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Lubrizol Uses HYPEBOX(R) Technology to Bring "Advancing Materials. Elevating Performance" Story to Life at NPE 2018

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CLEVELAND, Ohio, May 3, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The Lubrizol Corporation announces its Engineered Polymers business will unveil the use of HYPEBOX(R) technology with its contemporary new branding elements to engage customers and visitors at NPE 2018. Lubrizol will exhibit at Booth S12115 in the South Hall of the Orange County Convention Center, May 7-11, 2018, in Orlando, Florida.

At the main corners of Lubrizol's booth, two interactive HYPEBOX(R) displays will deliver an entirely new 3-dimensional, interactive experience to booth visitors. Behind the screen, display cases feature physical objects that demonstrate the use of Lubrizol technology from their Estane(R) TPU and other product lines in many Sports & Recreation and Industrial applications.

In front, with the touch of a finger, OLED touchscreen panels bring the technology "to life" with computer-generated graphics, videos and technology callouts. The unique combination of physical objects and the digital overlay creates an exciting experience that educates on product benefits while bringing the "Advancing Materials. Elevating Performance" branding and innovation story to life for NPE visitors.

Icons at the top of the screen make it easy to customize user experience based on market segment preferences, and to see how Lubrizol has grown since first inventing TPU in 1959. Selecting the Legacy icon generates an animated timeline that shows how, through decades of innovation, strong dedication to markets served and strategic acquisitions, Lubrizol Engineered Polymers has created one of the deepest, most specialized portfolios available.

On the opposite side of the HYPEBOX(R) displays, large showcases are filled with examples of Lubrizol technology in use, further demonstrating the "Advancing Materials. Elevating Performance." brand statement and value proposition. Elo Touchscreen monitors enable on-demand access to Engineered Polymers' videos and website, while a customized trade show app allows electronic literature files to be instantly transmitted to visitors to cut down on printed literature.

Julie Shlepr, business development director for Engineered Polymers, states, "The use of this interactive technology is perfectly aligned with our desire to demonstrate our ability to perceive and respond to changing markets and new opportunities, on the forefront of innovation, from technology development to the way we interact and communicate with our markets."

Michael Priola, marketing communications manager, adds, "We continue to enhance our digital marketing communications, with the goal of making it easier for our audience to find us, engage with our technology, and ultimately, apply Lubrizol materials in ways that can differentiate their products from those of their competition. It's our job to make our customers' lives and the lives of end users easier, and impactful digital communication can help with that objective."

About Lubrizol Engineered Polymers
Lubrizol Engineered Polymers offers one of the broadest portfolios of engineered polymers available today including resins that are bio-based*, recyclable**, light stable, flame retardant, adhesive, chemically resistant, optically clear and fast cycling. Our technology crosses many industries and applications, including surface protection, power and fluid systems, sports and recreation, wearable devices, electronics and automotive. For more information, visit www.lubrizol.com/engineered-polymers or contact engineeredpolymers@lubrizol.com.

About The Lubrizol Corporation
The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a market-driven global company that combines complex, specialty chemicals to optimize the quality, performance and value of customers' products while reducing their environmental impact. It is a leader at combining market insights with chemistry and application capabilities to deliver valuable solutions to customers in the global transportation, industrial and consumer markets. Lubrizol improves lives by acting as an essential partner in our customers' success, delivering efficiency, reliability or wellness to their end users. Technologies include lubricant additives for engine oils, driveline and other transportation-related fluids, industrial lubricants, as well as additives for gasoline and diesel fuel. In addition, Lubrizol makes ingredients and additives for home care, personal care and skin care products and specialty materials encompassing polymer and coatings technologies, along with polymer-based pharmaceutical and medical device solutions.

With headquarters in Wickliffe, Ohio, Lubrizol owns and operates manufacturing facilities in 17 countries, as well as sales and technical offices around the world. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol has approximately 8,700 employees worldwide. Revenues for 2017 were $6.3 billion. For more information, visit Lubrizol.com.

*Bio-based content as certified under ASTM D-6866.
**Recyclability is based on access to a readily available standard recycling program that supports such materials. Products may not be available in all areas.

All marks are owned by The Lubrizol Corporation.

Media Contacts
Michael Priola
+1 216 447-5697
The Lubrizol Corporation

Web Sites
www.lubrizol.com/engineered-polymers
www.lubrizol.com

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This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: Lubrizol via Globenewswire

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Establishment of Chinese Turkish Economic and Cultural Exchange Association

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Dr. David Lan, Honorary Advisor of the Chinese Turkish Economic and Cultural Exchange Association, and Mr. Christopher Chan, Chairman of the Association signed agreement to welcome Dr. Lan for joining the Association officially. Left: Mr. Christopher Chan, Chairman of the Association; Dr. David Lan, Honorary Advisor of the Association; and Mr. Alan Hung, Secretary General of the Association.
Mr. Tommy Chan, Executive Director of Aurum Pacific (China) Group Limited (right), presented cheque of HKD200,000 to the Association for sponsoring upcoming delegation trip in June, Mr. Christopher Chan, Chairman of the Association (left), and Dr. David Lan, Honorary Advisor of the Association (middle); represented the Association to receive
Mr. Alan Hung, Executive Director of Evershine Group Holdings Limited (right), presented cheque of HKD200,000 to the Association for sponsoring upcoming delegation trip in June, Mr. Christopher Chan, Chairman of the Association (left), and Dr. David Lan, Honorary Advisor of the Association (middle); represented the Association to receive
Strategically Facilitates Stronger Chinese-Turkish Relationships and Cooperation

HONG KONG, May 3, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The Chinese Turkish Economic and Cultural Exchange Association ("CTECEA" or the "Association"), a non-profit organization formed by a group of professionals with a shared mission of promoting and contributing to the long term interests and sustainable development of relations between Turkey and China, has today held a press conference to announce the establishment of the Association.

As China's Belt and Road Initiative gains momentum, the Association brings together talent and professionals from different sectors all over the world, and seeks to promote business, education and cultural links between Turkey, China and Hong Kong. Guided by the aim of promoting the exchange, cooperation and development of culture and trade between Turkey and China, the Association intends to strengthen ties with Turkish, Chinese and Hong Kong organizations, exchange cultural and commercial information and experiences, establish exchange programs, initiate delegation visits and evaluate projects in order to mutually benefit the two countries.

Dr. David Lan, President of IIM, Honorary Adviser of CTECEA, said, "With its advantageous geographical location, Turkey has historically been a crossroads between Europe and Asia and acts as a gateway between Europe and the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia. As Turkey has been a political and economic center of attraction, CTECEA can play an important role in offering numerous opportunities in five key areas under the Belt and Road initiative: (i) planning and supporting large-scale infrastructural development projects; (ii) building facilities to enable connectivity along the Belt and Road area; (iii) facilitating cross-border investments and supply chain cooperation; (iv) enhancing monetary policy coordination and bilateral financial cooperation and (v) promoting people-to-people bonds and cooperation."

Mr. Christopher Chan, Chairman of CTECEA, said, "According to the research conducted by the International Monetary Fund, Eurostat and Turkish Statistics Institute, Turkey's GDP is expected to grow 4% in 2018. Moreover, the Centre for Economics and Business Research, a leading UK economics consultancy, predicted that Turkey will become one of the top 15 economies in the world this year, and among the top 12 in 2028. The market expectation is positive, and the country has compelling investment advantages that include well-established transport facilities and infrastructure, domestic market expansion, solid consumption growth, a high-quality workforce, and, last but not least, the country's strategic location for creating an efficient entry base to major markets for investors. Thus we firmly believe that companies from China and Hong Kong can recoup high returns from investments made in Turkey."

Mr. Alan Hung, Secretary General of CTECEA, added, "Free and open economic policies and a favorable financing environment without foreign exchange restrictions offer substantial advantages for enterprises investing in Turkey. Chinese enterprises have recently participated in several investment projects in the country including railway and power generation infrastructure, telecommunications services across the Middle East and the Caucasus region, as well as construction of steel-production facilities. Looking ahead, we believe the relationships and cooperation between Turkey and China will become closer and more companies will seize the investment opportunities in Turkey in the near future."

The Association is currently planning a series of activities to enhance public awareness of Turkish markets and the country's strong economy. Highlights include participating in the Turkey Business Exhibition, arranging professional exchange activities for China, Turkey and Hong Kong, and organizing the Investment Seminar on 5 May 2018 to introduce the role of Turkey in the Belt and Road Initiative and the opportunities available in the country. The International Institute of Management is the Main Organizer of the seminar; while CTECEA is a Co-Organizer. Supporting Organizations include The Liaison Office of the Central People's Government's Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, The University of Hong Kong's School of Professional and Continuing Education, The Open University of Hong Kong, Dashun Foundation, and Turkish Airlines.

In addition, the Association will arrange a Turkish Culture and Investment delegation in June this year. The delegation will visit Istanbul, Bodrum and Ankara in Turkey to meet with Turkish Government representatives and local enterprises, including the Energy and Natural Resources Department, the Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communications Department, Ali Agaoglu (one of Turkey's largest real estate developers), Dogus Group (one of the top three largest private-sector conglomerates in Turkey) and Akfen Holding (one of Turkey's top infrastructure investment holdings enterprises). The excursion will provide an excellent opportunity for participants to gain a first-hand appreciation of the enormous development potential in Turkey. To support the delegation activity, two of the corporate members of the Association, Aurum Pacific (China) Group Limited (HKG: 8148) and Evershine Group Holdings Limited (HKG: 8022) have sponsored HKD200,000 to the Association respectively, and presented cheques during the press conference.

With the expanding business ties between China and Turkey, and Hong Kong's strength in financial services, the Association intends to play an active role in promoting investments across the two countries and facilitating Turkish enterprises to secure investment and listing in Hong Kong. The Association expects one or two Turkish companies to gain access to Hong Kong's capital-raising platform and greater global exposure in the next two years.

About Chinese Turkish Economic and Cultural Exchange Association

The Chinese Turkish Economic and Cultural Exchange Association (CTECEA), is a non-profit organization formed by a group of professionals with a shared mission of promoting and contributing to the long-term interests and sustainable development of relations between Turkey and China. As China's Belt and Road Initiative gains momentum, CTECEA brings together talent and professionals from different sectors, and seeks to promote business, education and cultural links between Turkey, China and Hong Kong. The Association also explores suitable opportunities for companies and plays the role of a bridge to connect enterprises with business partners between both Turkey and China.

