Author: jezzabellemente

Singapore’s National Precision Medicine (NPM) programme will sequence 10,000 genomes to improve understanding of genetic architecture and diversity in Singapore’s multi-ethnic Asia population through advanced, nanopore-based sequencing technology

OXFORD, England, Aug 5 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) — Oxford Nanopore Technologies (Oxford Nanopore) has announced a landmark project with Singapore’s National Precision Medicine (NPM) programme, led by Precision Health Research, Singapore (PRECISE), aimed at developing a comprehensive structural variant catalogue representing three major ethnic groups in Singapore including Chinese, Malay and Indian ethnicities. These genetic variations have demonstrated significance in helping clinician scientists and researchers in understanding human genetic diversity and diseases. This initiative underscores Oxford Nanopore’s commitment to advancing genetic research and healthcare outcomes on a global scale, particularly for ethnically diverse populations that are typically underrepresented in genomic databases.

Oxford Nanopore’s portion of the project will focus on sequencing 10,000 genomes representing Singapore’s diverse population, including Malay, Indian, and Chinese communities participating in the PRECISE-SG100K population cohort. This project will use Oxford Nanopore’s fleet of high-output PromethION 48 sequencing devices to deliver detailed, comprehensive genomic data to advance research and support precision healthcare. The project started mid-2024 and will run up to 12 months.

Oxford Nanopore’s platform offers unparalleled scalability and flexibility in DNA/RNA sequencing and is capable of characterising both short and ultra-long native DNA/RNA fragments, including detection of methylation, an important biomarker found in DNA, without the need for additional steps and at speeds faster than other platforms. This capability – which cannot be done with short reads or traditional methods – is crucial for accurately identifying a wide range of genetic variations that are essential for understanding complex diseases and tailoring individualised treatment plans.

Oxford Nanopore has made strategic investments in Singapore, which it has positioned as a commercial hub for the Asia Pacific region. The company recently expanded its laboratory facilities in Singapore to support increased activities in training, knowledge transfer, and the up-skilling of local technical staff. This includes deploying sequencers within the Science Centre Singapore and the Singapore Institute of Technology for use within high school, undergraduate and adult education programmes.

Additionally, the company has access to a distribution facility in Singapore through its expanded partnership with UPS Healthcare, resulting in faster delivery of flow cells to Singapore and across the Asia Pacific.

Gordon Sanghera, CEO of Oxford Nanopore, said:

“We are excited to collaborate with Singapore’s National Precision Medicine (NPM) programme to create one of the most extensive and inclusive reference genome datasets globally. This collaboration not only enhances our commitment to precision healthcare but also strategically positions Singapore as a pivotal hub for genomics in the Asia Pacific, fostering significant advancements in medical research and healthcare outcomes.”

There are also other partners in this project, including NovogeneAIT, that demonstrate a strong collaborative effort to leverage innovative technology in genomics.

Oxford Nanopore has been collaborating with the scientific teams to demonstrate that complete genomic data can be generated with Oxford Nanopore sequencing devices, resulting in groundbreaking “telomere to telomere” datasets and in preparation for commencing the larger sequencing programme.

About Oxford Nanopore Technologies

Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. The company has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology for real-time, high-performance, accessible and scalable analysis of DNA and RNA. The technology is used in more than 120 countries to understand the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer, plants, animals, bacteria, viruses, and whole environments. Oxford Nanopore Technologies products are intended for molecular biology applications and are not intended for diagnostic purposes. For more, visit: https://nanoporetech.com/

About Precision Health Research, Singapore (PRECISE)

Precision Health Research, Singapore (PRECISE) is the central entity set up to coordinate a whole of Singapore effort to implement Phase II of Singapore’s three-phase National Precision Medicine (NPM) programme.

NPM Phase II aims to transform healthcare in Singapore and improve patient outcomes through new insights into the Asian genome and data-driven healthcare solutions. In NPM Phase II, PRECISE will collaborate with Singapore research and clinical partners, including the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, National Healthcare Group, National University Health System, National University of Singapore, and SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre to study the genetic makeup of 100,000 healthy Singaporeans and specific patient cohorts. The genetic data will be integrated with detailed lifestyle, environmental, and clinical data to yield rich insights into factors that contribute to Asian diseases and conditions.

Additionally, NPM Phase II will enhance the breadth and depth of the Precision Medicine-related industry by attracting and anchoring overseas companies in Singapore, while yielding new opportunities for home-grown companies. To enhance and accelerate the precision medicine sector, PRECISE works in close collaboration with A*STAR, the Biomedical Sciences Industry Partnership Office, and the Economic Development Board to catalyse the next phase of growth for Singapore’s healthcare and the biomedical technology industries.

PRECISE is a programme of the Consortium for Clinical Research and Innovation, Singapore (CRIS). PRECISE is supported by the National Research Foundation, Singapore (NRF) under the RIE2020 White Space (MOH-000588 and MOH-001264) and administered by the Singapore Ministry of Health through the National Medical Research Council (NMRC) Office, MOH Holdings Pte Ltd

For more information, visit www.npm.sg

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Contact

media@nanoporetech.com

Source : Oxford Nanopore Technologies

–BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) — Malaysia is among the Top 30 in the world and leading in Southeast Asia in terms of country readiness for global clinical trials, according to the IQVIA report on Rethinking Clinical Trial Country Prioritization.

