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Vicuña Corp. Announces Appointment of Ron Hochstein as Chief Executive Officer

Vicuña Corp. Announces Appointment of Ron Hochstein as Chief Executive Officer

September 15, 2025

VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – (TSX: LUN) (Nasdaq Stockholm: LUMI) Lundin Mining Corporation (“Lundin Mining” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors of Vicuña Corp. (“Vicuña”), where Lundin Mining has a 50% shareholding, has approved the appointment of Ron Hochstein as Chief Executive Officer of Vicuña, effective November 7, 2025. Vicuña is a 50/50 joint arrangement between Lundin Mining and BHP that holds the consolidated deposits of Filo del Sol and Josemaria (collectively, the “Vicuña Project”). View PDF version

Jack Lundin, President and CEO of Lundin Mining, and board member of Vicuña commented “We are very pleased to welcome Ron to the Vicuña management team. Ron has been an integral member of the Lundin Group for more than 30 years, holding a variety of leadership roles and building an outstanding track record of creating shareholder value. Most recently, he worked with Dave Dicaire, current General Manager of Vicuña, to deliver the Fruta del Norte gold mine in Ecuador, the country’s first modern greenfield mining project, which was completed on time and on budget and today operates with one of the highest standards in the sector. Ron’s leadership and commitment will be a great addition to the team at this stage of development for the Vicuña Project.”

Dave Dicaire will continue to serve as General Manager of Vicuña, reporting to the CEO while maintaining responsibility for the integrated design, execution plan, and overall development of the Vicuña Project. The Vicuña CEO role will be primarily based in Argentina, to provide additional support across critical workstreams, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and enable the project team to remain fully focused on advancing a best-in-class, mega project.

Mr. Hochstein has built a distinguished career as a leader in the global mining sector, bringing over three decades of technical expertise and executive experience to the industry. Since 2015, Ron has served as President and CEO of Lundin Gold Inc., where he guided the development and successful operations at the Fruta del Norte gold mine. Under his leadership, the company acquired and built an asset which serves as a standard for responsible mining development today. Mr. Hochstein’s academic background reflects his blend of technical and business acumen. He is a Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta, and he also holds an MBA from the University of British Columbia.

About Lundin Mining

Lundin Mining is a diversified Canadian base metals mining company with projects or operations in Argentina, Brazil, Chile and the United States of America, and primarily producing copper, gold and nickel.