Media Contact:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Keris Leung, +852 2864 4863, keris.leung@sprg.com.hk
Phoebe Leung, +852 2114 4172, phoebe.leung@sprg.com.hk
Desiree Shung, +852 2114 2200, desiree.shung@sprg.com.hk
Fax: +852 2527 1196


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Eastman Announces 2018 Annual Meeting Stockholder Vote Results

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KINGSPORT, Tenn., May 4, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - At the Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE:EMN) annual meeting, stockholders:

- reelected directors Humberto P. Alfonso, Brett D. Begemann, Michael P. Connors, Mark J. Costa, Stephen R. Demeritt, Robert M. Hernandez, Julie F. Holder, Renee J. Hornbaker, Lewis M. Kling, James J. O'Brien, and David W. Raisbeck to one-year terms;

- approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the company's executive officers as disclosed in the annual meeting proxy statement (the "say-on-pay" vote);

- ratified the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for 2018; and

- rejected an advisory stockholder proposal requesting that the Board of Directors take steps necessary to permit stockholders to act by written consent without a meeting.

Additional information about each of the matters acted upon by stockholders at the annual meeting is in the proxy statement that was furnished to stockholders in connection with the meeting. The proxy statement is also available at www.investors.eastman.com, Annual Meeting. The final vote totals for the matters acted upon by stockholders at the annual meeting will be reported in a Form 8-K filing with the SEC and also posted on www.investors.eastman.com.

Eastman is a global advanced materials and specialty additives company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in more than 100 countries and had 2017 revenues of approximately $9.5 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 14,000 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

Contacts:
Media: Tracy Kilgore Addington
423-224-0498 / tracy@eastman.com

Investors: Greg Riddle
212-835-1620 / griddle@eastman.com

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This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: Eastman Chemical Company via Globenewswire

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Eastman Board Declares Dividend

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KINGSPORT, Tenn., May 4, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The board of directors of Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE:EMN) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.56 per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend is payable July 6, 2018, to stockholders of record as of June 15, 2018.

Eastman is a global advanced materials and specialty additives company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in more than 100 countries and had 2017 revenues of approximately $9.5 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 14,000 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

Contacts:
Media: Tracy Kilgore Addington
423-224-0498 / tracy@eastman.com

Investors: Greg Riddle
212-835-1620 / griddle@eastman.com

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This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: Eastman Chemical Company via Globenewswire

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Nanobiotix partners with Weill Cornell Medicine on pre-clinical studies to evaluate the impact of NBTXR3 on cGAS-STING pathway in mammary cancers

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Paris, France and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, May 4, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - NANOBIOTIX (Euronext: NANO - ISIN: FR0011341205), a late clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering new approaches to the treatment of cancer, announced today that it is launching a research collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine to begin nonclinical studies of NBTXR3's mechanism of action. NBTXR3 is a first-in-class product designed to destroy, when activated by radiotherapy, tumors and metastasis through physical cell death and to induce immunogenic cell death leading to specific activation of the immune system.

The research collaboration between Weill Cornell Medicine, based in New York City, and Nanobiotix will be conducted over the course of one year, with the goal of continuing the exploration of the role of NBTXR3 in Immuno-Oncology.

The main objective of this collaboration is to study the impact of NBTXR3 activated by radiotherapy on the cGAS-STING pathway using different in vitro and in vivo murine models (mammary). Along with immunogenic cell death, the cGAS-STING pathway has emerged as the key component of the anti-tumor immune response. Data generated from this collaboration could support current evidence indicating that NBTXR3 activated by radiotherapy can increase the anti-tumor immune response, compared with radiotherapy alone, and transform an irradiated tumor into an efficient in situ vaccine.

Dr. Sandra Demaria, M.D., Professor of Radiation Oncology and Chief of the Division of Experimental Radiotherapy in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Weill Cornell Medicine, and Principal Investigator for the study, said: "We have learned that radiotherapy has the potential to convert a tumor into an in-situ vaccine, and enhance systemic tumor responses to immunotherapy. But there is room for improvement: NBTXR3 nanoparticles enhance the pro-immunogenic effects of radiotherapy, and we want to understand how they work. This knowledge will further the development of this innovative approach for the treatment of cancer patients who are resistant to immune checkpoint inhibitors."

The Company received the FDA's approval to launch a clinical study of NBTXR3 activated by radiotherapy in combination with anti-PD1 antibody in lung, and head and neck cancer patients (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and nonsmall cell lung cancer). This trial that shall start in Q2 2018, aims to expand the potential of NBTXR3, including using it to treat recurrent or metastatic disease.

NBTXR3 positioning in IO

Many IO combination strategies focus on 'priming' the tumor, which is now becoming a prerequisite of turning a "cold" tumor into a "hot" tumor.

Compared to other modalities that could be used for priming the tumor, NBTXR3 could have a number of advantages: the physical and universal mode of action that could be used widely across oncology, a one-time local injection and good fit within existing medical practice already used as a basis for cancer treatment, as well as a very good chronic safety profile and well-established manufacturing process.

Published preclinical and clinical data indicate that NBTXR3 could play a key role in oncology and could become a backbone in immuno-oncology.

Nanobiotix's immuno-oncology combination program opens the door to new developments, potential new indications, and important value creation opportunities.

About NBTXR3

NBTXR3 is a first-in-class product designed to destroy, when activated by radiotherapy, tumors and metastasis through physical cell death and to immunogenic cell death leading to specific activation of the immune system.

NBTXR3 has a high degree of biocompatibility, requires one single administration before the whole radiotherapy treatment and has the ability to fit into current worldwide standards of radiation care.

NBTXR3 is being evaluated in head and neck cancer (locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity or oropharynx), and the trial targets frail and elderly patients who have advanced cancer with very limited therapeutic options. The Phase I/II trial has already delivered very promising results regarding the local control of the tumors and a potential metastatic control through in situ vaccination.

Nanobiotix is running an Immuno-Oncology program with NBTXR3 that includes several studies. In the U.S., the Company received the FDA's approval to launch a clinical study of NBTXR3 activated by radiotherapy in combination with anti-PD1 antibodies in lung, and head and neck cancer patients (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer). This trial aims to expand the potential of NBTXR3, including using it to treat recurrent or metastatic disease.

The first market authorization process (CE Marking) is ongoing in Europe in the soft tissue sarcoma indication.

The other ongoing studies are treating patients with liver cancers (hepatocellular carcinoma and liver metastasis), locally advanced or unresectable rectal cancer in combination with chemotherapy, head and neck cancer in combination with concurrent chemotherapy, and prostate adenocarcinoma.

About NANOBIOTIX: www.nanobiotix.com

Incorporated in 2003, Nanobiotix is a leading, late clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering new approaches to significantly change patient outcomes by bringing nanophysics to the heart of the cell.

The Nanobiotix philosophy is one rooted in designing pioneer physical based approaches to bring highly effective and generalized solutions to address high unmet medical needs and challenges.

The Company's first-in-class, proprietary lead technology, NanoXray, aims to expand radiotherapy benefits for millions of cancer patients. Furthermore, the Company's Immuno-Oncology program has the potential to bring a new dimension to cancer immunotherapies.

Nanobiotix is listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (Euronext: NANO / ISIN: FR0011341205; Bloomberg: NANO: FP). The Company's Headquarters are based in Paris, France, with a U.S. affiliate in Cambridge, MA, and european affiliates in Spain and Germany.

Contact

Nanobiotix
Sarah Gaubert
Director, Communication & Public Affairs
+33 (0)1 40 26 07 55
sarah.gaubert@nanobiotix.com / contact@nanobiotix.com

Noel Kurdi
Director, Investor Relations
+1 (646) 241-4400
noel.kurdi@nanobiotix.com / investors@nanobiotix.com

Media relations
France - Springbok Consultants
Marina Rosoff
+33 (0)6 71 58 00 34
marina@springbok.fr

United States - RooneyPartners
Marion Janic
+1 (212) 223-4017
mjanic@rooneyco.com

Disclaimer
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Nanobiotix and its business. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Nanobiotix considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that the estimates contained in such forward-looking statements will be verified, which estimates are subject to numerous risks including the risks set forth in the reference document of Nanobiotix filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers) under number D.17-0470 on April 28, 2017 as well as in its 2017 annual financial report filed with the French Financial Markets Authority on March 29, 2018 (a copy of which is available on www.nanobiotix.com) and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Nanobiotix operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Nanobiotix or not currently considered material by Nanobiotix. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Nanobiotix to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. This press release and the information that it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe for, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for, Nanobiotix shares in any country. At the moment NBTXR3 does not bear a CE mark and is not permitted to be placed on the market or put into service until NBTXR3 has obtained a CE mark.

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This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: NANOBIOTIX via Globenewswire

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

QUOINE's 'ICO Mission Control' Platform Hosts First ICO with VUULR

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VUULR, a blockchain-based Film & TV contents ecosystem, to launch its ICO on May 9 on QRYPTOS, QUOINE's cryptocurrency exchange

SINGAPORE, May 4, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - VUULR, a blockchain-based digital supply chain and marketplace for the Film & TV content industry, has announced that it will be launching its Initial Coin Offering (ICO) with QUOINE, a global financial technology company that provides trading, exchange, and next generation financial services powered by Blockchain technology.

QUOINE, the first global crypto fintech company to receive an official license from the Japan Financial Services Agency, today unveiled its ICO Mission Control platform, an all-in-one ICO hosting service that provides a safe haven for both token participants and token issuers alike. The platform is integrated with QUOINE's crypto-to-crypto exchange, QRYPTOS.

The first ICO to be hosted on the Mission Control platform will be VUULR, offering VUU tokens for its ICO launch on May 9. There will be a total supply of 1 billion tokens, of which 35% will be allocated to the initial token offering. The funds received from the ICO will be used to build and deploy the VUULR Marketplace, for broadcasters, distributors and content sellers to buy and sell films and TV shows online, powered by blockchain technology.

The launch of VUULR's token sale on QRYPTOS sees the Japanese cryptocurrency exchange providing an end-to-end solution designed to help blockchain businesses conduct an ICO in a flexible, secure, transparent and scalable manner, adhering to best practices for 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering processes.

"Launching an ICO in the current climate requires a lot of caution on the part of token issuers," said QUOINE Co-founder and CEO Mike Kayamori. "In the last 12 months, there have a number of serious problems with ICOs, including leaks of email addresses and customer data, website hacks, phishing attempts, fake deposit addresses, and much more. This has left token participants shaken and wary about participating in ICOs, while token issuers go to great lengths to ensure their communities do not fall victim to scams.

"QUOINE's ICO Mission Control removes these pain points so token issuers can focus on more productive aspects of their work, such as product development or marketing. With the launch of ICO Mission Control, we aim to bring global standards of security and technology to provide a safe, secure ICO launch for all token issuers and participants in the new crypto economy."

VUULR will bring huge efficiencies to the industry by changing the way content rights are traded, delivered and sponsored. VUULR is focused on building a complete infrastructure powered by Blockchain that will allow buyers, sellers and brands to go from discovery to delivery in under 24 hours. US$240 billion per year is currently spent on content acquisition by Broadcasters and Over-The-Top suppliers like Netflix and Amazon, but up to 40% of that value can be lost to the cost and friction of the transaction.

