OPEN CONNECTIVITY FOUNDATION AND SINGAPORE SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCE COLLABORATION FRAMEWORK IN SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE, March 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The growing billions of connected devices should be able to communicate with one another regardless of manufacturer, operating system, chipset or physical transport. The Open Connectivity Foundation (OCF), a leading Internet of Things standards body, is creating a specification and sponsoring an open source project (IoTivity) to achieve that goal. Today, the OCF is announcing a collaboration with the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) to promote the adoption of this specification to small and medium-sized enterprises and startups in the Singapore Smart Nation ecosystem and to help companies understand and adopt the specifications in their design strategies.
 

The Singapore IoT market is expected to be worth more than $700 million by the year 2020. The Smart Nation Program is Singapore's national effort to create a future of better living for all through tech-enabled solutions. With a program in place and the market poised for success, OCF’s specification will accelerate industry innovation to ensure secure interoperability for consumers, business, and industry. Singapore will be a step closer to its Smart Nation vision through smarter health, transport, living and service sector initiatives. SSIA will promote OCF down its value chain and enable SMEs to explore the applications and potential development of this new collaborative platform.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28785

SHARJAH ANNOUNCED SPECIAL GUEST OF HONOUR AT PARIS BOOK FAIR 2018

Invitation extended by French President François Hollande to Sharjah Ruler   PARIS, March 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The third largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Sharjah – was recently declared a special Guest of Honour at Salon Livre Paris’ (Paris Book Fair’s) 2018 edition. The announcement aligns with France’s longstanding appreciation of Sharjah’s commitment to artistic and cultural excellence. The emirate will be seen taking centre stage at the book fair next year, with a rich Arabic cultural and literary showcase. The invitation was made by French President, François Hollande, to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, during his visit to the Sharjah Book Authority’s (SBA) stand at the recently concluded Paris Book Fair. The decision reflects a successive step in a series of ongoing efforts, which are being made by France and the UAE to strengthen bilateral relations by celebrating their shared passion for cultural engagement and exchange. Addressing the launch ceremony of His book in Paris, Sous le Drapeau de l’occupant, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi said: “The culture of France has been a long-cherished muse for my writings. I have a library full of French publications – the ones dealing with Egypt’s architectural treasures, its rich historical, environmental and human legacy are my favourite. These works aren’t just masterpieces, but go great lengths to reflect the French people’s passion for diving fearlessly into the cultures of the world.” Earlier this year, the UAE witnessed the Emirati-French cultural programme featuring a diverse array of events including equestrian choreography, dedicated to the celebration of the upcoming Louvre Abu Dhabi. The emirate of Sharjah enjoys a unique cultural position, which it has forged by fusing its rich Islamic heritage with an open acceptance of world cultures. In 1998, Sharjah was named the ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab World’ by UNESCO, and in 2014 the ‘Capital of Islamic Culture’ by Islamic Organization for Education, Science and Culture (ISESCO).   Contacts National Network Communications Fadia Daouk, T: +971 52 617 2111 E: f.daouk@nncpr.com   Source: Sharjah   View this news release and multimedia online at: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170328005845/en  --BERNAMA

WAKUWAKU JAPAN: NEW ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING FOR ANIME SONGS ANISONG STATION TO START IN APRIL!

TOKYO, March 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- WAKUWAKU
JAPAN Corporation (Head office: Minato-ku, Tokyo, President & CEO:
Masafumi Kawanishi, “WAKUWAKU JAPAN”) has announced that it will begin
broadcasting on April 5, 2017, in Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore, Taiwan,
Sri Lanka, and Mongolia, a new original series, Anisong Station, to share information on the latest Japanese anime songs.



WAKUWAKU JAPAN: NEW ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING FOR ANIME SONGS ANISONG STATION TO START IN APRIL!

RADWARE LAUNCHES DDOS PROTECTION FOR APPLICATIONS HOSTED ON AMAZON WEB SERVICES AND AZURE

Expands Cloud Services Suite with New, Fully Managed Service that Provides Full Network and Application-Layer DDoS Protection for Public Cloud Providers AWS and Azure


MAHWAH, N.J., March 29 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radware® (NASDAQ:RDWR), a leading provider of cyber security and application delivery solutions, has expanded its cloud services offering by launching the industry’s first fully managed DDoS protection service with integrated, unified protection across both data centers and public cloud environments  Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure. It is now available for applications hosted on AWS and will be available for applications hosted on Azure the second quarter of 2017.

Radware’s new Cloud DDoS Service provides organizations that host their applications on a mix of on-premise and public cloud environments with unified DDoS protection that offers consistent security policies and a single pane-of-glass.  This includes a single emergency response team and focal point, a unified web security portal, single reporting tool and single DDoS protection technology across premise- and cloud-based protections.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28783

MERCEDES-AMG DRIVES PERFORMANCE WITH SAP® SUCCESSFACTORS® SOLUTIONS

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., March 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --SAP SuccessFactors today announced that Mercedes-AMG has selected SAP® SuccessFactors® human capital management (HCM) solutions to help drive the company’s digital HR transformation and optimize talent management. Mercedes-AMG, the world-renowned sports car and performance brand of Mercedes-Benz, chose SAP SuccessFactors solutions to help centralize its global HR processes, streamline HR service delivery and, most important, attract top talent.

Reinhard Breyer, CIO at Mercedes-AMG, said: “As a global leader in the automotive industry, attracting and retaining the best talent is essential to developing some of the most attractive and innovative sports cars and performance vehicles in the market.”

Jürgen Kress, director of HR at Mercedes-AMG, added: “With the rapid pace of change today, our employees are the heart of our business and are critical to delivering state-of-the-art technological developments. Partnering with the leading provider of cloud-based HCM solutions has been an important step in ensuring our workforce remains happy and engaged, and with SAP SuccessFactors solutions, we are better equipped to remain a global employer of choice.”

