28.4 C
Vientiane
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 490

Reducing Plastic Waste in North America: APP Group and Charta Global Paper Straws Lead Sustainable Packaging Efforts

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Paper straws have become almost omnipresent in restaurants, bars, and fast food outlets as the hospitality industry has rushed to abandon plastic in response to consumer backlash. According to Data Intelligence, the drinking straw market in North America itself was valued at USD 3,208.44 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.26% to reach USD 5,099.80 million by 2031.

Although plastic straw is still used by millions of people in the US, paper straw has been a common alternative to combat plastic waste, with the paper straw market significantly increasing over the years. U.S. citizens consider environmental sustainability important when making purchasing decisions. This shift in consumer sentiment is fostering greater demand for sustainable products like paper straws.

Despite paper straws having a positive impact on a greener environment, there are several challenges to using them compared to plastic straws. Some paper straws are found to contain PFA, which can harm the environment and tend to disintegrate after prolonged exposure to liquids, limiting their functional lifespan. To tackle these challenges, APP Group through its strategic partnership with Charta Global and Foopak Bio Natura has released a biodegradable and compostable paper straw that has received a plastic-free certification from Flustix since 2021. These straws are more durable, having excellent water resistance and other advantages such as being microwaveable and freezer friendly.

“A cornerstone of our sustainability efforts is the production of recyclable and biodegradable packaging. Unlike traditional plastic options, our paper-based products are crafted from renewable resources and are easily recyclable or compostable, helping to alleviate landfill waste.” stated Kin Keung Christopher Wong, Senior Vice President and Global Business Unit Head Industrial White at APP Group.

Together with APP Group, Charta Global’s tested biodegradable paper products are in line with sustainability trends and, more importantly, the government’s green initiatives in the U.S. Charta Global offers an extensive line of plastic-free, compostable paperboard and flexible grades for foodservice packaging.

About APP Group

APP is a leading pulp, paper, and forestry company based in Indonesia, supplying high-quality tissue, packaging, and paper to over 150 countries. With operations in Indonesia and China, we prioritize sustainability, ethical practices, and the well-being of our employees, society, and the environment. Our Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030, aligned with ESG principles, guides our efforts in environmental protection, community support, biodiversity preservation, and carbon neutrality.

 

Oregon State University President highlights AI, innovation, and global careers for Taiwanese students


TAIPEI, TAIWAN Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2025 – As Taiwan continues to rise as a global powerhouse in semiconductors, AI, and advanced computing, Oregon State University (OSU) President Professor Jayathi Y. Murthy has made a compelling case for Taiwanese students to pursue world-class education and global career opportunities at OSU.

The OSU delegation with alumni and newly admitted students in Taipei.
The OSU delegation with alumni and newly admitted students in Taipei.

Addressing OSU alumni, newly admitted students, and their families at an exclusive event organized by the OSU Foundation, Murthy emphasized OSU’s leadership in AI, robotics, semiconductors, and sustainability research, making it an ideal destination for Taiwanese students seeking world-class research opportunities and career prospects.

“We provide the research environment, industry connections, and global opportunities to prepare OSU students to play a leading role in shaping the future of technology and innovation,” said Murthy.

Founded in 1868, OSU is a premier Tier 1 research university, ranked among the top 1.4% of higher education institutions globally. With US$422 million in annual research expenditures and a goal to double that by 2030, OSU remains at the forefront of AI, advanced computing, semiconductors, and engineering research. It hosts the largest Computer Science program in the U.S. and world-renowned programs in engineering, robotics, AI, oceanography, and sustainability.

Home to nearly 38,000 students from over 100 countries, OSU has a growing international student population, including more than 230 students from Taiwan.

Murthy highlighted OSU’s interdisciplinary approach to tackling global challenges, stating: “Our faculty are at the forefront of research in AI and robotics, climate science, clean energy and biotechnology – areas that will define the future of technology and sustainability worldwide.”

OSU’s impact in AI, advanced computing, semiconductors and robotics is underscored by its partnerships with global tech leaders, such as Google, Intel, NVIDIA, Amazon, and Tesla.

Notably, NVIDIA Founder and CEO Jen-Hsun Huang, an OSU alumnus, and his wife Lori Mills Huang have made a transformative US$50 million philanthropic investment in the Jen-Hsun and Lori Mills Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex at OSU. Set to open in 2026, this state-of-the-art facility will house one of the most powerful supercomputers in the United States, supporting research in AI, climate science, sustainability, and beyond.