The information in this release is subject to the disclosure requirements of Lundin Mining under the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out below on September 15, 2025 at 1:00 Eastern Time.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein are “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this document constitute forward-looking information, including but not limited to statements regarding the Company’s plans, prospects, business strategies and strategic vision and aspirations and their achievement and timing; the Company’s growth and optimization initiatives and expansionary projects, and the potential costs, outcomes, results and impacts thereof and timing thereof; permitting requirements and timelines; the results of any Preliminary Economic Assessment, Pre-Feasibility Study, Feasibility Study, or Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimations, life of mine estimates, and mine and mine closure plans; anticipated exploration and development activities, including potential outcomes, results, impacts and timing thereof; the Company’s integration of acquisitions and expansions and any anticipated benefits thereof, including the anticipated project development and other plans and expectations with respect to the Vicuña Project and the 50/50 joint arrangement with BHP; mineral resource estimation for the Vicuña Project, including the parameters and assumptions related thereto; the operation of Vicuña with BHP; the realization of synergies and economies of scale in the Vicuña district; the development and future operation of the Vicuña Project; the timing and expectations for future studies and technical reports with respect to the Company’s operations and projects, including the Vicuña Project; and the leadership and management of Vicuña Corp. Words such as “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “contemplate”, “target”, “plan”, “goal”, “aim”, “intend”, “continue”, “budget”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “can”, “could”, “should”, “schedule” and similar expressions identify forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon various estimates and assumptions including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management, including that the Company can access financing, appropriate equipment and sufficient labour; assumed and future price of copper, gold, zinc, nickel and other metals; anticipated costs; currency exchange rates and interest rates; ability to achieve goals; the prompt and effective integration of acquisitions and the realization of synergies and economies of scale in connection therewith; that the political, economic, permitting and legal environment in which the Company operates will continue to support the development and operation of mining projects; timing and receipt of governmental, regulatory and third party approvals, consents, licenses and permits and their renewals; positive relations with local groups; the accuracy of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates and related information, analyses and interpretations; and such other assumptions as set out herein as well as those related to the factors set forth below. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by Lundin Mining as at the date of this document in light of management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, such information is inherently subject to significant business, economic, political, regulatory and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information and undue reliance should not be placed on such information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: dependence on international market prices and demand for the metals that the Company produces; political, economic, and regulatory uncertainty in operating jurisdictions, including but not limited to those related to permitting and approvals, nationalization or expropriation without fair compensation, environmental and tailings management, labour, trade relations, and transportation; operating jurisdictions, including but not limited to those related to permitting and approvals, nationalization or expropriation without fair compensation, environmental and tailings management, labour, trade relations, and transportation; risks relating to mine closure and reclamation obligations; health and safety hazards; inherent risks of mining, not all of which related risk events are insurable; risks relating to tailings and waste management facilities; risks relating to the Company’s indebtedness; challenges and conflicts that may arise in partnerships and joint operations; risks relating to development projects, including Filo del Sol and Josemaria; risks that revenue may be significantly impacted in the event of any production stoppages or reputational damage in Chile; the impact of global financial conditions, market volatility and inflation; business interruptions caused by critical infrastructure failures; challenges of effective water management; exposure to greater foreign exchange and capital controls, as well as political, social and economic risks as a result of the Company’s operation in emerging markets; risks relating to stakeholder opposition to continued operation, further development, or new development of the Company’s projects and mines; any breach or failure information systems; risks relating to reliance on estimates of future production; risks relating to litigation and administrative proceedings which the Company may be subject to from time to time; risks relating to acquisitions or business arrangements; risks relating to competition in the industry; failure to comply with existing or new laws or changes in laws; challenges or defects in title or termination of mining or exploitation concessions; the exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts; the outbreak of infectious diseases or viruses; risks relating to taxation changes; receipt of and ability to maintain all permits that are required for operation; minor elements contained in concentrate products; changes in the relationship with its employees and contractors; the Company’s Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources which are estimates only; uncertainties relating to inferred Mineral Resources being converted into Measured or Indicated Mineral Resources; payment of dividends in the future; compliance with environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including changes to such laws or regulations; interests of significant shareholders of the Company; asset values being subject to impairment charges; potential for conflicts of interest and public association with other Lundin Group companies or entities; activist shareholders and proxy solicitation firms; risks associated with climate change; the Company’s common shares being subject to dilution; ability to attract and retain highly skilled employees; reliance on key personnel and reporting and oversight systems; risks relating to the Company’s internal controls; counterparty and customer concentration risk; risks associated with the use of derivatives; exchange rate fluctuations; the terms of the contingent payments in respect of the completion of the sale of the Company’s European assets and expectations related thereto; the earn-in arrangement in respect of the Boulderdash properties, including the entering into of an option agreement in respect thereof and the terms of such option agreement; future actions taken by Talon Metals Corp. and Lundin Mining in relation to the Boulderdash properties and the outcomes and anticipated benefits thereof; and other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those described in the “Risks and Uncertainties” section of the Company’s MD&A for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the “Risks and Uncertainties” section of the Company’s MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the “Risks and Uncertainties” section of the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the Company’s profile.

All of the forward-looking information in this document is qualified by these cautionary statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, forecasted or intended and readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking information. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate and forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance. Readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein speaks only as of the date of this document. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise forward ‐ looking information or to explain any material difference between such and subsequent actual events, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Lundin Mining Corporation

For further information, please contact: Stephen Williams, Vice President, Investor Relations: +1 604 806 3074; Robert Eriksson, Investor Relations Sweden: +46 8 440 54 50

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September 15, 2025
Unleashing the Next Generation of AI-Driven
SHERIDAN, Wyo., Sept. 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClipGen today announced the official launch of its all-in-one AI Creative Suite, redefining how creators, brands, and individuals produce videos, images, and audio. Designed to simplify content creation, ClipGen empowers users to turn simple ideas into professional multimedia content within seconds—without technical expertise.

What Is ClipGen?

ClipGen is a platform where more than ten AI tools are put under one roof.

With ClipGen, users can transform simple concepts into stunning multimedia stories in seconds as a one-stop creative factory. It’s not just a toolset. It is a smart creative companion for the social media influencer or marketer, educators, YouTuber, business of all sizes, and more.