Mercedes-AMG selected the SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central, SAP SuccessFactors Recruiting, SAP SuccessFactors Learning and SAP SuccessFactors Performance & Goals solutions to help consolidate its HR systems, improve the recruiting and performance management processes, and provide leading development programs. With these tools, Mercedes-AMG expects to standardize its HR processes and improve the employee experience by ensuring workers have access to easy-to-use, harmonized solutions.

“As the fight for top talent continues to intensify, businesses require technology to help them find and then retain the best people,” said Mike Ettling, president of SAP SuccessFactors. “Cloud-based HCM solutions deliver today’s expected employee experience. We’re delighted to take this journey with Mercedes-AMG to support its commitment to stay at the forefront of innovation within a highly specialized industry, which starts with its people.”

Mercedes-AMG is one of the latest companies to select SAP SuccessFactors solutions to put people first and help them succeed. As more companies look to transform HR to meet the demands of an increasingly global and digital workforce, they are embracing leading SAP SuccessFactors solutions to help unify and optimize HR processes, while also fostering a mobile, cloud-first philosophy.

For more information, visit the SAP SuccessFactors website or the SAP News Center. Follow SAP SuccessFactors solutions on Twitter at @SuccessFactors and SAP at @sapnews.

Media Contact:
Geraldine Lim, SAP, +1 (415) 418-0945, geraldine.lim@sap.com

SOURCE : SAP Global Marketing

--BERNAMA

​EPAM ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

NEWTOWN, Pa., March 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), a leading global provider of product development and software engineering solutions, today announced that Jason Peterson will join EPAM, effective April 5, 2017, and will succeed Anthony Conte as CFO on May 10, 2017. Conte, who previously announced his intention to resign from the company, will remain in an advisory role until on or about August 10, 2017, and will work closely with Peterson to ensure a seamless transition.

"I am pleased that Jason will be joining EPAM as our Chief Financial Officer. Jason brings proven public company finance expertise in the global technology services space and his contributions will be vital in executing our long-term growth strategy,” said Arkadiy Dobkin, CEO and President, EPAM. “Anthony Conte has made tremendous contributions to EPAM over the past 10 years, and on behalf of the company’s Board of Directors, management team and all of our employees, I want to thank Anthony for his leadership in guiding us through a period of exceptional growth and building the financial infrastructure needed to support EPAM’s future.”

Peterson joins EPAM with 25-years of finance experience and, for the last nine years, was employed by Cognizant Technology Solutions. In his most recent role, he was Vice President of Finance, M&A and Due Diligence, which he held while leading a large-scale corporate business process transformation program. Prior to that, he was CFO of the Emerging Business Accelerator and led the Corporate Financial Planning and Analysis function. Prior to joining Cognizant, Peterson was the CFO for E&C Medical Intelligence, and before that, he served as Vice President of ATI Technologies, responsible for the Financial Planning and Analysis and Controllership functions, while also working in M&A and Corporate Strategy. He previously held financial roles at Philips Semiconductors and Hewlett-Packard. He received an MBA from Columbia Business School and a Bachelor's Degree in economics from Claremont McKenna College.

“I am honored to succeed Anthony and look forward to working with the entire EPAM team as we continue to drive long-term value creation for our clients and shareholders,” said Peterson. “This is a very exciting time to be joining the Company, and I believe there are significant opportunities ahead of us as we continue our path to leadership in the technology solutions space.”

About EPAM Systems
Since 1993, EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), has leveraged its core engineering expertise to become a leading global product development and digital platform engineering services company. Through its ‘Engineering DNA’ and innovative strategy, consulting, and design capabilities, EPAM works in collaboration with its customers to deliver innovative solutions that turn complex business challenges into real business opportunities. EPAM’s global teams serve customers in over 25 countries across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. EPAM is a recognized market leader among independent research agencies and was ranked #8 in FORBES 25 Fastest Growing Public Tech Companies, as a top information technology services company on FORTUNE’S 100 Fastest Growing Companies, and as a top UK Digital Design & Build Agency. Learn more at http://www.epam.com/ and follow us on Twitter @EPAMSYSTEMS and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements 
This press release includes statements which may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the accuracy of which are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied include general economic conditions and the factors discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. EPAM undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities law.                                                                                                                             

CONTACT: Danielle Ruess-Saltz
M: 267.978.7688
danielle_ruess-saltz@epam.com

SOURCE : EPAM

--BERNAMA

PROFICIO NAMED A FROST & SULLIVAN APAC 2017 MOVER AND SHAKER

MSSP recognized for demonstrated excellence in managed detection and response technology services

 

SINGAPORE, March 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Proficio, one of the fastest growing managed security service providers (MSSP) delivering managed detection and response (MDR), has been recognized by Frost & Sullivan for its incident response and advanced threat intelligence services, and overall vision for the security industry in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

The Movers and Shakers series by Frost & Sullivan showcases forward-thinking companies and leaders throughout the corporate world. Both businesses and individuals are acknowledged for their achievement in celebrating significant milestones, including breakthrough technology, strategic transactions, progressive services and more.

“Proficio is disrupting the managed security market by going beyond the traditional MSSP model, offering a more holistic approach to service delivery that includes best-in-class software and 24x7 security monitoring by seasoned experts,” said Tim McElwee, President and Chairman of Proficio. “With our next-generation MSSP approach, we’re able to provide our APAC customers the most advanced managed detection and response services that until recently were outside the budget of all but the very largest enterprises.”

