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Microsoft and Lumen Technologies partner to power the future of AI and enable digital transformation to benefit hundreds of millions of customers

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Lumen’s Private Connectivity Fabric℠ expands Microsoft’s network capacity and capability to support rising demand on datacenters.Microsoft Azure to further accelerate Lumen’s enterprise-wide digital transformation and drive AI initiatives across the organization and save tens of millions of dollars.

DENVER and REDMOND, Wash., July 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT) announced a new strategic partnership that will use the Microsoft Cloud to further drive Lumen’s digital transformation. In addition, Microsoft has chosen Lumen to expand its network capacity and capability to meet the growing demand on its datacenters due to AI.

A network for the AI era

Datacenters have become critical infrastructure that power the compute capabilities for the millions of people and organizations who rely on and trust the Microsoft Cloud. Microsoft is playing the leading role in ushering in the era of AI, offering tools and platforms like Azure OpenAI Service, Microsoft Copilot and others to help people be more creative, more productive and to help solve some of humanity’s biggest challenges. As Microsoft continues to evolve and scale its ecosystem, it is turning to Lumen as a strategic supplier for its network infrastructure needs and is investing with Lumen to support its next generation of applications for Microsoft platform customers worldwide.

Lumen’s Private Connectivity Fabric℠ is a custom network that includes dedicated access to existing fiber in the Lumen network, the installation of new fiber on existing and new routes, and the use of Lumen’s new digital services. This AI-ready infrastructure will strengthen the connectivity capabilities between Microsoft’s datacenters by providing the network capacity, performance, stability and speed that customers need as data demands increase.

“AI is reshaping our daily lives and fundamentally changing how businesses operate,” said Erin Chapple, corporate vice president of Azure Core Product and Design, Microsoft. “We are focused both on the impact and opportunity for customers relative to AI today, and a generation ahead when it comes to our network infrastructure. Lumen has the network infrastructure and the digital capabilities needed to help support Azure’s mission in creating a reliable and scalable platform that supports the breadth of customer workloads—from general purpose and mission-critical, to cloud-native, high-performance computing, and AI, plus what’s on the horizon. Our work with Lumen is emblematic of our investments in our own cloud infrastructure, which delivers for today and for the long term to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.” 

“We are preparing for a future where AI is the driving force of innovation and growth, and where a powerful network infrastructure is essential for companies to thrive,” said Kate Johnson, president and CEO, Lumen Technologies. “Microsoft has an ambitious vision for AI and this level of innovation requires a network that can make it reality. Lumen’s expansive network meets this challenge, with unique routes, unmatched coverage, and a digital platform built to give companies the flexibility, access and security they need to create an AI-enabled world.” 

Accelerating growth through innovation and partnership

Lumen has launched an enterprise-wide transformation to simplify and optimize its operations. By embracing Microsoft’s cloud and AI technology, Lumen can reduce its overall technology costs, remove legacy systems and silos, improve its offerings, and create new solutions for its global customer base. Lumen will migrate and modernize its workloads to Microsoft Azure, use Microsoft Entra solutions to safeguard access and prevent identity attacks and partner with Microsoft to create and deliver new telecom industry-specific solutions. This element alone is expected to improve Lumen’s cash flow by more than $20 million over the next 12 months while also improving the company’s customer experience.

“Azure’s advanced global infrastructure helps customers and partners quickly adapt to changing economic conditions, accelerate technology innovation, and transform their business with AI,” said Chapple. “We are committed to partnering with Lumen to help deliver on their transformation goals, reimagine cloud connectivity and AI synergies, drive business growth, and help customers achieve more.”

This collaboration expands upon the longstanding relationship between Lumen Technologies and Microsoft. The companies have worked together for several years, with Lumen leveraging Copilot to automate routine tasks and reduce employee workloads and enhance Microsoft Teams.

About Lumen Technologies
Lumen connects the world. We are igniting business growth by connecting people, data, and applications – quickly, securely, and effortlessly. Everything we do at Lumen takes advantage of our network strength. From metro connectivity to long-haul data transport to our edge  cloud, security, and managed service capabilities, we meet our customers’ needs today and as they build for tomorrow. For news and insights visit news.lumen.com, LinkedIn: /lumentechnologies, Twitter: @lumentechco, Facebook: /lumentechnologies, Instagram: @lumentechnologies and YouTube: /lumentechnologies

About Microsoft
Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

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University of Phoenix Highlights Student Success Stories from President’s and Dean’s List Honorees

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Student reflections from President’s and Dean’s List honorees highlight flexibility, career-focused learning and perseverance while balancing work, family and education

PHOENIX, Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — University of Phoenix is spotlighting the experiences of students recognized on its July 2026 President’s and Dean’s Lists, sharing stories that illustrate the dedication, persistence and personal goals behind their academic achievement. As an extension of the July 2026 recognition, the University hosted a giveaway for President’s and Dean’s List honorees and invited eligible students to join the University of Phoenix subreddit and share what had been most valuable about their educational journeys. Responses submitted as part of the giveaway highlighted themes including flexibility, career-focused learning, and pursuing educational goals while balancing work, family and other responsibilities.