Boundless Creative Possibilities

ClipGen’s core features include:
- AI Image to Video: Turn your images into moving videos or animations for a professional presentation or viral social media post with this image to video converter tool.
- AI Text to Video: Type out a script or idea, and ClipGen’s AI models generate a polished video with relevant visuals, transitions, and realistic voiceovers in minutes.
- Talking Photo: With talking photo, you can make any image speak in any voice you want. It can be set up to mimic the lip movement of the picture to suit audio. Use it for explainer clips, avatars and storytelling!
- AI Image Generation & Enhancement: With a text prompt, you can instantly create a photorealistic image or an artwork! Furthermore, you can upload a picture and get an 8x upscaling without loss, color reviving plus fine detail restoration.
- Cartoon Generator: Transform any photo or concept into stylized cartoons, with adjustable character traits, ready for comics, merchandise, or playful branding.
- AI Video Translator: Translate videos or audio into multiple languages in one click, retaining emotion, intonation, and context—break cultural barriers and unlock global reach.
- AI Voice Changer & Text to Speech: Choose from over 100 natural AI voices in 40+ languages, modulate pitch and emotion, and generate lifelike narrations or voice acting.
Technical Advantages

ClipGen is a highly integrated solution that provides image, video and voice generation using a common pipeline. Unlike most other creative product suites that have different tools, ClipGen allows the user to mix and match without changing context or files.

The platform uses proprietary multimodal AI models, allowing it to understand and generate text, image and audio simultaneously. This results in a remarkable consistency and creative harmony with no jarring inconsistencies between the script, visuals, and sound.

ClipGen has a cutting-edge AI inference engine built within its architecture. Thanks to the serverless architecture and distributed inference modules, the results are available in seconds.

AI algorithms look at what you created and score it to check the chances of the content getting engagement. It then recommends which highlight and transition works best with which keyword and topic.

One click adaptations for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and more with auto-generated subtitles + audio in 100+ languages to scale content globally with ease.

To address the high demands of corporate clients, we offer strong GDPR compliance; end-to-end encrypted data storage; customizable audit controls.

ClipGen’s clear and easy-to-use interface avoids complexity and pushes users to be more creative instead of distracted with unnecessary functions and features. You will not need any installation or technical knowledge nor do you require any prior editing experience.

Praise From the Creative Community

ClipGen has been utilized by over 100,000 active users in the world. It has a 97% satisfaction rate. Creators are lauding the platform as “offering unparalleled efficiency gains,” “delivering pro-level results without a learning curve,” and allowing them to “turn brand ideas into viral videos in minutes.” Reviewers note how ClipGen’s smart editing set the industry benchmark for seamless transitions and context-aware captioning.

Vision and Future

ClipGen’s mission is to democratize creative expression with AI—putting professional-grade tools in every hand, regardless of background or budget. The team is constantly rolling out new AI models and creative features, with a focus on accessibility, efficiency, and artistic empowerment. Upcoming upgrades include real-time collaborative editing, branded team workspaces, and even more fine-grained style transfer tools.

Try ClipGen Today

Experience the future of content creation now. Sign up at www.clipgen.net and discover how ClipGen is turning imagination into reality—at the speed of AI.

About ClipGen:

ClipGen is a US-based leader in AI-powered digital creativity, delivering state-of-the-art content generation technology to users worldwide. To learn more, visit www.clipgen.net.

Press Contact
business@clipgen.net
Website: https://www.clipgen.net/

Disclaimer: This content is provided by ClipGen. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or business advice. All investments carry inherent risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own due diligence and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any inaccuracies, misrepresentations, or financial losses resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this press release. Speculate only with funds you can afford to lose. In the event of any legal claims or concerns regarding this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained herein. Any complaints, copyright issues, or inquiries regarding this article should be directed to the content provider listed above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/96244296-1ab4-4396-9b53-1d0421d8729e
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September 15, 2025
Nasal flu jabs being offered to Jersey pupils

Zhara SimpsonChannel Islands

BBC

Nasal flu vaccinations are being offered in Jersey schools from 15 September

A nasal flu vaccination is being rolled out across schools in Jersey.

The Government of Jersey said the vaccine was being offered free for children aged two up to 16 years old at Jersey schools from 15 September until 10 October.

Health protection senior nurse advisor Emma Baker said the nasal flu vaccination was offered to children in a “few painless simple steps”.

She said: “The flu can be quite unpleasant in children, and it can cause fever, extreme tiredness, achy muscles, and a dry cough.”

Ms Baker said: “Most children recover quite quickly but for some it can be a little bit more serious, so it is really important to vaccinate our children.”

She said a thin plastic tube was placed inside a nostril then the spray was given as divided doses into both nostrils, adding children could breathe normally while the vaccine was being administered.

Teams will also be visiting nurseries in the island between 13 and 24 October.

“It’s a cost-effective programme,” she said. “If we can protect our children, we can protect our islanders, then that’s a good investment of money.”

She said the government has followed the same guidelines and recommendations for vaccinations as the UK.

