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Polyplastics to Launch 40% Glass-filled Recycled DURAFIDE (R) PPS Based on New Post-industrial Recycling System

TOKYO, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Polyplastics Co., Ltd., a global leader in engineering plastics, has announced plans to launch a 40% glass-reinforced grade of DURAFIDE (R) rG-PPS by December 2025 as part of its mechanical recycling business. The company will develop high-quality optimum formulations which will play a role in helping achieve 100% circularity of engineering plastics by expanding the applications of mechanically recycled materials.

Image 1:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M100475/202501273390/_prw_PI1fl_7aNCSs3M.png

Image 2:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M100475/202501273390/_prw_PI2fl_WiyBt3F5.jpg

The first iteration of Polyplastics’ mechanical recycling business calls for collection of glass-reinforced PPS scrap from customers through an open mechanical recycling scheme known as post-industrial recycling (PIR). The PPS scrap will be used as a raw material to make DURAFIDE (R) rG-PPS, which will be launched this year. In initial processes, strict acceptance inspections will be conducted and metal will be removed. In later processes, recycled materials and some virgin materials will be reformulated to meet target specifications. The materials will undergo the same quality standards as those of virgin materials.

The open PIR scheme will help customers reduce and effectively use waste and also significantly reduce carbon emissions for their products. For now, the raw material from customers will be specific grades of DURAFIDE (R) glass-reinforced PPS.

Image 3:
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Polyplastics will develop a higher glass-filled grade as the second iteration of DURAFIDE (R) rG-PPS. The company will establish a system to supply that grade and the 40% glass-reinforced grade to customers in Japan. The re-compounding business and institution of the open PIR system require applications as well as establishment of collection routes. The company seeks to collaborate with its customers as well as companies in the recycling and industrial waste treatment industry.

In the future, Polyplastics will build a “local production for local consumption” recycling chain within each geographic region.

Please also visit: https://www.polyplastics-global.com/en/approach/34.html

About Polyplastics: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202501273390-O1-iofr817N.pdf

DURAFIDE (R) is a registered trademark of Polyplastics Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries.

China Medical University and Healthcare System Pioneers AI-Driven Drug Discovery and Allogeneic CAR-T Therapy: A Groundbreaking Leap in Cancer Treatment

TAICHUNG, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Healthcare Expo Taiwan is a professional-oriented exposition involving healthcare, information/communication, technology, biopharmaceutical and medical device industries. Attended by healthcare professionals from all over the world, the Expo showcases the latest developments and trends in healthcare technology in Taiwan. China Medical University (CMU) and Healthcare System unveiled groundbreaking advancements in AI-driven drug discovery and cancer therapy at the latest 8th Healthcare Expo. These achievements cement CMU and Healthcare System’s position as a global leader in healthcare innovation, setting new benchmarks for the biomedical industry.

CMU and Healthcare System (Taiwan) highlights groundbreaking AI-driven drug discovery and unveils the latest advancements in healthcare innovations and their clinical applications.
CMU and Healthcare System (Taiwan) highlights groundbreaking AI-driven drug discovery and unveils the latest advancements in healthcare innovations and their clinical applications.

Dr. Chang-Hai Tsai, Chairman of CMU and Healthcare System, emphasized the institution’s commitment to cutting-edge research and international collaboration. By partnering with Kyoto University, CMU and Healthcare System has established a global research center to spearhead advancements in cancer research, regenerative medicine, and AI-powered drug discovery.

A Milestone in Cancer Therapy: Allogeneic CAR-T Achieves 90% Tumor Reduction

CMU and Healthcare System revealed the world’s first allogeneic CAR-T therapy for solid cancers, developed by Ever Supreme Bio Technology. This therapy has demonstrated an unprecedented tumor reduction rate of over 90% in pre-clinical studies. Human clinical trials are underway, with FDA approval marking a pivotal moment in solid tumor treatment.

