Miovision launches Scout Explore

The first portable video-based traffic data collection solution to offer on-device processing capabilities

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ITS World Congress – Today, Miovision announced its next-generation portable video-based traffic data collection solution – Miovision Scout® Explore. Thanks to advanced AI, Scout Explore is the first portable video-based traffic data collection solution capable of processing video on the device and automatically uploading volume counts, speed and pedestrian/bike pathway data to the cloud for immediate remote access and analysis.

“With its on-device processing capabilities, Scout Explore offers a safer, cost-effective alternative to road tubes for collecting multimodal traffic counts and speed data,” said Miovision President Steve Strout. “We’re extremely excited to offer the market this powerful next generation all-in-one solution that is capable of supporting simultaneous data collection activities, including travel time, roundabout studies and turning movement counts (TMCs) – and you can expect more types in the future.”

Miovision Scout Explore expands on the capabilities of Miovision Scout, the leading portable video-based traffic data collection solution. This next-generation model is even easier to transport and set up since all components are contained within the device. Additional features include:

  • Built-in cellular connectivity enables the automatic uploading of data, as well as remote monitoring of the equipment in the field.
  • Expandable battery power provides up to 12 days runtime with four batteries that can be replaced in the field – even in mid-study – for virtually unlimited runtime.
  • The full HD camera, with its Horizontal Field of View (HFOV) 124° lens, provides the ability to collect traffic data in a wider field of view, improving data results and insights for each study area.
  • A high-capacity, industrial-grade SD card stores video data for easy uploading to Miovision’s web portal for processing TMC, roundabout and travel time studies.

Miovision Scout Explore provides data collectors a flexible, reliable solution that can gather data for longer and process video right on the device, lowering the cost of conducting traffic studies.

Scout Explore will be available starting in Q1 2023. To learn more, visit miovision.com.

Product image

About Miovision
Miovision enables cities to reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions while improving public safety through scalable intelligent transportation solutions. Learn more at miovision.com

Media Contact
Tony Florio
Director, Communications
tflorio@miovision.com

GNT Pharma Provides Update on Two Phase III Studies of Nelonemdaz for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated with tPA (ENIS-3) or Endovascular Thrombectomy (RODIN)

  • Promising efficacy and safety profiles were observed in prior Phase II studies in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with recanalization therapies.
  • The ENIS-3 trial has achieved >33% of target enrollment (948 patients). The independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) has completed interim analysis and indicated that the trial should continue.
  • The RODIN trial has achieved >45% of target enrollment (496 patients) in 7 months.

YONGIN, South Korea, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GNT Pharma Inc. announces that the independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) for ENIS-3 (Efficacy and safety of Nelonemdaz for Ischemic Stroke) has completed a pre-specified interim analysis encompassing 227 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with placebo or nelonemdaz within 8 hours of onset in China. The IDMC concluded that the ENIS-3 trial should continue as planned without modification.

In the prior phase II trial in China (ENIS, 237 patients), administration of nelonemdaz reduced disability primarily in moderate to severe ischemic stroke patients treated with a thrombolytic drug. The ENIS-3 trial was then designed to examine the efficacy and safety of nelonemdaz in 946 patients with moderate to severe acute ischemic stroke treated with tPA within 8 hours of stroke onset.

In South Korea, another multicenter, double-blinded phase III trial (RODIN: Rescue on Reperfusion Damage in Cerebral Infarction by Nelonemdaz) has been initiated to further explore the functional and neuroprotection efficacy of nelonemdaz in acute cerebral ischemia and reperfusion, aiming to enroll a total of 496 patients with moderate to severe ischemic stroke who receive endovascular thrombectomy within 12 hours of stroke onset. The RODIN trial has now enrolled more than 224 patients over the last 7 months and is expected to complete enrollment in the middle of 2023.