An electronic consent form has also been set up for parents and carers to make the process “easy”, she said, however, people can still request paper forms from schools.

The dates of when immunisation teams are attending schools can be found on the government website.

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September 15, 2025
Half of adults suffer from dry eyes, but most never get help
Dry eyes can cause significant discomfort, and the symptoms become more common as we age. However, until now, it was unclear what proportion of the population suffered from the condition, with estimates ranging from 5-50%.
In fact, research presented today (September 15) at the 43^rd Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) [1], found that more than half of the general population in the USA and Europe experience dry eyes, yet only 20% of European patients and 17% of US patients were diagnosed, and they can wait years for professional help.

Dr Piotr Wozniak, refractive surgeon and dry eye specialist at Optegra Eye Clinics in Warsaw, Poland, and a lecturer and clinical instructor at Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, told the Congress: “Results from our studies reveal a substantial group of patients suffering without help. The European questionnaire explored why people don’t seek treatment. Many see dry eye as a normal part of aging and something to endure. As a medical doctor, I find this particularly concerning because a simple eye drop could offer significant relief – but many people aren’t even asking for help.”

Dr Wozniak presented findings from a survey of 2,003 adults in the US conducted in April 2024, and from an ongoing, international arm of the study conducted by Bausch and Lomb with over 5,000 adults in the UK, France, Germany, Poland, and Saudi Arabia: the ‘Needs Unmet in Dry Eye: Symptoms, Treatment and Severity’ (NESTS) study. In June 2025, the NESTS international arm surveyed 2,580 adults in the general population and 2,572 dry eye sufferers [2].

“In the NESTS study, we found that 58% of the general population reported experiencing dry eye symptoms, yet only one in five have received a formal diagnosis from a healthcare provider,” he said. “The large size of this study makes these results robust.

“The study explored the patient journey in detail. What stood out was that up to one-third of patients had experienced symptoms for more than five years before seeking professional help. NESTS also found that around half of sufferers experience symptoms every single day. The delay in seeking treatment is concerning, especially since dry eye is a progressive disease and early intervention can prevent a vicious cycle of inflammation.”

Other results from NESTS showed that 60% of dry eye sufferers waited at least four months before seeking help and 20% waited more than a year before talking to health care provider about their symptoms. Many sufferers stopped driving at night (17%), no longer wore makeup (14.8%), or reduced their use of heat or air conditioning (15.2%) due to their uncontrolled dry eye symptoms. One in three sufferers (34%) reported that their symptoms had worsened in the past year and only 9% said there had been an improvement.

Lubricating eye drops were the first and most common treatment, chosen either by the patient or by an eye or health care provider. Yet only 25% believed their current treatment was specifically tailored to their needs.

Dr Wozniak said: “NESTS also examined patient-provider interactions, revealing national differences. For example, in France fewer than half of dry eye sufferers had planned follow-up visits, while in Saudi Arabia, the majority, 84%, were proactively followed up by their providers.”

In the US study, eye dryness frequently affected 50% of survey respondents, and 80% experienced symptoms such as fatigue, itchy or watery eyes, but only 17% had a diagnosis from an eye care provider. Between 35-75% of people were very or extremely bothered by dry eyes, with reading, using electronic devices or driving being the most common activities to be disrupted; 70% lacked knowledge of treatment options; 40% were unaware that untreated dry eyes can cause other eye problems and vision loss; only about 25% visited an eye care provider every two years or more frequently; 67% of people with dry eyes waited six months or more to see an eye care provider, and 31% waited two or more years.

Dr Wozniak said: “These findings highlight the widespread impact of dry eye disease on quality of life, showing a large number of people suffering silently.

“We need to educate patients and the public on the causes, consequences and treatment options for dry eyes, as well as the importance of regular eye checks. In addition, we must support healthcare professionals in distinguishing between different types of dry eye and matching treatments appropriately. One person’s ‘dry eye’ can be very different from another’s.”

Diagnosis of dry eye often involves a combination of patient-reported symptoms, medical history and clinical tests. However, some patients are diagnosed only on the basis of symptoms and a standard eye examination, for instance with a microscope. Specific diagnostic tools include looking at the time it takes for a dry spot to appear on the cornea after a blink, using dye to stain the surface of the eye, measuring the concentrations of salts and other particles in tears, or an assessment of the Meibomian gland, which is responsible for producing the oily part of tears.