Since its recent $12 million in venture capital funding led by Kayne Advisors, Proficio has invested in enhancing and expanding its ProSOC services and its Synergy Partner Program. The company increased its presence in European and APAC markets to fill the gap for medium to large-sized enterprises seeking 24X7 security monitoring and alerting. Proficio has plans to expand operations across Australia and Northern Asia later in the year. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28771

INVIVOSCRIBE EXPANDS BUSINESS INTO SOLID TUMORS WITH ASSAYS AND SERVICES TO IDENTIFY AND MONITOR CAR-T AND TCR IMMUNO-THERAPIES

SAN DIEGO, March 29 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Invivoscribe^® Technologies Inc., a global company with decades of experience providing internationally standardized clonality and biomarker testing solutions for the fields of oncology, personalized molecular diagnostics^®, and personalized molecular medicine^®, reports that its next-generation sequencing (NGS) LymphoTrack^® Assay kits are being used by its LabPMM^® clinical laboratories, pharmaceutical partners, and cancer centers to identify and monitor chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR-T) and engineered T-cell receptors in peripheral blood of subjects in support of immuno-therapeutic drug development and treatment regimen development for both hematologic and solid tumors.

Immunotherapy is one of the most exciting new areas of precision medicine. The rapidly evolving field is centered on utilizing a patient’s own immune system to surveil, target, and eliminate cancer cells. A number of immuno-therapeutic methods have demonstrated promising clinical value. In order to demonstrate clinical efficacy and move these novel therapies quickly through the regulatory agencies, accurate and standardized tests need to be employed to measure and monitor these bioengineered constructs. Leading stakeholders have turned to using Invivoscribe's internationally standardized assays to fulfill this need.

A number of Invivoscribe LymphoTrack Assays, formatted for use on both the Illumina MiSeq^® and Thermo Fisher Ion PGM^™ platforms, were designed to detect somatic gene rearrangements within the antigen receptor loci. These assays also recognize conserved elements within the bioengineered immuno-therapeutic constructs of CAR-T and TCRs, making them robust candidates for dual use purposes: (1) identifying and monitoring immuno-therapeutic constructs in the peripheral blood and (2) identifying and monitoring clonotypes associated with malignant B- and T-cell populations. Both capabilities can be achieved simultaneously using the same reagents, bioinformatics software, and workflow.

Once identified, these constructs and malignant clones can be tracked to levels of 1 cell in a million (10^-6) sensitivity. Testing can be done either at LabPMM laboratories or entirely in an investigator’s own facility, with the bioinformatics analysis done on customer’s own computers, ensuring rapid turn around times as well as data protection.

"Our internationally standardized, NGS-based LymphoTrack clonality assays with bioinformatics software provide a comprehensive solution in support of laboratories and pharmaceutical companies developing new drugs and immuno-therapies. Having access to these powerful tools will accelerate getting new drugs and immuno-therapies to patients. As importantly, results from standardized assays generate more reproducible and reliable results, leading to better, more accurate treatments. These improved treatments will be a game changer and a huge benefit to patients and to the fields of personalized molecular diagnostics and precision medicine,” said Dr. Jeffrey Miller, Founder, CSO & CEO of Invivoscribe. “A number of our assays and associated bioinformatics software are currently being used by leading cancer centers and pharmaceutical partners in support of optimizing treatments for patients, and to stratify, enroll, and track MRD in patients in international phase II and phase III clinical studies. Our vision is to improve patient care by making these products accessible to all of our partners and customers.”

About Invivoscribe

Invivoscribe^® Technologies Inc. is a privately held biotechnology company dedicated to improving the quality of healthcare worldwide by providing high quality, reliable, cutting-edge reagents, tests, and bioinformatics tools to advance the fields of personalized molecular diagnostics^® and personalized molecular medicine^®. Invivoscribe is ISO 13485 certified and provides PCR- and NGS-based reagents manufactured in a facility registered with FDA. Reagents include RUO test kits and CE-marked IVDs, including IdentiClone^® and LymphoTrack^® Dx Assays with LymphoTrack^® Dx Software. LymphoTrack Dx Assays are CE-IVDs for clonality and IGHV somatic hypermutation testing and are not available for sale or use in North America. LymphoTrack Assays and MRD and immuno-therapeutic applications are for research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures - US validations are on-going. Invivoscribe also offers comprehensive MyAML^®, MyHEME^®, MyMRD^®, and custom gene panel services. Used in combination with Invivoscribe’s proprietary MyInformatics^® Software these assays identify and can track primary driver mutations as well as the subclonal architecture and emergence of new driver mutations in patients with hematologic disease. Invivoscribe's clinical laboratories in the USA, Europe, and Japan provide international access to harmonized CLIA, CAP, and ISO 15189 accredited clinical testing and contract research organization (CRO) services. Invivoscribe services and reagents are currently used in more than 650 clinical and research laboratories in 65 countries and Invivoscribe has long embraced the value of quality systems and develops all products, including bioinformatics software, compliant with ISO 13485 design control. This model makes the assays eligible to be brought through regulatory authorities worldwide. The company currently has on-going companion diagnostic partnerships with Novartis and Astellas Pharma, Inc. and expects to announce additional collaborations in 2017.  Additional information can be found at www.invivoscribe.com.


CONTACT:
Kevin Dobyns
858-224-6600

SOURCE : Invivoscribe, Inc.

A.M. BEST ASSIGNS CREDIT RATINGS TO NEW ZEALAND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS LIMITED

SINGAPORE, March 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B (Good) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "bbb-" to New Zealand Medical Professionals Limited (NZMPL) (New Zealand). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

NZMPL is a single-line insurer in New Zealand, focused on providing medical malpractice insurance to medical practitioners and health professionals.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28786

BRAEMAR ENERGY VENTURES PORTFOLIO COMPANY AGREES TO BE ACQUIRED BY NIPPON SHOKUBAI

Braemar Energy Ventures portfolio company, Sirrus, Inc. has agreed to be acquired by Nippon Shokubai, a leading global producer of acrylic acid and superabsorbents
 

NEW YORK, March 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Braemar Energy Ventures, a leading venture capital investor in energy technology companies, today announced Nippon Shokubai’s planned acquisition of one of their portfolio companies, Sirrus, Inc., subject to customary closing conditions. Braemar has been a lead investor in Sirrus, the world’s leading developer of electron deficient monomers and derivatives, since 2011.