In the prior phase II study published online in the peer-reviewed journal Stroke in September, nelonemdaz treatment was associated with better functional outcomes than placebo in moderate to severe ischemic stroke patients who received endovascular thrombectomy within 8 hours of stroke onset. Good functional outcomes were analyzed by a fraction of 0 (no disability symptoms) – 2 (slight disability, able to look after own affairs without assistance) on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and a Barthel index of >90 (functional independence in activities of daily living) at 12 weeks. An mRS score of 0–2 was achieved in 54.1% (33/66) and 63.2% (36/57) patients in the placebo and high-dose groups treated with 5,250 mg nelonemdaz, respectively. The common odds ratio (90% confidence interval) indicating a favorable shift in mRS scores was 1.61 (0.94–2.76) between the placebo and high-dose groups. A Barthel index of >90 was observed in 24 (43.6%) and 34 (63.0%) patients in the placebo and high-dose groups, respectively. An overall trend towards excellent outcome (mRS score of 0 and BI of >90) and reduced mortality at 12 weeks, was observed in the nelonemdaz treatment groups compared to placebo.

Dr. Dennis W. Choi, Professor of Neurology, Stony Brook Medicine, and a pioneer in identifying pathological mechanisms of ischemic brain injury said, “Phase III studies of nelonemdaz appear to be progressing well. These trials represent a key shot on the worldwide goal of developing an effective neuroprotective treatment for ischemic stroke.”

Nelonemdaz is a multi-target neuroprotectant acting as both a moderate NR2B-selective N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist and a potent spin trapper that ameliorates both fast NMDA receptor-mediated neuronal death and the delayed free-radical mediated brain cell degeneration occurring hours-to-days after ischemic stroke. In animal models of stroke, superior safety and efficacy was observed for nelonemdaz treatment compared with NMDA antagonists or antioxidants alone.

In prior phase I and phase II studies, administration of nelonemdaz was well-tolerated, with no appearance of the psychotic symptoms seen in humans exposed to previous NMDA receptor antagonist drugs.

“Recent advances in recanalization therapy remarkably improve functional outcomes after acute ischemic stroke and open up new opportunities for neuroprotection therapy based on early delivery and reperfusion,” said Dr. Byoung Joo Gwag, founder and CEO of GNT Pharma. “Nelonemdaz is safe and shows promising efficacy profiles in patients receiving thrombolytic or endovascular therapy. When combined with recanalization therapies, nelonemdaz will hopefully break new ground in treating ischemic brain injury, reducing consequent disability and mortality.”

About nelonemdaz

Nelonemdaz is a breakthrough multi-target neuroprotectant drug candidate, acting both as a moderately powerful, NR2B subtype-selective NMDA receptor antagonist, and a powerful antioxidant. It is designed to safely ameliorate NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity while also reducing free radical toxicity, two major routes of brain cell death after stroke.

About the phase II ENIS Results

In China, a phase II study of nelonemdaz (ENIS trial) has been completed in acute ischemic stroke patients receiving a thrombolytic drug within 8 hours of stroke onset (n=237). Administration of nelonemdaz for 5 days was well-tolerated and showed promising efficacy in moderate to severe stroke patients with initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores of ≥6 on admission. The fraction of recovery to normal in placebo-treated group was 13%, 16%, and 26% at 14 days, 30 days, and 90 days, respectively, which improved to 25%, 34% and 44% in the group treated with high dose nelonemdaz.

About the phase II SONIC Results

In South Korea, a phase II, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multi-center study (SONIC trial) has been conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of nelonemdaz in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with endovascular recanalization within 8 hours of stroke onset.

