower mainland independents from Eamonn McKay as he takes on some new accounts such as Wholefoods West, Choices Markets and others. She resides in Burnaby BC and will answer to Deborah Ritcey. She has already started and completed her training period and starts back in her territory on July 31^st.

She can be reached at belinda@lebeauadvance.com and on cell at 604-842-5107.

Louise Renshaw:

Renshaw has joined LeBeau Excel Sales & Marketing in the new role of Sales Analyst/Coordinator. Louise holds a Bachelor of Administrative Studies from York University and an MBA from Leicester University UK. She has 17 years of experience in Sales Coordinator type roles for a variety of top firms in the IT sector.

Louise has just recently made the move to Guelph and will be working from our Head Office on a day to day basis. Her primary duties will be focused on supporting our sales people in the field with administrative support and will mostly be behind the scenes to our suppliers and customers. She resides in Guelph, ON and will answer to Deborah Ritcey. She has already started and completed her training period and starts officially on July 24^th.

She can be reached at louise@lebeauadvance.com and at the office at 519-900-5585.

Debbi DePape:

We are pleased to announce that Debbi DePape has joined LeBeau Excel Sales & Marketing as Territory Manager for Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands. Debbi hold a B.Sc degree through the University of Victoria. She is a veteran salesperson with 12 years at Pfizer Consumer Health and most recently as Territory Manager for Nature’s Way – Ascenta Health. Debbi is replacing Carolyn Bills who departed due to cross-country move. She will manage all health food stores as well as chain accounts such as Thrifty’s Quality Foods & IIBG (Country Grocer). She resides in Victoria and will answer to Deborah Ritcey. She has already started and completed her training period and starts back in her territory on July 31^st.

She can be reached at debbi@lebeauadvance.com and on cell at 250-858-2669.

With wildfires sweeping across B.C., SISU Vitamins has extended a hand to the brave firefighters working to quell the situation. See below for a letter from Trish Duncan, the brand’s marketing manager:

As many of you know, there are currently more than 160 wildfires burning in BC, resulting in about 40,000 people to be evacuated from their homes. It is the worst fire season we’ve seen in 15 years. 3000 firefighters from across Canada and even Australia have been working tirelessly to save homes and prevent further devastation.

As a proud BC company, we actively looked at ways we could help. Ester-C Energy Boost is the best product we have to supply both vitamins and electrolytes for hydration, but we were faced with the challenge of how to ship it to the areas where the firefighters need it most. None of our couriers are delivering to central BC.

After much sleuthing (and a lot of coordinating), we are proud to announce that we’ve worked with BC Hydro to deliver 12,000 sample sticks to Williams Lake – the heart of the action. The fire logistics centre in Williams Lake is looking forward to the products arrival by this weekend.

We hope that Energy Boost plays at least a small part in helping the firefighters do their job – in the meantime, let’s all keep our fingers crossed for some much-needed rain.

The New Brunswick Health Research Foundation and the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation have announced a partnership of $1 million over five years in the establishment of the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation Chair in Best Practices for Musculoskeletal Health at the University of New Brunswick. 
 
Dr. Jeff Hebert, who is joining UNB’s faculty of kinesiology from Murdoch University in Western Australia, was welcomed to Fredericton today through a funding announcement at the Richard J. CURRIE CENTER on the university’s Fredericton campus. 
 
“The availability and delivery of health services has a significant impact on the quality of life for all New Brunswickers,” said New Brunswick Deputy Premier Stephen Horsman. “We are committed to improving access to primary care by maximizing the use of our allied health professionals such as chiropractors. Investing in research and applying those findings to policy and practice is a key component to improving patient care and the health of our residents.”
 
Dr. Hebert has had an impressive career to date, spending the past 18 years in faculty, clinical and administrative positions in the United States and Australia.  Most recently, he was the associate dean of research in Murdoch University’s School of Psychology and Exercise Science. 
 
“Musculoskeletal disorders, such as spinal pain and osteoarthritis, are the leading cause of disability worldwide,” said Dr. Hebert. “However, little is known about the effects of these disorders on other important health problems such as sedentary behaviour, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The research we conduct at UNB will attempt to unravel these relationships to inform clinical and policy decision-making.”
 
Dr. Paul Carey, chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation, said he appreciates the partnership with the University of New Brunswick and the New Brunswick Health Research Foundation in bringing Dr. Jeffrey Hebert on board as the CCRF Chair in Musculoskeletal Health at UNB. 
“We are confident that Dr. Hebert’s experience and international research network will greatly benefit the health of individuals in Canada and beyond,” said Dr. Carey. 
 
One way the New Brunswick Health Research Foundation succeeds in supporting and promoting health research in New Brunswick is through their Health Research Chairs Program. 
 
