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  • Showa Denko Announces Merger between Consolidated Subsidiaries and Change of Company Name

    TOKYO, Sept 24, 2020 – Showa Denko (SDK; TSE:4004) decided at its Board of Directors meeting held today that its consolidated subsidiary Showa Denko Carbon Holding GmbH (SDCH) will merge with its consolidated subsidiary Showa Denko Europe GmbH (SDE), and that the surviving company SDCH will change its company name into Showa Denko Europe GmbH (new SDE) effective as of January 1, 2021.

    Since this is a case of merger between SDK’s wholly owned subsidiaries, part of the details are not disclosed in the following announcement.

    1. Purpose of merger and change of company name

    SDE provides business support services such as import/export management, chemical substance management, and marketing function to subsidiaries of SDK in Europe. SDCH operates its Graphite Electrode business subsidiaries as a management company in Europe.

    This time, SDK decided to merge these two companies for the purpose of expanding its business operation in Europe further by fusing SDCH’s business management function and SDE’s business support function into one.

    With regard to formalities of this merger, SDCH will merge with SDE and become the surviving company. However, in order to clarify its business management function in Europe, SDCH will change its company name into “Showa Denko Europe GmbH” at the same date of the merger.

    2. Outline of merger

    (1) Schedule
    Resolution at the Board of Directors meeting: September 24, 2020
    Effective date of merger: January 1, 2021 (plan)

    (2) Form of merger
    SDCH will merge with SDE and become the surviving company, and SDE will be dissolved at the effective date. SDCH will change its company name into “Showa Denko Europe GmbH” at the same date.

    (3) Allotment of stocks related to merger
    Since this is a case of merger between wholly owned subsidiaries, there will be no new stock issue, no increase in capital, nor payment of grant money due to merger.

    (4) Handling of stock acquisition rights and bonds with stock acquisition rights related to merger
    There will be no applicable matters.

    3. Profile of the two companies to merge

    Company name: Showa Denko Carbon Holding GmbH (Surviving Company)
    Head office: Werner-von-Siemens-Str.18, 86405 Meitingen, Germany
    President: Masami Tobito, Stephan Becker
    Scope of business: Holding company that owns companies producing and selling graphite electrodes
    Capital: 25,000 EUR (3,071,000 JPY)*
    Establishment: February 10, 2016
    Accounting term: Ending December 31
    Major shareholders: Showa Denko: 100%
    *Here EUR is converted into JPY at 1 EUR = 122.84 JPY (as of September 23, 2020).

    Company name: Showa Denko Europe GmbH (To be dissolved)
    Head office: Konrad-Zuse-Platz 3, 81829 Munich, Germany
    President: Takashi Kotsuka
    Scope of business: Sales base of Showa Denko Group’s businesses in Europe, Turkey, Russia, Middle East and Africa, providing liaison services including market research and marketing
    Capital: 205,000 EUR (25,182,200 JPY)*
    Establishment: January 1, 2002
    Accounting term: Ending December 31
    Major shareholders: Showa Denko: 100%
    *Here EUR is converted into JPY at 1 EUR = 122.84 JPY (as of September 23, 2020).

    4. After the merger

    SDCH, the surviving company of the merger, will change its company name and scope of business as following at the same date of the effective date of merger. Although the head office will be located in Wiesbaden, the office in Munich will be retained as a sales office of SDE.

    Company Name: Showa Denko Europe GmbH
    Head office: Abraham-Lincoln-Str. 44, 65189 Wiesbaden, Germany
    President: Takashi Kotsuka
    Scope of business: Sales base of Showa Denko Group’s businesses in Europe, Turkey, Russia, Middle East and Africa, providing liaison services including market research and marketing. Holding company that owns companies producing and selling graphite electrodes.
    Capital: 25,000 EUR (3,071,000 JPY)*
    Major shareholders: Showa Denko: 100%
    *Here EUR is converted into JPY at 1 EUR = 122.84 JPY (as of September 23, 2020).

    5. Future prospect

    Since this is a case of merger between wholly owned subsidiaries, SDK’s consolidated performance will not be affected materially by the merger.

    Press release (PDF): www.sdk.co.jp/assets/files/english/news/2020/20200924_sdknewsrelease_e.pdf

    About Showa Denko K.K.

    Showa Denko K.K. (SDK; TSE:4004, ADR:SHWDY) is a major manufacturer of chemical products serving from heavy industry to computers and electronics. The Petrochemicals Sector provides cracker products such as ethylene and propylene, the Chemicals Sector provides industrial, high-performance and high-purity gases and chemicals for semicon and other industries, the Inorganics Sector provides ceramic products, such as alumina, abrasives, refractory/graphite electrodes and fine carbon products. The Aluminum Sector provides aluminum materials and high-value-added fabricated aluminum, the Electronics Sector provides HD media, compound semiconductors such as ultra high bright LEDs, and rare earth magnetic alloys, and the Advanced Battery Materials Department (ABM) provides lithium-ion battery components. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp/english/.

