Melissa Sturgess

Series Introduction: “I Have a Dream - Transforming CBMP Healthcare for All” In 2018, the UK experienced a historic, pivotal shift in the healthcare sector; Billy’s case led to the legalisation of cannabis-based medicinal products (CBPMs) for specific conditions, offering hope to thousands. Yet, six years later, we must stop and ask ourselves: how much progress has really been made? In this 10-week series, “I Have a Dream,” I will examine the journey of cannabis-based medicines in the UK. We will confront the victories, the struggles, and the untold stories along the way. We will hear from patients, dive deep into data and expert opinions, and explore the policies shaping this movement. Together, we will envision a future where healthcare is truly for everyone. What You Can Expect: 1. Misinformation: Debunking myths with verified data. 2. Misleading Practices: The harm of poor industry practices, the inconsistent supply and quality of CBMPs and the role of unethical lobbying. 3. Industry Scalability: Why the sector's growth is stunted, using real-life examples. 4. Patient Choice: Addressing the gap between prescriptions and patient access. 5. Consistency: How vertically integrated clinics provide quality care. 6. Tracking Outcomes: Looking at the data clinics use to improve patient well-being. 7. Accessibility: Creating a seamless, patient-centered experience. 8. Value in Care: The important role of specialised consultants. 9. Open Forums: The need for unbiased patient platforms. 10. Regulatory Challenges: How regulations have impacted patient care. Join me next week as we kick off with series 1. Let’s turn this dream into reality!

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We had the pleasure of speaking to the inimitable Gordon Sanghera, co-founder and CEO of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, valued at around $6.8bn in 2021. Gordon somewhat accidentally ended up as an entrepreneur, breaking the conventional VC wisdom around 'born founders'. The technology is wild - democratising access to genomic sequencing giving us a new understanding of living organisms. In the episode of Riding Unicorns, we cover: 00:00 Defining Entrepreneurship 00:55 Understanding Oxford Nanopore's Technology 06:10 Gordon's Journey to Founding Oxford Nanopore 12:09 Commercialization Challenges and Strategies 16:27 Building a Strong Founding Team 20:55 Navigating the Ups and Downs of Deep Tech 25:54 Innovative Applications of Nanopore Technology 28:57 Company Culture and Operational Insights 35:05 Attracting Talent in a Competitive Market 37:22 The IPO Experience and Future Outlook https://lnkd.in/eQZVSGeK

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The Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) is important for control of illicit activities, but I do not see how hemp or regulated cannabis should be subject to POCA in a day and age where medical cannabis is finally finding emancipation from arcane and wrongfully applied international laws. Let’s work together to release cannabis from the constraints of POCA worldwide. And let’s work together to unlock the economic potential in the UK that is the hemp and regulated medical cannabis industries.

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This is exciting. Hutan is growing a drop in replacement for marine diesels. Even better post refining the algal oils are a sustainable aviation fuel. Even even better the algal platform produces a lot of oil but also biomass: this means it’s capturing CO2 whilst growing and so the platform produces oil and biomass which is a crop feed whilst being carbon negative. Even even even better the company’s platform grows algae in hot coastal regions where other crops cannot be grown so doesn’t squeeze food crops.

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“A Green Flood ? 474 Prescription Cannabis Products in the UK Market” • The sheer number of cannabis products available has led many to wonder if the UK market is oversaturated • While a wide selection might seem beneficial, it complicates the prescription process for healthcare providers and patients • This situation calls for a critical assessment of whether the current market dynamics truly serve patient needs • As of the latest estimates, there are only about 28,000 patients • This discrepancy between the number of products and the number of patients suggests a potential misalignment in the market • One of the most pressing issues in the UK cannabis market is the inconsistent supply of medications. Patients often face difficulties in obtaining their prescribed cannabis products regularly • Quality control is another significant concern. Reports of medications made from poor-quality seeds and instances of mold contamination have surfaced • Should the Industry Focus on Quality over Quantity? Given these challenges, it might be time for the industry to reconsider its approach. Instead of flooding the market with numerous products, a focus on fewer, high-quality medications might be more beneficial • Ensuring a consistent supply of these products could greatly enhance patient outcomes and foster greater trust in medical cannabis. https://lnkd.in/dZZ-z52z

