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Study Uncovers How Much of Biological Aging is Driven by Random Noise Versus Dynamic Biologic Change

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2 years ago

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LEXINGTON, Ky., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A new groundbreaking study, recently published in *Nature Aging*, by researchers from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, TruDiagnostic, and Harvard, has unveiled significant insights into the mechanisms of epigenetic clocks, which are widely used to predict biological age. The study’s findings suggest that a large portion of the predictive accuracy of chronological clocks can be attributed to stochastic, or random, DNA methylation (DNAm) changes rather than deterministic biological aging processes.

Epigenetic clocks, such as those developed by Horvath and Zhang, have gained prominence for their ability to estimate an individual’s biological age with remarkable accuracy, based solely on patterns of DNA methylation. However, the precise mechanisms by which these changes in DNAm occur has remained largely unexplored until now.

The research team, led by Dr. Andrew Teschendorff, utilized sophisticated simulation models and extensive DNAm data from over 25 independent cohorts totaling 22,770 samples. Their analysis revealed that between 66% to 90% of the accuracy of various epigenetic clocks could be explained by stochastic processes. This finding was particularly pronounced in Zhang’s clock, which showed that up to 90% of its predictive capability could be attributed to these random changes.

Dr. Andrew E. Teschendorff, a senior author of the study, noted, “Our results further indicate that biological age-acceleration is unlikely to be the result of an increased rate of stochastic change, but instead being driven by non-stochastic processes. However, one exception to this seems to be mitotic age-acceleration in precancerous lesions.”

Furthermore, the study distinguished between different types of epigenetic clocks, finding that those more predictive of chronological age, like Zhang’s clock, were largely influenced by stochastic DNAm changes. In contrast, clocks like PhenoAge, which are more reflective of biological age, showed a lower degree of stochastic influence. This suggests that first generation clocks, trained to predict chronological age, have less utility in predicting outcomes of aging than clocks trained on other phenotypes of aging or biomarkers.

These insights are vital for the future development and refinement of epigenetic clocks, potentially guiding medical professionals towards more accurate assessments of biological aging and associated health risks.

“One trend we have seen in recent years is that clocks trained to predict chronological age have lower predictive power than newer clocks trained on biological information. Additionally, chronological clocks can sometimes increase with known lifespan extension interventions. This is counter intuitive. This study might explain why. Clocks trained to predict chronological age are driven by random variation over time while clocks which are predictive of lifespan seem to be much more dynamic and responsive to the ways we live our life” added Dr. Varun Dwaraka, a co-author of the study. 

The full study is available in the latest issue of *Nature Aging* and provides a comprehensive view of the stochastic components influencing epigenetic aging. This research not only advances our understanding of genetic aging mechanisms but also enhances the potential for personalized medical strategies based on more accurate DNA methylation profiling.

For further information, access the full paper here.

About TruDiagnostic

Home to the largest, private DNA methylation database in the world, TruDiagnostic is a leading health data company and CLIA-certified laboratory that specializes in epigenetic testing and research. In partnership with notable biotech developers, researchers, and academic institutions, we are transforming the healthcare potential of epigenetic data into actionable applications. We aim to improve people’s lives by arming patients and physicians with novel biological insights; enabling them to make the right lifestyle and medical decisions through information found in the fluid epigenome. With the ability to analyze more than 1,000,000 locations on one’s DNA, our TruAge biological aging tests provide the most in-depth results, and multi-omic correlations to accelerated aging.

Additional Contacts

Hannah Went, Director of Operations

General Inquiries  

(937) 570-0471  

(833) 963-1700

hannah@trudiagnostic.com

support@trudiagnostic.com

www.trudiagnostic.com

www.trudiagnostic.com

**Contact:**
Dr. Andrew E. Teschendorff
Email: andrew@sinh.ac.cn
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China

Emilie Arroyo, Media Relations
(786) 247-4579
emilie@trudiagnostic.com  
www.trudiagnostic.com

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SOURCE TruDiagnostic

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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45 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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45 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

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2 hours ago

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October 23, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

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