Precision Medicine Breakthroughs: Exosome Technology and AI Integration

Shine-On Biomedical and Shine Out Bio Technology are revolutionizing precision medicine through exosome technology. Their innovations include:

  • SOA101 Trispecific Antibody: A nanobody-based platform combining two immune checkpoint inhibitors, now in FDA-reviewed Phase I/IIa trials for cancer therapy.
  • SOB100 HLA-G Targeted Exosome: Delivering drugs with pinpoint precision to tumors, this platform enhances efficacy while minimizing side effects.

Human clinical trials for these technologies are set to begin in 2025, promising to transform cancer and neurodegenerative disease treatments.

AI-Powered Healthcare Solutions

CMU and Healthcare System’s AI-driven initiatives include:

  • Child Growth Assessment System: AI generates detailed diagnostic reports for personalized treatment planning.
  • HiThings Tele-ICU: This state-of-the-art system integrates real-time patient data with 3D modeling for enhanced critical care management.
  • Smart Health Scheduling: AI optimizes health examination processes to streamline care delivery.
  • Computer-assisted detection platform for Tc-99mTRODAT-1: AI analyzes brain images and visual scales to assist in diagnosing central nervous system motor disorders.
  • Long Term Care Record System and Medical Information Revise Assistant (MIRA): Enhances medical record accuracy and efficiency, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on patient care.

Specialized Healthcare Innovations

CMUH continues to lead in cutting-edge treatments:

  • MRgFUS for Parkinson’s Disease: A non-invasive, MRI-guided therapy offering new hope for patients.
  • Proton Therapy Center: Delivering precision cancer treatments with reduced side effects.
  • Gout Risk Prediction: Genetic testing for tailored patient management.

Global Collaboration with Kyoto University

The newly established CMU-Kyoto University Global Research Center strengthens ties in cancer research, translational medicine, and regenerative therapies. As part of this initiative, CMU Research Park integrates academic and industrial expertise to drive groundbreaking developments from laboratory research to clinical applications.

Advancing Healthcare Through Innovation

Dr. Der-Yang Cho, Superintendent of CMUH, highlighted AI’s transformative role in drug discovery and clinical applications. CMU and Healthcare System remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation, bridging AI, biotechnology, and clinical practice to redefine the future of medicine.

CMU and Healthcare System’s pioneering work at the Healthcare Expo Taiwan underscores Taiwan’s growing influence in global healthcare. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, CMU and Healthcare System is not just shaping the future of medicine—it’s leading it.

Contact
Carolyn Chen
100709@tool.caaumed.org.tw

No Answers: Families of Vang Vieng Methanol Poisoning Victims Demand Transparency from Lao Government

Family in Disbelief as 19 Years Old Holly Bowles Remains on Life Support in Thailand After Apparent Laos Methanol Poisoning
Holly Bowell (left) and Bianca Jones (right) who reportedly fell victim to tainted cocktails (photo credit: Facebook)

Families of victims who died from methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng, Laos, in November 2024 have voiced frustration over what they describe as a lack of communication and action from the Lao government, foreign media reported on 2 February.

MOGUL.sg launches MAIA – Singapore’s first virtual property agent, built using Google Cloud AI, that puts the power of AI into the homebuyer’s hands for free

  • The web app lets homebuyers save on buyer agent commissions while MAIA’s automated features help find ideal homes faster and easier. The service is free for homebuyers.
  • MAIA searches over 100,000 concurrent property listings across Singapore’s major property portals, including PropertyGuru.com.sg, 99.co and MOGUL.sg
  • After users choose their favourite listings, MAIA then autonomously creates individual WhatsApp chats with each listed contact.
  • Built using Google’s Vertex AI platform and Gemini models, MAIA uses cutting-edge natural language processing to converse with sellers or their agents to schedule viewing appointments on behalf of the buyer. MAIA even understands Singlish and common emojis.
  • Sellers or their agents pay MOGUL.sg a 0.2% referral fee only upon a successful sale, significantly lower than the typical 1% co-broking fees charged by buyer’s agents.