Braemar first led Sirrus’ $13.6 million Series A-1 round of funding, and later led the Company’s A-2 and B round financing in 2013 and 2015, respectively.

“We immediately recognized Sirrus’ potential to develop breakthrough chemical technology that enhanced efficiency, improved performance, and reduced energy consumption and costs for customers across multiple manufacturing industries,” said William Lese, Managing Partner of Braemar Energy Ventures and Board Member of Sirrus. “Since our initial investment, Sirrus’ has managed to obtain over 25 global patents. This track record of innovation has driven Braemar’s continuous support of the commercialization plan for Sirrus’ novel platform. In addition to developing and patenting state-of-the-art technologies, Sirrus has had a unique ability to focus on development efforts that provide unique customer solutions, including lower solvent, less toxic formulation ingredients, and energy efficiency.”

Since 2002, industry veterans Bill Lese and Neil Suslak at Braemar Energy Ventures have been focused exclusively on making investments in innovative, transformational energy and energy related technology companies that generate competitive solutions which address the most pressing issues the industry is facing.

“Braemar’s breadth of industry exposure paired with their deep bench of experts and knowledge across energy/chemical industry venture backed businesses has provided us with significant industry access and financial support when most needed,” said Jeff Uhrig, CEO of Sirrus. “Sirrus and Braemar are equally passionate about delivering exceptional customer service, reducing energy consumption, and delivering financial returns to investors. By joining forces, we were able to significantly accelerate these efforts.”

About Sirrus, Inc.

Founded in 2009 and formerly known as Bioformix, Sirrus was founded to commercialize efficient, high-performance monomers and derivatives. Sirrus technologies result in the reduction or elimination of energy consumption and improved product performance for advanced manufacturing and assembly industries. For more information, visit www.sirruschemistry.com.

About Braemar Energy Ventures

Braemar Energy Ventures is a venture capital fund making early- to mid-stage investments in the energy technology sector. The firm's principals have invested in more than 60 companies in the sector and have more than 100 years of combined technical, operational and financial experience in energy and energy-related industries. Braemar partners with exceptional companies and management teams developing next generation technologies for energy and energy related markets, that can contribute to a more profitable and efficient energy landscape through innovation and marketplace expertise. Additional information is available at BraemarEnergy.com or on Twitter at twitter.com/braemarenergy or @BraemarEnergy.
 

Contacts

Sirrus
Mike Powers, 248-760-6598
mikepowers@sirruschemistry.com
or
For Braemar Energy Ventures
Alison McIntyre, 212-279-3115 ext. 269
amcintyre@prosek.com

 

Source: Braemar Energy Ventures

 

View this news release online at:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170328005853/en

--BERNAMA

J.D. POWER'S RANKING SEES TOKYO'S IMPERIAL HOTEL HIGHEST IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

TOKYO, March 28 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- Tokyo's landmark, 126-year-old Imperial Hotel has been ranked the highest luxury-class hotel in Japan for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power's "Japan Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study in 2016." The Imperial was ranked top in the segment of guestroom rates of over 35,000 Japanese yen per night, the first time since the studies began in 2006. Guests identified The Imperial's Front Desk Services and the attention of its staff as favorable points. The quality of staff attention extended to patrons is extremely influential in forming guest evaluations regardless of room rates.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28775

Latest clinical research confirms that IQOS reduces smoker exposure to select harmful chemicals as compared to cigarette smoke

Studies conducted to date clearly indicate that IQOS is likely to present less risk of harm compared to smoking

LAUSANNE, Switzerland, March 28 (BUSINESS WIRE)-- Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) (NYSE/Euronext Paris: PM) today announces the positive results from an advanced clinical study on IQOS, the company’s first electronically heated tobacco product, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research.

Conducted in Japan over a three-month period by the well-known clinical research organization, the Osaki Hospital Tokyo Heart Center, the study showed that smokers who switched to IQOS:

-Reduced their exposure to 15 harmful chemicals to levels that approached those of smokers who quit smoking;
-Showed improvements in measured health indicators specific to smoking-related diseases, such as lung and heart disease. In all cases, the health indicators improved in the same direction as seen in smokers who quit. Further testing through a longer-term study is underway; and
-Found the product satisfying and were likely to completely switch to it.

The research was conducted in line with internationally respected guidelines for clinical trials, such as Good Clinical Practice as defined by the International Conference for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use. 160 smokers were divided into three groups: continued smoking, quitting, and complete switching to IQOS. Participants spent five days at a clinic and continued the experiment at home for an additional 85 days, during which time biological samples and measurements were regularly taken.

PMI’s research program to confirm the risk reduction potential of IQOS includes laboratory and clinical studies, research on actual product use, and evaluation of how well smokers understand communications related to reduced risk. This and a related study are the latest of an eight-part clinical research program completed on IQOS to support reduced exposure and preliminary improvements in health outcomes. A one-year study with about 1,000 participants is currently ongoing to further support the current strong indications of risk reduction.

PMI’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Frank Lüdicke, said: “This study is an important step to confirm that while IQOS is not risk-free, it is a better choice for the millions of smokers who do not quit. It clearly indicates that smokers who switch to IQOS reduce their exposure to harmful compounds to levels that approach those of smokers who quit smoking. The study also clearly indicates areas of significant risk reduction which we are currently confirming through a longer term study.”

PMI is committed to replacing cigarettes with smoke-free products as soon as possible to the benefit of smokers, society and public health. Over 1.4 million smokers have already switched to IQOS, and the company has plans to expand commercialization to key cities in 30-35 countries by the end of 2017. Since 2008, PMI has hired over 400 scientists and experts and invested over USD 3 billion in research, development and early commercialization for its portfolio of smoke-free products. The company has published over 200 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters in the past ten years.