  • SyncDog Teams Up With Halodata To Advance Secure.Systems in Southeast Asia

    SyncDog, Inc., an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) for next generation mobile security and data loss prevention, today announced their partnership with Halodata, data security solutions distributor, to expand access to SyncDog’s Secure.Systems solution within Singapore and the Southeast Asian commercial market.

    This partnership provides SyncDog with the opportunity to empower more organizations to tap into the flexibility of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and Choose Your Own Device (CYOD) technology, enabling mobile workers to conduct business operations efficiently and securely from wherever they are.

    “Halodata is thrilled to partner with SyncDog to expand access to their advanced mobile security solution to our customers in the Southeast Asian market,” said Resham Ganglani, CEO of Halodata International.

    “We recognize the benefits of implementing flexible mobile device policies like BYOD and CYOD, as well as the challenges organizations face in securing these devices. We are excited to be able to offer a mobile workspace solution that prioritizes efficiency and productivity without sacrificing security.”

    Over the past 10 years, mobile devices have become a more attractive attack vector for threat actors seeking to steal corporate data. As the threat landscape expands, and threat actors continuously work to exploit mobile endpoints, corporate data that is access by and stored on mobile devices is at great risk.

    SyncDog’s innovative approach to mobile security provides a desktop-like experience on mobile devices and enables unrestricted, unimpeded, and fully secure collaboration between mobile employees and their enterprise ecosystem – while completely separating that information from their personal use applications and data.

    Secure.Systems boasts a full suite of mobile-enabled productivity applications that provides a defense-grade containerized workspace serving as an additional, robust layer of security to existing enterprise mobility strategies. – BusinessNews.ph

  • ADERA and BreadTalk Group to Establish Technology JV to Develop Innovative Fintech and Digital Solutions for SMEs

    ADERA and BreadTalk Group to Establish Technology JV to Develop Innovative Fintech and Digital Solutions for SMEs

    ADERA AI Pte. Ltd. (ADERA), an innovative technology services group headquartered in Singapore with a track record of more than 35 years, and BreadTalk Group Pte Ltd (BreadTalk Group), an award-winning F&B Group with more than 1,000 retail stores spread across 17 territories, are pleased to announce the establishment of a technology joint venture to develop innovative fintech and digital solutions targeted at small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

    Highlights:
    – COVID-19 has accelerated the pace of technology adoption as initiatives to tap new growth opportunities amid the pandemic were largely reliant on digitalisation and technology
    – The technology joint venture aims to develop innovative fintech and digital solutions, such as data analytics, blockchain-based supply chain financing platform, digital payments, to accelerate SMEs’ digitalisation strategy to enhance their business efficiency and unlock new growth opportunities
    – The first batch of fintech and digital solutions is targeted to be rolled-out by 1Q2021 and it will be deployed progressively across BreadTalk Group’s F&B establishments as proof-of-concepts before adaption for mainstream adoption in other industries

    SMEs are an important component of Singapore’s economy, providing employment for two thirds of Singapore’s workforce and contributing nearly half of Singapore’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on an annual basis.

    COVID-19 has accelerated the pace of technology adoption as initiatives to tap new growth opportunities amid the pandemic were largely reliant on digitalisation and technology. As such, the scale of technology adoption for business enterprises to transform their business models has never been more apparent than now.

    Leveraging on the combined expertise and resources of both ADERA and BreadTalk Group, the technology collaboration aims to:

    1. Develop digital tools that offer data analytics, enhance operational efficiency and data- driven decision methodology on issues such as inventory, payments, customer acquisitions and etc.
    2. Create a scalable omni-channel platform to enhance outreach to customers via new sales channels, integrating operations, incorporating digital payments, facial recognition and designing a cohesive user experience for end-customers.
    3. Establish a blockchain-based supply chain financing platform with digitalised processes and document automation so stakeholders can gain faster access to financing and potentially lower their costs of funding. With more accountability and transparency, it can foster greater trust and confidence between financing institutions and transacting parties, leading to lower financing and business risks.

    Under the joint venture, ADERA will provide its knowhow, capabilities and experience in key areas such as digital automation, facial recognition, digital identity, digital payments and artificial intelligence, while BreadTalk Group will contribute its technical and operational experience.

    Commenting on the technology joint venture, Mr. Lennon Tan, Chairman of ADERA, said: “Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has become an essential tool to overcome operational challenges and enhance business agility.

    As we adapt and adjust to the new normal economy, both ADERA and BreadTalk Group recognise that our combined know-how and experience can lead to the development of cutting- edge fintech and digital tools that can be adapted for the digitalisation roadmap of other industry segments.

