The Article Explains How Sealing Crawl Spaces Can Reduce Pest Activity, Control Moisture, and Help Protect Homes in Coastal Virginia.

ACCOMAC, Va., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How can crawl space encapsulation help keep pests out of a home? A HelloNation article answers that question with insights from Crawl Space Encapsulation Expert Clay Morgan of Charles E Morgan & Sons Inc. in Accomack County, Virginia.

The article explains how crawl space pest prevention begins with controlling moisture and closing entry points beneath a home. In coastal Virginia communities such as Onancock, humid weather and damp soil can create conditions that attract insects and rodents.

According to the HelloNation article, unsealed crawl spaces often provide the moisture, shelter, and access that pests need to survive. Termites, ants, and rodents may enter through foundation gaps, open vents, or damaged barriers. Encapsulation helps reduce these conditions by creating a sealed environment beneath the home.

The article describes crawl space encapsulation as a process that includes installing vapor barriers, sealing openings, and managing humidity. These steps help separate the crawl space from damp soil and outdoor air. Reducing moisture makes the area less attractive to pests while helping protect wooden supports and other structural materials.

For homeowners in Onancock and Cape Charles, the article notes that coastal weather creates ongoing moisture challenges. High humidity, frequent storms, and changing groundwater conditions can leave traditional vented crawl spaces damp. Over time, these conditions may contribute to pest activity, musty odors, and deterioration of building materials.

The HelloNation feature highlights moisture control as an important part of crawl space pest prevention. Vapor barriers limit moisture entering from exposed soil, while properly sealed access points reduce pathways for insects and rodents. Additional humidity management may be needed to maintain suitable conditions year-round.

The article also examines how crawl space conditions can affect indoor air quality. Air from beneath a home can move upward into living spaces through a process known as the stack effect. When crawl spaces contain excess moisture, mold, or mildew, that air movement may contribute to unpleasant odors and indoor humidity problems.

Drawing on insights from Crawl Space Encapsulation Expert Clay Morgan, the article explains that controlling the environment beneath a home can provide benefits beyond pest deterrence. A properly maintained crawl space may help reduce moisture-related damage, improve indoor comfort, and support healthier conditions throughout the structure.

The article emphasizes that encapsulation is not a replacement for every form of pest treatment. Existing infestations may still require professional pest control, and homeowners should identify moisture problems before sealing begins. Addressing water intrusion, drainage concerns, and damaged materials can help homeowners achieve more reliable results.

Coastal Virginia properties face additional concerns because storms and groundwater can introduce moisture beneath foundations. The article explains that effective encapsulation requires attention to these conditions rather than simply covering exposed soil. Proper installation and ongoing maintenance help preserve the benefits of a sealed crawl space.

The HelloNation article concludes that crawl space pest prevention is most effective when homeowners address the conditions that attract pests. By combining moisture management, sealed entry points, and regular inspections, homeowners can better protect their foundations and maintain more comfortable living spaces.

How Crawl Space Encapsulation Helps Keep Pests Out—And Your Home Healthy features insights from Clay Morgan, Crawl Space Encapsulation Expert of Accomack County, Virginia, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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The AOF 2026 Lifetime Achievement award honors individuals who have fundamentally advanced the osteopathic profession

CHICAGO, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Osteopathic Foundation (AOF) proudly announces Peter B. Ajluni, DO, as recipient of the AOF 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the foundation's highest honors recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact on the osteopathic profession. The award will be presented on Friday, Oct. 23 at the AOF Honors Gala, held in conjunction with the American Osteopathic Association's (AOA) annual OMED conference.

Established in 2006, the AOF Lifetime Achievement Award honors leaders whose service and commitment embody the values of the osteopathic profession. Dr. Ajluni's selection reflects more than five decades of service as an orthopedic surgeon, educator, and leader across the profession. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions within numerous osteopathic organizations while helping shape future generations of physicians through mentorship and advocacy.

"Dr. Ajluni truly is a treasured gem of the American Osteopathic Foundation and our Osteopathic family, leading generations of DOs as a role model and mentor," said President of the AOF Board Julieanne P. Sees, DO, MBA, FAOAO, FAOA, FAAOS. "He was chosen as the award recipient for his devotion to the profession, the Foundation, and the entire osteopathic community. We are honored to recognize his dedication and leadership."

Dr. Ajluni has practiced orthopedic surgery for more than 50 years and earned his medical degree from the Chicago College of Osteopathy (now Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine). He completed a rotating internship and residency in orthopedic surgery at Mr. Clemens General Hospital in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, followed by a fellowship in hand surgery at Grace Hospital in Detroit. In private practice since 1974, Dr. Ajluni served as a senior orthopedic surgeon at McLaren Macomb Hospital, Michigan (formerly Mount Clemens Regional Medical Center), where he also worked as chief of staff. He additionally held titles at Henry Ford Bi-County Community Hospital and St. John Shores Hospital.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Ajluni is dedicated to advancing the osteopathic profession through leadership, serving on the board of directors for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and previously as president of both the AOF and AOA. His legacy in the profession also extends to his family, where at least 30 family members, including his son Matthew, have answered the call to Osteopathic service.