VUULR has also recently announced its partnership with the Entertainment Merchants Association (EMA), an international trade body for the entertainment content industry, to launch EMA Asia. This partnership enables VUULR to bring standards specifications and best practices to Asia, accelerating the trade of content with less cost and less friction, thereby unlocking more value for content creators.

"VUULR is building a digital marketplace and working with Hollywood-based trade associations - EIDR, MovieLabs and EMA to adapt industry-agreed specifications onto a blockchain-based supply chain to streamline content distribution and acquisition for the Film and TV industry. This ecosystem will enable the industry to trade more efficiently at a fraction of the time and cost it takes today," says Ian McKee, CEO of VUULR.

"We are excited to be the first Token Issuer to launch an ICO on QUOINE's ICO Mission Control. With over 500,000 registered users on the platform who have already cleared KYC, VUULR gets access to a huge base of crypto enthusiasts who are ready to buy VUU tokens. New ICO participants can take advantage of QUOINE'S faster, more streamlined KYC which is able to verify users in minutes."

"Our ICO launch will also allow the public to contribute to the global community of Film and TV show fans, allowing everyone to be rewarded with VUU tokens when they create, refine, and translate metadata that is essential to the industry."

The VUU tokens sold through ICO Mission Control will be tradable on QUOINE's cryptocurrency exchange, QRYPTOS, shortly after the ICO closes. This reassures token buyers that there will be liquidity post-ICO. VUULR's ICO will start May 9 and continue until May 30, 2018.

ABOUT VUULR (www.vuulr.com)
Vuulr is a global digital supply chain and marketplace for the TV and film content industry powered by blockchain technology. The platform aims to reduce friction and increase large-scale efficiencies for the industry, resulting in a new approach to the Distribution & Acquisition and Brand Sponsorship of content by allowing buyers, sellers and brands to go from discovery to delivery in under 24 hours. The Vuulr Rewards Program will also power a global community of Film & TV fans who will be rewarded to create the largest metadata refinery essential to the industry.Please see www.vuulr.com.

ABOUT QUOINE (www.quoine.com)
QUOINE is a leading global fintech company that provides trading, exchange, and next generation financial services powered by blockchain technology. With offices in Japan, Singapore and Vietnam, QUOINE combines a strong network of local partners with extensive team experience in banking and financial products to deliver best in class financial services for its customers. More information is available at www.quoine.com and www.qryptos.com.

CONTACTS:
Belinda Ang
+65 8333 1981
belinda.ang@vuulr.com

Katherine Ng
katherine.ng@quoine.com


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Trillium Technology to Protect U.S Armed Forces and Allies

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Washington, D.C., May 4, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Trillium Secure, Inc., the global leader in transportation cybersecurity, announced today that it is entering the Aerospace and Defense market with the appointment of Washington, D.C.-based Zoran Kehler as the company's Director of Global Strategy for Aerospace and Defense Programs.

Zoran brings to Trillium over two decades of experience in product management, strategy and commercialization at Ericsson, AIRCOM International, Schema and VIAVI Solutions.

"Zoran will lead our new aerospace and defense business to enable government and defense fleets to cyber secure their mission critical assets," commented David Uze, Trillium CEO. "Zoran's experience in wireless telecommunications and advanced IT R&D is the perfect fit as Trillium expands its mission to protecting aerospace and defense infrastructure."

"The world of mobility and protecting its critical infrastructures requires a coordinated information security strategy. Airbus Ventures recognizes Trillium as a key actor in developing global cybersecurity systems that extend right up the vertical axis, with leading applications from the ground to highest altitudes," said Dr. Lewis Pinault, Airbus Ventures Managing Investment Partner, Japan & Asia Pacific.

"Trillium technology allows military vehicles to deploy counter measures in the face of cyber-attack while in the theatre of battle," Kehler said. "Through the use of machine learning and other artificial intelligence technologies, these counter measures can be dispatched in real time to address new threat patterns. With Trillium technology deployed, I am confident that the United States Armed Forces and its Allies will stand protected against cyber threats, foreign and domestic."

About Trillium Secure, Inc.
Trillium Secure provides a multi-layered solution for hardening connected and autonomous vehicle against cyber-attacks. Trillium's SecureIOT platform provides authenticated operational and threat management data from fleet vehicles that preserves privacy, confidentiality and anonymity of data at rest and in motion. Value-added service providers rely on secure and authentic data from Trillium for digital forensics, UBI, preventive maintenance, telematics, car sharing and other services. The company operates design centers and fleet security operation sites in Silicon Valley, Detroit, Brno, Ho Chi Minh City and Tokyo. For further information, please visit www.trilliumsecure.com.

Trillium Secure, Inc. products and services are marketed under the Trillium, SecureIoT, SecureCAR, SecureIXS, SecureOTA and SecureSKYE trademarks.

For Media Enquiries, please contact Adrian.Sossna@trilliumsecure.com.


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

One-Two Victory at Spa for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

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2018-19 WEC Round 1 Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps
Toyota City, Japan, May 7, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing started the 2018-19 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season with a one-two victory in the Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaGAZOO51817..jpg
2018-19 WEC Round 1 Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps

Sebastien Buemi and Kazuki Nakajima won the race for the second successive year in the #8 TS050 HYBRID they share with newcomer Fernando Alonso, who enjoyed victory at Spa for the first time since an International Formula 3000 triumph 18 years ago.

The #7 TS050 HYBRID of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and Jose Maria Lopez completed a remarkable comeback by finishing second, just 1.444secs behind, despite starting one lap behind from the pit lane due to a qualifying penalty.

That result was TOYOTA's 17th win from 49 WEC races, its fourth consecutive victory and its third at Spa. TOYOTA therefore leads both the team'' and drivers' World Championships going into the Le Mans 24 Hours on 16-17 June.

The race began under blue skies and Sebastien made a clean getaway from pole position in the #8, gradually extending his advantage over the chasing Rebellions while Mike took the #7 car to sixth by the time of the first pit stops. By then Sebastien had extended his lead to over 30 seconds but that evaporated shortly after the hour mark due to a safety car.

During the 30-minute delay, Kamui replaced Mike in the #7 while Fernando took over the #8 for his first WEC race laps. His first task when the race resumed was to defend the lead from Rebellion #1, which he did via a spectacular passing move on several GT cars on the Kemmel Straight.

Fernando's stint was interrupted by a full course yellow but when the track was green he took advantage and built a substantial lead before handing over to Kazuki just before half distance. The #8 made an immediate return to pit lane to adjust Kazuki's seat belts and lost more time soon after with a harmless spin at turn one.

Meanwhile, the #7 was continuing its impressive progress through the field and started the second half of the race in second position, around a minute behind the leading #8 when Jose Maria took over from Kamui at the next pit stop.

The two TS050 HYBRIDs tightened their grip on the race as the last hour approached, with Fernando preparing to take the #8 to the chequered flag with a lead of around one minute over the #7, with Mike at the wheel. But another safety car closed the gap to just six seconds with 50 minutes remaining.

Fernando and Mike stayed at the wheel through a final fuel stop with 25 minutes to go, after which the team chose to hold positions and avoid any unnecessary risks after over 1,100km of flat-out racing.

Hisatake Murata, Team President
"I am very pleased with our performance this week; to get a one-two after the problem yesterday required a big team effort. I am proud of everyone for their good work. The atmosphere here has been fantastic all weekend so I would like to thank the many fans who visited Spa, including a lot of colleagues from our home in Cologne. I hope they enjoyed the first race of the season. It's a great result to start the season but this is only a small step towards our big target; the Le Mans 24 Hours. We have identified areas to improve, and I'm sure our rivals have too, so we will be working flat-out in the next weeks to be ready for a close fight at Le Mans."

TS050 HYBRID #7
Race: 2nd, 163 laps, 8 pit stops. Started from pit lane. Fastest lap: 1min 57.442secs

Mike Conway (TS050 HYBRID #7)
"It was weird starting from the pit lane but we knew what we had to do. We had some help from the safety car periods and the full course yellows, which went our way and helped us to get into the fight with the other LMP1 ones. Kamui and Jose did a great job again today. It's disappointing not to win but a one-two is the perfect result for the team."

Kamui Kobayashi (TS050 HYBRID #7)
"Our car worked really hard to get back into the fight; I think we all drove really well to recover from the problem in qualifying. The car was quick today which is a good sign for Le Mans. Obviously I was hoping to win this race so second place isn't the result I wanted but for the team it's a positive start and we will all work hard now to be ready for Le Mans."

Jose Maria Lopez (TS050 HYBRID #7)
"I am very happy with this result for the team. Starting from the back was very hard and didn't give us the best opportunity bit in the end we fought back and we showed the potential of car #7. I enjoyed the fight today. Finally to be back racing, particularly at this amazing circuit, was something special."

TS050 HYBRID #8
Race: 1st, 163 laps, 9 pit stops. Grid: 1st. Fastest lap: 1min 57.805secs

Sebastien Buemi (TS050 HYBRID #8)
"We are all happy to begin the season like that. It is the first time for Kazuki and I to race together with Fernando so it was important to start it well. I don't remember the last time we had so many safety cars in a six-hour race and that meant we lost our advantage a few times. But it all went well in the end so a big thanks to all the team for their hard work. This was just a warm up for Le Mans so we still keep in mind that the next race is the important one."

Kazuki Nakajima (TS050 HYBRID #8)
"I am very happy to win the first race of the season. It's particularly nice because my stint started badly; a lot happened and it cost us some time. There was a mistake from my side as well but from then I got back into the rhythm. The triple stint was tricky but I am happy with the job we did. It's a great start and we will be working hard to make sure we continue like this."

Fernando Alonso (TS050 HYBRID #8)
"I am delighted to get this result. The whole weekend has been amazing in terms of team performance. There have been a lot of preparations with the winter testing and all the work back at the factory but we have to come to the race and deliver the result. We executed the race in the best way we could and I am extremely happy to win my first endurance race. Selbastien and Kazuki made my life a little bit easier so thanks to them."