    With BreadTalk Group’s established F&B business presence across 17 territories, it will provide significant opportunities for us to introduce and deploy our fintech and digital solutions to improve business operations and customers’ engagement, leading to more proofs-of-concept and accelerating mainstream adoption of our technology innovations.

    Combining the resources and strengths of both ADERA and BreadTalk Group, we look forward to using our best talents and expertise together to unlock new opportunities in the digitalisation journey for stakeholders.”

    Mr. Cheng William, Group COO of BreadTalk Group, added: “There are vast, untapped opportunities in the areas of digitalisation within the Group and the F&B industry. Our diverse multi-brand operating environment with international presence provides an ideal platform for proof-of-concepts.

    To this extent, we have identified 3 “pros” to guide our digitalisation efforts: pro-customers, pro-workforce, pro-business partnerships to create more value propositions for stakeholders.
    Leveraging on ADERA’s expertise and capabilities of more than 35 years in technology services, we are confident that this joint venture will strengthen the core capabilities of our businesses and such technology innovations can be replicated to enable businesses in other industries to build sustainable growth in their digitalisation roadmap.”

    About ADERA AI Pte Ltd (ADERA)
    Serving global banks, financial institutions, telecommunications, and government agencies around the world, ADERA is a technology services group headquartered in Singapore providing a platform of innovative fintech, digitalisation and data security solutions.

    With an established track record of more than 35 years, ADERA aims to enable our customers to digitalise and enhance their business and operating models to broaden access to new markets, improve end-user experience and develop greater business efficiency.

    For more information, please visit ADERA website: https://aderaglobal.com

    About BreadTalk Group Pte Ltd
    Founded as a bakery brand in Singapore in 2000, BreadTalk has rapidly expanded to become an award-winning F&B Group that has established its mark on the world stage with its bakery, restaurant, and food atrium footprints. With over 1,000 retail stores spread across 17 markets in Asia, Middle East, and the United Kingdom, its brand portfolio comprises direct owned brands such as BreadTalk, Toast Box, Food Republic, Food Junction, Bread Society, Sō Ramen, Thye Moh Chan, The Icing Room and partner brands such as Din Tai Fung, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, and Wu Pao Chun Bakery.

    The Group has a network of owned and franchised bakery outlets in markets across Asia and the Middle East. It also operates the world-renowned Din Tai Fung restaurants in Singapore, Thailand and London as well as the award-winning Food Republic food atrium in markets such as Singapore, Thailand, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Malaysia.

    Issued on behalf of ADERA AI Pte. Ltd. and BreadTalk Group Pte Ltd by 8PR Asia Pte Ltd.

    Media Contact:
    Mr. Alex TAN
    Mobile: +65 9451 5252
    Email: alex.tan@8prasia.com

  • Fashion talent shines at CENTRESTAGE

    Fashion talent shines at CENTRESTAGE

    Virtual runway shows highlight designers’ latest collections

    Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the CENTRESTAGE fashion extravaganza entered its fifth year in 2020, with six virtual runway shows presented online from 17 to 19 September. Combining traditional fashion shows with computer-generated imagery, these unique showcases drew the attention of fashion lovers and media from around the world, allowing Hong Kong and Asian designers to gain exposure and expand their networks amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The six virtual runway shows included “Fashion Hong Kong”, “Next in Cheongsam”, “FASHIONALLY #15”, “Taipei in Style”, “Hong Kong en Vogue” and the final of the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC) 2020, all of which can now be viewed on the CENTRESTAGE website. The site also features fashion images highlighting the new collections of local designers.

    Fashion Hong Kong
    The opening show ran with a “Space Odyssey” theme, featuring eight homegrown design units all of which have taken part in New York or London Fashion Week events.
    https://centrestage2020.hktdc.com/en/phygital-runway/fashion-hong-kong/

    FASHIONALLY COLLECTION #15
    The “Impossible Stage” themed fashion show showcased brand new collections from nine previous YDC contestants.
    https://centrestage2020.hktdc.com/en/phygital-runway/fashionally-collection-15

    Designers’ Collection Show: Next in Cheongsam
    https://centrestage2020.hktdc.com/en/phygital-runway/next-in-cheongsam/

    Designers’ Collection Show: Taipei in Style
    https://centrestage2020.hktdc.com/en/phygital-runway/taipei-in-style/

    Designers’ Collection Show: Hong Kong en Vogue
    https://centrestage2020.hktdc.com/en/phygital-runway/hong-kong-en-vogue/

    More photos are available at http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en/pressrelease/detail/20206/

    Websites
    – CENTRESTAGE: www.centrestage.com.hk
    – Fashion Hong Kong: www.fashionhongkong.com
    – Hong Kong Young Fashion Designer’s Contest (YDC): www.fashionally.com
    – CENTRESTAGE in Town: https://centrestage.com.hk/en/event/centrestageintown/index.php

    *Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organizers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Communications and Creative Industries Branch of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, Create Hong Kong, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

    About Create Hong Kong
    Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) is a dedicated agency set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) in June 2009. It is under the Communications and Creative Industries Branch of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and dedicated to spearheading the development of creative industries in Hong Kong. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community. CreateHK sponsors the CENTRESTAGE since 2019 to promote Hong Kong’s fashion design. Website: www.creathek.gov.hk.