The study is available on www.pmiscience.com.

Philip Morris International Inc.

Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) is the world’s leading international tobacco company, with six of the world's top 15 international brands and products sold in more than 180 markets. In addition to the manufacture and sale of cigarettes, including Marlboro, the number one global cigarette brand, and other tobacco products, PMI is engaged in the development and commercialization of Reduced-Risk Products (RRPs). RRPs is the term PMI uses to refer to products that present, are likely to present, or have the potential to present less risk of harm to smokers who switch to these products versus continued smoking. Through multidisciplinary capabilities in product development, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry-leading scientific substantiation, PMI aims to provide an RRP portfolio that meets a broad spectrum of adult smoker preferences and rigorous regulatory requirements. For more information, see www.pmi.com and www.pmiscience.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170327005401/en/
Contacts

Media enquiries
Philip Morris International media office
T: +41 (0)58 242 4500
E: media@pmi.com

Source: Philip Morris International

BIOLINE LAUNCHES NEW JETSEQ DNA QUANTIFICATION KITS

CINCINNATI, March 28 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bioline, The PCR Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meridian Bioscience, Inc. (NASDAQ:VIVO) today announced the further expansion of the JetSeq™ portfolio for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) sample preparation.

The new JetSeq™ Library Quantification Kit is a qPCR-based assay that provides fast, accurate and sensitive quantification of adaptor-ligated DNA fragments during the preparation of Illumina compatible NGS libraries. The JetSeq™ Library Quantification Kit relies on SYBR®1 Green I for detection and contains all of the components required for library quantification, including dilution buffer, P5 and P7 adapter primers and six pre-diluted DNA standards to minimize pipetting, reduce variability and thereby increase reproducibility. The kit has sufficient standards to quantify eighteen libraries on individual plates or up to seventy-six libraries when multiple libraries are quantified on the same plate.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28773

EXPORT DEVELOPMENT CANADA SETS UP NEW AND FIRST FINANCING BRANCH IN SINGAPORE, FORECASTING BILLIONS IN NEW LOANS FOR ASIA, ASEAN AND OCEANIA COMPANIES

- Singapore branch to help EDC grow annual loan bookings to USD 4 billion by 2021

- Potential to partner with commercial banks in syndicated financing facilities for Asian companies to support their trade-focused businesses

- New branch office to support and augment current representations in Jakarta, Mumbai, Delhi, Beijing and Shanghai
 

SINGAPORE, March 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Export Development Canada (EDC), Canada’s dynamic export credit agency, today announced its new and first global branch outside of Canada, in Singapore.

EDC’s new branch will bring its global-scale financing business closer to projects and companies across Asia, ASEAN, and Oceania by negotiating and underwriting its financing from Singapore.

The new Singapore branch is expected to play an important role in doubling EDC’s loan bookings by 2021, when it hopes to be providing over USD 4 billion in new commercial financing annually. EDC’s focus will be developing financing relationships with corporations and project owners across the region that may already have Canadian suppliers, or where there is potential for future Canadian supply. EDC can also support Canadian foreign investment and foreign investment into Canada where there is a direct link to Canadian exports.

In addition, EDC will actively pursue opportunities to partner with commercial banks within club and syndicated financing facilities of select corporations across Asia and Oceania. The ASEAN market is of particular interest for EDC’s Singapore branch, with its fast growing economies and more than 625 million people.
“ASEAN is a dynamic region that is growing at a phenomenal rate, and growing ASEAN companies need capital to support their growth aspirations and trade focused business,” said Bill Brown, Regional Vice-President, Asia, EDC. “EDC offers Asian corporations a stable, global-scale financier with a long-term partnership horizon. Not only do we provide financing, but we can help your company reduce costs, be more productive, and more innovative by introducing Canadian technology and expertise.”

Mr. Brown is located in Singapore and will be responsible for all of EDC’s activities in the market. Singapore was chosen for EDC’s first global branch given its top ranking for ease of doing business, educated workforce and being Asia’s financial, commercial, and transportation center.

In the past five years, EDC helped facilitate nearly CAD 13 billion in business between companies based in ASEAN and Canada, through the entire range of its financial solutions.

Key sectors of interest for EDC in the ASEAN market are infrastructure (including energy and clean technology), extractives (mining, oil and gas), with additional interest in information and communications technology, light manufacturing, and transportation (automobile production, aerospace, and rail).
“Canada’s expertise in these sectors could spur greater trade between what ASEAN wants and what Canada is very good at providing,” said Mr. Brown. “The countries are a natural fit due to both having an abundance of natural resources spread out over a large geographical area.”

“EDC opening its first branch in Singapore will support Canada’s renewed push to increase bilateral trade and investment with ASEAN,” says Marie-Louise Hannan, Ambassador of Canada to ASEAN. “We see this new presence as a tremendous opportunity for Canadian and ASEAN companies to do more business together.”

“EDC’s decision to locate in Singapore also reflects the growing awareness by Canadian entities of the importance of this dynamic city-state as a regional hub,” added Lynn McDonald, High Commissioner of Canada to Singapore.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28759
 

CHINA'S HEALTHCARE MARKET TO SEE SURGE OF INVESTMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES IN NEXT 15 YEARS

SHANGHAI, March 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Last
October, the Chinese government approved a blueprint called “Healthy
China 2030”, pledging to build a healthy China in the next 15 years. By
2030, the size of the healthcare market is expected to reach $2.3
trillion. This initiative is in line with China’s determination to
deepen the supply-side structural reforms in 2017 by substantially
driving down overcapacity, and increasing efficient supply which call
for stricter standards in healthcare industry. The next 15 years will
see a surge of investment and changes in the industry.