"Dr. Ajluni is a wonderful mentor and advisor to me and has been a major supporter of the Foundation," said Rita Forden, Chief Executive Officer of the AOF. "His leadership will inspire students and physicians for years to come, and we look forward to celebrating his achievements this October."

About the AOF

For over 75 years, the American Osteopathic Foundation has invested in the Osteopathic profession through scholarships, grants, research funding, and global humanitarian outreach. The AOF Honors Gala has raised millions of dollars to support DOs at every stage—from medical school to practice.

SOURCE American Osteopathic Association

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LOS ANGELES, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Raymond Douglas, MD, PhD, a lead scientist behind the first FDA-approved treatment for thyroid eye disease (TED) and a 2026 ASOPRS Outstanding Contribution Award recipient, presented research at the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) 57th Annual Fall Scientific Symposium pointing to a new dosing approach for the patients most at risk of hearing side effects. The study found that spacing teprotumumab infusions six weeks apart, rather than the standard three, may protect hearing in TED patients who already have hearing loss, without giving up the benefits of treatment. The symposium took place October 8–9, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans.

Teprotumumab (TEPEZZA®) is the first FDA-approved medicine for TED, an autoimmune condition that can cause eye bulging, inflammation, double vision, and changes in appearance. The FDA-approved regimen is eight infusions given three weeks apart.

Hearing-related side effects have been reported in about 10% of patients in the phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials, and in as many as 50% of "high-risk" patients who have hearing problems before treatment begins. There has been no established protocol designed specifically for TED patients with existing hearing loss. To help close that gap, Dr. Douglas and his team studied whether a longer interval between infusions could better protect these patients' hearing.

The longer interval made a measurable difference. Patients on a six-week schedule were more than 60% less likely to experience a decline in their hearing. At 24 weeks, nearly half of patients on the standard three-week schedule (45%, 9 of 20) showed a clinically significant decline on formal audiometry, compared with about one in six on the six-week schedule.

Importantly, the longer interval did not appear to reduce the effectiveness of treatment. The two groups showed no significant differences in improvement in inflammation, eye bulging, or double vision.

"When we began studying the biology of thyroid eye disease decades ago, there was no approved treatment to offer patients. Today teprotumumab has changed what's possible for them, and our work isn't finished," said Dr. Raymond Douglas. "Patients who already live with hearing loss have told us this side effect is their greatest concern. These results suggest that for this higher-risk group, spacing infusions further apart may help protect hearing without giving up the benefits of treatment. It is humbling to keep finding ways to make these therapies better and safer for the patients who trust us with their care. This work is also an important reminder to monitor hearing and other potential side effects closely, before and throughout treatment."

Additionally, Dr. Douglas and longtime collaborator Terry J. Smith, MD, were presented with this year's ASOPRS Outstanding Contribution Award for their years of research on thyroid eye disease. The award recognizes members whose project-based work makes a significant contribution to the Society or the field, beyond service and committee work. Dr. Douglas began his TED research during his fellowship at UCLA under Drs. Robert Goldberg and Terry Smith, launching more than two decades of work on the IGF-1R pathway that contributed to the development of teprotumumab.

About the Study

Dr. Douglas and his team reviewed 38 consecutive TED patients treated with teprotumumab, all of whom had hearing loss confirmed by formal audiometry before their first infusion. Patients with existing hearing loss were offered the option of the six-week schedule, resulting in two groups similar in age and sex:

- Six-week schedule: 18 patients (13 women, 5 men; average age 57)

- Standard three-week schedule: 20 patients (16 women, 4 men; average age 57)

Each patient's hearing was tested with audiometry, the gold standard for measuring hearing, before treatment and again at 24 weeks. A clinically significant change was defined using American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) criteria. The team also tracked whether treatment remained effective by measuring inflammation, eye bulging, and double vision.

The findings add to growing evidence that hearing should be tested before teprotumumab begins and monitored throughout treatment, and they point to a longer infusion interval as a promising option for patients at higher risk. Because this was a retrospective study of a relatively small group, the researchers note that larger prospective studies are needed to confirm the results.