SONIC enrolled 208 acute ischemic stroke patients with NIHSS score of ≥8. Patients randomly received infusions of placebo, 500 mg nelonemdaz (low-dose group), or 750 mg nelonemdaz (high-dose group) prior to thrombectomy. Low-dose and high-dose nelonemdaz groups then received 9 consecutive infusions of 250 mg and 500 mg every 12 hours, respectively. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients achieving at least a good functional outcome 12 weeks later. Good functional outcome was defined as 0 (no disability symptoms) – 2 (slight disability, able to look after own affairs without assistance) on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), the most widely used outcome measure in stroke research. In the full analysis set encompassing 183 patients, an mRS score of 0–2 at 12 weeks was achieved in 54.1% (33/66), 61.5% (40/65), and 63.2% (36/57) patients in the placebo, low-dose, and high-dose groups, respectively. In secondary outcomes, the common odds ratio (90% confidence interval) indicating a favorable shift in mRS scores at 12 weeks was 1.55 (0.92–2.60) between the placebo and low-dose groups and 1.61 (0.94–2.76) between the placebo and high-dose groups. A Barthel index of >90 (functional independence in activities of daily living) at 12 weeks was observed in 24 (43.6%), 34 (54.8%), and 34 (63.0%) patients in the placebo, low-dose, and high-dose groups, respectively.

An overall trend towards excellent outcome (mRS score of 0 and BI of >90) and reduced mortality at 12 weeks, was observed in the nelonemdaz treatment groups compared to placebo. No serious adverse events were observed in nelonemdaz treatment groups. The SONIC trial results have been published in the journal Stroke in September.

About the phase III ENIS-3 Trial

Based upon the encouraging results observed in the ENIS trial, Apeloa Pharmaceutical of Hengdian Group, GNTP’s Chinese partner, initiated in December 2020 an ongoing phase III study of nelonemdaz in 948 patients with moderate to severe (9≤NIHSS≤22) acute ischemic stroke (ENIS III), engaging 40 Chinese university stroke centers. All patients receive a thrombolytic drug tPA prior to administration of placebo or nelonemdaz within 8 hours of stroke onset.

About the phase III RODIN Trial

In September 2021, the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) approved an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) for a phase III study of nelonemdaz in acute ischemic stroke patients (RODIN trial). RODIN is designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of 5,250 mg nelonemdaz in 496 patients with severe ischemic stroke receiving endovascular thrombectomy within 12 hours of stroke onset. Patients will be enrolled at 23 university stroke centers and evaluated by mRS, NIHSS, BI, and MRI over 90 days following stroke. At present, RODIN has enrolled 224 patients at 21 university stroke centers including Seoul Asan Medical Center.

About GNT Pharma:

GNT Pharma was founded in April 1998 by eight professors in the fields of neuroscience, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, psychology, ophthalmology, and cell biology who had all been investigating mechanisms of neuronal cell death. Since then, GNTP has discovered and developed several innovative drug candidates for the treatment of nervous system disorders such as stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

Disclosure Notice

This press release includes forward-looking statements about GNT Pharma’s efforts to treat acute ischemic stroke and the investigational anti-stroke drug nelonemdaz that are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions, expectations, estimates, and projections as well as facts and factors currently known by GNT Pharma. Statements included in this release that are not historical data and facts, including the words “plans”, “expects”, or similar expressions and statements constitute forward-looking statements.

Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include those associated with the impact COVID-19 could have on our business, and including but not limited to, those inherent in research and development, including completion dates of clinical trials, final data from clinical trials, and the regulatory process.

You are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements as there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements. GNT Pharma undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

Contacts

1.   Eun Chan Park, PhD (US Office): ecpark@gntpharma.com (1-848-228-6841)

2.   Chang Geun Kim, PhD: cgkim@gntpharma.com (+82-70-4261-0786)

3.   Byung Chul Kim, Public Relations Director: bckim@gntpharma.com (+82-70-4262-4755)

DollarBack Comes to the Rescue of Crypto Scam Victims

Featured Image for Dollarback

Featured Image for Dollarback

ZURICH, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For any crypto investor, it’s nothing unusual to come across scammers. While it’s undeniable that the number of these fraudsters is increasing alarmingly across the cryptospace, it’s shockingly true that more and more people continue to get hoodwinked through these deceptive schemes. For such hapless victims, DollarBack, a small European team dedicated to helping such scam victims has devised a novel project, the frontline objective of which is to aid in recovering the losses.