“The Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex will be a game-changer for AI and climate science research,” Murthy noted. “It will empower OSU students and faculty to push the boundaries of innovation.”

The event celebrated OSU alumni in Taiwan as well as newly admitted Taiwanese students who will soon embark on their academic journey at OSU. With parents in attendance, Murthy emphasized OSU’s student-centered approach, career-integrated education, and commitment to student success.

“Our priority is to provide every OSU student with a strong foundation for success,” she said. “From our ‘Beyond OSU’ career initiative to our strong industry connections, we are committed to equipping students with the skills, experience, and networks to thrive in their chosen fields.”

For more information, visit www.oregonstate.edu.
Hashtag: #studyabroad #OSU #internationalstudents #intled #Taiwan #AI #Robotics #technology


The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Akeso Highlights Collaboration Between Its Partner Summit Therapeutics and Pfizer to Explore Ivonescimab in Combination with Pfizer’s ADCs

HONG KONG, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) today announced that its partner on ivonescimab, Summit Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: SMMT) has entered into a clinical trial collaboration with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) to evaluate ivonescimab, a novel, investigational PD-1 / VEGF bispecific antibody, in combination with several of Pfizer’s antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) across multiple solid tumor settings.

“Rapidly developing novel mechanisms that go beyond what is currently available to patients and physicians is what we believe will make the most significant impact for those facing the greatest challenges from cancer today,” noted Bob Duggan and Dr. Maky Zanganeh, Summit’s Co-CEOs. “As we seek to accelerate the development of our potentially transformative ivonescimab across non-small cell lung cancer and other solid tumor settings, this collaboration will allow us to quickly advance beyond our promising late-stage development plan to evaluate ivonescimab in combination with some of the most innovative ADCs from Pfizer.”

The goal of the collaboration is to evaluate ivonescimab, in combination with several unique Pfizer ADCs across multiple solid tumor settings to accelerate the advancement of potentially landscape-changing combinations, which seek to improve the standards of care for patients facing serious unmet needs. Each study intends to evaluate ivonescimab plus one of Pfizer’s vedotin ADCs in individual, distinct solid tumor settings to determine the safety profile and potential anti-tumor activity of the combinations.

“We are excited to partner with Summit Therapeutics to explore the clinical synergy of our therapies,” said Megan O’Meara, M.D., Head, Oncology Early Stage Development, Pfizer. “Together, we are advancing the exploration of our ADCs in rational, differentiated combinations with a bispecific antibody designed to address the unique complexities of tumor biology. This collaboration represents the next wave of investigational targeted combinations with the potential to transform treatment options for people living with cancer.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Summit will provide ivonescimab for use in the proposed studies, and Pfizer will be responsible for conducting the operations of the studies. The studies will be overseen by both Summit and Pfizer. Both parties retain their respective rights to their products. The studies combining ivonescimab with Pfizer’s vedotin ADCs are planned to begin in the middle of this year. Further details on the clinical trials will be announced at a later date by Summit.

About Ivonescimab (AK112/SMT112)

Ivonescimab is a novel global first-in-class PD-1/VEGF bi-specific immunotherapy drug independently developed by Akeso. Ivonescimab is known as SMT112 in Summit Therapeutics’s license territories, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, Central America, South America, the Middle East and Africa. Ivonescimab was granted marketing approval by NMPA for the treatment of EGFR mutated locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous NSCLC patients who have progressed after EGFR TKI treatment. Currently, ivonescimab’s first indication has been approved in China, and Akeso is conducting 6 registrational trials versus anti-PD-1/L1 therapeutics. Akeso is also conducting multiple clinical trials of ivonescimab covering 17 indications including gastrointestinal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 23 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 11 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific antibody-drug conjugates). Additionally, 5 new drugs are commercially available, and 5 new drugs across 7 indications are currently under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin, and X (formerly Twitter).

dtcpay Launches the Digital Treasures Card for Frictionless Stablecoin-to-Fiat Spend

One Card. Infinite Possibilities

SINGAPORE, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — dtcpay, a leading digital payments solutions provider, is excited to announce the official launch of the Digital Treasures Card. The first-of-its-kind Visa Infinite card is designed to offer seamless, global spending with stablecoins, enabling users to effortlessly convert their stablecoins into fiat and use them for purchases at over 150 million merchant locations worldwide. By combining the power of Visa’s vast global network with the flexibility of stablecoins, dtcpay is reshaping the way businesses and consumers spend and interact with the world.

dtcpay Launches the Digital Treasures Visa Infinite Card for the UHNW
dtcpay Launches the Digital Treasures Visa Infinite Card for the UHNW

“Today, we are proud to introduce the Digital Treasures Card, a game-changer for those looking to effortlessly use their stablecoins in the real world,” said Alice Liu, CEO and Co-Founder of dtcpay. “With this card, users can now seamlessly convert and spend with stablecoins anywhere Visa is accepted, offering both security and convenience on a global scale. It’s a monumental step forward in our mission to deliver payments of tomorrow.”