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Welcome, I Had A Dream Series - Installment 4: Misleading Practices: The harm of poor industry practices, the inconsistent supply and quality of CBMPs and the role of unethical lobbying. Explore the chaotic world of the UK’s Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBPM) industry, once seen as a savior but now plagued by questionable practices, sloppy standards, and endless confusion. It’s time the industry prioritises patient care before hitting a dead end. Misleading Practices: The Case of Smoke and Mirrors When medical cannabis was legalized in 2018, it promised transformative care. However, the industry has devolved into a maze of exaggerated claims, “miracle cures,” and marketing gimmicks. Companies hype CBPMs without transparency, eroding patient trust. Supply Chain Shenanigans Getting CBPMs feels like a lottery. Patients face supply shortages, inconsistencies, and questionable quality. For those managing chronic conditions, reliable medication is non-negotiable, yet CBPMs remain unpredictable. Lobbying Gone Wild Behind closed doors, certain industry players prioritize profits over patient care, pushing for recreational legalisation under the guise of medical progress, muddying intentions and sidelining ethical development. Trust? What Trust? Patients and healthcare providers are skeptical, questioning the industry’s integrity. Without reform, a regulatory crackdown is inevitable, which may stifle genuine innovation. Time for a Makeover To survive, CBPM needs transparency, accountability, and patient-centered reforms. Stricter regulations could ensure safe, honest, and quality-driven products, giving patients the reliable care they deserve. Bottom line - Legalisation in CBPMs won’t make real progress until industry stops tripping over its own mess.

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Unveiling New Marijuana - Cannabis Cannabinoids: THCP and CBDP Marijuana research is an ever-evolving area, continuously revealing brand-new cannabinoids with one-of-a-kind residential or commercial properties. Amongst the current explorations are THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) and CBDP (cannabidiphorol). These unique substances promise to reshape our understanding of cannabis and its prospective benefits. This blog delves into the fascinating world of THCP and CBDP, exploring their chemical structures, prospective benefits, present research study, and future ramifications. With extensive testing from accredited labs like a Third Party CBDTesting Lab, these discoveries hold terrific pledge for both the cannabis market and medical applications. What are THCP and CBDP? THCP and CBDP Defined THCP: THCP, or tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a newly uncovered cannabinoid that resembles THC yet is possibly a lot more potent. This increased effectiveness is thought to arise from its distinct chemical structure, which allows it to connect extra highly with the body's endocannabinoid system. THCP's discovery opens the door to brand-new possibilities in cannabis-based therapies, specifically in locations where high strength is helpful. CBDP: CBDP, or cannabidiphorol, is one more newly recognized cannabinoid that carefully resembles CBD. Nonetheless, minor variations in its framework may lead to one-of-a-kind therapeutic advantages not seen with conventional CBD. This could consist of enhanced anti-inflammatory properties or various other health advantages, making it a considerable discover for clinical research and item development. Continue…. Link Here⬇️ https://lnkd.in/gaN5UF_b JUNE 19, 2024, 1:47 AM #cannabinoid #cannabis #researchanddevelopment #THCP #CBDP

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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 As co-founder & co-leader of a UK/South American company in the cannabis industry, I helped grow the business to a £30 million valuation by the time I exited. Since then, the company has faced setbacks: they closed the South American facility, & the UK subsidiaries have seen a decline in value. These issues highlight a key truth, strong management & taking ownership are essential for sustained success, particularly in a fast-growing industry like medical cannabis and wellbeing. The sector offers immense opportunities, but without strong leadership & a clear strategy, even promising businesses can struggle. My experience with this company showed that success isn’t just about capitalising on market potential; it requires disciplined execution and effective management. Since stepping away, I’ve advised other companies and consistently seen that mismanagement by leadership often leads to instability. The challenges faced by this company are a reminder of how crucial it is to have the right guidance. Shifting priorities, poor decision-making, & lack of focus can destabilise any organisation. However, recovery is possible. Here’s how the company can get back on track: 1. 𝗥𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 Strong, decisive ego free leadership must be the priority. Management should reassess its approach and, if necessary, bring in experienced professionals to execute a long-term plan. 2. 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 The company should refocus its strategy, aligning with core strengths. A well-defined approach will help stabilise operations and ensure long-term success. 3. 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 Addressing inefficiencies is key. Improving cost management and cutting unnecessary overhead will stabilise cash flow. 4. 𝗥𝗲𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 Re-engaging with investors, partners, & customers is crucial. Transparency will help restore confidence and trust. 5. 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 Improving product quality & innovation will help the company regain a competitive edge. High-quality products are critical for growth. 6. 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 The company must rebuild its brand & marketing to reconnect with customers and stand out in the competitive landscape. 7. 𝗥𝗲𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 The company may need to sell off non-essential assets to improve liquidity without damaging fragile investor confidence. Liquidation should be approached cautiously to maintain trust. Recovery is possible. By strengthening ego free leadership, refining strategy, improving efficiency, & rebuilding relationships, the company can overcome its challenges. Success requires strong leadership, clear vision, & disciplined execution.