Left untreated, dry eyes can be very uncomfortable, can cause inflammation and a condition called blepharitis when eyelids become sore and inflamed. Symptoms include a sandy or gritty feeling, soreness, uncomfortable and painful eyes, itching or burning sensation, short-term blurred vision, and watery eyes. Dry eyes are more common in people over the age of 50 because the glands that make tears, particularly the oily component, become less effective, causing the tears to dry up too quickly and the front of the eye to become dry and irritated. The condition may also affect the outcome of nearly every ophthalmological surgery, including cataract and refractive procedures, making its diagnosis and management important, even before surgery takes place.

Dry, dusty, windy and cold conditions can also make eyes feel dry, as can air-conditioning, central heating, smoking and certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases and hormonal conditions.

ESCRS President, Dr Filomena Ribeiro, who is Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Hospital da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal, was not involved in the research. She commented: “These findings reveal the true extent of dry eye disease in the general population. It is concerning that such a small proportion of sufferers seek help for the condition, especially as it can make a real difference to the outcomes of ophthalmological surgery and also to their quality of life. Eye and health care professionals need to discuss this with patients when they see them and encourage people to have regular eye care checks.”

Notes
1. ESCRS25-PP-3336, ‘Dry eye symptoms, severity, treatment and unmet needs: an analysis of the United States of America and a multinational snapshot’, by Piotr Wozniak et al. Poster session: Ocular surface disease. 09:15-10:45 hrs CEST, Monday, September 15, https://pag.virtual-meeting.org/escrs/escrs2025/en-GB/pag/presentation/572147
2. Data from the NESTS international arm became available after the abstract was submitted. Therefore, the information in this release represents the most up-to-date data that will be presented to the Congress.
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September 15, 2025
Guernsey healthcare workers challenge myths

Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Health workers said the week provided the chance to challenge myths

Healthcare workers are encouraging people in Guernsey to think critically about the information they view online to help their sexual health.

Chronically Online – Love, Sex and Relationships is the theme of this year’s Sexual Health Week which runs from 15-21 September.

The States of Guernsey said the team at the Orchard Centre, the sexual health clinic based at the hospital, and Public Health were raising awareness of the importance of good sexual health.

Laura Brouard, nurse consultant and Orchard Centre service manager, said the week was important as it offered “the chance to challenge myths, share facts, and signpost people to trusted advice”.

‘Empower young people’

Officials said the campaign explores how social media and digital culture influence sex, relationships, health and how quickly myths spread.

Guernsey’s director of Public Health, Dr Nicola Brink, said everybody needs access “to accurate and reliable information”.

“We cannot be drowned by online noise and misinformation,” she said.

“We need to consider the recent rapid advances in AI and how it can be used effectively to improve sexual health services.

“We need to empower young people to think critically about the information they view online.”

Officials said some common misconceptions included guaranteed weight gain caused by hormonal contraception, which they said had no consistent link.

Some people may notice small changes but it was not universal, they added.

Another myth included only getting tested for sexual transmitted infections (STIs) if you had symptoms.

Officials said many STIs were symptomless but could still cause long-term health problems if left untreated.

Ms Brouard said: “Accurate knowledge empowers people to make informed decisions about their health.”

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September 15, 2025
AIMRC Seminar: Subcellular Positioning of Mitochondria Regulates Gene-Expression Patterns

Photo Submitted

Brian Cunniff of the University of Vermont

The Arkansas Integrative Metabolic Research Center will host Brian Cunniff, an assistant professor of pathology and laboratory medicine, at 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, in BELL 2267. In this seminar, Cunniff will discuss how the subcellular positioning of mitochondria regulates gene-expression patterns.

Abstract: Mitochondrial positioning supports localized energy and signaling requirements. Miro1 is necessary for the attachment of mitochondria to microtubule motor proteins for trafficking. When Miro1 is deleted (Miro1-/-) from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), mitochondria become sequestered to the perinuclear space, disrupting subcellular signaling gradients. Miro1-/- MEFs grow slower, migrate slower and have a cell cycle defect compared to Miro1+/+ and Miro1-/- MEFs stably re-expressing a Myc-Miro1 plasmid. Dr. Cuniff’s lab conducted the first-ever RNA sequencing experiment dependent upon Miro1 expression and found differentially expressed genes related to MAP Kinase signaling, cell proliferation and migration. ERK1/2 phosphorylation is elevated both spatially and temporally following serum stimulation in Miro1-/- MEFs. Lastly, his team found the oxidation status of ERK1/2 is increased in Miro1-/- MEFs compared to Miro1+/+ and Myc-Miro1 MEFs. These results highlight transcriptional control based on Miro1 expression and demonstrate the dynamic regulation of ERK1/2 upon deletion of Miro1, which may support the observed cell cycle and proliferation defects.