Presentation Details

- Title: Extended 6-Week Teprotumumab Interval Reduces Audiometric Deterioration Compared to a Standard 3-Week Interval Schedule

- Presenting Author: Shoaib Ugradar, MD

- Authors: Raymond S Douglas, MD, PhD, Shoaib Ugradar, MD, Anthony Wong, MD, Pershanjit Raika, MBBS, Raymond N Douglas, Tasmin Sazzad, Madison Chan

- Meeting: ASOPRS 57th Annual Fall Scientific Symposium

- Date/Time: October 8-9, 2026

- Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana

About Raymond Douglas, MD, PhD

Raymond Douglas, MD, PhD, is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon and internationally recognized thyroid eye disease specialist based in Beverly Hills, California, with practices in Southern California and Las Vegas. He was one of the lead scientists in the development of teprotumumab and served as principal investigator of the international clinical trials that led to its FDA approval, and he was the first physician in the world to treat patients with the medicine after approval. Dr. Douglas earned his medical degree and a doctorate in immunology from the University of Pennsylvania and completed fellowship training in orbitofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the UCLA Stein Eye Institute.

Learn more at raymonddouglasmd.com.

References

- Smith TJ, et al. Teprotumumab for Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy. N Engl J Med. 2017;376(18):1748-1761. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1614949

- Douglas RS, et al. Teprotumumab for the Treatment of Active Thyroid Eye Disease. N Engl J Med. 2020;382(4):341-352. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1910434

- Keen JA, et al. Frequency and Patterns of Hearing Dysfunction in Patients Treated with Teprotumumab. Ophthalmology. 2024;131(1):30-36. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2023.08.001

TEPEZZA® is a registered trademark of its owner. This research was not presented as an endorsement of any change to the FDA-approved dosing schedule.

Patients should not change their treatment schedule on their own. Anyone receiving or considering teprotumumab should talk with their physician about hearing monitoring and the dosing approach that is right for them.

Media Contact

Morgan Douglas / Marketing Director

248-767-8444 / [email protected]

SOURCE Dr. Raymond Douglas, MD, PhD

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HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SightMD is proud to announce that Susan Fromer, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist with more than 30 years of experience, has joined its New York physician team and is now seeing patients at the Harrison office.

Dr. Fromer specializes in comprehensive ophthalmology, cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye conditions. Throughout her distinguished career, she has been recognized for her compassionate, patient-centered approach and her commitment to building lasting relationships with patients while delivering advanced medical and surgical eye care.

In addition to caring for thousands of patients throughout her career, Dr. Fromer has served as a mentor to ophthalmology and optometric residents, helping educate future generations of eye care professionals. She has also devoted many years to serving as a New York City Police Surgeon, providing care for the men and women who serve and protect the community.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Fromer to the SightMD NY family," said Brad Kligman, MD, Chief Medical Officer of SightMD. "Her exceptional clinical expertise, dedication to compassionate patient care, and longstanding commitment to serving the community make her an outstanding addition to our physician team. Patients throughout Westchester will benefit from her decades of experience and personalized approach to eye care."

Dr. Fromer earned her medical degree with honors in Medicine and Psychiatry from New York University and completed advanced training in glaucoma and anterior segment surgery. She is board certified in ophthalmology and is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the New York State Society of Ophthalmology, and several other leading professional organizations.

"Joining SightMD is an exciting opportunity to continue doing what I love most—building meaningful, long-term relationships with my patients while delivering exceptional eye care," said Dr. Fromer. "I'm honored to become part of the community and look forward to caring for patients and their families for years to come. It is a privilege to help people protect their vision and improve their quality of life through compassionate, personalized care."

Patients can now schedule appointments with Dr. Fromer at SightMD's Harrison, New York location for comprehensive eye exams, cataract evaluations, glaucoma care, and treatment for a wide range of medical eye conditions.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fromer at the Harrison office, please visit www.SightMD.com or call (914) 949-9200.

SightMD New York is actively seeking ophthalmology professionals who are interested in joining its outstanding team. If you are an ophthalmology practice owner interested in merging or selling your practice, please contact the Chief Medical Officer, Brad Kligman, MD, at [email protected].

About SightMD New York

SightMD is a rapidly-growing integrated ophthalmic group, offering patients access to over 100 doctors through the convenience of 38 locations across New York. SightMD's track record of providing clinically-excellent care spans over 50 years, and its services include LASIK laser vision correction, laser cataract surgery and lens implantation, oculoplastic surgery, general eye exams, glaucoma management, retinal disorder treatment, corneal services, neuro-ophthalmology, pediatric ophthalmology, and audiology. Sight Growth Partners is the administrative services provider for SightMD as well as SightMD Connecticut, SightMD Massachusetts, SightMD New Jersey, and SightMD Pennsylvania. For more information about SightMD, please visit sightmd.com

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FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Is it hard to sell commercial property in a small town in Aroostook County? A newly published HelloNation article answers that question by explaining how small town real estate works in northern Maine and why commercial deals often follow a slower, more deliberate path than sellers expect.

The HelloNation feature outlines how rural markets differ from larger metro areas, even when a town has steady local activity. Communities such as Caribou, Fort Fairfield, and Houlton can see consistent interest, but the buyer pool is naturally smaller. The article explains that sellers may wait longer for qualified prospects, not because the property lacks value, but because commercial buyers in rural markets tend to be careful and selective.