“Our Health Research Chairs Program has been instrumental in capacity building of the health research enterprise in New Brunswick to develop expertise, excellence and to train and mentor students. All this in partnership with multiple stakeholders,” says Dr. Bruno Battistini, president, CEO and scientific director of the New Brunswick Health Research Foundation. “We continue, in bringing Dr. Hebert to UNB, an exceptional new faculty and health researcher, to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in musculoskeletal health.”
 
Karen Cunningham, UNB’s vice-president administration and finance, said the university is pleased to welcome Dr. Hebert to UNB’s growing list of researchers who are helping to improve the health of New Brunswickers. 
 
“UNB is responsible for about 75 per cent of all publicly funded research in our province and Dr. Hebert has an impressive record of research productivity.  He has proven himself a true leader in the field of musculoskeletal health and I look forward to seeing the results of his work.” 
 
Dr. Hebert started his new chair position this month and will focus on the following three areas of research:
 
–        Understanding the clinical outcomes of surgical and non-operative interventions for musculoskeletal disorders and their associations with physical activity behaviour and health comorbidities;

–        Investigating the impact of musculoskeletal disorders on physical activity behaviour and cardiovascular health in young people and adults;

–        Discovering determinants of clinical outcome for people with musculoskeletal disorders undergoing surgical and non-operative therapies.

Cannabinoids, chemical compounds found in marijuana, may be a key player in omega-3’s anti-inflammatory abilities. A new study reveals the chemical reactions that convert omega-3 fatty acids into cannabinoids—and the potential health benefits this process holds.
The study found that the cannabinoids in marijuana and endocannabinoids produced through omega-3s in the body both support the body’s immune system. However, the main cannabinoid in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known to have unwanted psychotropic effects. With this in mind, omega-3s are attractive targets for the development of anti-inflammatory therapeutics.
Aditi Das, lead author of the study and a University of Illinois professor of comparative biosciences and biochemistry, notes that cannabinoids bind to two types of cannabinoid receptors in the body. One of them is found in the nervous system, while the other is located in the immune system.
“Some cannabinoids, such as THC in marijuana or endocannabinoids can bind to these receptors and elicit anti-inflammatory and anti-pain action,” she said. “Our team discovered an enzymatic pathway that converts omega-3-derived endocannabinoids into more potent anti-inflammatory molecules that predominantly bind to the receptors found in the immune system. This finding demonstrates how omega-3 fatty acids can produce some of the same medicinal qualities as marijuana, but without a psychotropic effect.”

While it is widely known that fluctuations in hormones can affect depression in females, it is unclear why some women experience these changes more strongly than others. A new study published in the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) suggests that this may correlate to estradiol levels.
The study looked at more than 1,300 regularly menstruating premenopausal women aged 42 to 52 years. Its overarching goal was to understand why some women are more vulnerable to depression, despite the fact that all women experience hormone fluctuations.
Researchers focused on the effect of estradiol, the predominant estrogen present during the reproductive years, on women. Estradiol modulates the synthesis, availability, and metabolism of serotonin, which is a key neurotransmitter in depression. Among adult women, the duration of exposure to estradiol varies largely.
The study found that longer duration of estrogen exposure was significantly associated with a reduced risk of depression—especially during the transition to menopause and for up to 10 years afterward. What’s more, a longer duration of birth control use was associated with a decreased risk of depression.
“Women are more vulnerable to depressive symptoms during and after the menopause transition because of fluctuating hormone changes,” says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, executive director of NAMS. “This study additionally found a higher risk for depression in those with earlier menopause, fewer menstrual cycles over lifespan, or more frequent hot flashes. Women and their providers need to recognize symptoms of depression such as mood changes, loss of pleasure, changes in weight or sleep, fatigue, feeling worthless, being unable to make decisions, or feeling persistently sad and take appropriate action.”

A new white paper from digital marketing agency DAC Group offers reasoning for recent Canadian retail closures. According to the organization, retailers must focus on customer service and the digital transformation of the industry in order to stay afloat.

DAC notes that personalization is key when it comes to successful customer service. According to the group, this comes from retailers getting to know their market very well, especially by tapping into data.

The paper also points to recent research from The Boston Consulting Group, which suggests that using digital technologies and proprietary data to create a one-of-a-kind in-store experience can create revenue increases of six to 10 per cent. This represents two to three times faster growth than other companies.

What’s more, it was noted that some retailers are struggling due to their failure to create engaging and inspiring experiences for customers. With innovators like Amazon changing the retail game, businesses need to adapt their offerings at a much faster rate.

“The future belongs to those retailers who constantly test, innovate and really take chances,” says Diane J. Brisebois, president and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada, in the report.

Providing a seamless omnichannel experience is crucial to this, says DAC. The paper notes that both digital and mobile channels are necessary to success, and having a strategy around those channels is vital.