Biography: Cunniff is an assistant professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine. He conducted his Ph.D. work at the University of Vermont with Nicholas Heintz, followed by postdoctoral training at the University of Utah with Janet Shaw and Harvard Medical School with Tom Kirchhausen. He joined the University of Vermont in 2017. Cunniff directs an industry-funded research program that supported the development of a first-in-class redox-dependent therapy for the treatment of malignant mesothelioma, currently in phase 2 clinical trials. Cunniff’s lab is also supported by NIH funding to investigate the role of mitochondrial structure, function and trafficking in dictating cell signaling related to cell proliferation and migration.

This event is supported by NIGMS of the National Institutes of Health under award number P20GM139768. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Please contact Kimberley Fuller, fullerk@uark.edu, for more information.

For those unable to attend in person, this seminar will also be available via Zoom.

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September 15, 2025
Poor air quality has serious health implications – how clean is your area? – The Irish Times

How clean is the air where you live? How you heat your home, whether or not you live near a busy road and emissions from farming and power generation can all impact the quality of the air we breathe.

Poor air quality has serious health implications – the World Health Organisation (WHO) has described air pollution as the “single biggest environmental health risk”.

Having an open fire or stove, traffic fumes, and chemicals and emissions from local industry really aren’t good for you. Those suffering from asthma and respiratory conditions are worst affected, but others can experience things such as frequent headaches and eye irritation from bad air.

That’s not the worst of it. Breathing in poor quality air over time can contribute to serious illnesses such as stroke, heart disease and even lung cancer, says the WHO.

It’s hard to believe there are approximately 1,600 premature deaths in Ireland each year due to poor air quality, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Clean air really matters.

The main concerns in Ireland are fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from solid fuel burning and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).

NO₂ is a pollutant gas that mainly comes from traffic emissions and other oil and gas combustion processes. It can also come from home heating, power stations and the use of nitrogen fertiliser and manure in agriculture.

Being exposed to NO₂ gas, even for short periods, can have harmful effects on your health and wellbeing, says the EPA.

[ How fine particle air pollution in Dublin and other Irish cities is slowly killing usOpens in new window ]

Clean Air Together Waterford is a citizen science project that’s aiming to do something about clean air. Led by the EPA in partnership with Waterford City and County Council, Clean Air Together Waterford is recruiting 400 participants to measure levels of the traffic-related air pollutant, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), across Waterford city and its environs.

It follows the success of similar Clean Air Together projects in Dublin, Cork and Galway city in recent years.

The goal is to get a better understanding of air pollution so as to drive policy and behaviour that can improve air quality in the future.

Residents, businesses and community groups in Waterford can apply to participate and those chosen will be sent a measurement tube to be placed on an outside window on October 2nd. The tube will measure NO₂ levels over a four-week period. Then the tube should be free-posted to a laboratory for analysis.

Participants will be able to see how NO₂ levels in their area compare with other parts of Waterford city.

So if you live in Waterford and you would like to know what the air quality is in your area, now is your chance to find out. At the same time, you could also be contributing to scientific research that could ultimately improve your area. You can apply at cleanairtogether.ie.

Some of the ways Government policy can improve the air we breathe include better, clean public transport; incentives for electric cars and better charging infrastructure; more pedestrian and cycle-friendly routes to work and school; more energy efficient buildings; restrictions on burning smoky solid fuel such as turf, wood and coal, and grants for upgrading old heating systems.

We can all do our bit too. By walking or cycling for shorter trips instead of using the car, taking public transport when feasible and changing our driving habits, we can make the air cleaner for ourselves.

Simply switching off a car engine when the vehicle is stopped instead of idling will reduce the amount of pollution pedestrians and cyclists breathe in. Indeed, every 10 seconds that a car is idling produces more emissions than restarting the engine.

[ How to find pollutants and improve air quality in your homeOpens in new window ]

When cars and buses idle outside schools to drop or pick up children, this can be particularly damaging. Young people are at the greatest risk from air pollution because their lungs are still developing, according to An Taisce’s No Idling toolkit for schools. Children are shorter than adults, so they are physically closer to car exhaust pipes too.

Making your home more energy efficient by installing solar power or heat pump technology is good for air quality, though even with Government grants this can be costly. Turning your engine off instead of idling, or walking instead when you can is something we can all do for free.

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September 15, 2025
Students urged against complacency around STIs

Getty Images

The UKHSA is urging anyone having sex with a new or casual partner to use a condom

Students going to university in the South West for freshers weeks are being urged to use condoms to protect themselves and others from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) latest quarterly data shows gonorrhoea and syphilis remain very high in England.