Buyer behavior is a central theme in the article. It explains that many commercial purchasers in Aroostook County are local businesses, regional investors, or owners relocating operations, which limits the number of prospects at any given time. The article describes how this smaller pool affects buyer demand and creates longer listing periods while buyers evaluate financials, location fit, and long term plans. In this setting, a slower pace is presented as normal, not a warning sign.

Pricing is addressed as another key adjustment for sellers. The HelloNation article explains that many owners think first about replacement cost or personal investment, but market pricing is shaped by income potential, location, and how many buyers are realistically in the market. In small town real estate, the article notes, pricing that might work in larger cities often does not match local conditions. The feature emphasizes that a practical pricing approach can reduce delays and help a listing attract serious attention.

The article also highlights the importance of due diligence in commercial transactions, especially in smaller communities. Buyers often request detailed records for utilities, taxes, occupancy, and operating history, and they may examine past uses or environmental factors that influence risk. The HelloNation piece explains that title reviews can uncover older easements or boundary issues that need clarification, and that mixed use layouts may require extra review to confirm the building fits a buyer's plans. Clear documentation is framed as a way to build trust and keep momentum moving forward.

Zoning is presented as a factor that can either broaden or narrow the buyer pool. The article explains that some towns use flexible commercial zones, but certain uses may still require special permits or board review. For buyers who want to change how a building is used, zoning steps can add time, so sellers benefit from understanding what the local code office may require. The feature notes that transitional zones, where residential and commercial uses blend, can sometimes affect who sees the property as a fit.

Building condition receives direct attention in the HelloNation article. It explains that commercial buyers often evaluate heating systems, roofs, and electrical components closely because these items can affect financing, insurance, and operating costs. A building that needs work can still sell, but the article notes that the price and presentation should reflect the upgrades required. It also describes how completing minor repairs before listing can improve how buyers view the property, which can help reduce negotiation friction later.

Marketing strategy is described as especially important in rural settings. The article explains that local exposure matters because many buyers come from within the county, but online listings help reach investors and business owners outside the region. High quality photos and accurate building information are highlighted as essential, since travel distances in Aroostook County can be long and buyers often want to review materials carefully before scheduling a visit. In this way, the article shows how preparation supports a steady process, even when the timeline feels slow.

The HelloNation feature frames commercial sales in Aroostook County as a process built on patience, clear records, and realistic expectations. Stephanie Fields Beaulieu of Fields Realty, LLC is featured for her perspective on what sellers can control, including pricing, documentation, and presentation, while recognizing the natural pace of rural markets. As a Real Estate Expert based in Fort Fairfield, she helps readers understand why thoughtful preparation can lead to a fair outcome when selling commercial property in northern Maine.

Is It Hard to Sell Commercial Property in a Small Town? features insights from Stephanie Fields Beaulieu, Real Estate Expert of Fort Fairfield, Maine, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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Leading small arms manufacturer to highlight combat-proven firearms, remote-control weapon stations, drones, and counter-UAS

NEWINGTON, N.H., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SIG SAUER, an industry-leading manufacturer of cutting-edge firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, and advanced concepts, will showcase its next-gen military small arms at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) trade show in Washington, D.C., October 12 - 14.

"We always look forward to AUSA. It's an opportunity to showcase our made in America technology developed in partnership with the United States Army, ranging from next-gen carbines and machine guns to ammunition," said Robby Johnson, EVP and CMO, SIG SAUER. "We ramped up production of the SIG XM8 to successfully meet the Army's schedule, and it's set to begin fielding in December to support the Close Combat Force. We will have the XM8 and additional SIG products on display."

SIG SAUER Unmanned Capabilities & Training

In addition to premier firearms, SIG SAUER offers the most advanced small arms unmanned systems, including drones, counter-UAS, and remote-control weapon stations (RCWS) to support modern combat. Along with the product capabilities, SIG SAUER provides world-class training for customers and partners. The SIG unmanned training instructors' experience extends across aerospace engineering, flight testing, readiness, and all operational environments to support first time users to the most experienced technicians.

"We've invested into a full offering of unmanned capabilities," said Ryan Scott, Director of Advanced Concepts, SIG SAUER, and who served 22 years in the Army, including over a decade with unmanned systems. "We're doubling our square footage and workforce at our North Carolina facility with a multi-million-dollar expansion across R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and training. This investment continues our support for the U.S Armed Forces and allies, which now also includes our battlefield-ready counter-UAS."

The all-new SIG SAUER XRAY9-CUAS, a mounted electro-optic, uses advanced technologies to quickly target and engage drones using a proprietary laser rangefinder.