The report, which was published earlier this month, had mapped global clinical trial opportunities according to country attributes, factoring 17 key metrics relevant to operational infrastructure, clinical infrastructure as well as patient availability. Key considerations include healthcare accessibility and quality, clinical trial efficiency, regulatory capabilities, streamlined business processes and investment opportunities.

The report also provided insights on country readiness across different clinical trial categories and has Malaysia recognised among the Top 25 countries for three out of the four clinical trial types indicated. Indonesia is the only other Southeast Asia country in this list, having been listed under one of the trial categories. In addition, several Southeast Asia countries were heavily represented in the opportunity tier of country selection by trial sponsors, with Malaysia in the optimised spot of having the balance between patient availability and operational readiness.  

Global clinical trials are usually multinational trials that are wholly sponsored by pharmaceutical organisations, biotech companies as well as medical devices companies. The Southeast Asia region collectively conduct 3% of these global clinical trials. Since 2023, Malaysia has been leading in number of trials conducted within the region, with many of these in the space of oncology, infectious diseases and cardiology trials. With over 2450 clinical trials since 2012, the country has observed the gathered Gross National Income of RM 1.38 billion from this industry.

The growth has also seen many major pharmaceutical organisations and contract research organisations expanding their presence in Malaysia and recruiting talents to meet the demand of clinical trial productivity. In addition, hospitals and medical centres are focusing on enhancing clinical research capabilities, requiring personnel with clinical research experience to manage the conduct of trials in accordance with regulatory requirements and global practice.

Following this, Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM), a one-stop centre for sponsored clinical research in Malaysia, has established the CRM Centre of Excellence (COE) which was recently officiated by the Minister of Health and Chairman of CRM, YB Datuk Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. This program is aimed at developing local talents and providing them a foundation to kickstart their career in clinical research. The COE also propels CRM’s Mission 2033 to develop clinical research professionals in the country by creating 4000 skilled jobs in clinical research.

About Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM)

Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM) is a Global Trusted Research Management Organisation established by the Ministry of Health Malaysia in 2012. The organisation is guided by the principles of Humanity, Stability and Sustainability in providing global clinical trial solutions and enabling a thriving clinical research ecosystem in the country. At its very core, CRM aims to bring clinical research that addresses the unmet needs of patients and transforms health outcomes in Malaysia.

CRM delivers sponsored clinical trials with Speed, Reliability and Quality through operational excellence and working with stakeholders by providing end-to-end clinical research support services. Certified with both ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System) and ISO 37001:2016 (Anti-Bribery Management System), and being aligned to international regulations, our core values and code of conduct are ingrained throughout CRM. The strength of this organisation lies in the people of CRM as we strive in our vision to make Malaysia the preferred clinical research hub in Asia. https://clinicalresearch.my 

SOURCE: Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Asha Thanabalan
Senior Manager – Business Relations & Corporate Communications          
Tel: +6012-364 8043 | +603-7931 5566 (ext. 122)
Email: asha@clinicalresearch.my 

–BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) — Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) has launched the premiere of Experience Malaysia Healthcare (EMH) Stories, a limited-series video production showcasing the exceptional experience of the healthcare journey of healthcare professionals, patients and technology breakthrough within Malaysia’s healthcare travel ecosystem.

The series aims to demonstrate the expertise and specialisation within Malaysia’s healthcare system, build the reputation and credibility of the country’s healthcare services, and increase awareness and visibility of the MHTC brand.

According to MHTC in a statement, the EMH series showcases the dedication and expertise of medical professionals in Malaysia, celebrating their commitment to patient care, research, and healthcare management.

By putting a face to Malaysia’s healthcare system, the series highlights their achievements, inspires future healthcare professionals, as well as explores both the challenges and innovations within the industry.

In the debut episode, EMH Stories introduces Prince Court Medical Centre Consultant Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, and Reproductive Medicine Specialist, Dr Maiza Tusimin.

With 23 years of service to her community, Dr Maiza’s career has been marked by a steadfast commitment to women’s health, particularly in obstetrics and gynaecology for over 13 years.

Meanwhile, in the upcoming episode, EMH Stories spotlights a distinguished Haematologist at Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Dr Haris Abdul Rahman who has been instrumental in transforming the prognosis of chronic myeloid leukaemia from a dire outlook to one of hope through groundbreaking advancements in treatment.

The series also features success stories that underscore the positive impact and transformative power of healthcare in Malaysia, in addition to highlighting patient treatment success stories, illustrating the life-changing impact of the country’s healthcare services.

From overcoming life-threatening illnesses to regaining quality of life, these stories reveal the dedication, compassion, and advanced care provided by Malaysia’s healthcare professionals, whereby viewers will hear how patients have been given a second chance at life, emphasising the transformative effects of the country’s healthcare system.