Figures, which cover Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Wiltshire, Bristol, Gloucestershire and Dorset, show an overall decrease of about 21% in diagnoses of STIs in people aged 15-24 in 2024.

The UKHSA said despite this drop, the number of STIs remained high and it urged students and young people not to be complacent.

”The most effective barrier’

The agency said these infections could spread easily, and those aged 15 to 24 were especially at risk as they were more likely to have frequent partner changes.

Mark McNally, sexual health facilitator at UKHSA South West, said: “Starting university is an exciting time – don’t let getting an STI ruin the fun.”

“When used correctly and consistently, condoms are the most effective barrier method for preventing a range of STIs and unplanned pregnancies,” he added.

Laura Domegan, head of nursing at Brook, said one of the biggest barriers to using condoms was communication.

“Young people often tell us they feel awkward or uncertain about how to raise the subject of condoms, particularly with new sexual partners,” she said.

“However, no-one should be embarrassed or ashamed for wanting to take care of their sexual health, and we want students starting a new university to be feel confident discussing condoms with the people they are having sex with.”

Although STIs are usually easily treated with antibiotics, many can cause serious health issues if left untreated, the UKHSA said.

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September 15, 2025
Comet Wierzchoś curves through the Northern Crown
Although faint, you can pick up C/2024 E1 Wierzchoś with an 8-inch scope, passing close to Iota Coronae Borealis in the evening sky.
Comet Wierzchoś slides near the Northern Crown this month, closely approaching Iota CrB midmonth. Credit: Astronomy: Roen Kelly

Comet C/2024 E1 Wierzchoś, currently at magnitude 14, is observable with an 8-inch telescope.

Optimal viewing occurs near Iota Coronae Borealis, using the star as a reference point for locating the comet at a specified angular distance (initially 0.5°, then shifting slightly over several days).

Observation is facilitated by the absence of a moon in the evening sky, allowing for increased darkness.

Astrophotography is suggested as an alternative method for detection, given its superior light-gathering capability compared to visual observation.

Now roughly 14th magnitude, Comet C/2024 E1 Wierzchoś is ripe for spotting with an 8-inch scope. With no Moon in the evening sky, darkness is on your side; and tonight and tomorrow night, the comet lies just 0.5° from 5th-magnitude Iota (ι) Coronae Borealis, the easternmost star in the curved Northern Crown.

Around 9 P.M. local daylight time, Corona Borealis is still more than 40° high in the west. Comet Wierzchoś floats in the southwestern region of the constellation, some 6.4° directly above magnitude 2.2 Alphecca (Alpha [α] CrB) as it’s setting. You can identify Iota by eye from a dark site, then center it in your eyepiece to locate Wierzchoś about ¼° to the star’s northwest, visible in the same telescopic field of view.

Tomorrow, the same technique for finding the comet will work, only look for Wierzchoś the same distance (¼°) south-southwest of Iota. By the 17th, Wierzchoś is ¾° south of the star, and just over a full degree south-southeast of Iota on the 18th. You can follow the comet’s progress using the chart above. If you can’t spot the comet visually, astrophotos may pick it up, as they can collect much more light than your eye.

Sunrise: 6:41 A.M.
Sunset: 7:08 P.M.
Moonrise: —
Moonset: 3:57 P.M.
Moon Phase: Waning crescent (30%)
*Times for sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset are given in local time from 40° N 90° W. The Moon’s illumination is given at 12 P.M. local time from the same location.

For a look ahead at more upcoming sky events, check out our full Sky This Week column.
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September 15, 2025
Dior’s Paris Flagship Partners With Michelin Chef Yannick Alléno

PARIS — Jonathan Anderson is not the only new artistic director at Dior.

Ahead of the designer’s womenswear debut during Paris Fashion Week, the French fashion house has unveiled an all-new menu at its historic flagship in Paris, courtesy of Yannick Alléno.

The Michelin-starred French chef, who runs prestigious restaurants including the Pavillon Ledoyen in Paris, has taken the helm of the Monsieur Dior restaurant at 30 Avenue Montaigne.

He also oversees the eatery housed in the store’s atrium space, now renamed Le Jardin, as well as the Café Dior at La Galerie Dior, the exhibition space adjoining the sprawling boutique.

Founder Christian Dior was a consummate gourmet, and Alléno found a copy of “La Cuisine Cousu-Main,” the cookbook published by the house in 1972, at a flea market years ago. He doubled down on his research with a visit to the Dior archive.

“What you learn from it is that Dior loved to eat, which everybody knows,” Alleno said during a preview tasting with WWD. “But above all, the garden and the table were his moments of peace — a way to rest his mind and recharge his creativity.”