Healthcare China 2017,
organized by Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions (RSE), is a platform for global
investors to discover more about the dynamics of healthcare business in
China. To be held on May 13-14, 2017, at the Pullman
Shanghai, the event will attract corporate leaders, government
regulators, influencers, researchers and entrepreneurs, focusing on
three main areas of investors’ interest—biomedical, medical devices, and
medical services.





CHINA'S HEALTHCARE MARKET TO SEE SURGE OF INVESTMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES IN NEXT 15 YEARS

CALL FOR ENTRIES ISSUED FOR FOURTEENTH INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Early-Bird Entry Deadline Is 12 April

FAIRFAX, Va., March 23 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Stevie® Awards have issued the call for entries for The 14th Annual International Business Awards, the world's premier business awards competition, which attracts nominations from organizations in more than 60 nations and territories each year.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8540ffb4-6337-429d-9f7c-3574f68f49c3
All individuals and organizations worldwide -- public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small -- may submit nominations to The International Business Awards. The early-bird entry deadline, with reduced entry fees, is 12 April. The final entry deadline is 10 May, and late entries will be accepted through 14 June with payment of a late fee. Entry details are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA.

An international judging panel of more than 150 executives will determine the Stevie Award winners. Results will be announced 10 August. Stevie Award winners will be presented their awards at a gala banquet at the W Hotel in Barcelona, Spain on 21 October.

The International Business Awards recognize achievement in every facet of the workplace. Categories include:

• Management Awards 
• Company of the Year Awards
• Customer Service Awards 
• Human Resources Awards 
• Information Technology Awards
• Marketing Awards 
• New Product Awards
• Public Relations Awards 
• Web Site Awards, Smartphone and Tablet App, and other media awards

Stevie Award winners in the 2016 IBAs included ABS-CBN Corporation (Philippines), BSES Yamuna Power Limited (India), Clickky (Ukraine), Dogus Group (Turkey), Dubai Statistics Center (United Arab Emirates), Forter (USA), Foundation Telefónica  (Spain), Freelancer.com (Australia), Itaú Unibanco Holding S.A. (Brazil), KEPCO Nuclear Fuel Company (South Korea), Mondelez International (United Kingdom), Ooredoo (Qatar), PJSC Aeroflot - Russian Airlines  (Russia), Polystar (Sweden), PRIZM (Hong Kong), QLess, Inc. (USA), RheinBrücke IT Consulting (Germany), Roshan (Afghanistan), SABC Pension Fund (South Africa), SUNNY SIDE UP, Inc. (Japan), Telkom Indonesia (Indonesia) and TELUS International (Canada), among many others.

About the Stevie Awards

Stevie Awards are conferred in seven programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service and the Stevie Awards for Great Employers. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 10,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 60 nations. The Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

SOURCE : The Stevie Awards

Contact:
Maggie Gallagher
+1 (703) 547-8389
Maggie@StevieAwards.com

SPEEDCAST OPENS PAPUA NEW GUINEA OFFICE

SYDNEY, March 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- SpeedCast International Ltd (ASX: SDA) has opened an office in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG), to support the company's growing customer base in the energy and enterprise markets. SpeedCast has been operating in the country for more than 10 years with an international gateway and self-sufficient standalone teleport, but this is its first office facility in PNG. The team includes 10 employees who focus on operations, engineering, sales and local support.

"Our new office in Papua New Guinea shows our commitment to investing in the country," said Pierre-Jean Beylier, CEO, SpeedCast. "We are pleased to employ local, highly skilled and trained workers that support our customers in the country."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28750

A.M. BEST UPGRADES ISSUER CREDIT RATING OF PARTNERS LIFE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, March 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has upgraded the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to "bbb " from "bbb" and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B (Good) of Partners Life Limited (Partners Life) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The rating actions reflect significant improvement in Partners Life's capital position, due to continued strong earnings and significant capital contribution. In addition, the NZD 200 million investment from the Blackstone Group has improved Partners Life's financial flexibility.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28747

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF ANSVAR INSURANCE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, March 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Ansvar Insurance Limited (Ansvar) (Australia). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Ansvar’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization and established business profile among Australia’s faith and care organizations. The ratings also acknowledge Ansvar’s low underwriting leverage, comprehensive reinsurance program and high-quality investment portfolio.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28757

MICHAEL KORS ACCESS EXPANDS WITH NEW SMARTWATCHES, NEW APPS, NEW FACES AND NEW MARKETS

LONDON, March 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Michael Kors (NYSE:KORS), a global luxury fashion brand, is pleased to announce a host of new products and initiatives designed to further the growth and excitement generated by last fall’s launch of MICHAEL KORS ACCESS, the brand’s line of smartwatches and activity trackers.

“It’s clear to me that the future of fashion will combine great design, personal style and innovative technology,” says Michael Kors, “and the amazing response to MICHAEL KORS ACCESS has confirmed that that future is now. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this next generation of smartwatches and hybrids.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28755

ULLINK LAUNCHES MIFID II TRADE REPORTING SOLUTION

Multi-asset solution will enable firms to comply with post-trade transparency rules set to come into force in 2018

LONDON, March 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Ullink, a global provider of electronic trading and connectivity solutions to the financial community, has launched its MiFID II compliant trade reporting solution to help its clients meet regulatory requirements for greater accuracy in reporting and timeliness of data collection.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28749

SPEEDCAST OPENS THE WORLD TO THE PEOPLE OF RURAL AFGHANISTAN BY PROVIDING SATELLITE AND OFF-GRID SMALL CELL COMMUNICATIONS SOLUTIONS

Successful Proof of Concept Leads to Long-term Collaboration Agreement for 200 Afghan Villages for Fully Managed End-to-End Small Cell Communications Solution

SYDNEY, March 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- SpeedCast International Limited (ASX:SDA), a leading global communications and network service provider, today announced that it is connecting residents in remote villages in Afghanistan through a partnership with one of the country's largest CDMA operators, Wasel Telecom. Connectivity is provided through a fully managed, off-grid small cell end-to-end solution that includes satellite communications, solar panels, base transceiver stations (BTS) and accompanying towers.