About Toyota

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is the global mobility company that introduced the Prius hybrid-electric car in 1997 and the first mass-produced fuel cell sedan, Mirai, in 2014. Headquartered in Toyota City, Japan, Toyota has been making cars since 1937. Today, Toyota proudly employs 370,000 employees in communities around the world. Together, they build around 10 million vehicles per year in 29 countries, from mainstream cars and premium vehicles to mini-vehicles and commercial trucks, and sell them in more than 170 countries under the brands Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Public Affairs Division Global Communications Department Toyota Motor Corporation Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Fujitsu Develops Molecular Simulation Technology to Effectively Create New Drug Candidates

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Figure 1: Dihedral angle (the angle formed by the plane created by atoms A, B, and C, and the plane created by atoms B, C, and D)
Figure 2: Example of molecular structure: 3-(methylamino) pyrazole
Figure 3: Evaluating the performance of dihedral angle parameter values using 190 types of chemical compound structures
Estimated error rate of parameters, which give a rough indication of efficacy, below one tenth that of previous technology

TOKYO, May 7, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. and Fujitsu Limited today announced the development of molecular simulation technology for drug discovery that can accurately estimate binding affinity, which represents the degree to which proteins that can cause diseases (target proteins) bind to chemical substances that could become candidate drugs. In the process of drug discovery, there is a demand for accurate prediction of the binding affinity between target proteins and chemical substances, which offers a rough estimate of a drug's efficacy. Molecular simulation technology has been widely used in the past as a method of predicting binding affinity, calculating the approximate forces that arise between atoms in molecules using Newtonian mechanics. The problem with this method, however, remains that the low degree accuracy of its estimation of the most important parameters-the degree of torsion at the binding sites. This means that the accuracy of its estimation of the overall binding affinity is also poor. Now, Fujitsu Laboratories has developed molecular simulation technology that estimates the degree of torsion in a chemical substance, which is directly connected to the predicted binding affinity. The new technology not only takes into account the bonding location where the torsion will occur, but also the impact of neighboring atoms. Fujitsu Laboratories evaluated this technology for 190 types of chemical substances, comparing the results with correct results arrived at from first principles calculation(1) and then evaluating the error rate. Upon doing so, it was able to confirm that the error rate in the estimate of the degree of torsion was, on average, one-tenth that of previous technology. It is anticipated that the use of this new technology in IT-based drug discovery, with its ability to accurately estimate the binding affinity of targeted proteins and chemical substances, offers the potential for groundbreaking new drug discovery efforts that could not be achieved with previous approaches. Fujitsu Laboratories plans to include this technology in a new IT-based drug discovery service offered by Fujitsu Limited.

Development Background

The discovery of new drugs requires significant expenses and timeframes that can be measured in decades, leading to a global search for new methods of discovering drugs. One of the methods that has received considerable interest is IT-based drug discovery, a new drug discovery method using computers that makes it possible to create chemical substances as candidates for novel drugs with a high probability of success. IT-based drug discovery has become a focal point for expectations as a groundbreaking technology for the creation of new drugs, because unlike previous methods of trial and error, in which chemical substances are repeatedly created and tested, this approach makes it possible to virtually design chemical substances and estimate their effects.

Issues

The effects of a chemical substance as a drug are expressed when the chemical substance binds to a target protein. When the chemical substance binds to the target protein, it can change its shape in line with that of the target protein. The degree of deformation, namely, the parameters that indicate the extent of this shape change, is directly connected to the binding affinity of the substance and the protein, and gives a rough idea of its effect as a drug. Given this, there is a strong demand for the ability to accurately predict this value. To calculate the degree of deformation of a chemical substance, there are methods based on quantum mechanics and methods based on Newtonian mechanics. Quantum-mechanics based first principles calculation enables extremely accurate calculations, resolving the states of electrons from the types and positions of the atoms involved. On the other hand, however, the ability of first principles to perform exacting calculations necessarily leads to massive time required to complete the calculations. In order to simulate the degree of deformation for numerous chemical substances, time required is in the order of years, making this method impractical. On the other hand, approximate calculations based on molecular simulations are extremely fast, using Newtonian mechanics to calculate the forces between the atoms within the molecules, and can even handle large molecules like proteins quite easily. Consequently, this method is widely used. With Newtonian mechanics, the forces between the atoms are expressed in the following manner:

1. As a force that depends on the distance between two atoms bonded to each other
2. A force that relies on the angles between three atoms bonded to each other
3. A force that relies on the degree of torsion in the bond, and
4. A force that relies on the distance between atoms that are not bonded.

Among these, when a chemical substance is bound to a target protein, the degree of torsion of the bond represents the important degree of deformation. With existing technology, however, the accuracy of the estimation of the dihedral angle (figure 1) parameter, which is necessary to calculate the degree of torsion of the bond, is quite low, resulting in the problem of low accuracy in the estimation of the affinity of the bond in the simulation.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Fujitsu5718Fig1.jpg
Figure 1: Dihedral angle (the angle formed by the plane created by atoms A, B, and C, and the plane created by atoms B, C, and D)

About the Newly Developed Technology

Fujitsu Laboratories has been developing molecular simulation technology for more than ten years. Now, using the knowledge it obtained through previous efforts, Fujitsu Laboratories has developed a molecular simulation technology that can estimate the dihedral angle parameter by taking into consideration the impact of atoms near the bond. Existing technology estimates the dihedral angle parameter based on a total of four atoms-the two atoms in the relevant bond, and the other atoms each of those atoms was bonded to. Depending on the structure of the molecule, however, there are cases where atoms beyond those four could have a significant impact, and in those cases, the margin of error of the estimation could be quite large. With this technology, Fujitsu Laboratories has created a database of estimation formulas for partial structure patterns where the impact of atoms further away from the bond site could be significant, as well as for the degree of torsion of chemical substances that would be expected in that case. Using the relevant estimation formula to find the degree of torsion (figure 2) in the case of molecules corresponding to the database for partial structures, it has become possible to even make highly accurate estimations for molecular torsion, which was previously difficult to calculate accurately.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Fujitsu5718Fig2.jpg
Figure 2: Example of molecular structure: 3-(methylamino) pyrazole

When Fujitsu Laboratories integrated this technology into the software it had developed for generating sophisticated parameters for the forces between atoms (FF-FOM), it was able to confirm that the results conformed to accurate computations.

Effects

When Fujitsu Laboratories evaluated the difference between the results of this technology and the results of a calculation from first principles for the estimation of the degree of torsion with 190 types of chemical substances, it was less than one-tenth that of the previous technology(2), on average, 0.6 kcal/mol below room temperature thermal fluctuations, confirming that the new technology is practical. Because it can accurately estimate the binding affinity of target proteins and chemical substances, it is expected that the use of this technology will lead to the creation of groundbreaking new drugs through its use in IT-based drug discovery.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Fujitsu5718Fig3.jpg
Figure 3: Evaluating the performance of dihedral angle parameter values using 190 types of chemical compound structures

Future Plans

Fujitsu Laboratories plans to include this technology in an IT-based drug discovery-related service that Fujitsu Limited plans to offer in the future.

(1) First principles calculation A simulation method that predicts the properties of substances such as chemical compounds by using electron state theory based in quantum mechanics. It is capable of accurately predicting physical properties without using experimental parameters. It imposes an extremely large computational burden compared with other computation methods.
(2) Previous technology General AMBER Force Field 1.8 (GAFF 1.8), the de-facto standard potential energy parameter set.

About Fujitsu Laboratories

Founded in 1968 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. is one of the premier research centers in the world. With a global network of laboratories in Japan, China, the United States and Europe, the organization conducts a wide range of basic and applied research in the areas of Next-generation Services, Computer Servers, Networks, Electronic Devices and Advanced Materials. For more information, please see: http://www.fujitsu.com/jp/group/labs/en/.

About Fujitsu Ltd

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions, and services. Approximately 155,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.5 trillion yen (US$40 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. For more information, please see http://www.fujitsu.com.

* Please see this press release, with images, at:
http://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/

Contact:
Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. Digital Annealer Project E-mail: fffom-pr@ml.labs.fujitsu.com Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Tel: +81-3-3215-5259 URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

CAIXA JCB Unico Card Launch in Brazil

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At the ceremony
Card Design of CAIXA JCB Único Card
Tokyo and Sao Paulo, May 7, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - CAIXA Economica Federal ("CAIXA") and JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd. ("JCB"), held a launching ceremony for CAIXA's new card product, CAIXA JCB Unico Card.

CAIXA JCB Unico Card is the first JCB card issued in Brazil and the first in Latin America. All the cardmembers can enjoy JCB privileges such as the JCB Plaza customer service and lounge network and special offers at selected merchants all over the world as well as exclusive privileges in Brazil such as a monthly fee waiver for the well-known restaurant discount site, Grubster.

JCB is a global payment brand with around 30 million merchants and 110 million cardmembers around the world. Through partnerships with Cielo and Rede, Brazil's two largest payment card acquirers, JCB has a large acceptance in Brazil now.

CAIXA has a nationwide network of branches in every city, town and village in the country with 60 thousand service locations (branches, ATMs, and lottery offices) and has issued a large number of credit and debit cards. CAIXA also has relevant participation in the Brazilian bank market, making fundamental contributions to urban development and social welfare, and is always looking for new opportunities to offer the best services to its customers.

Mr. Ichiro Hamakawa, President & CEO of JCB Co., Ltd. commented that "I am very pleased CAIXA is the first issuer of JCB in Brazil. CAIXA JCB Unico Card is a new product based on the needs of the Brazilian people to enjoy their daily life, and I am confident that the issuance of CAIXA JCB Unico Card can satisfy our customers and will allow both CAIXA and JCB to continue growing business in Brazil."

Mr. Nelson Antonio de Souza, President of CAIXA, said, "We are glad to announce the launch of CAIXA JCB Unico Card, which has "unique" benefits to fulfill customer needs, and to be the first financial institution to issue JCB card in Latin America. As the payment card market grows, so does consumer demand for a wide variety of payment schemes. We look forward to issuing CAIXA JCB Unico Card not only to CAIXA account holders, but also to non-CAIXA account holders to expand this "only one card" to Brazilian citizens all over the country."

With CAIXA JCB Unico Card, cardmembers can take advantage of the following privileges in addition to CAIXA's original credit card services:

- First year annual fee waiver
- Additional CAIXA points to earn using CAIXA JCB Unico Card (US$1,00=1,3 Pontos CAIXA)
- Special offers from various Japanese restaurants and commercial points
- Exclusive waver of monthly fee for the restaurant discount site, Grubster (https://www.grubster.com.br/)
- Special promotions to use CAIXA JCB Unico Card outside of Brazil

For more details about CAIXA JCB Unico Card, see http://www.br.jcb/pt/

About CAIXA
CAIXA is a government-run financial institution that plays an important role in implementing the public policy of the Brazilian government, developing urban areas, building infrastructure and carrying out social programs for lower income Brazilians. In addition, it provides public services to workers and pensioners, and takes initiatives for supporting cultural, social and sport programs for all Brazilians.

About JCB
JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading payment card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to provide responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide.
For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/ or www.br.jcb/pt/

Contacts
Kumiko Kida
Corporate Communications Department of JCB Co., Ltd.
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Blockpass Integrates Myki Password Security for its Identity Verification App

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HONG KONG, May 7, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Self-sovereign identity application Blockpass and authentication service Myki today announced a major partnership combining the power of identity sovereignty and cloudless password security. The partnership means that users will now be able to securely manage their own identity verification documentation, while being confident that their personal data is encrypted and secure.

Blockpass is a user-centric, self-sovereign identity application for regulated industries. Designed with full data security in mind, Blockpass ensures KYC and AML compliance for regulated service providers while eliminating third-party data storage. Blockpass has been developed as a step towards the Internet of Everything, and future releases of the application will include integrations of KYD and KYO protocols.

Myki allows users to securely store Passwords, Credit Cards, Notes, Government IDs, 2fa Tokens and Private Keys offline on their smartphone. The platform does not use any form of cloud storage. The user is in control of his data.