    About HKTDC
    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

    Contact:

    Snowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4537, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

  • Agilex Biolabs Develops World’s Most Accurate Cannabinoid Assay

    Award-winning Agilex Biolabs, the Asia-Pacific region’s leading bioanalytical laboratory for clinical trials, based in Australia, has developed the world’s most accurate cannabinoid assay.

    The announcement was made at BioPharm America (September 21-24, 2020).

    The assay is already being used by 4 sponsors in drug development.

    Agilex Biolabs CEO Jason Valentine said the company was now very much at the forefront of assay development for cannabis clinical trials, with more assays in the pipeline.

    “We have developed a high sensitivity, quantitative assay for the detection of CBN, CBD and THC and metabolites in human plasma.

    The Agilex Biolabs cannabinoids assay achieves >98% of ISR (Incurred Sample Reanalysis) samples within the acceptance criteria, which demonstrates that it is robust and reproducible.

    The FDA and EMA criteria is 67% of samples within 20%.

    This is the best-in-class because we have resolved interferences that over-state THC concentrations that can potentially skew reported data. The improved accuracy and sensitivity means we now have a precise low level assay for our clients.

    This competes with anything in the world for accuracy, and cuts the risk of flawed results.

    Due to high client demand a CBD and metabolites assay is in development and will be ready before end of the year.”

    Agilex is also now offering additional pharmacodynamics services that include immunobiology services using the latest state-of-the-art technology to support immunology, cell biology and mode of action assays, including:
    – Immunophenotyping
    – Receptor occupancy
    – Cytokine release assays (whole blood or PBMC stimulation assays) and cytokine/biomarker profiling
    – PBMC assays and cellular mechanism of action assays (eg: ADCC)

    Agilex Biolabs, the only FDA-inspected lab of its type in the Asia-Pacific, offers bioanalysis for small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity and biomarkers utilising the two platforms of LC-MS/MS and Immunoassay (MesoScale, Gyrolab).

    The FDA-inspected facilities have more than 90 dedicated laboratory staff, and annually support more than 80 clinical trials. This year Agilex Biolabs will analyse more than 60,000 samples for pharma/biotechs from US, Europe and APAC.

    By combining specialised expertise, technological innovation and a 20-year track record, Agilex Biolabs have supported hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials around the world.

    Agilex Biolabs’ world-class bioanalytical facilities have OECD GLP Recognition with NATA (Australian Government OECD GLP Compliance monitoring authority) and ISO 17025 Accreditation for global recognition.

    Please Book a Briefing with us before you start your next clinical trial: https://calendly.com/agilexbiolabs/15min

    Australia: +61 8 8302 8777 | China: +86 21 8036 9483 | South Korea: +82 80 812 1255 | USA: +1 800 247 1909

    About Agilex Biolabs https://www.agilexbiolabs.com/
    Agilex Biolabs, Australia’s leading bioanalytical laboratory, has more than 20 years’ experience in performing regulated bioanalysis, including quality method development, method validation and sample analysis services. We have successfully supported hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials around the world where customers choose Australia for the streamlined regulatory process and access to the world’s most attractive R&D rebate of more than 40% on clinical trial work conducted in Australia.

    We offer services for both small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity (PD) and biomarker bioanalysis utilising the two platforms of LC-MS/MS and Immunoassay.

    Agilex Biolabs operates a fully quality-assured laboratory ensuring that, within the principles of GLP, assays are validated to the latest FDA/EMA guidance and study samples are assayed and reported to the sponsor’s desired format using WATSON LIMS. Laboratory certifications include OECD GLP and ISO/IEC17025.

    Our highly experienced team consists of over 65 dedicated laboratory staff with over 15 years average industry experience across senior scientists. Expertise includes development of robust compliant PK and PD assays de novo or by method transfer.

    Our laboratory is fitted with 7 SCIEX tandem mass spectrometers, 6 API 4000 and 1 QTRAP 5500 as our standard platform for LC-MS/MS analysis. For immunoassay, we employ the state-of -the-art systems of Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) and Gyrolab xPlore.

    Agilex Biolabs owns a suite of validated biosimilar assays that have already supported biosimilar studies executed in the region. These assays include Avastin/Bevacizumab, Lucentis/Ranibizumab, Actemra/Tocilizumab, Xolair/Omalizumab, Herceptin/Trastuzumab and Solaris/Eculizumab. We would like to discuss how we can support companies with biosimilar pipelines looking to conduct trials in the region. Our validated biosimilar assays require less setup saving time and money.