SIG SAUER AUSA Location and Product Display

The SIG SAUER AUSA exhibit is located at booth #8015 Hall E at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. A media kit with images, video, and additional information is available here. Included below is a selection of SIG SAUER product that will be on hand at AUSA:

- SIG SAUER M250: The U.S. Army's Next Generation light machine gun, the M250 represents a major leap in squad-level firepower. It replaces legacy systems with a belt-fed, gas-operated, and reduced recoil design that fires a powerful 6.8x51 mm hybrid cartridge to give infantry units greater range and lethality against advanced body armor. With a SIG optic and suppressor, the M250 is a complete weapon solution.

- SIG SAUER MMG: A belt-fed, lightweight, man portable medium machine gun chambered .338NM, 6.8 hybrid, and 7.62 NATO hybrid. The SIG MMG provides heavy machine gun range in a highly controllable and maneuverable MMG package and when paired with a SIG optic and suppressor is a complete weapon solution.

- SIG SAUER XM8: The U.S. Army's Next Generation carbine, the XM8 was developed with solider feedback and SIG innovation, delivering enhanced lethality, greater range, and new features (e.g., full ambi safety and bolt release, heat shield, suppressor) when compared to the M4 it replaced. Against the SIG M7, it is 12 percent lighter.

- SIG SAUER Hybrid Ammunition: Engineered to meet the requirements of the U.S. Army's Next Generation Squad Weapon program, SIG Hybrid ammo delivers revolutionary pressures that significantly increases velocity, range and lethality.

- SIG SAUER RCWS: An advanced lightweight system, the SIG RCWS bolsters operator safety and situational awareness by enabling point-and-shoot remote machine gun operation.

- SIG SAUER Advanced Concepts: Designed to dominate the future of unmanned capabilities, SIG drone technologies are built to meet the evolving demands of defense and security missions. The product lineup includes the fixed-wing SCYTHE aircraft, the SABER quad-copter, and the M-HORNET 22 LR payload attachment.

- A select lineup of advanced SIG SAUER electro-optics and suppressors will also be on hand, including the XRAY9-CUAS.

About SIG SAUER Inc.

SIG SAUER Inc. is a leading manufacturer of premium firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, remote-controlled weapon stations, and drones. Building off its 250-year track record, the company's products are synonymous with industry-leading engineering, quality, and innovation which has made it the brand of choice across the defense industry, law enforcement, and shooting community. SIG SAUER serves all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and with a presence in more than 90 countries is the preferred partner to top militaries around the world. The company is certified a Great Place to Work™. For more information, visit sigsauer.com .

Media Contact

Tory Mazzola

Vice President, Global Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE SIG SAUER, Inc.

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LEAD TECH Turns Booth LU-8931 into a Working Production Line at Pack Expo 2026, Demonstrating CIJ and UV Laser Coding on a Live Conveyor System

The Continuous Inkjet Printer and UV Laser Marking Machine Manufacturer Behind 70,000+ Global Installations Invites Food, Beverage, and Pharmaceutical Manufacturers to See Both Systems Run at Production Speed at Booth LU-8931, Chicago, October 18–21

CHICAGO, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- LEAD TECH is bringing a conveyor belt to Pack Expo International 2026. At Booth LU-8931, McCormick Place, Chicago, October 18–21, the company will run its Continuous Inkjet Printer and integrated UV Laser Marking Machine on a live packaging line built to match actual factory floor conditions.

Not a Booth. A Working Line.

The centerpiece is LEAD TECH's integrated UV laser marking machine, mounted directly above a moving conveyor. Products travel along the belt while the laser marks each one in real time, at the same pace a production line runs. The integrated design puts the laser unit, controller, and power supply in one compact body, which makes it straightforward to add to an existing production line without extra wiring or external hardware.

For buyers evaluating coding equipment, watching a machine work under moving production conditions gives a much clearer picture of what to expect than a static display. The conveyor at LU-8931 is built to give buyers exactly that read on both systems before they make any purchasing decision.

What's Running at Booth LU-8931

Both systems will be operating throughout the four days:

Integrated UV Laser Marking Machine mounted on a live conveyor, marking date codes, batch codes, and traceability information on packaging materials at production speed. Available in 5W and 10W configurations, it handles pharmaceutical packaging, food flexible film, PVC tubing, and electronic components with no consumables or ink required.

i9 Series Continuous Inkjet Printers in standard, micro-character, and ultra-high-speed configurations, covering date coding, batch coding, barcode and QR code printing across PET plastic, glass, metal cans, flexible film, cable, and more.

Application engineers are on the floor for the full four days for live substrate testing and line-speed consultations.

The Number That Matters

LEAD TECH has 70,000 coding machines running on production floors across five continents. That number comes from decisions made by close to 3,000 manufacturers over fifteen years, among them Nestlé, Huawei, Dole, and Kweichow Moutai Group.