Of the partnership, Myki Co-Founder and CEO Antoine Jebara said, "We are partnering with Blockpass who are working on an groundbreaking sovereign blockchain identity protocol. By integrating Myki authentication within the Blockpass protocol, users can now be completely certain that their identity documentation and details are secure within their mobile phone. Myki's two factor authentication means that the data is virtually unhackable, protecting users from fraud and unlawful criminal activity."

"We are delighted to add the highly regarded Myki as a backup to Blockpass," added Hans Lombardo, CMO of Blockpass. "The addition of the cloudless password manager will enable our users to securely store their passwords and seamlessly access their Blockpass identity apps on their phones."

About Blockpass IDN
The goal of Blockpass IDN (http://www.blockpass.org) is global realization of identity for the Internet of Everything. Through the use of blockchain technology and smart contracts, Blockpass is a Regtech platform offering shared regulatory and compliance services for humans, businesses, objects and devices. As this identity system supports verification of humans (KYC), objects (KYO) and connected devices (KYD), it will enable the development of new applications that rely on a trusted connection between human, corporate, and device identities. Registered in Hong Kong, Blockpass IDN is a joint venture of Infinity Blockchain Labs and Chain of Things. Blockpass is also developing a Blockchain Identity Lab with Edinburgh Napier University.

For comments or inquiries:
press@blockpass.org

About Myki, Inc.
Myki (http://myki.co) is committed to building products that are a key addition to peoples' lives and to empower users with the tools to seamlessly safeguard their digital workspace. Myki's mission is help people regain control of their digital identity. One way in which Myki does that is through a unique cloud-less architecture; by storing sensitive data away from the cloud and away from prying eyes, potential hacks and data breaches. Myki is privacy first, and is designed to maximize end-user privacy. Myki is a decentralized solution to the universal password problem.

For comments or inquiries:
info@myki.co


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Largest-ever HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical Fair Opens

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Organised by HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association, the ninth Hong Kong International Medical Devices and Supplies Fair opens today, attracting a record 280 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions.
The Startup zone presents innovative medical products from local start-ups, connecting them with potential buyers and business partners, creating more opportunities for all parties concerned.
The Fair welcomes new group pavilions from Taiwan, the Guangdong Association for Medical Devices Industry and the Southern California Biomedical Council, which present their latest products.
Start-ups, Cutting-edge Tech & Concurrent Convention in Spotlight

HONG KONG, May 7, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Organised by HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association, the ninth edition of the HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical Devices and Supplies Fair opened today and continues through 9 May at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Fair features a record 280 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions.

"The Hong Kong International Medical Devices and Supplies Fair provides a leading business and sourcing platform for buyers, showcasing a wide variety of medical and healthcare products and services as well as breakthrough technologies," said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau.

"The Fair continues to feature the Startup zone, creating a platform for start-ups to present innovative technologies and meet with potential manufacturers, buyers and investors. The zone also introduces new talents and ideas to the industry, in line with the HKTDC's commitment to supporting industry development."

Startup zone showcases innovative ideas

The Startup zone features various start-ups from Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland, together with their ideas and innovations, including:

- Look Incorporation's (3F-F27) Clinicbot medical platform features artificial intelligence and such functions as chatbots and system management, allowing patients to book medical appointments online. It also helps patients find suitable doctors, reduce waiting time at clinics, advise patients on the use of drugs, and remind them of follow-up consultations. The platform offers convenience for patients while reducing the workload of doctors and nurses.

- i-Sense (Asia) Limited's (3F-F28) I-Sense e-Massage is a portable massage device powered by a smart phone or tablet. It can be operated through an app. Featuring six massaging modes, the machine can be used anytime, anywhere.

- Human Washer Ltd.'s (3F-E27) Sit & Shower is a shower system equipped with 13 water nozzles for automatic full-body cleaning. It features temperature control to prevent scalds, and a warm-air blower for drying the body. Designed for elderly users, the shower comes with handles and a bath chair for safety considerations.

- Maxcare Trading Ltd.'s (3F-E29) Bicit exercise bike offers a mobile app control, allowing users to select from 12 speeds and five programmed cycling modes. There is also an add-in game mode. With this machine, users can work out while sitting on a chair or lying on the floor.

- The Snore Circle Eye Mask from Shenzhen VVFLY Electronics Co., Ltd. (3F-E28) detects snoring through bone conduction and sound recognition, then generate vibrations to help stop the snoring and improve the quality of sleep. The device also comes with an app to monitor the quality of sleep.

Other thematic zones include the World of Health & Wellness, where lifestyle, cosmetology and fitness products, as well as functional foods and health supplements are presented. The Medical Supplies and Disposables zone provides such medical supplies as antiseptics, alcohol and medical gloves.

The Hospital Equipment zone gathers an array of electro-medical equipment, including ultrasound and other imaging equipment as well as anesthetic equipment and surgical instruments. Showcasing the latest ideas in medical technology, the Tech Exchange zone connects exhibitors and buyers for the translation of concepts into applications.

To promote global industry exchanges, the HKTDC has organised 38 buying missions comprising about 1,500 buyers to the fair, including representatives of Lawsons Drugs from Canada, Medicion from Korea, HSC Medical Center from Malaysia, Vietnam Medical Equipment Corporation from Vietnam, and Al Razi Pharmacy Co from the United Arab Emirates.

International pavilions enrich product variety

The Fair features group pavilions from the Czech Republic, Pakistan, the Wielkopolska region of Poland, and Ningbo city of the Chinese mainland. They present cutting-edge medical technology from their regions, including a drug dispensing machine (3F-C14) from a Polish exhibitor that dispenses ointment and drugs. The Cardio First Angel device from a Czech exhibitor (3F-C02) offers advice to rescuers conducting cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The Fair also welcomes new group pavilions from Taiwan, the Guangdong Association for Medical Devices Industry and the Southern California Biomedical Council, which offer a wide range of medical equipment and instruments. The Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association also presents a group pavilion comprising 38 local companies.

Seminars to analyse market trends

To help industry professionals monitor the pulse of the market and expand their business networks, a series of seminars is being organised.

Today's (7 May) events include a seminar on "The Hottest Trends in Medtech and Smart Healthcare" and a Continuing Nursing Education Workshop themed "Innovating the Production Organizational Mode and Changing the Pattern of Industrial Development - Interpretation of Medical Device Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH)", co-organised with the Hong Kong Health Care Federation.

The Czech Republic pavilion, participating in the Fair for the second time, will present the country's latest innovations in medical equipment and services at a seminar on "The New Wave of Czech Innovations Transforming the Medical World" tomorrow (8 May).

On the last day of the fair (9 May), there will be a seminar titled "Regulatory Intelligence: Updates on Procurement Guidelines and Medical Device Regulations" as well as a Continuing Medical Education Workshop providing an "Update on Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome", co-organised with the Hong Kong Doctors Union.

John Leong Chi-yan, Chairman of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, was the officiating guest at the fair's networking reception today (7 May). Creating synergy with the Fair, the Hospital Authority Convention 2018 (7-8 May) expects an attendance of more than 5,000 delegates, making it one of Asia-Pacific's largest events for medical professionals.

Please visit the Medical Fair at www.hktdc.com/hkmedicalfair and download photos at https://bit.ly/2jChi6L.

About HKTDC

Established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body dedicated to creating opportunities for Hong Kong's businesses. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China, Asia and the world. With more than 50 years of experience, the HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to provide companies, particularly SMEs, with business opportunities on the mainland and in international markets, while providing business insights and information via trade publications, research reports and digital channels including the media room. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Google+, Twitter @hktdc, LinkedIn.
- Google+: https://plus.google.com/+hktdc
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/hktdc
- LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-trade-development-council

Contact:
Selina Fan, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: selina.mi.fan@hktdc.org

Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

TL Natural Gas Holdings Limited Announces Details of Proposed Listing on the GEM of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK")

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HONG KONG, May 7, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - TL Natural Gas Holdings Limited ("TL Natural Gas" or the "the Group"), the second largest compressed natural gas ("CNG") supplier in Jingzhou, Hubei Province1, today announced the details of its proposed listing of shares on the GEM of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK") under the stock code 8536.

Highlights
- TL Natural Gas is the second largest compressed natural gas supplier* and the largest supplier of natural gas for bus use in Jingzhou, Hubei Province.
- The Group operates a total of four gas refuelling stations in Jingzhou - the Jingzhou Primary Station on Dongfang Road and three substations on Shihao Road, Nanhuan Road and Shahong Road, all of which are located on major roads with high traffic and high accessibility, thus are preferred choices of retail customers.
- PetroChina Company Limited is the Group's sole supplier of natural gas: the group has entered into the Master Supply Agreement for a 25-year term with PetroChina, which enables it to obtain a reliable, stable and abundant supply of natural gas.
- The Group serves both retail and wholesale customers. Retail customers are mainly drivers of public transports such as buses and taxis while wholesale customers include urban gas companies, gas refuelling station operators and industrial users. The Group has also entered into an annual supply agreement with one of its major retail customers, Jingzhou Public Transportation Head Office.
- To grow its business and enlarge its customer base in the natural gas industry, the Group plans to expand its gas refuelling station network by establishing new stations, install new facilities at the Jingzhou Primary Station and strengthen marketing and promotion strategies.

Offering Details
The Group intends to offer an aggregate of 125,000,000 Company shares of nominal value of HK$0.01 per share ("Offer Shares") by way of public offer (10%) and placing (90%) (subject to reallocation) in connection with the proposed listing of the shares on the GEM of SEHK. The indicative offer price range is between HK$0.40 and HK$0.48 per share. After deducting underwriting fees and estimated listing expenses in connection with the share offer and assuming an offer price of HK$0.44 per share (being the mid-point of the indicative offer price range), the net proceeds the Group will receive from the share offer is estimated to be approximately HK$24.5 million.

The public offer commences at 9:00 a.m. on 8 May 2018 (Tuesday) and ends at 12:00 noon on 11 May 2018 (Friday). The final offer price and the allotment results are expected to be announced on or before 17 May 2018 (Thursday). Trading of shares is expected to commence on 18 May 2018 (Friday) in board lots of 10,000 shares each.

Giraffe Capital Limited is the Sole Sponsor, while Fortune (HK) Securities Limited and Giraffe Capital Limited are the Joint Bookrunners and Joint Lead Managers of the listing.

Investment highlights
Renowned CNG supplier availing long-term and stable supply of natural gas in Jingzhou, Hubei Province
As the second largest CNG supplier in Jingzhou, Hubei Province , TL Natural Gas operates four gas refuelling stations in Jingzhou, supplying CNG to retail customers (including mainly drivers of public transports such as buses and taxis) and wholesale customers (including urban gas companies, gas refuelling station operators and industrial users). In 2016, the Group ranked second in sales volume and sales value of natural gas in Jingzhou, and was also the largest natural gas supplier for bus use and the second largest natural gas supplier for vehicle use in Jingzhou . To secure a reliable, stable and abundant supply of natural gas, the Group had entered into the Master Supply Agreement for a 25-year term with PetroChina Company Limited ("PetroChina") in 2015 and, as such, PetroChina has become the Group's sole supplier of natural gas. With its stable CNG supply capability, the Group has been able to consolidate its leading presence in the natural gas market of Jingzhou, Hubei Province.