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“The Need for Accessible Pricing in Perscription Cannabis Market” • The legalization of prescription cannabis has been a significant milestone in the UK, promising safe and regulated access for medicinal users. However, a crucial challenge has emerged: the pricing of prescription cannabis • Many individuals rely on cannabis for its therapeutic benefits, using it to manage chronic pain, anxiety, and other medical conditions. For these patients, the higher price tag associated with prescription cannabis is not just an inconvenience; it can be a significant barrier to accessing the medicine they need • Potential Solution - Fit for Purpose Trials leading to NHS Access - providing financial assistance or subsidies to low-income patients can help them access legal cannabis https://lnkd.in/e3B9kpkU

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Trichome cap sizes in cannabis are pivotal in maximizing oil production, terpene storage, and cannabinoid synthesis. These microscopic structures act as the plant's chemical factories, with larger caps enhancing the potency and yield of essential compounds. Understanding and optimizing trichome cap sizes can revolutionize the efficiency and quality of #cannabis cultivation, driving advancements in medicinal and recreational applications.

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#TransformativePotential As the UK government considers backing consolidating pension pots into large, pooled funds (Pension mega funds), we face a remarkable opportunity. Biomedical mega funds could bridge the "Valley of Death" in drug development while offering stable investor returns. But how can such a bold model manage risks while amplifying returns? #InnovativeStructuring The solution lies in sophisticated financial engineering. Through tranches, investments are segmented for different risk appetites: senior tranches offering 5-6% fixed returns for pension funds, mezzanine tranches balancing moderate risk with higher yields, and equity tranches absorbing first losses but providing outsized returns. But how do we ensure resilience against systemic shocks? The answer lies in correlation modeling. By understanding the relationships between different drug projects, funds can optimize their portfolios, balancing high-risk correlated projects with independent ones. This approach safeguards returns, even when regulatory delays or market disruptions hit specific therapeutic areas. #MonetizeEarly, Can we generate returns before a drug reaches the market?  Early-stage monetization generates returns before market approval through licensing agreements, partnerships, and asset sales. A Phase II oncology drug could generate $200M upfront plus milestone payments, creating immediate cash flows. #SteadyFlows How do we ensure consistent returns in such a high-risk industry? Reserve funds act as crucial buffers while a staggered portfolio strategy spreads investments across late-stage (3-5 years), mid-stage (5-7 years), and early-stage projects (7-10 years), ensuring steady cash flows. #GovernmentSupport Public sector backing through credit enhancements and guarantees reduces default risks. Third-party guarantees with insurers provide additional security, aligning healthcare innovation with financial sustainability. #LeveragedReturns, Can we amplify returns while managing risk? Asset-backed securities (ABS) leverage royalty streams from approved drugs for additional capital. The LifeArc-CPPIB Keytruda deal ($1.3B) demonstrates this approach's potential. #BreakthroughPotential A portfolio of 100+ oncology projects improve breakthrough odds dramatically. Even for Alzheimer's research, structured funds (Portfolio Optimisation) could unlock $5B annual revenues from successful treatments. #CollaborativeInnovation Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Cancer Research Horizons  , LifeArc Ventures, and research organisations etc could collaborate within this framework, accelerating patient access while optimising returns. This creates a virtuous cycle of innovation and investment. Through careful structuring, risk management, and innovative financing, we might finally bridge the "Valley of Death" in drug development. #UKpensionmegafund #UKpooledpensionpots #tranches #securitization #financialengineering #portfolioptimisation #seniortranches #ABS #investment #VCs