"The solution SpeedCast is providing here is making a difference in people’s lives," said PJ Beylier, CEO, SpeedCast. "We are enabling the rural population in Afghanistan to gain access to modern communications infrastructure so they can see the world with a new perspective. The arrangement has the potential to bring broadband, cellular services, e-health services, e-learning and telemedicine to the most remote areas of the globe."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28741

FUELCELL ENERGY AND KOREAN-BASED POSCO ENERGY ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC AGREEMENT TO GLOBALIZE THE STATIONARY FUEL CELL MARKET

• FuelCell Energy to commence market activities for Asian market development offering entire portfolio of SureSource^™ solutions
• POSCO Energy to support existing South Korean fuel cell installations and operate local manufacturing facility
• Parties expect to finalize detailed definitive agreements by fall 2017

DANBURY, Conn., March 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FuelCell Energy, Inc.  (Nasdaq:FCEL), a global leader in delivering clean, innovative and affordable fuel cell solutions for the supply, recovery and storage of energy, today announced a memorandum of understanding with partner POSCO Energy to use an existing FuelCell Energy subsidiary to directly develop the Asian fuel cell business for the purpose of expanding Asian market opportunities.  Under this agreement, FuelCell Energy will immediately commence marketing the entire suite of SureSource^™ solutions in Korea as well as the broader Asian markets for the supply, recovery and storage of energy.  POSCO Energy will continue to service the existing installed base of fuel cell plants in South Korea and will commit to a specified level of module purchases from FuelCell Energy to supplement its own local manufacturing for servicing their existing fleet.  Definitive agreements are expected to be finalized by fall 2017 subject to completion of due diligence, regulatory approvals, and customary closing conditions.

 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28740

LE CORDON BLEU JAPAN LAUNCHES JAPANESE CUISINE DIPLOMA, COMMENCES RECRUITMENT FOR 2017 AUTUMN TERM

TOKYO, March 21 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- In response to the increased international market growth in Japanese cuisine since the UNESCO recognition of 'washoku' as an intangible cultural heritage, Le Cordon Bleu Japan is launching a Japanese cuisine diploma program. As a global leader in culinary and hospitality education, with a network of more than 35 institutions in over 20 countries, Le Cordon Bleu has drawn upon over 120 years of expertise to create this new program.

(Image: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201703159946/?images)

This 4-level program covers a comprehensive range of topics to provide students with a full range of skills and knowledge relating to authentic Japanese cuisine. Students will embark on a journey to discover a whole new world of technical skills, cooking methodologies, specialist ingredients, equipment and tableware applied to over 200 recipes in traditional, regional and modern Japanese cuisine.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28730

3D SYSTEMS' NEW DENTAL MANUFACTURING PLATFORM ACCELERATES SHIFT TO DIGITAL

Revolutionary Figure 4 platform combined with NextDent materials delivers disruptive total cost of operations from chair-side to labs

CHICAGO, March 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) today unveiled a next-generation additive manufacturing platform, based on the company's Figure 4 technology and NextDent materials, that delivers better, faster and more predictable patient treatments with disruptive total cost of operations that can revolutionize the multibillion-dollar dental industry.

The company expects the new platform will be able to achieve improvements of up to 10 times in total cost of operations, along with significantly reduced fabrication times and far less material waste.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28726

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO HOSTS EXHIBITION OF SPECTACULAR IKEBANA FLOWER ARRANGEMENT BY ARTIST HIROKI MAENO

Decorating Lobby with Beautiful "Sakura" Cherry Blossoms

TOKYO, March 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo, one of Japan's most prestigious international hotels located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will host a special exhibition of "Ikebana" flower arrangement created by the renowned artist Hiroki Maeno from April 1 to 16, 2017. A large 2.7 by 5 meter flower arrangement lavishly adorned with some 200 beautiful "sakura" cherry blossom branches, which are one of the most symbolically important representatives of the Japanese aesthetic beauty during the spring, will be displayed in the third floor main lobby area for hotel guests to enjoy free of charge.

The artist Hiroki Maeno will also provide two Ikebana flower arrangement workshops held on April 6 from 4:00p.m. and 6:30p.m. in front of his beautiful arrangement. Guests will be able to view these workshops as they will be held in the lobby area.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28721

AMENDED SUMMARY NOTICE OF PROPOSED SETTLEMENT OF THE ALTAIR NANOTECHNOLOGIES, INC. SHAREHOLDER DERIVATIVE LITIGATION

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

In re Altair Nanotechnologies Shareholder Derivative Litigation CASE NO.: 14-CV-09418-TPG-HBP

RENO, Nev., March 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PLEASE BE ADVISED that Plaintiffs and the Settling Defendants have reached a settlement (the “Settlement”) to resolve the issues raised in the above-captioned consolidated derivative action (“Action”) (capitalized terms are defined in the Stipulation of Settlement dated July 22, 2016, and Amendment No. 1 to the Stipulation, dated January 18, 2017 (collectively, the “Settlement Stipulation”)).