Located in Jingzhou, enjoys preferential local government policies, significant growth opportunities and has a substantial user base
Since natural gas is being widely recognised as a more economical, efficient and clean energy source, the PRC government has been actively promoting it in recent years, including launching a series of policies, such as the 13th Five-Year Plan for Natural Gas Development and Action Plan of Energy Development Strategy (2014-2020), to support further development and utilisation of natural gas and natural gas-powered vehicles. Braced by favourable government policies, natural gas demand in the PRC is expected to surge at a CAGR of 13.0% between 2017 and 2021 . Furthermore, benefiting from other positive factors including the growing population and rapid industrial development, Jingzhou will also enhance natural gas penetration in urban areas and demand for industrial fuel, which will in turn continuously enlarge the CNG user base. Natural gas consumption volume in Hubei Province is expected to increase between 2017 and 2021 at a CAGR of 25.1%. Armed with a strong reputation established and abundant operating experience in the natural gas market in Jingzhou, the Group will strive to stay abreast with industrial trends and push on with exploring future growth opportunities in the area.

Established stable business relationship with major customers and natural gas supplier
On the supply front, the Group has had more than six years' relationship with its sole natural gas supplier PetroChina. The two parties signed a 25-year Master Supply Agreement in 2015 which assures the Group has a stable natural gas source and reliable natural gas supply. As for sales, TL Natural Gas has maintained more than five years of business relationship with its major customers. In addition, it has signed an annual supply agreement with one of its major retail customers, Jingzhou Public Transport, since 2012. The Group also entered into nine supply agreements with four existing customers and five new customers during FY2017, reflecting its success in bringing in more wholesale customers. Two of the contracts stipulated minimum purchase volumes by the respective customers, which help safeguard the Group's future business development. Stable business relationship with major customers also provides the Group with a steady customer base and income source.

With an experienced and stable management team
The management team of TL Natural Gas consists of members with seven to 11 years of extensive experience in the natural gas industry. The senior management and experienced professionals of the Group are all equipped with considerable technical and marketing know-how and have forged tight strategic partnership with key market participants and major suppliers. The team is committed to meeting high corporate governance and quality control standards. With a management team that boasts shrewd vision, in-depth industry knowledge and leadership, the Group has confidence in capturing market opportunities, formulating sound business strategies, assessing and managing risks, implementing production schemes and increasing overall profit, so that it may keep expanding its business and strengthening its leading role in the natural gas market.

Future development strategies
According to the Frost & Sullivan Report, the total natural gas consumption volume in Jingzhou is expected to increase from 271.1 million m3 in 2017 to 394.1 million m3 in 2021, or at a CAGR of 9.8%. On the other hand, with new liquefied natural gas ("LNG") stations being built continuously, LNG consumption volume will grow to 6,621.6 tonnes in 2021 at a CAGR of 19.6% between 2017 and 2021.

To meet the enormous potential growth in natural gas demand of various industries (including vehicle, industrial, and residential use) in Jingzhou, the Group plans to expand its gas refuelling station network in the city, including constructing (i) one new combined CNG/LNG refuelling station; and (ii) one CNG refuelling station next to an existing petroleum station, to help attract more potential wholesale and retail customers. To enlarge its wholesale customer base and to seize both the CNG and LNG markets, the Group intends to install new facilities at its Jingzhou Primary Station with LNG processing capability to meet the demand of potential LNG customers (such as urban gas companies and other industrial users). At the same time, to provide customers with better experience, the Group plans to introduce value-added services, such as tyre maintenance services, windshield cleaning tools, auto repair and maintenance services, etc. It has launched a new customer loyalty program to strengthen its customer base and cultivate customers' loyalty.

As commanded by its future development plan, TL Natural Gas intends to invest about HK$13.3 million of the net proceeds from listing in establishing two gas refuelling stations at Jingzhou, Hubei Province, including (i) approximately HK$3.9 million in the construction and renovation of gas stations, (ii) approximately HK$1.7 million to be spent on machinery and equipment, and (iii) miscellaneous costs incurred for constructing two new gas refuelling stations. Approximately HK$8.8 million of the net proceeds from listing will be used to upgrade the infrastructure and facilities of Jingzhou Primary Station to equip it with LNG processing capacity, thereby increase natural gas supply to Jingzhou.

Financial highlight
For the year ended 31 December
2015 2016 2017
RMB' 000
Revenue 84,003 63,696 65,665
Gross profit 11,483 7,896 9,262
Gross profit margin (%) 13.7 12.4 14.1
Net profit margin (%) 7.2 6.2 10.0

Use of proceeds
Assuming an offer price of HK$0.44 per share, being the mid-point of the indicative offer price range, the Group plans to use the approximately HK$24.5 million of net proceeds as follows:

Items / Approximate % of the total net proceeds (%)
Building gas refuelling stations to expand network
- Building a combined CNG/LNG refuelling station: 32.9%
- Building a CNG gas station: 21.3%
Upgrading the infrastructure and facilities of Jingzhou Primary Station to equip it with LNG processing capacity: 35.8%
For working capital and other general corporate purposes: 10.0%

About TL Natural Gas Holdings Limited (TL Natural Gas)
TL Natural Gas is the second largest compressed natural gas supplier in Jingzhou, Hubei Province*, where it operates a total of four gas refuelling stations. The Group distributes CNG to retail customers who are mainly drivers of public transports and wholesale customers including urban gas companies, gas refuelling station operators and industrial users. With long-standing relationship with PetroChina Company Limited, the Group is assured of access to reliable, stable and abundant natural gas supply.

*Source: Frost & Sullivan Report

Media Enquiries:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Maggie Au +852 2864 4815 maggie.au@sprg.com.hk
Yoko Li +852 2864 4813 yoko.li@sprg.com.hk
www.sprg.com.hk


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Fujitsu and Kofax Partner to Improve Business Efficiency with RPA

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TOKYO, May 8, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Limited and Kofax Japan have entered into a global sales partner agreement in Robotic Process Automation (RPA)(1). This will enable the two companies to collaboratively conduct new market development activities. Fujitsu and Kofax are now offering RPA solutions in Japan, and will in the future steadily rollout globally. Organizations are under immense pressure to digitize and automate all aspects of their operations, yet many still rely on manual tasks for vital business processes which may increase errors and costs. RPA is increasingly deployed to address the need to automate manual, repetitive tasks, eliminate errors, and deliver 100 percent data accuracy, thereby improving productivity, quality, and cost savings. This partnership agreement allows Fujitsu and Kofax to collaboratively deploy RPA to support streamlined operations in various industries around the world.

(1) RPA Robotic Process Automation. Efforts to replace office work that was done manually by software robot (Digital Labor).

About Kofax Kapow:

Kofax Kapow, the #OriginalBot, is RPA software that allows users to deploy smart robots to mimic human actions and automate a wide range of manual, repetitive tasks while driving continuous improvements. With hundreds of thousands of Kapow robots deployed at more than 550 enterprise customers, BPO providers and shared service organizations around the world, Kapow has enabled exceptional results by driving improved operational efficiency, more rapid customer responses, better compliance and material cost savings.

About Kofax

Kofax is a leading supplier of software and solutions to automate and digitally transform human and information intensive processes across front and back office operations. These can dramatically improve customer engagement, greatly reduce operating costs, mitigate compliance risk and increase competitiveness, growth and profitability. Its broad range of software and solutions can be deployed in the cloud or on premise, and include robotic process automation, business process management, multichannel capture and other critically important capabilities. These provide a rapid return on investment to over 20,000 Kofax customers in financial services, insurance, government, healthcare, supply chain, business process outsourcing and other markets. Kofax delivers its software and solutions through its direct sales and services organization and more than 650 indirect channel partners in more than 60 countries throughout the Americas, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information, visit kofax.com.

About Fujitsu Ltd

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions, and services. Approximately 155,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.5 trillion yen (US$40 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. For more information, please see http://www.fujitsu.com.

* Please see this press release, with images, at:
http://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/

Contact:
Kofax Japan Phone: +81 3 6853 0001 Fax: +81 3 6853 0002 E-mail: mailbox.jp@kofax.com Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Tel: +81-3-3215-5259 URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Top Hong Kong Films to be Screened in Cannes

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HKTDC Pavilion Returns to Marche du Film

HONG KONG, May 8, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - France's premier movie market, Marche du Film, opens today and continues through 17 May as part of the 2018 Cannes Film Festival.

The HKTDC is once again organising the Hong Kong Pavilion to promote Hong Kong's vibrant and creative film industry to international markets, further strengthening Hong Kong's role as Asia's entertainment hub.

This year's Pavilion features five Hong Kong exhibitors, including All Rights Entertainment Ltd, China 3D Digital Distribution Company Ltd, Emperor Motion Pictures, Entertaining Power Co. Ltd and Fortune Star Media Ltd.

Another nine Hong Kong companies will showcase their latest productions and seek business and partnership opportunities through their individual stands or offices at Marche du Film. The schedule includes Invincible Dragon, Master Z: The Ip Man Legacy and Still Human.

Apart from these titles, the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum will also showcase their selected "Work-in-Progress" projects at the "HAF goes to Cannes" screening.

The Hong Kong Pavilion, in the International Village of the Marche du Film, also serves as a business centre, providing free business facilities to registered Hong Kong participants. Dim sum receptions will be held at the centre on May 10 & 11, offering networking opportunities for invited film industry professionals.

FILMART Follow-up

The Hong Kong Pavilion is an ideal setting for Hong Kong industry players to pursue business leads with international contacts made earlier in the year at FILMART - HKTDC's "Hong Kong International Film and TV Market".

The 22nd FILMART, held from 19-22 March this year, featured more than 850 exhibitors from 37 countries and regions, and attracted more than 8,700 visitors from around the world. The 23rd FILMART returns to Hong Kong on 18-21 March 2019.

FILMART Website: http://m.hktdc.com/fair/hkfilmart-en/
FILMART 2018 Video: https://youtu.be/lVAtbBHNQtA

Press contact: Banbi Chen, Tel +852 2584 4525, banbi.yc.chen@hktdc.org.


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

The Metropolitan Police Service Selects Northgate Public Services as the Technology Partner for its MiPS Digital Transformation

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TOKYO, May 8, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) and Northgate Public Services (NPS), a wholly owned NEC subsidiary, today announced that NPS will provide the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) with the technology for its Met Integrated Policing Solution (MiPS) project, which will significantly transform the way officers prevent crime and support victims.