SINGAPORE, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Homebuyers in Singapore face a tedious and time-consuming process when searching for a new home. They need to visit multiple property portals, manually track their favourite listings, make tons of calls to sellers’ agents to fix viewing appointments and struggle with unresponsive listing agents.

MAIA: MOGUL.sg's AI Agent
MAIA: MOGUL.sg’s AI Agent

This inefficient system frustrates buyers, who end up employing their own agents, often adding to their costs through agent commissions. Traditionally, buyers pay around 1% commission to their agents for HDBs, who are now urging buyers to also pay the same 1% commission[1] for private property sales, when it was previously free for buyers.

Currently, for private property sale transactions, buyer agents have to negotiate with seller agents for their share of the commission through co-broking since buyers do not pay commission to the agents representing them.

Having an agent doesn’t guarantee a smooth experience as they can run into unfriendly seller agents[2] who stonewall to avoid splitting their commission with the buyer’s agent.

MAIA revolutionises homebuying – from messy to easy

Homegrown property search portal MOGUL.sg now has a game-changing solution for homebuyers. MAIA (MOGUL.sg Artificial Intelligence Agent) is Singapore’s first AI property agent, a web app designed to streamline the search for the perfect home and simplify appointment scheduling with seller agents.

The web-based platform aggregates over 100,000 property listings from major Singaporean real estate portals, including PropertyGuru.com.sg, 99.co, and MOGUL.sg, and lets users easily keep track of their favourites, saving hours from navigating multiple websites.

MAIA: Search Filters
MAIA: Search Filters

 

MAIA: Home Listings
MAIA: Home Listings

 

MAIA: Shortlisted Homes, Autonomous AI Scheduling
MAIA: Shortlisted Homes, Autonomous AI Scheduling

Gerald Sim, CEO and Co-Founder of MOGUL.sg, said, “MAIA is the homebuyer’s best friend — a smarter way to search, schedule and secure your next home.”

“By combining Google’s cutting-edge Gemini models with our deep knowledge of the property buying process, we aim to transform homebuying from messy to easy,” he added.

Serene Sia, Country Director, Malaysia and Singapore, Google Cloud, said, “Google Cloud is committed to providing the industry’s most enterprise-ready AI platform to help organisations embrace the full potential of generative AI. By utilising Google Cloud’s Vertex AI platform and the agentic capabilities of Google’s Gemini models to build and launch MAIA, MOGUL.sg is re-imagining home buyers’ property search experience across touchpoints. We are proud to collaborate with them on their innovation journey.”

MAIA also eliminates the hassle of manually coordinating viewings with multiple sellers or selling agents. Built using Google’s Vertex AI platform and Gemini models, MAIA converses naturally with sellers or their agents via individual WhatsApp chats to propose and confirm viewing appointments on behalf of buyers.

Once a viewing is confirmed, MAIA sends a calendar invite and connects buyers directly to the seller or their agents, transforming a traditionally tedious property search into a hassle-free experience.

A win-win situation for buyers and sellers

Seller’s agents only need to pay a referral fee of 0.2% when completing a sale through MAIA instead of the usual 1% co-broking fee with a buyer agent, creating a win-win situation for homebuyers and seller’s property agents. This helps to address the issue of agents trying to avoid sharing co-broking commissions[3].

MAIA delivers direct leads to property agents without additional listing fees – allowing them to focus on closing deals – and replies to messages immediately, reducing friction during the process of arranging for viewing appointments.

PropertyLimBrothers, one of Singapore’s leading real estate agencies, has partnered with MOGUL.sg to harness MAIA’s innovative AI capabilities. They recognise the platform as a beneficial tool for buyers and sellers that improves transparency and saves time. By integrating MAIA into its operations, PropertyLimBrothers aims to support its agents with better tools and resources to drive sales leads and improve administrative efficiency.