PLEASE BE FURTHER ADVISED that pursuant to an Order of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”), a hearing (the “Settlement Hearing”) will be held before the Honorable Thomas P. Griesa in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, 500 Pearl Street, Courtroom 26B, New York, New York 10007, at 2:00 p.m. on August 10, 2017, to determine whether (i) the proposed settlement should be approved by the Court as fair, reasonable, adequate, and in the best interests of Altair Nanotechnologies, Inc. (“Altair” or the “Company”) and Altair shareholders; (ii) the Action should be dismissed with prejudice and all Released Claims against the Released Persons should be released and extinguished; (iii) the Court should award attorneys’ fees and expenses to Plaintiffs’ Counsel and incentive awards to Plaintiffs; and (iv) to consider such other matters as may properly come before the Court. The Settlement Hearing may be continued by the Court at the Settlement Hearing, or at any adjourned session thereof without further notice.  The Action and Settlement address claims alleging that certain current and former directors and officers of Altair breached their fiduciary duties by failing to implement and/or maintain adequate internal controls over the Company’s operations and disclosures, by making or approving false statements to the Company’s shareholders, by grossly mismanaging the Company, and by wasting Altair’s assets by causing the Company to incur significant potential liability for legal costs, penalties, fines and/or legal fees in connection with the defense of the Individual Defendants’ unlawful course of conduct. The Action further alleges that certain Defendants were unjustly enriched at the Company’s expense. The Settling Defendants deny and continue to deny all allegations of wrongdoing and deny that Defendants have any liability on the claims asserted in the Action.

As part of the Settlement, Altair has agreed to adopt and/or maintain certain corporate governance reforms as set forth in the Settlement Stipulation. The terms and conditions of the proposed Settlement are set forth in the Settlement Stipulation and Addendum thereto. The Settlement Stipulation and amended Exhibits thereto have been filed with the Court.

Plaintiffs’ Counsel will request Court approval of the agreed upon attorneys’ fees and expenses in an amount not to exceed $150,000, which shall include all attorneys’ fees and costs that may be due any counsel (or anyone else) who has asserted, or participated in the assertion of, derivative claims on behalf of Altair in any court. Any award of fees and expenses will be paid by the Company (or its insurer on its behalf). To date, Plaintiffs’ Counsel have neither received any payment for their services in conducting the Action, nor have counsel been reimbursed for their out-of-pocket expenses incurred. Plaintiffs will also seek Court approval of an incentive payment of up to $1,500 each for their participation and efforts in the Action. This Incentive Amount shall be paid from the attorneys’ fees and expenses awarded by the Court. If the Settlement is approved, the Action will be dismissed with prejudice and the Defendants will be released by Plaintiffs, Altair, and its shareholders from all claims that were or could have been alleged in the Action.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28716

ZEROSTACK OPENS ASIA/PACIFIC REGION WITH M5 TECHNOLOGIES

Singapore region positioned for strong private cloud growth

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., March 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- ZeroStack, Inc., the leader in making self-driving private cloud affordable for all companies, today announced that it has signed a reseller agreement with M5 Technologies, an IT infrastructure expert headquartered in Singapore, adept at both traditional and cutting edge technologies, with activities currently spanning and increasing across Asia South.

"Our region is going through a rapid economic shift to cloud services, requiring on-premises options that can also be integrated with local hosting, managed services providers and public cloud providers," said Joel Norton, ZeroStack's Regional Manager Asia South at M5 Technologies and assigned to positioning ZeroStack's cloud platform. "This service delivery landscape is an ideal opportunity for M5 to position ZeroStack's leading integrated solutions as fundamental and foundational to a business' digital transformation."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28717

JNTO LAUNCHES "JAPAN INCENTIVES" WEBSITE IN 4 LANGUAGES TO SHOWCASE JAPAN'S APPEAL AS MICE DESTINATION

TOKYO, March 21 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- The Japan National Tourism Organization's (JNTO) has launched a specialized website for Japan incentives, featuring information on incentives in the country. The incentives site is hosted within JNTO's Japan MEETINGS & INCENTIVES website for promoting MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions/events).

(Image: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201703169999/?images)

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28733

TOMI ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, INC. COMPLETES $5.3 MILLION PRIVATE PLACEMENT FUNDING LED BY INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS BASED IN HONG KONG

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., March 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TOMI Environmental Solutions, Inc. (“TOMI”) (OTCQX:TOMZ), a global decontamination and infection prevention company that specializes in disinfection/decontamination sales and services, including the manufacturing, sale and licensing of its SteraMist^™, a hydrogen peroxide-based mist/fog that is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), announced today that it raised gross proceeds of $5.3 million in a private placement transaction (the “Financing”). TOMI will use the proceeds from the Financing for research and development, international product registration, expansion of its internal sales force, marketing, public relations, expansions of its EPA label and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28723

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF STARR PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE (CHINA) COMPANY, LIMITED

HONG KONG, March 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a" of Starr Property & Casualty Insurance (China) Company, Limited (Starr China) (China). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The rating affirmations reflect Starr China's supportive risk-adjusted capitalization under a strengthened surplus position, and an improved operating expense ratio. In addition, Starr China receives business and operational support from Starr International Company, Inc. (SICO) and its insurance subsidiaries, as well as a capital commitment from Starr Insurance & Reinsurance Limited (SIRL), a company within SICO that is a 20% shareholder of Starr China. Starr China also assumes overseas treaty business ceded from the group, which has accounted for a substantial portion of the company's total gross premiums written since 2015.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28706

SUNWAY MEDICAL CENTRE LAUNCHES 'IORT' TO FIGHT CANCER

     

KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 (Bernama) -- The Sunway Medical Centre (SunMed), a

leader in Cancer treatment and care recently launched the Intraoperative

Radiation Therapy System (IORT), an innovative tool in fighting against cancer.

SunMed in a statement today stated the launch of IORT treatment was an

initiative to provide the quality of patient-centered coordinated care for those

undergoing cancer treatment and therapy in Malaysia.

The breakthrough method allows patients to undergo a one-time radiaton

treatment, which is delivered in a single, targeted dose during surgery itself,

and unlike standard radiation treatment as little damage as possible to normal

tissue around where the tumor used to be.

"Despite recent advances, there remains an urgent need for innovative and

effective treatment options for cancer patients in Malaysia. With IORT, SunMed

hopes to provide the patients cutting edge treatment options coupled with expert

services," the statement said.

The statement said the IORT was meant to put less stress on patients'

skin and organs while giving them peace of mind that they could complete

treatment as quickly as possible and return to the family and daily life.

    -- BERNAMA