Yannick Alléno with former Dior Heritage director Soizic Pfaff.

Laora Queyras/Courtesy of Dior

Boasting illustrations for each category of recipes by René Gruau, the metal-covered tome was filled with the kind of classic French fare Dior liked to order at his favorite Parisian restaurants: think steak with coarse sea salt, leg of lamb or ham shank.

Haute Cuisine

But rather than try to replicate the dishes that Dior would have eaten in his day, Alléno tried to image the kind of food the couturier would enjoy today.

Innovation is something of a passion for the chef, who launched his Modern Cuisine culinary movement in 2013, based on two key pillars: sauces and fermentation. Both are based on cooking food at the right temperature to bring flavors to the fore, while his patented extraction technique uses vacuum and cryo-extraction instead of heat.

In a nod to Dior’s love for the cooked ham known as “jambon de Paris,” Alléno has produced an extraction of ham that he’s paired with poached egg, cream and caviar for his revisited version of Oeuf Christian Dior.

“All the advanced culinary techniques I’ve developed, I’ve put into this dish,” he said. “To this day, I still haven’t managed to make a gelée that tops this one.”

Yannick Alléno’s take on Oeuf Christian Dior at Monsieur Dior.

Laora Queyras/Courtesy of Dior

He leans into Dior’s love of nature and gardens with light fare like his vegetable triptychs, which will change according to seasonal availability, mirroring the cycle of fashion collections.

Marking the end of summer, the menu that debuts Tuesday includes a salad of peach and zucchini spaghetti with flower petals; a violet artichoke tart with parmesan ice cream, and a beetroot jelly sprinkled with celery and green anise seeds.

“Close your eyes — you’re in Monsieur Dior’s garden. For me, this captures what I found in the archives: what he loved to eat, what he loved to see, what he loved to pick,” Alléno said. “It’s a style of cuisine that’s incredibly clear, direct and intense.”

The chef has also plucked inspiration from the forms and textures of the couture universe, with dishes like his Couture Lasagna with artichoke pleats, or his New Look cocktails. The Japon, named after a dress from fall 1957, blends sake with Belvedere vodka, cucumber, mizuna and yuzu.

The Full Experience

The appointment comes as leading houses venture ever further into experiential luxury amid a global slowdown in spending on luxury goods.

The Monsieur Dior restaurant at Dior’s 30 Montaigne store.

Dominique Maître/WWD

“The lines between different worlds are starting to blur. That’s a good thing, as experiences have become essential to satisfying today’s curiosity. People are always chasing after the next thing — it’s wild,” Alléno mused.

“Social media definitely plays a part in that, but more and more, people are craving something new, something they can live and feel. Owning things isn’t really the priority anymore,” he added.

The chef, who heads an empire of 19 restaurants worldwide with a combined 17 Michelin stars among them, claimed credit for being the first to marry haute cuisine and haute couture.

His relationship with LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the luxury group that owns Dior, stretches back to 2008, when he opened his restaurant 1947 at the Cheval Blanc hotel in the French ski resort of Courchevel.

He pitched LVMH chairman and chief executive officer Bernard Arnault the idea for opening the Dior des Lices restaurant after finding himself loitering at the Dior store in Saint-Tropez while his wife tried on dresses. “There was nowhere to sit and wait with a newspaper,” recalled Alléno, who ended up helming the summer pop-up from 2011 to 2017.

“We were the first to really bring dining into the heart of the store,” he continued. “I love the energy of a store — it’s alive, there’s something happening. And being right in the middle of that feels really exciting to me.”

Yannick Alléno’s Tomatoes, Granville illusion dessert for Monsieur Dior.

Laora Queyras/Courtesy of Dior

Since then he’s developed food concepts for other LVMH brands like Louis Vuitton and Champagne maker Moët & Chandon.

The Dior project came about after a chance encounter with Arnault’s wife, Hélène Mercier-Arnault, as he was buying an outfit for his granddaughter at the neighboring Baby Dior boutique a year ago.

Jean Imbert, the previous chef, was nearing the end of his contract. (Imbert announced last month he was taking a step back from his restaurants after prosecutors said they were investigating a domestic violence complaint from his former partner. He has denied the allegations.)

“I learned about luxury from LVMH,” said Alléno. “When you design a menu, they have an entire building dedicated to paper and materials. I’d never seen anything like it.” It’s that attention to detail he hopes to mirror with his food creations.

“That’s where it gets really interesting, because I think both worlds — the fashion world and the culinary world — have pushed each other forward. They are both facets of French craftsmanship.”

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September 15, 2025