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🌿 Sherman Hom, PhD, sheds light on "Cannabis Product Recalls & State Regulations" at CannMed 24. The study aims to establish a comprehensive compendium of cannabis product recalls across states, identifying safety gaps for improved consumer awareness and safety. 🔬 Product recalls serve as crucial safeguards for cannabis patients and consumers, detecting contaminants like microbial and pesticide contamination, and metal impurities that exceed safety thresholds. 📊 With 25 US States permitting Adult-Use and Medical Cannabis Programs and 14 States exclusively endorsing Medical Cannabis Programs as of November 2023, all State Cannabis Programs have adopted stringent testing regulations. These regulations encompass tests for cannabinoid potency and product contamination detection. ℹ️ Dive deeper into these insights and advancements at CannMed. Watch Sherman Hom's presentation for a comprehensive understanding: [Link to learn more about CannMed](https://cannmedevents.com/) SAVE THE DATE: CannMed 24 June 17th-20th Location: Puerto Rico Resort: https://lnkd.in/dvVGBHm4 #Cannabis #ProductRecalls #StateRegulations #CannMed24 #ConsumerSafety CannMed Events Medicinal Genomics Discover Puerto Rico Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA)

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Available for the past 70 years in Europe, porcine Embryonic Organ Supplementation (EOS) is available in the form of embryonic cellular extract preparations, making it possible, and affordable, to receive the incredible benefits of EOS without traveling to expensive European Clinics. Cell Life USA’s EOS uses similar principals as those used in cell therapy, however, instead of extracting whole intact cells, EOS starts with the selection of specific organ tissue extracts from an organic porcine embryo and through proprietary technology, it is processed into a bio-available form of a nutritional supplement. Many years of experience have demonstrated that porcine are the best donor animals for humans because they are vital, hardy animals and immunologically, their bodies are the closest match to the human body. Due to this fact, many heart valve transplants for humans are still derived from porcine. In addition, porcine cellular supplements are particularly compatible with the human body, and in the embryonic stage, there is a very low degree of immunogenicity, or possible allergic reaction, as they are typically not recognized as foreign antigens by the host body. According to Dr. Niehan’s, known as the Father of Cell Therapy, when ingested into the human body, “like goes to like”; bone to bone, liver to liver, heart to heart, etc., where they only fit into the receptor sites of the target organ and begin to support the function of that specific target organ.   Cell Life USA’s EOS preparations are derived from specific embryonic organ cell tissues and are ideally suited to support anti-aging and health maintenance. They are for oral use only and may perform little miracles in supporting body structure and body function. Cell Life USA’s cellular supplements, which are organ specific, are not species specific and are formulated to “educate” human organs to function at a more youthful level. The organ itself then, can retain its structure and function for an extended period of time. In addition to body re-building, health maintenance, and anti-aging, EOS is designed to stimulate the structure and function of cells of specific organ systems to help the overall health of the body or can be used with specific intent, such as, to help enhance structure and or function of immune system, memory and cognitive function, sexual function, specific organ function, endocrine function, skin elasticity, senile ocular conditions, or improve muscle, joint and bone health, just to name a few. Dr. Niehans stated the ultimate aim of cell therapy in this way: "What I am striving for, is not only to give more years to life, but especially, to give more life to years." Niehan's aim was to "make all the organs struck by old age capable once more of functioning properly."

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“No Government Funded Medical Cannabis Clinical Trials Ongoing “ Why? •”This is primarily due to difficulties in securing a supply of cannabidiol for the study, and developments in the research landscape which impacted the original funding rationale,” NIHR said = NO QUALITY CONSISTENT SUPPLY AVAILABLE ! SHAME ON THE INDUSTRY 😞 •”Medical cannabis doesn’t lend itself to the pharmaceutical assessment process because you can’t do a double blind placebo-controlled approach on it,” “You can do it for pure CBD [cannabidiol] or pure THC [tetrahydrocannabinol], but not in a full plant because it has over several hundred components in variable proportions, which pharmaceutical studies don’t like” = AFTER NUMEROUS CONVERSATIONS WITH WORLD-RENOWNED RESEARCHERS & SCIENTISTS I CAN CONFIRM THIS QUOTE FROM THE ARTICLE IS COMPLETELY & UTTERLY FALSE! **This misleading narrative has to stop! It is not acceptable to me, it is not acceptable to patients and it should not be acceptable to ethical medical cannabis companies.** #transparency

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#CBD One of my hit videos from last year: the many many binding sites of CBD... Hattip to Codi Peterson for pointing out this lovely chart. Today's paper: 'The Polypharmacological Effects of Cannabidiol' https://lnkd.in/eznvDShU As always, thanks to CV Sciences for sponsoring this canna-education video series.