“MAIA is a homebuying revolution. Buyers enjoy a simpler, stress-free journey and connect directly with sellers or selling agents to save time on their viewing arrangements through MAIA AI’s capabilities and chat functions. It’s a win-win for everyone. MAIA also creates opportunities for PLB listing agents to build direct relationships with buyers, increasing chances of us building more value for them for their home buying journey,” said Melvin Lim, CEO of PropertyLimBrothers.

Gerald Sim said, “We’re on the cusp of a revolution in property buying, much like the travel industry’s evolution from phone bookings to travel agents and AI-powered aggregators. MOGUL.sg aims to be the ultimate homebuying aggregator like Online Travel Agents (OTAs) are to hotel bookings, and drive Singapore to the global forefront of this exciting transformation.”

Explore MAIA at https://www.mogul.sg/maia-homesearch and experience the future of homebuying.

About MOGUL.sg

Founded in 2019, MOGUL.sg is a trailblazing real estate platform in Singapore, using geospatial technology, 3D maps, and AI to disrupt traditional property processes. It offers instant property valuations and mortgage calculations. MOGUL.sg simplifies the buying, renting, and selling process with virtual tours and interactive data, making real estate transactions faster, cost-effective, and more efficient.

For more information about MOGUL.sg and its new AI-powered platform, please contact:

Goh Wu Chong (On behalf of MOGUL.sg)
Senior Account Manager, Gloo PR
wuchong@gloopr.biz
9387 8407

Chris Lau        
Head of Marketing, MOGUL.sg
marketing@mogul.sg

Harbour BioMed Receives NMPA IND Clearance for HBM9378/SKB378 in the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., ROTTERDAM, Netherlands and SHANGHAI, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142, the “Company”), a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel antibody therapeutics focusing on immune-oncology and immunology, today announced that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China has approved the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for HBM9378/SKB378 (also known as WIN378), a fully human antibody targeting thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is a progressive respiratory condition with major complications, including cardiovascular risk, respiratory failure, and lung cancer. The disease imposes a significant and growing burden both in terms of healthcare costs and societal impact. There is an urgent need for new therapeutic options to alleviate the daily suffering of COPD patients and improve their quality of life.

TSLP plays a critical role in triggering airway inflammation by activating immune responses that contribute to COPD progression. HBM9378/SKB378 is designed to inhibit the TSLP-mediated signaling pathway, aiming to reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function in patients with COPD.

“This regulatory clearance from the NMPA marks an important milestone in advancing our efforts to address significant unmet needs in immunological diseases,” said Dr. Jingsong Wang, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Harbour BioMed. “HBM9378/SKB378 represents a potential best-in-class, long-acting TSLP antibody with exceptional biophysical properties. We will continue exploring its therapeutic potential to benefit patients worldwide.”

On January 10, 2025, Harbour BioMed and Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Kelun-Biotech”) entered into a global licensing agreement (excluding Greater China and select Southeast and West Asian countries) with Windward Bio for HBM9378/SKB378. Under the terms of the agreement, Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech are eligible to receive $45 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments, including both cash and equity interest in Windward Bio’s parent company. The total potential deal value, including upfront and milestone payments, could reach up to $970 million, in addition to tiered royalties ranging from single to double digits on net sales.

About HBM9378/SKB378

HBM9378/SKB378 (also known as WIN378) is a co-development project jointly conducted by Harbour BioMed and Kelun-Biotech, with both parties equally sharing its rights in Greater China and several Southeast and West Asian countries. It is a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting TSLP, generated from the two heavy chains and two light chains (H2L2) Harbour Mice® platform. It inhibits the TSLP-mediated signaling pathway by blocking the interaction between TSLP and its receptor, which is a well-validated cytokine plays a key role in the development and progression of various immunological conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Inhibition of this pathway has shown benefits across multiple inflammatory phenotypes. The antibody’s long half-life optimization and outstanding biophysical properties provide a favorable dosing advantage.

Currently, Harbour BioMed has completed a phase I clinical trial in China under an IND for the treatment of moderate-to-severe asthma. A phase II clinical trial for this indication is set to begin soon.