This being said, research also found that bricks-and-mortar retail is far from dead. Experts note that challenge for retailers lies in maintaining the right balance of in-store and online operations as the industry continues to evolve.

Last week, Sears Canada was granted permission by an Ontario court to immediately seek out a potential buyer while under creditor protection.

The motion was approved by Ontario Superior Court Justice Glenn Hainey after rigorous discussion between lawyers representing the company, its lenders, and retirees and laid-off employees. With this approval, the retailer and FTI Consulting Inc., its court-ordered monitor, can select one or more proposals by October 25.

Sears Canada’s chief financial officer notes that it is “crucial” to begin liquidation sales of inventory before July 21 and to complete them by October 12. The motion for this will be heard by Hainey on Tuesday.

Last week, the retailer also struck a deal over benefit and pension payments to retired employees. Initially, it had asked the court for permission to immediately stop payments for pension, health, and dental benefits for laid-off employees, retirees, and surviving spouses due to a severe cash crunch. However, it has since agreed to continue payments to retirees until Sept. 30.

KGK Science Inc., a leading contract research organization offering human clinical trials and regulatory services to the health nutrition industry, is pleased to announce the completion of an investment from CPS Capital, an independent private equity firm that seeks to work with owners looking for additional board and advisory resources for the operations and growth of their business.

“CPS Capital’s investment in KGK Science is a strong vote of confidence in the future of KGK and the value clinical research brings to the health nutrition industry,” stated Najla Guthrie, President and CEO of KGK Science. “We are pleased to partner with investors who are dedicated to working towards our shared vision of growth while providing quality science to the Natural Products industry. The reputation, strategic and operational experience of CPS Capital’s team will be a welcome addition to our company.”

Founded by a pair of entrepreneurs, CPS Capital seeks to find, invest-in and advise high-quality small and/or medium sized businesses. CPS provides business owners with a unique structure that is an attractive option compared to traditional financial or strategic investors. As Ivey graduates, CPS Capital’s team brings strong and diverse experience from a variety of industries and functions, with decades of international management experience. As a part of the partnership with KGK, CPS Capital will advise KGK operationally while helping to grow the business organically.

“KGK Science offers a unique investment opportunity for us,” said Wei Lin of CPS Capital.  “We are excited to be partnered with a leading Contract Research Organization for the supplement and ingredient industries. Since pioneering the market in 1997, KGK has helped to advise and define the clinical research and regulatory industry within Canada and the United States. As the regulatory environment has become more stringent, the demand for clinical research and regulatory support offers a vast opportunity for KGK. We are looking forward to working with KGK’s management team as they pursue their strategic growth opportunities.”

About KGK Science Inc:
KGK Science is the leading contract research organization offering clinical trial services and regulatory consulting for the dietary supplement, functional food, ingredient, and cosmetic industry. For over 20 years, KGK has been designing and conducting clinical trials to support clients with claims substantiation and product marketing.
KGK offers a seamless solution to clients’ clinical research and regulatory needs. As your one stop shop, KGK provides research strategy, regulatory support, clinical trials, and clinical trial management all under one roof. Prove it! With KGK! www.kgkscience.com.

About CPS Capital:
CPS Capital is a private equity firm based out of Vancouver and Toronto. CPS was founded by a pair of entrepreneurs with top tier management consulting and capital markets experience, looking to invest in and advise high quality small and/or medium sized private businesses across Canada and the US. CPS Capital’s investor base consists of primarily high net-worth private individuals across Canada. All of CPS Capital’s current principals are graduates of the MBA program from the Ivey Business School in London Ontario.www.cpscapital.com.

The German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) suggests that gut health could play a role in heart failure. According to this research, important groups of bacteria are found less frequently in those with heart disease, and the gut flora is not as diverse as in healthy individuals.

It has been long understood that heart failure and gut health are linked; in these instances, the gut has a worse blood supply, and the intestinal wall becomes more susceptible to bacterial permeation. Also, it is known that gut composition is altered in other chronic diseases, like type 2 diabetes.

Interested in how this may relate to heart disease, DZHK researchers analyzed gut bacteria in stool samples of healthy individuals and patients with heart failure. Ultimately, results showed that a significantly lower proportion of different bacteria are found in the guts of heart failure patients than in healthy controls. However, it is still not understood whether the gut flora is altered as a result of heart failure, or whether it is a trigger.

These differences were mostly caused by the loss of bacteria from the Blautia, Collinsella, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Ruminococcaceae genera.

Prior research suggests that Blautia may reduce inflammation, which accompanies heart failure. However, scientists generally believe that the gut flora changes as a consequence of heart failure. Further investigation is needed on the subject.

Despite this, these findings offer hope to heart disease patients—as well as potential for the probiotic market. As this area of research grows, natural products such as these could take a front-seat role.