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Cannabis pangenome conclusion 2: "Jumping genes" have shaped genetic diversity in very recent history, as well as very old history. Transposable elements (TEs), also known as transposons or "jumping genes," are DNA sequences that can move or transpose themselves to new positions within the genome. These elements can have significant impacts on genome structure and function. "Recent and lineage specific DNA TE expansions suggest ongoing diversification could be driven by hybridization and sources of stress, including clonal propagation, which is a common practice for modern MJ production, but not often used in hemp field production. Combined with the recent estimated divergence date, these notable patterns suggest that TEs are involved in differentiation of regulatory networks and gene evolution between populations and perhaps specific lineages." Recent as in the last 10,000 years. The time frame of human domestication which dates back at least 8,000 years. A blink of the eye in evolutionary terms. The concept that this type of very recent mobile DNA could drive the diversity we see - and not mixing of millions of years of evolutionary mutations - is honestly a bit mind boggling. More proof of this tomorrow with cannabinoid synthase evolution. On the other extreme end, these TEs could be the reason that Hops and Cannabis diverged from their common ancestor about 20 million years ago. "We find Harbinger TE abundance is especially high in the centromeric region of chromosome 7, but there is no trace of this peak in the homologous chromosome in hop. The divergence date of this Harbinger block is ∼20 mya, corresponding to the approximate time of speciation from Humulus. This implies the cannabis-hop speciation event involved divergent centromeric evolution and genome rearrangements mediated by Harbinger TE proliferation" #BetterCannabisThroughScience 

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Private Biotech Fundraising - Maximize Investor Engagement by overpreparing and having a detailed memo in addition to an investor deck – not common, but A+ approach. Despite a rise in private funding for biotech startups in Q1 2024, the market has largely plateaued since 2022, presenting ongoing challenges for many private biotech firms. To maximize investor engagement and boost your chances of expediting the fundraising process. I strongly advise teams to be exceptionally well-prepared and proactive. Do a Memo too! It's fundamental to have a thorough pitch deck that presents an investment thesis right from the start. However, it’s equally crucial to prepare a comprehensive memo covering all bases—this includes the competitive landscape, distinct advantages, potential risks, fundraising specifics, founders' backgrounds, product details, and market size. Such preparation makes it easier for venture capitalists (VCs) to grasp the business's potential and can accelerate the investment process. Founders should meticulously guide VCs through their diligence by providing comprehensive and easily digestible information. This approach not only streamlines the evaluation process but could also enhance your startup's positioning in the eyes of potential investors. By offering detailed insights, you can help VCs with their due diligence and prevent them from misinterpreting your business's position, leading to a more accurate and favorable assessment. Although not widely adopted, this proactive approach can be very useful in guiding VCs through the diligence process, making it easier and quicker for them to understand and invest in your business.   https://lnkd.in/eRyaEmti   #Privatebiotechfundraising #Bestpractices #Privatebiotechfundraisingguidance

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NEW CannMed Coffee Talk on Cannabinoids for Athletics, Concussions, and Pain! 🌿 Exploring the world of cannabinoids in professional sports, Liz , with a background in molecular biology and physiology, delves into the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in athletics. As a member of the clinical trial team funded by the National Football League (NFL), Liz aims to shed light on the role of cannabinoid products in managing concussions and pain. 🔬 Listen to the insightful discussion here: https://hubs.li/Q02TJft80 Key points of discussion include: ⦾ Liz's journey into studying cannabinoids for athletic disorders ⦾ Published literature supporting cannabinoid use for neuroinflammation ⦾ Collaboration with the NFL for clinical trials on neuroinflammation and athlete recovery post-concussions ⦾ Evolving landscape of cannabis use in sports and organizational policy changes ⦾ Future research directions and more! Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation sponsored by DENT Neurologic Institute. #Cannabinoids #Athletics #Concussions #Pain #Research #NFL #ClinicalTrials University of Saskatchewan Elizabeth Thompson

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