What is DollarBack? 

DollarBack offers an opportunity for anyone losing money due to crypto scams to recover their lost investments. It is done through giveaways, which are distributed multiple times throughout a month. Winners in these giveaways will be selected through a random generator. Along with it, the victims will be helped to recover the amount of money lost due to investment fraud.

A person scammed in a crypto investment can avail DollarBack’s assistance by purchasing tokens from its website. This is followed by filling out a form and the Dollarback team verifying the submitted information and finally confirming the scam.

What makes DollarBack great?

With the central objective of making the cryptospace cleaner and safer, the DollarBack team continuously keeps its eyes on the crypto world and looks out for scams taking place. Every member of the team has gone through KYC verification. On top of that, an audit is completed for the entire project which can be viewed on the website.

All team members are forbidden from purchasing tokens to tighten overall security;  in fact, tokens are frozen for them for a period of two years. Thus, anyone, either an amateur or professional seeking assistance to recover money lost in scams in the crypto world, can reach out to the experts at DollarBack.

How to take part in giveaways at DollarBack and win? 

After signing up with DollarBack, a crypto scam victim is required to deposit the $BACK tokens through the Home page or buy tokens on multiple services. This will kick off a process made up of three different levels. Each level determines the total number of chances to take part in the monthly giveaways. It’s clarified that there is no need to share any personal or sensitive information to take part in the giveaways.

What else can be expected from DollarBack? 

DollarBack is currently working on developing a mechanism where crypto investors will be warned about suspicious projects as well as data before they venture ahead with their investments. In case a specific crypto coin is not known, a mini audit will take place via the wallet directly, thereby helping the crypto investor identify honeypots or other scams before investment. Holding $BACK tokens is also beneficial for them since it allows a 2% holder reward in the case of non-staked tokens.

DollarBack is dedicated to shielding crypto investors from prospective crypto scams. With its tailored services, it aims to ensure a safe investment ecosystem and peace of mind for all crypto investors in the long run.

Website: https://dollarback.io
Email: info@dollarback.io

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WillScot Mobile Mini Acquires Regional Modular Space and Portable Storage Provider in Mid-Atlantic

PHOENIX, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WillScot Mobile Mini Holdings Corp. (“WillScot Mobile Mini” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: WSC), a North American leader in modular space and portable storage solutions, today announced it acquired Allied Office Trailers and Storage Containers. This acquisition adds approximately 8,000 rental assets to WillScot Mobile Mini’s fleet of mobile offices and portable storage containers and expands the Company’s existing operations along the eastern United States.

Brad Soultz, Chief Executive Officer, commented, “This transaction is great for our company and customers in terms of expanded product offerings, capabilities and expertise. Growing our fleet and operations positions us well to service continued strong demand throughout our North America modular and storage segments. In addition, this acquisition gives Allied customers access to the largest and most innovative fleet of modular space and portable storage products in North America – from our one-of-a-kind panelized FLEX™ offices and proprietary Tri-Cam Locking System® for storage doors, to our exclusive value-added products collection and best-in-class logistics capabilities. This strong, Veteran-Owned business makes an excellent addition to WillScot Mobile Mini, and we welcome the team and its customers to our company.”

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The words “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “shall,” “outlook” and variations of these words and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which are generally not historical in nature. Certain of these forward-looking statements include statements relating value creation, the Company’s share price, and the Company’s future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside our control, which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties described in the periodic reports we file with the SEC from time to time (including our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021), which are available through the SEC’s EDGAR system at www.sec.gov and on our website. Any forward-looking statement speaks only at the date on which it is made, and WillScot Mobile Mini disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

About WillScot Mobile Mini Holdings Corp.

WillScot Mobile Mini Holdings trades on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol “WSC.” Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, the Company is a leading business services provider specializing in innovative flexible mobile office, portable storage and workspace productivity solutions. WillScot Mobile Mini services diverse end markets across all sectors of the economy from a network of about 280 branch locations and additional drop lots throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.