One figure that tends to come up when the company talks to new buyers: in 2020, 86 LEAD TECH batch coding machines went into a major export facility in the Philippines. Five years later, not one has needed a service call. For a plant manager weighing a long-term equipment commitment, that record carries more weight than a product brochure.

The engineering team behind that installation is the same team that built the UV laser system running on the conveyor at LU-8931.

"We set up the conveyor because we want buyers to see the machine doing its job, not standing next to it," said Mr. Cauf, General Manager of LEAD TECH. "If someone walks up and asks whether this works at their line speed, we want to show them, not tell them."

See It in Person

Pack Expo International 2026 runs October 18 to 21 at McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. LEAD TECH is at Booth LU-8931 for all four days, open for live demonstrations, application discussions, and distributor inquiries. To arrange a booth visit or consultation in advance, contact the team directly at [email protected].

About LEAD TECH (Zhuhai) Electronic Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2011 and based in Zhuhai, China, LEAD TECH is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer of continuous inkjet printers (CIJ), laser marking machines, and piezo inkjet printers for industrial coding and marking. With 20+ patents including a U.S. patent, 80+ distributors globally, and 70,000+ printers installed across food and beverage, pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics, and cable industries, LEAD TECH is committed to making industrial coding simpler, friendlier, and smarter. Visit www.leadtech.ltd to learn more.

Media Contact:

Company: LEAD TECH (Zhuhai) Electronic Co., Ltd.

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.leadtech.ltd 

SOURCE LEAD TECH (Zhuhai) Electronic Co., Ltd.

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Funding strengthens Subeca's position as a leading provider of affordable smart water infrastructure and accelerates utility adoption across North America

CARY, N.C., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Subeca today announced approximately $3M in additional funding to further deliver hardware and software solutions for utility metering and net-zero sustainability metering. The Series A-2 was led by Burnt Island Ventures, the most active venture investor in the global water industry, with participation from Cycle H2O, a leading water technology venture fund, and SUEZ, a global water technology company, and several additional investors.

"Plenty of companies talk about disrupting the water industry. We're actually doing it, and we're doing it for the utilities and operators where legacy solutions have proven too complex and too costly. This funding fuels our rapid growth and our commitment to bringing real-time meter data to small and medium-sized utilities and hyperscalers, because every water provider deserves the tools to serve its customers and meet its sustainability goals," said Anne Mushow, Chief Executive Officer of Subeca.

"We see the billion dollar opportunity around an unmet need for affordable smart meter infrastructure and AI-native software. Subeca is now live across 23 communities offering its bundled smart meter plus software package. We are so impressed with Anne and her team as they continue to impress as they deliver on their vision of smart water meters for all," said Christine Boyle, General Partner at Burnt Island Ventures.

Subeca's differentiated offering provides simple, easy-to-deploy options for the more than 51,000 utilities and businesses in the US that have been locked out of the benefits of advanced metering technology due to the cost and complexity of legacy technology solutions. Produced in Cary, North Carolina, Subeca's communication module utilizes Amazon's Sidewalk network, a free communications network that covers more than 90% of the US population as well as parts of Canada and Mexico, to help customers proactively manage water infrastructure and detect and resolve water leaks early.

The investment further strengthens Subeca's existing ecosystem of strategic water industry partners. Since its Series A financing, the company has built relationships with leading organizations across water technology, digital infrastructure, and utility operations, creating a strong foundation for future growth.

In addition to providing growth capital, new investor Cycle H2O brings a uniquely strategic combination of investment expertise, industry relationships, and commercial networks focused exclusively on the water sector. Through its close partnership with H2O Innovation, one of North America's leading water solutions providers, Cycle H2O offers Subeca access to a broad network of municipal and industrial water customers, technical expertise, and market development opportunities.

"We are proud to support Subeca, whose platform addresses one of the most important challenges facing the water sector: making digital water management solutions accessible and affordable for utilities of all sizes. Through Cycle H2O, under Simon Olivier's leadership, we are pleased to join as a new investor in Subeca's practical, scalable innovation. Their technology, which helps utilities detect leaks, conserve water and cut operating costs, aligns perfectly with our thesis of backing technologies that accelerate the sustainable transformation of essential industries," said Andrée-Lise Méthot, Founder and Managing Partner of Cycle Capital.

Subeca's 2024 Series A raised $6M led by SUEZ, with additional investment by Burnt Island Ventures and Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund, Amazon's sustainability-focused corporate venture fund.

SOURCE Subeca

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The award-winning, "Terracotta Fog Water Harvester" addresses an innovative terracotta facade tile system to harvest atmospheric fog.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GROHE, a global leader in bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, has announced the winner of the 2026 GROHE Water Prize for the World Architecture Festival (WAF), slated to be held this year from November 18–20 in Fort Lauderdale.