About Harbour BioMed

Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142) is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel antibody therapeutics focusing on immunology and oncology. The Company is building its robust portfolio and differentiated pipeline through internal R&D capability, collaborations with co-discovery and co-development partners, and select acquisitions.

The proprietary antibody technology platform Harbour Mice® generates fully human monoclonal antibodies in two heavy and two light chains (H2L2) format, as well as heavy chain only (HCAb) format. Building upon the HCAb antibodies, the HCAb-based immune cell engagers (HBICE®) bispecific antibody technology is capable of delivering tumor-killing effects unachievable by traditional combination therapies. Integrating Harbour Mice®, and HBICE® with a single B cell cloning platform, our antibody discovery engine is highly unique and efficient for the development of next-generation therapeutic antibodies. For further information, please refer to www.harbourbiomed.com.

Fujitsu to highlight AI-powered network technologies at MWC Barcelona 2025

Use case demonstrations will show how Fujitsu AI and network technologies can contribute to a more sustainable and connected future

KAWASAKI, Japan, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fujitsu Limited today announces its participation in Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2025 (MWC25). Under the theme “Boundless Potential,” Fujitsu will unveil its latest advancements in network technologies and enterprise solutions, and highlight how AI is revolutionizing networks and driving business transformation.

At booth 2G60 (Hall 2), Fujitsu will offer visitors interactive demonstrations of AI-enhanced network infrastructure, including solutions for optimizing 5G and optical networks, showcasing improved resource allocation and reduced latency. Attendees will see innovative AI applications in action, such as AI agents improving efficiency in manufacturing and IT operations and an ocean digital twin utilizing AI and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for environmental monitoring and predictive maintenance of marine infrastructure. Fujitsu will also highlight the high-performance, energy-efficient processor FUJITSU-MONAKA (1), showcasing its capabilities in accelerating AI workloads and reducing power consumption.

Customer use cases and demonstrations will illustrate how Fujitsu’s solutions are already contributing to sustainability transformation (SX) by optimizing supply chains, enhancing resilience, and driving operational efficiency across various sectors.

For more information, or to arrange an interview or tour of the Fujitsu booth, please contact us below or visit MWC Barcelona 2025 Fujitsu Website.

Overview of MWC Barcelona 2025 and Fujitsu booth

  • Date: Monday, March 3, 2025 to Thursday, March 6, 2025
  • Venue: Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain
  • Fujitsu booth: 2G60 (Hall 2)
[1] FUJITSU-MONAKA :
This is based on results obtained from a project subsidized by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

For full release click here
https://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/2025/0205-01.html

JDSS Elevates Wine Culture in Thailand with Exclusive New Offerings

BANGKOK, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — JDSS, a premier wine and spirits import and distribution company in Asia, proudly announces its exclusive distribution agreements with several prominent wine brands.

Effective immediately, JDSS will manage all exclusive distribution and marketing activities of specially selected wines from over eight renowned wine brands, which include Ridolfi Montalcino, Mendel Wines, Amelia Park Wines and Casa E. Di Mirafiore, Quinta das Marias, Santos & Seixo Wines, Bodegas Bodem, Luis Felipe Edwards, in select regions in Thailand.

JDSS’s latest lineup includes a diverse selection of wines deeply rooted in tradition. This collection features premium varieties from the esteemed Margaret River region in Western Australia, such as Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Cabernet Merlot. Additionally, it showcases classified growths from Bordeaux’s Left Bank and wines from the Right Bank’s Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The lineup also highlights varietals from the Loire Valley, one of the world’s most renowned wine-producing areas in central France, among other offerings.

The distribution will enhance the availability of these wines in the provinces of Thailand. JDSS is collaborating with wholesalers to make it more convenient for consumers to access its wines, ensuring efficient after-sales services and fast delivery.

JDSS is dedicated to represent iconic wine brands from world-renowned wine regions while enhancing consumer understanding of traditional and modern winemaking practices and distinguished vineyards and wineries.