    Agilex Biolabs also have a suite of biomarker assays that have been developed to support studies in the areas of endocrinology (estrone, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and others).

    Recently, Agilex Biolabs has added a comprehensive cannabinoid assay to its suite of validated assays to support clinical trials. The fully validated assay includes the five cannabinoids THC, CBD, CBN and the two THC-metabolites OHTHC and COOHTHC.

    Our LC-MS/MS experience includes NCEs, sugars, nucleotides, enantiomers, steroids, prodrugs, peptides, immunosuppressants, nanoparticles, neurotransmitters, oligonucleotides and polymeric mixtures.

    Our biologics experience entails PK analysis using colorimetric, fluorescence or chemiluminescence detection for recombinant or fusion proteins, monoclonal antibodies, ADCs, immunogenicity testing, biomarker analysis and PBMC blood stimulation assays.

    Media Contact:
    Media@AgilexBiolabs.com
    Kate Newton

  • Weichai Westport Inc. Disclaimer

    HONG KONG, Sept 22, 2020 – In view of the announcement on “Weichai Westport Secures Chinese Certification for WP12 Natural Gas Engine Powered by HPDI 2.0” issued by Westport Fuel Systems Inc. on 18 September 2020, in order to avoid confusion among customers and investors, Weichai Westport Inc. (the “Company”) hereby issues a clarification statement as follows:

    Firstly, the “WP12HPDI” engine referred to the Westport Fuel Systems Inc.’s announcement is the “WP12.460E60HPDI” engine produced by the Company. Although the engine has obtained Certification from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the PRC, it cannot be sold to market according to the relevant Laws and Regulations of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

    Secondly, the vehicles that applicate with the “WP12.460E60HPDI” engine must successfully complete the calibration works of the high altitude, high temperature and cold environment and the durability test of the whole vehicle of over 700,000 km before entering the market for sale.

    As a result, the Company is unable to offer the “WP12.460E60HPDI” engine product to the market on commercial terms at this stage. Public customers and investors shall take note.

    Weichai Westport Inc.
    https://en.weichai.com/

  • Epazz DeskFlex Room Booking Software Is Receiving Increased Demand From Universities and Colleges Struggling to Reopen After COVID-19 Lockdowns

    Epazz DeskFlex Room Booking Software Is Receiving Increased Demand From Universities and Colleges Struggling to Reopen After COVID-19 Lockdowns

    DeskFlex Course Scheduling Software for universities receives more requests from schools, colleges and universities to reopen safely amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

    Epazz, Inc. (OTC: EPAZ), a mission-critical provider of cloud-based business solutions, announced today that DeskFlex room booking software for universities is receiving a growing number of requests from schools, colleges and universities that are struggling to reopen their campuses after COVID-19 lockdowns.

    Many educational institutions are seeking tools and technologies to help manage social distancing and contact tracing in order to go back to school. DeskFlex’s room booking software has anti-COVID features that help secure schools, colleges and universities as they continue to open this fall. DeskFlex room scheduling tools provide thermal scanner features, mask detection and interactive TV screens placed at entranceways to monitor students, faculty and school employees when entering the premises.

    DeskFlex room booking software continuously improves its complementary hardware devices, including the FlexCube QR code scanner, contactless conference room display screens, Bluetooth beacons and lobby kiosks.

    According to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), there must be a better contact tracing process, better testing and personal protective equipment before schools can reopen safely. DeskFlex room reservation software has COVID-compliant features, including a contact tracing tool, mask detection, thermal scanning and social distancing to help school administrators monitor everyone entering school premises and track those who have possibly been contaminated.

    Under Mayor Bill de Blasio’s proposal in New York City, schools are reopening using a hybrid model, under which students will attend in-person classes only a few days in a week. The schools limit classroom capacity to 12 students to comply with social distancing recommendations from health experts and the CDC. DeskFlex will benefit from these recommendations because our software makes it possible for schools to maintain capacity limits for each classroom, social distancing protocols and anti-coronavirus measures.

    According to Shaun Passley, Ph.D., CEO of Epazz, Inc., “We are confident that DeskFlex classroom scheduling software can provide exceptional and insightful solutions to schools, colleges and universities for safeguarding their students, faculty and from the infection.”

    About DeskFlex.com
    DeskFlex is a desk booking solution and room reservation software for conference rooms, workspaces, desks, car parking spaces, equipment, hoteling and hot desking that helps office managers accommodate the needs of mobile workers while reducing rent and facility costs. DeskFlex lets employees reserve space in advance or claim desks right away. It adjusts the telephone switch (PBX) so calls ring at the “desk du jour.” DeskFlex includes check-in, point-and-click floor maps, a web browser, a local kiosk, Outlook integration and conference room scheduling.