What is the Digital Treasures Card?

More than just a payment card, the Digital Treasures Card is your passport to a seamless lifestyle, offering unparalleled access to world-class experiences and bespoke services. Crafted for those who demand the finest, it opens doors to a realm where luxury, convenience, and adventure seamlessly converge.

Key Features and Benefits

  1. Seamless Stablecoin-to-Fiat Conversion: Instantly convert your stablecoins into fiat and vice versa with the dtcpay Wallet app. The convenience of real-time, competitive exchange rates ensures that you’re always in control of your finances.
  2. Global Reach: Use the Digital Treasures Card at over 150 million Visa-accepting locations worldwide, in over 200 countries and territories. This gives you the freedom to make purchases, pay bills, or access services no matter where life takes you.
  3. Security and Reliability: As part of the Visa network, your transactions are protected by Visa’s advanced security infrastructure, offering peace of mind with every purchase.

Who is the Digital Treasures Card For?

The Digital Treasures Card is designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNW) who value the convenience of digital currencies and the security of traditional payment networks.

For individuals who want access to the flexibility of using digital currencies, the Digital Treasures Card opens the door to a wealth of possibilities. Whether you’re booking flights, paying for exclusive experiences, or simply making everyday purchases, the Digital Treasures Card allows you to do so effortlessly.

How to Apply for the Digital Treasures Card?

The Digital Treasures Card is now available on the dtcpay app. Eligible users will be able to apply for the card within the dtcpay app. Once successfully registered, they can begin managing their stablecoin-to-fiat conversions, and start using their card at millions of global merchants right away.

What’s Next for dtcpay

The launch of the Digital Treasures Card is just the beginning. As dtcpay continues to innovate and expand its services, the company aims to offer even more solutions to bridge the gap between digital payments and traditional finance. Through its partnership with Visa, dtcpay is paving the way for broader acceptance of digital currencies, ensuring that more businesses and individuals can participate in the digital economy with confidence.

“At dtcpay, our mission is to make digital payments as seamless and accessible as possible,” Alice Liu added. “The Digital Treasures Card is just one example of how we are bridging the worlds of Web3 and traditional finance. We’re excited to continue innovating and offering our users unparalleled experiences as we usher in the next generation of global payments.”

About dtcpay

dtcpay is a regulated Major Payment Institution (MPI) licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to conduct Digital Payment Token (DPT) services and other payment services under the Payment Services Act (PSA). As a leading provider of digital payment solutions, we pioneer the integration of stablecoin acceptance into traditional financial systems. With a vision to make global transactions seamless and sustainable, dtcpay empowers individuals and businesses to embrace the future of payments.

Learn more at dtcpay.com.

The Digital Treasures Card for stablecoin-to-fiat spend at 150 million Visa-acceptance locations worldwide
The Digital Treasures Card for stablecoin-to-fiat spend at 150 million Visa-acceptance locations worldwide

Pentera Announces Top Performing Channel Partner Awards

BOSTON, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pentera, the leader in Automated Security Validation, proudly announced the winners of its 2024 Pentera Partner Awards. The awards recognize business achievements by Pentera’s global partner network in driving cybersecurity resilience through continuous testing and validation.

Pentera’s Global Partner Program was launched in early 2024. With expanded enablement programs, enhanced resources, and a focus on delivering measurable business value, Pentera’s partners are highly equipped to help customers close security gaps before they are exploited.

“A strong channel is a force multiplier for any organization, and we are proud to recognize our top partners from 2024,” said Amitai Ratzon, CEO of Pentera. “As Pentera continues to grow its global business, we remain committed to investing in our channel ecosystem through training, resources, and co-marketing. Together we are shaping the security validation market, enabling organizations to shift from reactive to proactive security.”