— BERNAMA

^{Mary Kay’s 2024 Sustainability report, released in July, is organized by environmental, social, and economic impact. It underscores the company’s commitment to creating and nurturing a business model that enriches women’s lives and supports communities while protecting our planet. (Photo credit: Mary Kay).}

DALLAS, July 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) — Mary Kay Inc., a global leader in corporate sustainability and advocacy, today released its 2024 Sustainability Report. The report—which is organized by environmental, social, and economic impact—underscores the company’s commitment to creating and nurturing a business model that enriches women’s lives and supports communities while protecting our planet.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240723781468/en/

“Sustainability has deep roots in the Mary Kay story,” said Deborah Gibbins, Chief Operating Officer at Mary Kay Inc. “We like to say we did it before it was ‘cool.’ Our iconic founder, Mary Kay Ash, was passionate about not only changing the world, but protecting it. I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished this year—and every year—in realizing her dream. I think she would be proud, too.”

In a world that is rapidly evolving, Mary Kay stands at the forefront of change, championing the cause of women while recognizing the immense power they hold in shaping our global economy and driving meaningful change.

The 2024 report highlights Mary Kay’s promise to make decisions that are right for our planet and its people:

Environmental Sustainability

• Water Stewardship: Partnering with The Nature Conservancy for over 36 years, Mary Kay supports the “Super Reefs” initiative to protect resilient coral reefs.
• Resource Conservation: Through a 16-year partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, Mary Kay has supported the planting of over 1.4 million trees in reforestation projects across nine countries.
• Sustainable Sourcing: Joining the Global Shea Alliance, Mary Kay promotes economic well-being for the 16 million women Shea collectors in West Africa.

Social Sustainability

• Pink Changing Lives: Through this program, funded by designated product sales, Mary Kay has donated over $18 million to initiatives enriching women’s lives worldwide since 2008.
• Women’s Empowerment: On International Women’s Day, Mary Kay joined the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), a set of Principles offering guidance to businesses on how to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace, and community. More than 600,000 women have benefitted from the trainings, events, and programs offered by the Women’s Entrepreneurship Accelerator, launched by Mary Kay in partnership with six United Nations agencies in 2019.
• Fostering Women in STEM: Committed to the development of the next generation of women STEM leaders, Mary Kay has awarded 29 grants totaling nearly $195,000 since 2020.

Economic Sustainability

• Celebrating 60 years: Mary Kay Ash’s vision of enriching women’s lives continues. Mary Kay, still family-owned and -led, has blossomed into a global brand with nearly 4,000 employees and millions of Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants in more than 35 markets. For more than 60 years, Mary Kay has provided an unparalleled entrepreneurship opportunity for women around the world. The company was named the #1 Direct Selling brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World by Euromonitor International¹.
• Digital Innovation: Mary Kay enhances the capabilities of Independent Beauty Consultants through digital tools, including augmented reality apps and the Interactive Catalog, allowing them to excel in their businesses and realize their dreams.
• Advocacy for Gender Equality in AI: Partnering with the Equal Rights Trust, Mary Kay pioneered research to eliminate gender bias in AI technologies.

For further insights into Mary Kay’s global sustainability strategy, engagement, and impact, view the full report here.

About Mary Kay

Then. Now. Always. One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 35 countries. For 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter).

¹ “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2023 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2022 data.”

View source version on businesswire.com: 
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Contact

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
marykay.com/newsroom
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com

Source : Mary Kay Inc.

TOKYO, July 16, 2024 /Kyodo JBN/ —

Nippon Express Bangladesh Ltd. (hereinafter “NX Bangladesh”), a group company of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC., carried out a tree-planting project at Jantrail Government Primary School No. 127 in Nawabganj Upazila, Dhaka District on Monday, June 10.

NX Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202407083274-O3-I47D09UH

Group photo of participants: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/
prwfile/release/M103866/202407083274/_prw_PI1fl_wLhm5jh6.jpg

Tree planting: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/
M103866/202407083274/_prw_PI2fl_f8qv8ukg.jpg

Bangladesh has been plagued by increasingly serious environmental problems such as air and water pollution due to industrialization as well as by global warming issues. In view of these circumstances, NX Bangladesh brought 250 saplings to Jantrail Government Primary School No. 127 in Nawabganj Upazila, Dhaka District, for the plantation as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. Four NX Bangladesh employees and 215 students and teachers participated in this activity, and planted 40 saplings in the schoolyard, with the remaining 210 saplings distributed to the students to be planted at their own homes. The hopes underlying this initiative are that students will become more aware of the importance of environmental protection and that the trees planted will help protect the local ecosystem and improve the environment. Going forward, NX Bangladesh will be pursuing other such CSR activities for a better life of the people of Bangladesh.

The NX Group will continue fulfilling its social development responsibilities by connecting people, companies and communities, and actively engaging in global environmental conservation activities to achieve sustainable societies.

About the NX Group:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202407083274-O1-r7kU565M.pdf

NX Group official website: https://www.nipponexpress.com/

NX Group’s official LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nippon-express-group/


Source: NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48987