    About Epazz, Inc. (www.epazz.com)
    Epazz, Inc. is a leading cloud-based software company that specializes in providing customized cloud applications to the corporate world, higher education institutions and the public sector. Epazz BoxesOS(TM) v3.0 is a complete web-based software package for small- to mid-size businesses, Fortune 500 enterprises, government agencies and higher education institutions. BoxesOS provides many of the web-based applications organizations would otherwise need to purchase separately. Epazz’s other products are K9Sky.com kennel software and the Provitrac applicant tracking system.

    SAFE HARBOR
    This is the “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Certain statements contained in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe” and “continue” (or the negation thereof) or similar terminology. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results or those implied by such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that no forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future performance and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Epazz, Inc., assumes no obligation and has no intention of updating these forward-looking statements. It has no obligation to update or correct information prepared by third parties that are not paid for by Epazz, Inc. Investors are encouraged to review Epazz, Inc.’s public filings on SEC.gov and otcmarkets.com, including its unaudited and audited financial statements and its OTC market filings, which contain general business information about the company’s operations, results of operations and risks associated with the company and its operations.

    CONTACT:
    For more information, please contact
    Investor Relations
    investors@epazz.net
    (312) 955-8161
    www.epazz.com

  • Avance Clinical Announces Expanded eClinical Solutions for Biotech Clinical Trials at BioPharm America

    The leading Australian CRO for biotechs, and Frost & Sullivan 2020 Asia-Pacific CRO Market Leadership Award winner, Avance Clinical has expanded its eClinical solutions offering, with advanced digital clinical tools for enhanced patient engagement, visibility, data capture, and analysis. www.avancecro.com/eclinical-solutions

    Avance Clinical made the announcement at BioPharm America (September 21-24, 2020)

    Avance Clinical’s biotech clients now have the option to deploy the latest eClinical solutions to maximise the value of study data and deliver real-time visibility on study progress.

    Avance Clinical CEO Yvonne Lungershausen said:
    “Our Data Management team works with eClinical leaders such as Medrio to offer regulatory compliant and patient centric tools for rapid start-up and continual data flow. These tools improve patient engagement and data collection and allow Sponsors to stay informed at every step with Sponsor visible portals.”

    The Avance Clinical eClinical services include the following:
    eSource
    – Direct data capture of source data on site
    – Forms customised by Avance Clinical Data Management team
    – Edit checks built into forms; instant firing of queries once data is entered
    – Option for data to be collected off-line and synced when on-line is available
    – Fully integrated with Medrio EDC, data visible for Sponsor review instantly
    – Remote monitoring and data review on ongoing basis
    – Avance Clinical provision of tablets if required

    eConsent
    – Electronic consent including patient sign-off and investigator confirmation
    – Customisable to include animations, videos and questions as required
    – Forms customised by Avance Clinical Data Management team
    – Link via email to patient
    – Compatible with any device and internet system (smart phones, tablet, laptop, desktop)
    – Integrated with Medrio EDC
    – Link can be shared with HREC as part of submission package

    ePRO
    – Electronic capture of patient reported outcome, including diary data, dosing compliance, questionnaires, VAS/Pain scales
    – Forms customised by Avance Clinical Data Management team
    – Link via email to patient
    – Options for emails and reminders at set times during the day or week
    – Timezone adjusted to patient’s location
    – Compatible with any device and internet system (smart phones, tablet, laptop, desktop)
    – Fully integrated with Medrio EDC, data visible for Sponsor review instantly

    Glynn Morrish, Avance Clinical Director Biometrics said:
    “Direct electronic capture of study information and the complimentary suite of solutions offered by Avance Clinical allows the company and its clients to maximise clinical trial efficiency and flexibility while ensuring data integrity is preserved. Our highly trained and experienced biometrics team are excited to continue to work at the forefront of innovation and technology and provide services that offer stability and robustness to studies being conducted in an ever-changing global environment.”

    Avance Clinical is an Australian owned Contract Research Organisation that has been providing high-quality clinical research services fit for global regulatory standards to the local and international drug development industry for 20 years.

    Considering Australia? Contact us about your next study. https://www.avancecro.com/eclinical-solutions/

    About Avance Clinical www.avancecro.com
    Australia’s Avance Clinical has more than 20-years of experience and is now one of Australia’s leading Contract Research Organizations.
    Avance Clinical is committed to providing high-quality clinical research services with its highly-experienced team. The collective pool of knowledge and experience at Avance Clinical continually grows through the careful selection of experts who also demonstrate passion in their chosen field.
    Avance Clinical offers high-quality services in an established clinical trial ecosystem, that includes world-class Investigators and Sites able to access specialized patient groups.
    Other benefits include:
    1. The Government R&D grant means up to 43.5% rebate on clinical trial spend
    2. eClinical solutions – speed and continuity
    3. Site Initiation Visit (SIV) and Study Start achieved in 5 – 6 weeks
    4. No IND required for clinical trials
    5. Full GMP material is not mandated for Phase I clinical trials
    6. Established clinical trial environment with world-class Investigators and sites
    7. Established healthy subject databases and specialized patient populations
    8. Five independent Phase 1 facilities across Australia including hospital-based units for critical care
    9. Major hospitals with world-class infrastructures and dedicated Clinical Trial Units with a long track-record in FDA compliant research
    10. Seasonal studies: Northern hemisphere Sponsors can conduct their studies year-round by taking advantage of Australia’s counter-flu and allergy seasons