A Carnegie Mellon University School of Architecture team, spearheaded by Associate Professor and Lead Researcher, Laura Garófalo, has been awarded the £10,000 prize for "Bio-inspired Architectural Terracotta for Sustainable Water Harvesting," an initiative designed to advance community water self-sufficiency in arid, fog-prone regions. Combining ancient ceramic craftsmanship with digital fabrication and surface physics, the project uses modular terracotta tiles for fog water-harvesting. Drawing design inspiration from leaf venation and the Namib Desert beetle, the tiles pair hydrophilic (water-attracting) clay peaks with hydrophobic (water-repelling) glazed channels to capture fog up to 400% more efficiently than standard flat surfaces.

As a rigid, mineral-based alternative to traditional synthetic plastic netting, the terracotta concept eliminates microplastic pollution while offering a significantly smaller carbon footprint. Designed for future integration into building facades and rainscreen systems, the research shows how exterior walls could one day act as durable, decentralized freshwater collection systems that strengthen local health and climate resilience.

Of the winning project, Patrick Speck, Leader, LIXIL Global Design, Europe & Americas and a jury member of the GROHE Water Prize, remarked: "At GROHE, we believe the future of water stewardship requires rethinking how our built environment interacts with natural resources. By transforming a building facade into an active water-harvesting asset, this project embodies GROHE's design ethos, in which biomimicry, material craft, and human-centered purpose converge to reshape how society experiences water."

"Receiving the Grohe Water Prize is an honor critical to advancing the development of our bio-inspired architectural terracotta system," said Laura Garófolo, Associate Professor at Carnegie Mellon University. "It will make it possible to move through material experimentation toward a scalable architectural application for sustainable water harvesting. We are deeply grateful to GROHE for recognizing the potential of design and architecture to address the growing challenges surrounding water."

Paul Finch, Programme Director, World Architecture Festival, and fellow jury member, added, "As ever, reviewing this year's entries was a pleasure, and we congratulate GROHE for continuing to support this research prize. This year's standout winner offers a brilliant approach to harvesting atmospheric fog - research with clear potential to benefit numerous regions around the world. It is particularly fitting that such an idea should emerge as WAF explores the theme of 'Water' at this year's festival in Fort Lauderdale. We look forward to the project presentation on Thursday, 19 November on the Festival Hall Stage."

With over 50 entries for this year's prize, each submission examined the evolving relationship between water, architecture, and community through innovative, future-focused design. The shortlisted projects demonstrated a remarkable breadth of ideas. Among this year's standout finalists were:

Projecto Vito Volcanic Catchment: An off-grid marine conservation headquarters on Fogo Island featuring vaulted brick roofscapes that serve as the primary rainwater and fog-harvesting system in a region without surface freshwater. Project submitted by Studio Ma (Applicant) with Associação Projecto Vitó — NGO co-applicant (Lead researcher: Christiana Moss, FAIA)

Glasgow Bath Commons: An adaptive reuse project transforming an abandoned railway viaduct and church into a civic water commons that integrates rainwater harvesting, heat recovery, and public bathing culture. Project submitted by Lap Shing Sy.

Lo—TEK Water: A Field Guide for TEKnology: Applied research supporting the Miccosukee–ReefLine Biocultural Stewardship Corridor of Miami Beach, integrating underwater public reef infrastructure with Indigenous co-governance frameworks. Project submitted by Julia Watson

Since 2017, the GROHE Water Prize has supported innovative projects addressing global water challenges, underscoring the transformative potential of water-conscious design for the built environment. While also reflecting the values at the heart of GROHE: combining sustainable innovation, exceptional design, advanced technology, and enduring quality to elevate everyday experiences and help protect one of our planet's most precious resources.

About GROHE

GROHE is a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings. Since 2014, GROHE has been a cornerstone of LIXIL's global portfolio of pioneering water and housing brands. To deliver "Pure Freude an Wasser", every product is based on the brand pillars of quality, technology, design and sustainability. From curated experiences within our luxury sub-brand GROHE SPA to refined water solutions for every home, we provide products tailored to the exacting requirements of our professional partners and their differentiated target groups.

With water at the core of everything we do, we manage our value chain and its impact responsibly, contributing to LIXIL's Impact Strategy. By developing technologies that optimize water- and energy-saving potential, we empower a more conscious use of resources without ever compromising on "Pure Freude an Wasser".

About LIXIL

LIXIL (TSE Code 5938) makes pioneering water and housing products that solve everyday, real-life challenges, making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere. Drawing on our Japanese heritage, we create world-leading technology and innovate to make high quality products that transform homes. But the LIXIL difference is how we do this; through meaningful design, an entrepreneurial spirit, a dedication to improving accessibility for all, and responsible business growth. Our approach comes to life through industry leading brands, including INAX, GROHE, American Standard, and TOSTEM. Approximately 53,000 colleagues operating in more than 150 countries are proud to make products that touch the lives of more than a billion people every day. Learn more at www.lixil.com

For further information and PR material, please contact:

Head & Hand

Jessie Lison-Brooks

[email protected] | https://www.headandhand.com

SOURCE GROHE

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XGIMI HORIZON 30 Series Brings Smoother, Sharper Entertainment to Life with 4K 120Hz

New HORIZON 30 Series projectors deliver bright images, deep contrast and smooth 4K 120Hz performance with flexible setup for movies, sports, gaming and more.