The Pentera Partner Awards recognize partners for their exceptional contributions to advancing cybersecurity resilience through Automated Security Validation on both the organizational and individual level. Award recipients were evaluated based on the impact they delivered to mutual customers, their role in expanding Pentera’s market presence, and their commitment to promoting proactive security practices. The winners for 2024 are:

     Europe Award winners

  • Rising Star Partner of the Year – lmbit GmbH, Germany
  • Partner to Watch – NetNordic Sweden AB
  • Top Grossing Partner of the Year – Sertalink BV, Belgium
  • Largest Partner Win of the Year – Logicalis, Spain
  • Partner Sales Champion of the Year – Jesus Sanchez, Logicalis, Spain

     Americas Award winners

  • Rising Star Partner of the Year – Trace3, USA
  • Top Performing Partner – SHI International, USA
  • Top Performing Partner – LATAM- gB InfraGroup, Mexico
  • Partner Technical Champion of the Year – Robert Sweeney, Optiv Security, Inc., USA
  • Partner Sales Champion of the Year – Karen Prosser, GuidePoint Security LLC, USA

     APAC Award winners

  • Rising Star Partner of the Year – Nexus Technologies, Inc., Philippines
  • Top Grossing Partner of the Year – Tokyo Electron Device, LTD., Japan
  • Top Sales Duo of the Year (Sales & SE) – Coco Chiu and Ou Tian, ABPSecurite Pte, Ltd., Singapore

About Pentera

Pentera is the market leader in Automated Security Validation, empowering companies to proactively test all their cybersecurity controls against the latest cyber attacks. Pentera identifies true risk across the entire attack surface, guiding remediation to effectively reduce exposure. The company’s security validation capabilities are essential for Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) operations. Thousands of security professionals around the world trust Pentera to close security gaps before threat actors can exploit them.

For more information, visit: pentera.io

Media Contact
Noam Hirsch
Senior PR Manager
Noam.Hirsch@pentera.io

 

TOYO EATERY IN MANILA WINS THE GIN MARE ART OF HOSPITALITY AWARD AS PART OF ASIA’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS 2025

LONDON, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manila’s Toyo Eatery has been named the winner of the Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award 2025. Voted for by the 350-plus members of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy who were asked to name the one establishment that has provided the best hospitality experience in the last 18 months, this is the second in the series of pre-announced special awards unveiled leading up to the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 programme and awards ceremony, which will be held at Grand Hyatt, Seoul, on 25 March 2025.  

Manila's Toyo Eatery is named the winner of the Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award as part of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2025
Manila’s Toyo Eatery is named the winner of the Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award as part of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025

Debuting at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants as the One To Watch Award winner in 2018, Toyo Eatery joined the list in 2019 at No.43 while holding onto the title of The Best Restaurant in the Philippines for five years, and winning the Sustainable Restaurant Award in 2023. Ranked No.24 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, Toyo Eatery is helmed by husband-and-wife team Jordy and May Navarra. The restaurant emphasises Filipino heritage and food culture which is a deeply personal hospitality experience akin to dining in the couple’s own home.

William Drew, Director of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “At Toyo Eatery, each guest is warmly immersed in Filipino food culture. Genuine hospitality is also evident in the personal touches from Jordy and May – from the seamless integration of interiors, floral and vegetable displays and wall art to local craftsmanship and in the way they educate diners about their food.”

Toyo Eatery is a deep dive into the culinary culture of the Philippines. Its vegetable-forward menu and mindful use of local ingredients, service ware, art, furniture and design celebrate all things Filipino while heritage elements are reimagined through fermentation and preservation. Since opening the restaurant in 2016, they have championed minimising their carbon footprint, sourcing locally and fostering relationships with farmers and artisans, while maintaining an approachable fine dining atmosphere.

Chef Jordy says, “To be welcomed into a Filipino home is to experience genuine warmth and care. We aim to convey the Filipino experience, not just through the dishes we serve, but also by creating genuine connections with our guests. This award belongs to our incredible team and to all those who have dined with us. Maraming salamat (thank you very much).”

Media Centre:
https://mediacentre.theworlds50best.com/

 

 

 

 

GENERAL LINK Inc. Launches Special Campaign for Overseas Guests at GL Terrace

TOKYO, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GENERAL LINK Inc. has announced an exciting new campaign starting March 1st, 2025, aimed at overseas travelers visiting Japan. The campaign will offer free options at GL Terrace, a luxury vacation rental property on the Boso Peninsula, as well as up to ¥10,000 cashback on rental cars for the first three groups.