    Media Contact:
    media@avancecro.com
    Chris Thompson

  • New independent analyst report shows increased importance of API and microservices strategies

    Software AG receives highest score in the “Current Offering” category, named a Leader for its webMethods API Management platform

    According to the Forrester report: “Good API strategy and design are a key foundation for digital transformation. By opening access to digital business capabilities, APIs drive agility to optimise customer experiences, create dynamic digital ecosystems, achieve operational excellence, and build platform business models. With cloud-native architectures gaining momentum, API management vendors have been investing in features for combined microservices-plus-APIs implementations.”

    The Forrester Wave™: API Management Solutions, Q3 2020 report is a timely reminder of the importance of both APIs and microservices in helping businesses meet today’s extreme challenges. APIs and microservices are not only fundamental to rapidly adopting digital business models but are the key drivers to IT-based innovation.

    Software AG is successfully helping companies to accelerate and succeed with their API initiatives with its webMethods API Management platform. It allows customers to rapidly develop and deploy APIs and cloud-native microservices providing the speed, scalability and flexibility fundamental to digital business models e.g. addressing tens of millions of mobile, or even locked-down, customers and users. These cloud-hosted microservices-based applications provide the reliability and the scalability which ensures that customers receive the highest service quality, maintaining and building loyalty in today’s disrupted and volatile markets.

    In addition, Software AG’s webMethods API Management platform automatically exposes all microservices as APIs providing total API governance and management. “Overall, the solution is flexible enough to support a wide range of API strategies, especially for customers that are ready for the strong governance and discipline necessary to ensure strategic success of one’s API program,” noted the Forrester report.

    According to Dr Stefan Sigg, Chief Product Officer at Software AG: “It is all about the business outcomes that drive the adoption of API Management and microservices frameworks. The speed of innovation and the agility of transformation programs will distinguish the successful ways out of the crisis. Software AG’s approach of de-coupling gateways from an API portal and the introduction of AppMesh to close the semantic gap between applications and modern infrastructure environments are the key ingredients in delivering differentiated value into core business processes”.

    Software AG focuses on preserving freedom of customer choice. The Forrester Wave™ reported that: “With the elements of its solution architected as independent-but-integrated products, Software AG’s customers can adopt its solution via different paths. For example, its portal supports gateways from other vendors, and its Engage module adds on very useful capabilities for API hackathons and beta programs. As a buyer’s API program maturity grows, it can add formal lifecycle management with CentraSite, which provides a strong foundation for disciplined API programs.”

    Software AG was evaluated among 15 software vendors on 26 criteria across three categories: current offering, strategy, and market presence. The Forrester Wave™ shows Software AG with the top score in the current offering category and among the highest scores in the strategy category, and stated that “The firm’s vision and future investments encompass key business and technical aspects of API value and technology features, including extended ecosystems, API product management, multi-cloud environments, and edge computing.”

    As industries across the Asia Pacific region reel from the economic turmoil brought about by COVID-19, the role of APIs will become even more pronounced, given the need for accelerated innovation speed and digital transformation.

    “As more organisations in the region embrace the API-driven economy, Software AG is even more committed towards developing innovative solutions that help fuel success in API implementation and consumer engagement. We will continue to focus on developing our API management offerings to ensure that our clients have the agility, speed and strengthened capabilities to thrive in a highly digitalised world,” said Anneliese Schulz, President for Asia Pacific & Japan, Software AG.

    A complimentary copy of the The Forrester Wave™: API Management Solutions can be downloaded here. https://tinyurl.com/yxobrk5h

    The Forrester Wave™: API Management Solutions, Q3 2020 is authored by Randy Heffner with Christopher Mines, Abigail Livingston, and Kara Hartig.