Media Contact Information

Jessica Taylor
jetaylor@willscotmobilemini.com

Investor Contact Information

Nick Girardi
nick.girardi@willscotmobilemini.com

Madison Realty Capital Originates $315.6 Million Loan for The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in New Orleans

NEW YORK, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Madison Realty Capital, a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm focused on debt and equity investment strategies, today announced that it has provided a $315.6 million loan to Carpenter & Company, Inc. and Woodward Interests, LLC for the completion of the renovation at the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences New Orleans located at 2 Canal Street in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Josh Zegen, Managing Principal and Co-Founder of Madison Realty Capital, said, “The Four Seasons New Orleans is well positioned along the Mississippi River, between the French Quarter and Central Business Districts, to capitalize on the demand from New Orleans’ robust tourism market and expanding business district. We are pleased to leverage our familiarity with the Four Seasons brand to deliver a timely and customized financing solution to an experienced borrower group for a well-recognized New Orleans landmark with exciting cultural attractions.”

The 341-key Four Seasons hotel opened in July 2021 and is part of a mixed-use tower that includes 92 residential condominiums on the top floors. Operated by the Four Seasons, the residences have a private entrance from the hotel and offer one- to three-bedroom units and four-bedroom penthouses. To date, the property has sold 50% of the condominiums.

The 33-story hotel and residence offers event space and amenities including two restaurants, a lobby and bar, full-service spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and private gardens. The highly awarded hotel was named a “Best Hotel in New Orleans” and one of the “Best New Hotels in the World” by Travel + Leisure; a “Best of the Best” New Hotels in the World by Robb Report; and a “Best New Hotel in the Country” by USA TODAY 10Best. Additionally, the building is home to Vue Orleans, a unique indoor and outdoor observatory with panoramic views of the city and historic and cultural exhibits.

Richard Friedman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Carpenter & Company Inc., said, “Madison Realty Capital has significant expertise investing in Four Seasons projects and we are pleased with their team’s ability to work quickly and provide certainty of execution. We look forward to moving to the next stage of this exciting project as we raise the hotel quality bar in New Orleans with the customized and flexible financing Madison delivered.”

Madison Realty Capital has significant experience investing in Four Seasons Hotels. Notable transactions include a $210 million loan to Fort Partners for the construction of the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Fort Lauderdale and $105 million loan to Fort Partners for the acquisition and modernization of the Four Seasons Hotel Miami.

Riaz Cassum and Henry Schaffer from JLL Capital Markets arranged the financing.

About Madison Realty Capital 

Madison Realty Capital is a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm that, as of August 31, 2022, manages approximately $9.5 billion in total assets on behalf of a global institutional investor base. Since 2004, Madison Realty Capital has completed approximately $21 billion in transactions providing borrowers with flexible and highly customized financing solutions, strong underwriting capabilities, and certainty of execution. Headquartered in New York City, with an office in Los Angeles, the firm has approximately 70 employees across all real estate investment, development, and property management disciplines. Madison Realty Capital has been frequently named to the Commercial Observer’s prestigious “Power 100” list of New York City real estate players and is consistently cited as a top construction lender, among other industry recognitions. To learn more, follow us on LinkedIn and visit www.madisonrealtycapital.com.

Nathaniel Garnick/Grace Cartwright
Gasthalter & Co.
(212) 257-4170
madisonrealty@gasthalter.com

Codex DNA Debuts Next-Generation Automated Synthetic Biology Workstation

BioXp™ 9600 system – a fully automated, high-throughput benchtop instrument for synthetic biology workflows – empowers scientists to accelerate discovery of new vaccines and biologics

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Codex DNA, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNAY), a pioneer in automated benchtop synthetic biology systems, today announced commercial release and first shipment of the BioXp™ 9600 system, a next-generation high throughput platform designed to revolutionize synthetic biology workflows. The latest instrument further accelerates the design-build-test process of research and discovery by building biology overnight and at the push of a button.