Celebrating Student Achievement Across University Programs

In July, the University recognized 32,416 students for academic achievement through its semi-annual President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President’s List honored 9,496 students who earned a 4.0 grade point average (GPA), while 22,920 students were named to the Dean’s Lists for achieving high academic standing in their programs of study.

“Behind every President’s and Dean’s List recognition is a unique story of commitment, perseverance and purpose,” said John Woods, PhD, provost and chief academic officer at University of Phoenix. “The student reflections shared through this initiative highlight the determination our learners bring to their educational journeys and the many ways they balance academic goals alongside career, family and personal responsibilities. We are proud to celebrate not only their academic achievement, but also the experiences that helped shape their success.”

Key Themes Shared by President’s and Dean’s List Students

The giveaway generated 787 eligible student submissions on the University of Phoenix subreddit, with 30 participants selected to receive University of Phoenix swag boxes.

In reviewing the submissions, the University identified several recurring themes, including:

Flexibility to balance education with work and family responsibilitiesCoursework that aligned directly to career goalsEducational milestones such as becoming the first in a family to earn a college degreeContinued learning through advanced degree programs

Students Share Their Educational Journeys

Derell Vanstory, who recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Business and earned Dean’s List recognition, reflected on balancing school, work and family responsibilities while pursuing his degree. This fall, he plans to pursue dual master’s degrees, an MBA and Master of Health Administration, as he works toward a career in healthcare leadership.

“The most valuable part of my journey at the University of Phoenix has been learning how to stay disciplined and resilient,” said Vanstory. “Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities taught me that success isn’t about having an easy path, it’s about continuing to move forward even when things get difficult.”

Reenae Flores, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Human Resource Management, described Dean’s List recognition as a meaningful milestone in her educational journey.

“This recognition represents so much more than a GPA,” said Flores. “It represents late nights after work, balancing family life, pushing through challenges, and refusing to give up on a dream that once felt out of reach.”

Flores shared that the flexibility of her educational experience allowed her to continue growing professionally while remaining present for her family.

Alisha Saffold, who recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Health Management, graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA, and is continuing her education as a Master of Public Health student, highlighted the value of applying classroom learning directly to her professional goals.

“The most valuable part of my University of Phoenix experience has been learning how to apply what I studied directly to my career and my passion for serving others,” said Saffold. “Every course challenged me to think like a healthcare leader and strengthened my commitment to improving access to preventive care, advancing health equity, and making a difference in underserved communities.”

Academic Achievement Among Working Adult Learners

The experiences shared by President’s and Dean’s List honorees reflect those of many University of Phoenix students who pursue education while balancing work, family and other responsibilities. According to University data, 75.4% of students are employed. In the Encoura + Ruffalo Noel Levitz Priorities Survey for Online Learners, 63% of University student respondents indicated they have caregiving responsibilities, while 91% expressed satisfaction that their chosen program aligns with their career path and that the course format fits into their busy lives.

To support students managing these competing demands, University of Phoenix offers resources including flexible course scheduling, on-demand support and access to its Life Resource Center.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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iFlex Stretch Studios Adds Kinotek® 3D Movement Technology to Every Experience

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The assisted stretching franchise combines markerless, AI-driven movement analysis with certified stretch therapist expertise to deliver more personalized programming and enhanced member experiences.

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — iFlex Stretch Studios, the assisted stretching and mobility brand under Sequel Brands, today announced the addition of Kinotek®’s 3D movement assessment technology across its studio network. The integration provides iFlex stretch therapists with a precise, visual understanding of each client’s mobility, potential asymmetries, and movement patterns to further personalize their stretching experience.

Before a therapist begins a session, Kinotek’s markerless 3D movement assessment captures a client’s body in motion – no markers, sensors, or wearables required. In seconds, the technology analyzes range of motion, symmetry, and movement quality to provide deeper insights into each client’s mobility needs.

Each initial assessment helps establish a personalized stretching plan, with movement data informing AI-supported programming that therapists use to customize sessions, recommend at-home mobility work, and suggest recovery and mobility products aligned with individual goals.

“Assisted stretching has always come down to what a good stretch therapist can see and feel,” said Verdine Baker, Founder of iFlex Stretch Studios. “Kinotek gives our therapists a second set of eyes. It shows them things the human eye may miss and gives clients a clear way to see their progress session over session.”