CHENGDU, China, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following its first preview at IFA 2026, XGIMI, a global leader in premium smart projection and home entertainment, today announced the HORIZON 30 Series, the new generation of high-performance home projectors designed to make big-screen entertainment work for more of what people watch – and more of the rooms they watch it in.

Available in three models – HORIZON 30 Pro, HORIZON 30 Max and HORIZON 30 Ultra Max – the new series combines RGB Triple Laser technology with up to 6,000 ISO lumens of brightness, native contrast up to 10,000:1, and 4K 120Hz performance.

Compared to the HORIZON 20 Series, the new collection delivers seven times the native contrast, and twice the refresh rate – helping pictures stay brighter in rooms with ambient light, revealing greater depth in dark scenes, and making fast-moving content look smoother.

Picture Perfect, Day or Night

Great entertainment shouldn't wait until the lights go down. The HORIZON 30 Series is designed to adapt as the room, content, and occasion change.

Powered by an RGB Triple Laser light source, the series reaches up to 6,000 ISO lumens, helping maintain a bright, vibrant picture for afternoon sports, weekend gaming, or everyday TV. When the room gets darker, native contrast of up to 10,000:1 brings greater depth and detail to shadows, giving movies and cinematic content a richer sense of dimension.

A Dual Intelligent Iris System automatically adjusts light as scenes change, bringing out more detail in both bright highlights and deep shadows. XGIMI's 19-element optical system is engineered for edge-to-edge clarity, while Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced help deliver richer color, contrast and detail across movies, shows, and more.

The result is a projector that transitions naturally from daytime entertainment to nighttime viewing.

Every Frame, in Full Flow

While high refresh rates are often associated with gaming, the HORIZON 30 Series puts 4K 120Hz to work across everyday entertainment. The higher refresh rate keeps motion fluid and easy to follow, from tracking the ball during live sports and following fast-paced action in films to gaming with less delay between the controller and screen.

It also gives movies special treatment. The HORIZON 30 Series can display cinema's native 24fps content evenly at 120Hz, helping films retain smooth, natural motion. When it's time to game, low latency and support for VRR, ALLM and AMD FreeSync help make the same screen ready for faster, more responsive play.

Users don't have to choose between a projector made for movies, sports, or gaming – the HORIZON 30 Series is built around all three.

A Big Screen, On Your Terms

The HORIZON 30 Series brings the big-screen experience home without the need for a dedicated theater space, with a flexible design made to work around the room that's already there. Its integrated stand can tilt and rotate, while optical zoom and lens shift provide more freedom to position the picture without requiring the projector to sit directly in front of the screen. Lens Memory can even save up to five custom setups, making it easier to move between everyday TV and ultra-wide movies.

Once in place, XGIMI's Intelligent Screen Adaptation technology takes care of much of the setup automatically, adjusting the picture to fit the screen and its surroundings with minimal effort from the user.

Built-in Google TV puts movies, shows, and streaming apps in one place, while dual 12W Harman Kardon speakers with DTS Virtual:X create a more immersive, surround-like sound experience without the need for additional speakers, bringing the big screen, streaming, and audio together in one streamlined setup.

The HORIZON 30 Series at a Glance

Pricing & Availability

The XGIMI HORIZON 30 Series is available for pre-order beginning October 12 through October 31 at XGIMI.com, with open sales beginning November 1. During the pre-order period, HORIZON 30 Pro is available for $1,899, HORIZON 30 Max for $2,499, and HORIZON 30 Ultra Max for $2,999.

All pre-orders include a choice of an XGIMI Floor Stand (Elephant Grey) or Ceiling Mount, two pairs of 3D glasses, and a $500 coupon toward the XGIMI Ascend Screen.

For more information, visit xgimi.com.

About XGIMI

Since 2013, the state-of-the-art XGIMI projectors have helped countless people worldwide to create genuinely immersive audio-visual experiences. Working with reputable partners like Google, Harman Kardon, and Texas Instruments, XGIMI builds all-in-one entertainment devices, perfected due to their user-oriented philosophy. Through industry-leading innovation, streamlined setups, and unique designs, XGIMI always strives to develop the best home and portable projectors for everyone to enjoy. XGIMI is also expanding their expertise into commercial projector technology to bring immersive experiences to more spaces. Learn more at XGIMI Projector Technology.

SOURCE XGIMI

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