In a recent survey conducted by GENERAL LINK Inc., targeting 1,019 respondents, including foreigners living in Japan and Japanese workers in the tourism industry, the following insights were revealed:

  • Key Accommodation Preferences: Foreign travelers prioritize “space” and “private space” when choosing accommodation.
  • Recommended Travel Areas: Among foreigners living in Japan, 40.20% recommended areas around Tokyo (Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama, Kanagawa) as must-visit destinations.

A survey asking 1,019 respondents what do they look for in their accommodation when travelling to Japan
A survey asking 1,019 respondents what do they look for in their accommodation when travelling to Japan

Why GL Terrace?

Located close to the center of Tokyo and Narita Airport, GL Terrace offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. This exclusive villa, limited to one group per day, provides a luxurious private space for guests to enjoy.

Key features include:

  • A spacious living room giving stunning ocean views
  • Full facilities, including a basketball court for active fun.
  • A BBQ grill, fire pit, and projector (free for overseas guests during the campaign).

Views of GL Terrace
Views of GL Terrace

Campaign Details

From March 1st, 2025, the following benefits will be available to overseas guests:

  1. Free Use of Facilities:
  • BBQ Grill
  • Fire Pit
  • Projector
  • Rental Car Cashback: The first three groups will receive up to ¥10,000 cashback on rental car expenses.
  • GL Terrace is already a popular choice for tourists seeking a resort-like escape near central Tokyo, and this campaign makes it even more appealing to international visitors.

    Contact & Booking Information

    Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the best of Japanese luxury hospitality at GL Terrace this spring!

    AIM Vaccine’s mRNA Shingles Vaccine Submits Clinical Application to the U.S.

    Another Step Forward in Global Expansion

    HONG KONG, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As global capital reassesses the investment value of innovative Chinese companies, the development of innovative vaccines in China is in full swing. On February 23, PRC vaccine leader AIM Vaccine (06660.HK) announced that its self-developed mRNA shingles vaccine has recently been submitted for clinical approval to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Not long ago, its mRNA RSV vaccine was also submitted for U.S. clinical trials. In just one month, AIM has made rapid progress in the global rollout of two major mRNA vaccine products.

    Why have AIM’s multiple mRNA vaccines been able to push for FDA approval in such a short time? First, innovation is in AIM’s DNA. The mRNA shingles vaccine, currently submitted for U.S. clinical trials, possesses a high level of technological innovation, ensuring superior vaccine quality. According to the announcement, preclinical animal trials conducted by third-party testing units showed that the specific T cell immunity, specific IgG antibody titers, and fluorescent antibody (FAMA) titers of the mRNA shingles vaccine were significantly higher than those of internationally marketed recombinant subunit control vaccines.

    More importantly, with the support of the booming DeepSeek, AIM’s mRNA vaccine development is poised to leverage foreseeable leading advantages for rapid advancement. On February 23, AIM announced its comprehensive deployment of the DeepSeek large model, promoting its R1 version through localized strategies for application across all business scenarios, aiming to achieve “cost reduction, quality improvement, and efficiency enhancement” throughout the vaccine’s entire lifecycle. Specifically, to build an intelligent vaccine research and development system, AIM will utilize the DeepSeek large model to discover, design, and manufacture better candidate vaccines.

    Additionally, AIM boasts a strong accumulation of experience and first-mover advantage in its mRNA technology platform. As one of the earliest companies to develop mRNA vaccine products in China, AIM has streamlined the entire lifecycle processes of mRNA vaccine R&D and production, enabling rapid industrialization of mRNA vaccine products following clinical completion, thus accelerating the commercialization process.

    As noted in a recent research report by Fosun International Securities, the mRNA platform successfully validated during the COVID-19 pandemic has laid a solid foundation for future growth in both domestic and international markets. The company ensures product quality stability and supply reliability through GMP-certified high-standard production facilities, further solidifying its competitive market position. Multiple major mRNA products, including the mRNA shingles vaccine, mRNA RSV vaccine, and mRNA influenza vaccine, can leverage the company’s leading position in next-generation vaccine technology for rapid commercialization.

    In summary, the research report from Fosun International Securities indicates that AIM Vaccine, with its differentiated technological advantages and comprehensive product layout, not only shows significant leading potential in the domestic market but also has broad prospects for expansion in international markets, positioning itself to occupy an important place in the global vaccine market.

    In just one month, the two major mRNA vaccine products under development have opened the door to the U.S. FDA. AIM’s technological innovation strength and its steps toward the international market are accelerating rapidly.