The contract will see MPS using NPS' CONNECT technology to improve how information is shared and managed, giving officers instant access to key information on investigations, suspects and victims anytime and on any device. Putting real time intelligence into the hands of officers dealing with incidents will provide valuable support when they most need it and support effective deployment of resources.

CONNECT will manage the MPS information that drives policing activity across London and will cover intelligence, investigations, custody and prosecution.

The deal positions NPS as the market leader for policing IT solutions in the UK and will mean that 50% of police officers in England will soon be using its CONNECT technology.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Duncan Ball, leading the project for the MPS, said: "I am very pleased a contract has been signed with Northgate Public Services to deliver an integrated IT system for the Met. The technology will transform and improve the way information is shared and managed and greatly support investigations and our work in keeping the public safe and bringing offenders to justice."

Masakazu Yamashina, executive vice president, NEC Corporation said: "We are proud to see our synergies with NPS result in this kind of valuable contribution to the operations and efficiency of the MPS. Going forward, we aim to capitalize on this experience in order to drive the expansion of our Safer Cities business and the enhancement of safety and security for communities throughout the world."

Ian Blackhurst, executive director safety and health at Northgate Public Services commented: "The Met is focused on modernising its services and making the streets of London safer. Integrating our CONNECT technology will enable officers to instantly prioritise resource by using accurate information on cases and evidence giving them the confidence to make informed decisions on the frontline."

CONNECT enables officers to refocus resources to where they're needed most. The integrated system eliminates the need for officers to return to the police station to update records and access key intelligence, helping to achieve a truly mobilised police force. Officers will have the ability to perform duties remotely, giving them greater visibility on the streets and more time to spend with the public.

About The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS)

The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is the UK's largest police service in England and Wales. It is responsible for law enforcement in London. The MPS is made up over approximately 42,000 employees who work tirelessly to look after over 8 million Londoners, and the millions of commuters and visitors. The MPS' ambition is to make London the safest global city.

About NEC Corporation

NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.

Based on its Mid-term Management Plan 2015, the NEC Group globally provides "Solutions for Society" that promote the safety, security, efficiency and equality of society. Under the company's corporate message of "Orchestrating a brighter world," NEC aims to help solve a wide range of challenging issues and to create new social value for the changing world of tomorrow. For more information, please visit http://www.nec.com/en/global/about/solutionsforsociety/message.html.

Contact:
NEC Seiichiro Toda s-toda@cj.jp.nec.com +81-3-3798-6511

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Singapore International Chamber of Commerce and vCargo Cloud Launch World's First Blockchain-Based e-Certificate of Origin ("eCO")

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- SICC is world's first chamber to offer a blockchain-based eCO platform; developed by its technology partner, vCargo Cloud, the solution will vastly improve transparency, security and efficiency in authenticating trade documents.
- The platform's trade facilitation system offers higher security, efficiency and flexibility for its members, trade-related agencies and users of complementary service providers such as trade financing and insurance.
- The breakthrough platform will strengthen Singapore's position as a global innovation hub and reinforces the city-state's strong commitment to driving the digitalisation of trade.

SINGAPORE, May 8, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The world's first blockchain-based platform for electronic certificates of origin ["eCO"] was unveiled in Singapore today to industry leaders by the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce [SICC] and Singapore-based cross-border trade facilitation solutions provider vCargo Cloud Pte. Ltd. [VCC].

As the first chamber in the world to implement blockchain-based eCOs, SICC seeks to provide its members, trade-related agencies and users of complementary services such as trade financing and insurance with a trade facilitation system that offers higher security, efficiency and flexibility. The launch will see an initial group of users moving to the new system, with the remaining users transiting in subsequent phases.

The solution was developed by VCC, SICC's technology partner and a 50.01%-owned subsidiary of SGX-listed DeClout Limited. The platform will vastly improve transparency, security and efficiency in authenticating trade documents. It permits instant verification of eCOs and runs on a private blockchain network that prevents fraud, alterations and third-party interference.

SICC and VCC unveiled the platform at a ceremony officiated by Guest-of-Honour Mr Chua Taik Him, Senior Advisor of Enterprise Singapore, which was attended by over 100 senior officials from trade-related agencies and industry leaders.

The platform represents a quantum leap in processing trade-related documents by hosting information of trade transactions on a tamper-proof distributed ledger system, which can be authenticated and accessed by various stakeholders of the platform.

A certificate of origin ["CO"] is an international trade document which certifies that the goods in a specific shipment have been wholly obtained, produced, manufactured or processed in the stated country.

VCC's platform utilises QR codes, allowing eCOs to be scanned using smart phones and then printed. The number of allowable prints is restricted to prevent unauthorised duplicates. This improves efficiency and minimises the costs of verifying COs, removing a major impediment in the process and a frequent cause of high insurance or trade finance costs.

VCC intends to leverage on the Singapore launch to promote the platform globally, beginning with Asian countries that are substantive manufacturing exporters such as Japan, Myanmar and Sri Lanka, using the pay-per-use model.

The launch of the blockchain-based eCO platform comes amidst the Singapore Government's call for a Self-Certification regime through the ASEAN Single Window, which aims to expedite freight clearance and reduce manual paperwork across all 10 member countries.

This new solution will also strengthen Singapore's position as a global innovation hub and reinforces the city-state's strong commitment to driving the digitalisation of trade to improve productivity.

Mr Victor Mills, Chief Executive of SICC, said: "SICC is honoured and fortunate to have the opportunity to work with VCC on the launch of its platform. My team has provided input for the design of a 21st century system which will benefit customers, the Chamber and all authorised operators alike. This new eCO system revolutionises what are today still essentially 19th century processes, providing greater security for all users as well as a clear, unambiguous audit trail through the use of blockchain technology. I would like to congratulate VCC on its launch."

Mr Desmond Tay, Chief Executive Officer of VCC, commented: "The launch of our smart eCO solution will make VCC the first in the trade and logistics industry to introduce the capability to make our eCOs immutable. This blockchain capability will be incorporated into other components within our CamelONE cross-border digital platform, making our platform even more secure and robust. As an industry leader with established partnerships and an extensive regional presence, VCC will strive to deliver continual improvements and innovations in our solutions to meet the rising global demand for the digitalisation of trade and logistics processes."

About SICC
Singapore International Chamber of Commerce [SICC] was founded in Singapore in 1837, making it the city-state's longest serving voice of the private sector. Singapore's most inclusive Chamber and its best platform for business networking, its engagement platform cuts across all potential silos of ethnicity, nationality and business sector. The Chamber represents over 600 companies, 40 nationalities and 20 business sectors. Membership is equally split between local and foreign multi-nationals and large organizations and medium, small and start-up companies. An independent advocate for business, SICC shares its members' recommendations on government policy with policymakers and politicians. The Chamber focuses its activities on 4 main pillars: human capital, collaborative innovation, championing the circular economy and certification services. For more information, please visit www.sicc.com.sg

About VCC
Headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Kenya and China, vCargo Cloud (VCC) is one of DeClout's portfolio companies under the Vertical Domain Clouds segment. VCC is a leading e-trade and e-logistics platform provider that offers solutions through its CamelONE platform to governments and companies worldwide. Backed by a team of experienced IT and logistics professionals, VCC revolutionizes the e-logistics marketplace by allowing businesses in the trade, supply chain and logistics industries to converge, exchange data, communicate and collaborate virtually on its cloud platform. VCC's key strategic partners include CAAS, IATA, IE Singapore, IMDA, Singapore Cooperation Enterprise, SPRING Singapore and various trade associations. For more information, please visit www.vcargocloud.com

Source: https://www.vcargocloud.com/newsroom/press-release/

Please contact:
SICC
Sharon Lim
Director, Membership Engagement
T: +65 6500 0960
E: sharon@sicc.com.sg

vCargo Cloud Pte. Ltd.
Priscilla Yew
Senior Marketing Executive
T: +65 6779 6218
E: priscilla.yew@vcargocloud.com


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Indonesia Compact Contributes to National Priorities and Generates Innovations in Development

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JAKARTA, May 8, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The Indonesia Compact - the Indonesian and US Government partnership program to reduce poverty through economic growth - recently completed its final phases of implementation. Five years since initiation, the Indonesia Compact has contributed to National Priorities in key areas; Green Prosperity, Reduction of Stunting and Procurement Modernization, and continues supporting many innovations in development.

"The success of the Indonesia Compact is evident in the various projects that have been integrated into the National Priorities. The strategic values and innovations that the Indonesia Compact has generated are valuable lessons and models for the government and other development partners," said Minister of National Development Planning / Head of BAPPENAS Bambang Brodjonegoro at the closing ceremony of Indonesia Compact in Jakarta.

The Indonesia Compact has developed a stunting reduction model that integrates community empowerment, strengthening health services and behavior change campaigns in support of the national target to reduce stunting to 28% by 2019. Through the Community-Based Health and Nutrition Project to Reduce Stunting (PKGBM), the Compact reaches 2 million toddlers in 11 provinces, 64 districts and 5,700 villages. More than 30,000 health workers have been trained in nutrition, sanitation and monitoring/evaluation, and the national nutrition campaign has reached more than 48 million people. Compact Indonesia has succeeded in strengthening the government's commitment from the village to the national level and has worked across sectors to handle stunting.

The Indonesia Compact's investment through the Green Prosperity Project has contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1 million metric tons per year, in line with National Action Plan for Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction. This has been done through various programs, such as the development of 12.3 MW total renewable energy in 11 provinces, the restoration of 16,580 hectares of peatland, sustainable farming involving 121,143 farmers, replanting 2 million trees and participatory land use planning in 40 districts that contributes to the One Map Policy. Various innovations have been generated, such as development of village electricity company managed by the private sector and community. All the lessons learned from these projects are collected and disseminated to key stakeholders to be used as reference to green development.

Through the Procurement Modernization Project, the Indonesia Compact supports the government's procurement reform agenda. The project has established a capacity of 1,590 procurement professionals, strengthened procurement institutions, with 43 Procurement Services Unit (ULP) becoming permanent and 30 made Centers of Excellence, as much as IDR 30.3 billion has been saved through procurement contract catalogs, and development of a Procurement Information Management System (PMIS) which has been adopted by Procurement Service Units and the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP). This project has been the government's largest investment in its effort to reform and become more transparent, accountable and professional.

Vice President and Secretary to the Board of Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Jeanne Hauch, who came to Indonesia for the Indonesia Compact closing events, took pride in the achievements. "The MCC partnership with the Government of Indonesia has introduced new models and systems, developed to suit the needs of the Government of Indonesia and its people - and we are delighted to see firsthand the great work being done during our team visit to Lombok," said Jeanne Hauch. "We are proud of the results achieved and are looking forward to seeing how the Indonesian people continue this success."

About Millennium Challenge Account - Indonesia (MCA-Indonesia)

MCA-Indonesia is the implementing entity of the Compact Grants from Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), which supports US Strategic Partnership with Indonesia. MCA-Indonesia aims to reduce poverty through economic growth, and manages the following main projects: (1) Green Prosperity, (2) Community-Based Health and Nutrition to Reduce Stunting, and (3) Procurement Modernization. See www.mca-indonesia.go.id/en/.

About Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)

MCC is an innovative and independent agency of the US government, which aims to help alleviate poverty globally. Formed by the US Congress in 2004, MCC has distributed Compact Grants worth US $ 11.2 billion for 27 countries committed to good governance, economic freedom and investments in their citizens. Compact Grants are competitive, meaning that the candidate countries must compete in a transparent selection process.

MCC holds the principle of country-led solutions and country-led implementation, so that the countries that receive the grants have the discretion and authority to identify problems and solutions, and to develop and implement its program. See www.mcc.gov and www.mcc.gov/where-we-work/program/indonesia-compact.

Please contact:
Ismet Mohamad Suhud, Ministry of PPN/BAPPENAS
Head of Public Relations and Information, +62 81288767633
Mia Fitri, MCA-Indonesia
Director for Communications and Outreach, +62 8128224393


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong brings City Convenience to 'Your' Doorstep with 'Dorsett Wanchai 3 Wishes' Package

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Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong : The newly renovated Premier Room overlooking the Happy Valley Racecourse
HONG KONG, May 8, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Summer is about to arrive, and one of the best ways for holidaymakers to enjoy the season in Hong Kong is to indulge in the endless outdoor fun the city has to offer. Whether one is looking for a fun-packed holiday package with kids in tow or an easy breezy short summer getaway, Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong has everyone's needs covered with "something extra" to make their travel experience even more memorable.

City Convenience at its Best - 'Dorsett Wanchai 3 Wishes' Package
This "something extra" at the Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong is the 'Dorsett Wanchai 3 Wishes' package. In this package, guests can pick 3 complimentary offers from a range of services based on their travel preferences to enjoy an individualized stay, with up to 37% OFF the newly renovated Premier Room.

Family Preferred Choices
- Get one complimentary Ocean Park ticket when purchasing one ticket
- Enjoy a room upgrade to the Grand Deluxe Room with a stunning racecourse or city view
- 1-day American-style buffet breakfast for two
- Buy-1-get-1-free arrival transfer

A Taste of the Local Flavour
- Free dim sum meal at Tim Ho Wan Michelin-starred restaurant
- Complimentary set meal at the popular Hong Kong-style Cha Chaan Teng - Kam Kee Cafe
- Late check-out till 6:00p.m.

Every Businessman's Wish List
- 3-hour access to Airport Lounge with unlimited serving of F&B and use of shower
- Unlimited laundry service for a hassle-free trip
- Free pressing of one garment daily
- Complimentary one-off mini bar

Stay Vibrant with More 'Beyond Thoughtful' Offers from Dorsett Wanchai
Living up to its new brand promise Stay Vibrant, Dorsett Wanchai offers flexible check-in time with extended stay up to 26 hours to allow guests to maximise their time exploring this vibrant city. Meaning, if guests check in at 4:00p.m., they can stay until 6:00p.m. the next day at no extra charge. This offer is for guests who book directly on the official hotel website.

As thoughtful as it always is, the hotel has designed new 2-hour itineraries based on different interests to let guests maximise their extra hours within the city effortlessly. Check out the hotel 26 Hours "A" Day mini site for the recommended routes.

"Your" Personal Guide to Eat & Shop Like a Local in Hong Kong
Thanks to the hotel's strategic location, which is nestled between the entertainment hub of Causeway Bay and Wanchai commercial district, guests can easily access a number of interesting local eateries and shops.

For those interested in discovering the old Wanchai, one of the most popular Instagram spots - the Blue House, which is a Grade 1 historic building, is only a 10 minutes' walk from the hotel. The fashionable dining and shopping areas like Times Square, Lee Tung Avenue and Star Street Precinct are all within a 5-to-15 minutes' stroll.

To indulge in a truly immersive local experience, guests can also grab a copy of our "Eat & Shop Like a Local" guide exclusively curated by our hotel team who know the city inside out. The guide has everything from the famous egg puffs stall to the must-try Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity-owned coffee shop that are located within 5 - 10 minutes' walk.

In addition to that, the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus service to 14 major attractions on Hong Kong Island which include places like the International Finance Centre in Central, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Pacific Place in Admiralty as well as the Times Square in Causeway Bay.

By staying at the Dorsett Wanchai, guests can be assured they enjoy both an urban as well as an authentically "Hong Kong vibe" with exclusive features that make their stay a fruitful and memorable one. Simply put, there is no other 4-star hotel quite the same as Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong. Stay Vibrant - stay at the Dorsett Wanchai.

Find out more about the Dorsett Wanchai, Hong Kong, at www.wanchai.dorsetthotels.com.

Media enquiries:
Ms. Jowie Wong
Director of Communications
jowie.wong@dorsetthotels.com


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

The 10th HKTDC Entrepreneur Day opens next Thursday

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Raymond Yip, Deputy Exec. Director, HKTDC; Ken Ngai, Deputy Exec. Director, Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, press conference for the 10th Entrepreneur Day.
Nathan Hui, Co-founder, MedMind Technology; Professor Benny Zee, Founder, Health View Bioanalytic Ltd; Kow Ping, Co-founder, Well Being Digital Ltd; Ken Ngai, Deputy Exec. Director, HK Federation of Youth Groups; Raymond Yip, HKTDC Deputy Exec. Director; Lau Wai Fung, CEO, Met-A-Cell Ltd; Wu Wai Tung, Co-Founder, With You Services Ltd; and Dennis Huen, Co-founder, MedMind Technology.
World's first AI assisted earphones which can measure heart rate and assess whether the user is under pressure, then choose and play relaxing music from his playlist.
Propels Start-ups to Grow and Scale-up

HONG KONG, May 9, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The 10th HKTDC Entrepreneur Day (E-Day) will take place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on May 17-18. Featuring more than 270 exhibitors, E-Day showcases a wide range of innovative technologies, products and supporting services tailored for entrepreneurs.

A series of seminars, pitch meetings, business advisory sessions and networking activities will be held, supporting start-ups to build connections, acquire information, seek funds and recruit talents. E-Day will also serve as a platform for investors to seek out innovative ideas for potential investments. The exhibition will be open to the public for free.

Strong interest in The Imaginarium Zone with doubled exhibitors

"The start-up ecosystem in Hong Kong has become more advanced, with the number of start-ups in the city growing 16% to 2,200 last year," said Raymond Yip, Deputy Executive Director of HKTDC. "We are devoted to supporting start-ups, and we have been organising various events and missions to meet the start-ups' needs at different development stages.

"In 2009, we launched E-Day, which is HKTDC's flagship event for supporting start-ups. Given the vibrant start-up scene, the number of exhibitors and visitors at E-Day have doubled since the first edition, and new innovative elements have been incorporated to cater to the ever-changing needs of start-ups.

"The government have launched a lot of initiatives to boost Hong Kong's innovation and technology in recent years, especially in the areas of biotech, AI, smart city and the fintech sectors," noted Mr Yip. "With this strong support from the government, we can see that more and more exhibitors from these industries are joining E-Day."

With the theme "Powering start-ups", the fair showcases a wide range of innovative products and services. This year, the scale of the Imaginarium Zone has doubled, featuring more than 140 start-ups in the fields of medical tech and biotech, fintech, green tech, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotic technology, and more.

Star speakers share secrets of success

More than 40 entrepreneurs from different industries will share their experiences on starting up and scaling up, and they will also discuss technology trends and business opportunities including AI, IoT, fintech, healthtech and edtech in a series of seminars at the "Start-up Runway", one of the event's highlights.

"Many of the start-ups nowadays have already grown beyond the process of starting, idea generation and product testing to the new stages of launching the product and expanding their business," said Mr Yip as he explained the theme "Start up Right - Scale up Fast."

Renowned experts including Bonnie Cheung, Venture Partner of 500 Startups, one of the most active seed investors globally with over 2,000 portfolio companies, Wesley Ng, CEO & Co-founder, Casetify and Norma Chu, CEO, DayDayCook, will be speaking on the first day of the event and share the secrets of transforming from start-ups to becoming large enterprises.

Many speakers this year have gained seed funding, Series A or Series B financing. Among them are Lawrence Tzang, Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Prenetics Limited; Dr Miles Wen, CEO, Fano Labs Limited; Christopher Hugentobler, Head of Growth, Snapask Hong Kong Limited, and Mathias Helleu, Executive Chairman, 8 Securities Limited.

Ample Opportunities in the Bay Area

"Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao all have their own unique advantages," noted Mr Yip. "The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area Development (Bay Area) is a symphony of these strengths, making the whole area more competitive. Hong Kong is the most internationalised metropolis in the Bay Area with world-class financial and professional services.

"By utilising this great advantage, Hong Kong can promote closer business cooperation between Bay Area and the rest of the world, especially in the areas of commercialisation, intellectual property trading and cross-border investment."

E-Day also features from Guangdong province and Macao, showcasing products such as Biomorphic robots and smart energy management system. In addition, several organisations and multipliers such as the Authority of Qianhai, Guangdong Youth Entrepreneurship and Employment Promotion Centre, Junior Chamber International Apex, the Angel Investment Foundation and STARTHUB, will host a seminar and a series of start-up competitions at E-Day.

Expanding to overseas

This year, the HKTDC launched a brand new 'Start-up Express' programme to connect start-ups with potential investors and business partners to explore new opportunities, and expand global businesses through participating in exhibitions and missions. "The response exceeded expectations, with more than 100 enrolments.

Twenty finalists will present their innovative ideas to the panel of judges led by Antony Leung at E-Day on 18 May. Ten winners will have the opportunity to grasp new businesses opportunities overseas by taking part in international events and exhibitions for free, such as Think Global, Think Hong Kong and In Style, Hong Kong.

The Council is also planning to organise a mission to the Bay Area in August. Visiting Shenzhen Nanshan district and Dongguan, the mission aims to help start-ups understands more about the start-up scene in the Bay Area, its potential as a production base and consumer market, as well as the demand for professional services.

The 'NiCubator' programme, which is set up by award-winning actor, singer and entrepreneur Nicholas Tse, will also support 'Start-up Express' by providing winners with the promotional opportunities such as appearing in his programme.

Building Networks

Relationship and network building are key elements for start-ups to grow. 'Start-up Mixer' will return to E-Day, allowing start-ups to meet with experts from a wide spectrum of industries in the speed dating format. Launched by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups and the HKTDC, it aims to inspire start-ups to generate new ideas for starting up a new business.

Other special events include the 'Bootcamp by Techstars Startup Weekend', the inaugural 'Pitching for Charity' co-organised by Jumpstart Media, 'Start-ups Meet Talent' co-organised with WHub, 'Fund & Mentor' and 'Start-up Clinic', and more.

E-Day 2018 www.hktdc.com/eday, registration https://bit.ly/2rcuXp3, photos https://bit.ly/2rtDAej.

Please contact the HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Angel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.org
Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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