The rollout follows a period of steady growth for iFlex, which has expanded across Arizona, Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, New Mexico, and Virginia under Sequel Brands while continuing to add franchise territories nationwide. Adding Kinotek across the network builds on the brand’s commitment to a more technology-driven studio experience, following the introduction of AI-supported client communication tools earlier this year.

“Movement health is one of the clearest predictors of how well and how independently people live as they age, and until recently there was no fast, practical way to measure it,” said Dr. Marty Miller, Chief Movement Officer at Kinotek. “iFlex is putting an objective measurement in front of every client and pairing it with therapists trained to act on it. Data plus skilled hands is what actually changes outcomes.”

For clients, Kinotek establishes a baseline at the first visit and enables progress tracking over time through easy-to-understand scored movement reports. The technology transforms mobility improvements into measurable insights, helping clients visualize progress beyond simply feeling better.

The technology is now available at participating iFlex locations, with additional studios rolling out Kinotek in the coming months.

To learn more about iFlex Stretch Studios, book a session, or inquire about franchise ownership, visit www.iflexstretchstudios.com or follow @iFlexStretchStudios on social media.

About iFlex Stretch Studios

iFlex Stretch Studios is a Sequel Brands company and a premier assisted stretching franchise offering personalized, therapist-led sessions designed to improve mobility, flexibility, and overall wellness. Founded in 2022 and acquired by Sequel Brands in 2025, iFlex has expanded from its first Arizona studio to locations across Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, New Mexico, and Virginia under the leadership of CEO Verdine Baker. Each guest begins with a personalized flexibility assessment, with ongoing progress tracking to support customized programming. iFlex is actively expanding franchise opportunities nationwide.

About Kinotek

Kinotek is a movement health company serving fitness, wellness, and medical professionals. Its markerless 3D platform measures a client’s movement in seconds, giving trainers, therapists, and clinicians an objective read on movement health – a leading indicator of longevity – and a way to track progress over time. For more information go to www.kinotek.com.

Media Contact:
Sequel Brands Communications
communications@sequelbrands.com 

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BioEdge Research Labs Advances Transparency in Research Compound Documentation

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US-based research peptide supplier expands access to batch-level analytical documentation for its research-use-only materials, so researchers can verify identity and purity records for the lot they receive. All products are sold for laboratory research use only.

MIAMI, Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BioEdge Research Labs, a United States-based supplier of research peptides and reference materials, today announced an initiative to advance transparency in how its research materials are documented. The initiative expands researcher access to batch-level analytical records for the company’s research-use-only materials.

Transparency has become a distinguishing factor in the research materials market. Because documentation practices vary from supplier to supplier, laboratory and research customers increasingly look for records they can review and confirm, rather than relying on a supplier’s summary alone. BioEdge’s initiative centers on making batch-level analytical documentation accessible for the material a researcher actually receives.

Accessible Certificates of Analysis

Each lot supplied by BioEdge is paired with its own Certificate of Analysis (COA), and batch-specific COAs are made available on the company’s product pages. Rather than a single certificate carried across multiple production runs, each vial carries a lot number that corresponds to the documentation for that batch, so the record can be matched to the material in hand.

Independent Analysis Behind the Record

The documentation reflects analysis performed by an independent third-party laboratory, covering identity by mass spectrometry (MS), purity by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and contaminant screening. Because the underlying analysis is conducted by a separate laboratory, the record reflects more than a supplier’s own description of the material.

Records a Researcher Can Match

The emphasis on batch-level records is intended to let a researcher confirm that a document corresponds to the specific lot received. Matching the lot number on the vial to its Certificate of Analysis is a straightforward check, and one that BioEdge’s documentation practices are designed to support across the product line.

Research Use Only

All materials supplied by BioEdge Research Labs are sold strictly for laboratory research and in vitro use by qualified researchers and scientific professionals. They are not drugs, supplements, or medical products.

About BioEdge Research Labs

BioEdge Research Labs is a United States-based supplier of research peptides and reference materials serving laboratory and research customers. The company sources from reputable U.S.-based facilities and supports its research-grade materials with independent third-party analytical testing and batch-specific Certificates of Analysis. Learn more at https://bioedgeresearchlabs.com

Media Contact

BioEdge Research Labs
2751 Biscayne Harbor Drive, Suite 620
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 757-0163
admin@thebioedgeresearchlabs.com

All products sold by BioEdge Research Labs are intended strictly for laboratory research and in vitro use by qualified researchers and scientific professionals. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, are not intended to affect the structure or any function of the body, and are not intended for human or veterinary use, consumption, or self-administration. They have not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for diagnostic, therapeutic, or preventative purposes. BioEdge Research Labs is a chemical supplier and is not a compounding pharmacy or outsourcing facility as defined under Sections 503A or 503B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. BioEdge Research Labs makes no therapeutic claims.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bioedge-research-labs-advances-transparency-in-research-compound-documentation-302874401.html

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