    About Software AG
    Software AG reimagines integration, sparks business transformation and enables fast innovation on the Internet of Things so businesses can pioneer differentiating business models. Software AG gives customers the freedom to connect and integrate any technology – from app to edge. It helps free data from silos so it’s shareable, usable and powerful – enabling businesses to make the best decisions and unlock entirely new possibilities for growth. Learn more about Software AG at www.softwareag.com. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Media Contact:
    PRecious Communications for Software AG
    Charlene Pe / Jann Wee / Rajiv Menon
    softwareag@preciouscomms.com
    +65 6303 0567

  • WiMi Announces Establishment of Joint Postgraduate Training Practice Center by Lixin Technology Co., Ltd. and Institute of Semiconductor Manufacturing Research of Shenzhen University

    WiMi Announces Establishment of Joint Postgraduate Training Practice Center by Lixin Technology Co., Ltd. and Institute of Semiconductor Manufacturing Research of Shenzhen University

    WiMi Hologram Cloud Inc. (“WiMi” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ:WIMI) today announced that Lixin Technology Co., Ltd. (“Lixin”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, the Institute of Semiconductor Manufacturing Research of Shenzhen University and Haikou Integrated Free Trade Zone Management Committee have entered into a cooperation agreement for the establishment of the Postgraduate Training Practice Center for the promotion of innovation and development of talents.

    In the future, the parties will cooperate in the training and mentoring of postgraduate students and expect to expand cooperation areas, including the joint application of national and local scientific research projects and joint construction of key laboratories, to promote scientific research, talent training and service to local community.

    Lixin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, with an initial registered capital of 200 million RMB. Lixin will focus on research, development and sales of holographic vision intelligent robots and related holographic vision technology services. Lixin Technology will also leverage its parent company’s related patents and copyrights to develop semiconductor products and sell such products to customers across the broader holographic ecosystem. Lixin Technology will focus on a new upstream business in the domestic smart product market, and research, development and sales of semiconductor chips to further enhance the Company’s competitiveness.

    Based in Hainan province, Lixin Technology will enjoy tax incentives and government support of the fast growing semiconductor industry, industrial and automation technologies and applications of intelligent vision and holographic vision. The Company anticipates its new subsidiary will help develop its fabless semiconductor business by integrating IC design enterprises with its extensive proprietary technologies. The investment and establishment of Lixin Technology is in line with the Company’s optimization of its supply chain management, cost reductions and competitiveness, and the Company’s ongoing efforts to bolster its innovation, design and technical capabilities.

    Shenzhen University is located in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province and is a comprehensive university administered by Guangdong Province and sponsored by the Government of Shenzhen Municipality. It has received numerous honors and recognitions, such as the International Technology Cooperation Base and National Talent Training Model Innovation Experimental Area, the National College Students’ Innovative Entrepreneurial Training Program, and is a member of the CDIO Engineering Education Alliance. Shenzhen University has achieved rapid development in the fields of talent training, innovation and technology research and development, and has made many original achievements in science and technology. The establishment of the Joint Postgraduate Training Practice Center provides Lixin with the opportunity to explore potential cooperation in the fields of mechanical design, manufacturing and automation, semiconductor integrated circuits, and other academic disciplines of the Shenzhen University.

    Haikou Integrated Free Trade Zone was established with the approval of the State Council. With the development of high and new technology industry and preferential policies, the Free Trade Zone drives the development of warehousing and logistics industry, promotes the development of peripheral economy and implements the strategies of functional development, system innovation, technological innovation, and has made impressive achievements. The Free Trade Zone has formed high-tech industrial clusters dominated by biopharmaceuticals, automobile manufacturing, electronic information, electromechanical and processing, and has become the development base and demonstration area of Hainan’s high-tech industry and effectively promoted the development of the surrounding economy.

    The Company believes that the cooperation among the three parties will provide strong support for the sustainable development of the semiconductor industry. At the same time, the joint training of graduate students is conducive to the development of the academic disciplines and application of scientific and technological achievements of Shenzhen University, and will contribute to the development of the country in cultivating and retaining high-level industrial technical personnel.

    The establishment of the Joint Postgraduate Training Practice Center explores new space for the practical teaching of relevant academic disciplines in Shenzhen University. Through in-depth cooperation, the three parties have set up a diversified platform for practice and training, creating favorable conditions for jointly cultivating outstanding scientific research talents and reserving technical force for relevant industries. It also embodies the vision shared by three parties to establish industry-university-research strategic cooperation. The Company hopes that the three parties will seize this opportunity, actively explore new cooperation models and extend cooperation to promote win-win cooperation, and to actively contribute to the development of basic software for localized information construction.

    About WIMI Hologram Cloud Inc.
    WiMi Hologram Cloud, Inc.(NASDAQ:WIMI), whose commercial operations began in 2015, operates an integrated holographic AR application platform in China and has built a comprehensive and diversified holographic AR content library among all holographic AR solution providers in China. Its extensive portfolio includes 4,654 AR holographic contents. The company has also achieved a speed of image processing that is 80 percent faster than the industry average. While most peer companies may identify and capture 40 to 50 blocks of image data within a specific space unit, WiMi collects 500 to 550 data blocks.

    Safe Harbor / Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this press release, as well as the Company’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. The Company may also make written or spoken forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Forms 20-F and 6-K, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; the expected growth of the AR holographic industry; and the Company’s expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products and services. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F and current report on Form 6-K and other documents filed with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable laws.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
    pr@wimiar.com