“Wines are beginning to capture the attention of affluent consumers in Thailand, where drinking is commonplace. There already are clear signals of the incredible potential for wines to be seen as a highly cherished possession and to be shared exclusively with family and friends on special occasions in this country,” said James Ong, founder of JDSS. “We understand the wine market in Thailand, and the exclusive distribution agreements reflect our dedication and excitement in bringing the best wines worldwide and nurturing a lively, sophisticated wine culture right here.”

A key factor in the success of JDSS is its leadership team, led by seasoned entrepreneur James Ong. With over 30 years of experience in the wines, spirits, and alcohol industry, Ong boasts an impressive track record of providing exceptional service and high-quality wines to clients. Previously, he has managed wine sales teams and shared his extensive wine knowledge with enthusiasts across Asia. Understanding the evolving taste preferences of consumers and the demand for wine in the region, he founded JDSS in 2024 and currently oversees its day-to-day operations.

Also part of the team is Thanit Apipatana, a Bangkok-based entrepreneur and strategic advisor who provides counsel on the business sales and go-to-market strategies in Thailand.

“When we evaluated Thailand to determine its viability as a market, we noticed that people possessed different stages of understanding about these wines but were eager to learn more. Interestingly, we also identified a market segment deeply attuned to the aromatic complexities of different wine classifications,” said Apipatana. “In this dazzlingly diverse market, we feel privileged to showcase some of the best wines in the world and elevate them to the status they deserve in Thailand.”

Customers can contact JDSS to explore its extensive selection of wines specially catered for F&B professionals, corporate events, wedding banquets, private tasting sessions and celebrating their special occasions.

About JDSS

JDSS is an importer and marketer of the world’s finest wines, spirits, sakes and whiskeys based in Thailand. Led by seasoned wine veteran James Ong, JDSS is constantly refining the drinking experience and expanding its wine offerings and services to stay ahead of changing consumer preferences. For enquiries about JDSS, please send it via the JDSS Line application at https://line.me/ti/p/J2FYSuH1u2.

AgiBot Establishes Robotics and AI Solutions Enterprise in Kazakhstan

SHANGHAI, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AgiBot, a Leader in AI and Robotics Integration, is to establish a Robotics and AI Solutions Enterprise in Kazakhstan.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Minister of Digital Development and Aerospace Industry, Zhaslan Madiev, and the leadership of AgiBot, ewpartners, and Qazaqstan Investment Corporation at the annual Digital Almaty 2025 forum. As part of this partnership, AgiBot plans to establish a joint venture in Kazakhstan for the production and implementation of robotics and AI solutions.


Founded in February 2023, AgiBot specializes in the development and production of general-purpose humanoid robots. The company is actively advancing AI and robotics technologies, creating robots for a wide range of applications—from industrial to household tasks. As of December 2024, the number of robots produced at AgiBot’s Shanghai facility had reached 1,000 units.

Notably, Kazakhstan has been chosen as the first country in the region for localizing production and further exporting these technologies. As part of the partnership, AgiBot, together with the Ministry of Digital Development and Aerospace Industry, plans to launch a “data factory” for training robots and robotic systems.

“A partnership with such an advanced company as AgiBot marks an important milestone in the development of the robotics industry. It is particularly significant that our collaboration includes the localization of robot production in Kazakhstan. This will not only allow us to launch an enterprise in one of the most promising sectors of mechanical engineering but also to enhance our expertise and create a national center of excellence in robotics,” emphasized Zhaslan Madiev, Minister of Digital Development and Aerospace Industry.

The joint initiative is considered to be financed with the participation of private equity fund ewpartners and Qazaqstan Investment Corporation.

In the near future, a joint R&D center and an exhibition of AgiBot’s prototype robots are expected to be set up at the Alem AI International Center for Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, the company plans to collaborate with Kazakhstani universities to launch joint research projects and train students in robot assembly.