The fully automated BioXp™ system enables scientists to overcome process limitations created by the turnaround time, cost, or complexity of alternative means of building or acquiring DNA and mRNA. The BioXp™ system provides over-night, automated synthesis of genes, clones, DNA libraries, and mRNA, enabling users to more tightly integrate design and build cycles, driving greater productivity and reducing time to answer.

“Codex DNA is committed to empowering and inspiring scientists to advance their discovery of life-changing vaccines and biologics. We believe the BioXp™ 9600 system, the third release on our versatile and powerful BioXp platform, can enable scientists to overcome inefficiencies in their workflows which limit their discovery. Demonstrating our commitment, we accelerated development of this system, releasing one quarter ahead of schedule,” said Todd R. Nelson, PhD, CEO of Codex DNA.

“The versatility of the platform enables us to release additional capabilities intended to optimize discovery workflows. Beginning in Q1 of 2023 we will release additional BioXp kits that enable scientists to begin the cloning, amplification, and mRNA synthesis process from the customers own linear DNA or plasmid DNA. We believe providing scientists the flexibility to begin with their sequence, linear DNA, or plasmid DNA, will further expand the utility, speed, and impact of the system,” said Todd R. Nelson, PhD, CEO of Codex DNA.

About Codex DNA
Codex DNA is empowering scientists with the ability to create novel, synthetic biology-enabled solutions for many of humanity’s greatest challenges. As inventors of the industry-standard Gibson Assembly® method and the first commercial automated benchtop DNA and mRNA synthesis system, Codex DNA is enabling rapid, accurate, and reproducible writing of DNA and mRNA for numerous downstream markets. The award-winning BioXp™ system consolidates, automates, and optimizes the entire synthesis, cloning, and amplification workflow. As a result, it delivers virtually error-free synthesis of DNA and RNA at scale within days and hours instead of weeks or months. Scientists around the world are using the technology in their own laboratories to accelerate the design-build-test paradigm for novel, high-value products for precision medicine, biologics drug discovery, vaccine and therapeutic development, genome editing, and cell and gene therapy. Codex DNA is a public company based in San Diego. For more information, visit codexdna.com.

Codex DNA, the Codex DNA logo, Gibson Assembly, BioXp, and RapidAMP are trademarks of Codex DNA Inc.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements are based on Codex DNA’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to it on the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Codex DNA’s actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These and other risks are described more fully in Codex DNA’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and other documents that Codex DNA subsequently files with the SEC from time to time. Except to the extent required by law, Codex DNA undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

Media Contact:
Charlie Schmidt
Sr. Director of Marketing
charlie@codexdna.com

Failing to Submit Income Tax Returns

From June to August 2022, eighteen local companies were ordered to settle fines at the Magistrate’s Court for failing to comply with Section 52(1) of the Income Tax Act, Chapter 35. Seventeen companies pleaded guilty at the Magistrate’s Court for failing to submit Income Tax Returns for the respective Financial Years.

 

Manzian dan Anak- Anak Sdn Bhd; Khan Carpet Sdn Bhd; Kemajuan Pertanian Malar Hijau Sdn Bhd and Qamar Sdn Bhd were issued $5,000 fine respectively.

 

While, Hi Rope Engineering Brunei Sdn Bhd and Seri Akshaya Contractor Sdn Bhd were each fined $4,000.

 

Admax Brothers Sdn Bhd was fined to $3,600.

 

Momin Engineering Services Sdn Bhd; Arsalan Jaya Sdn Bhd; Syams & Rully Sdn Bhd were issued $3,000 fine respectively.

 

Joun BRN Tour Sdn Bhd; Northstar Petroleum Corporation Sdn Bhd; JRA Barakah Sdn Bhd and Kartis & Sons Sdn Bhd were each fined to $2,000.

 

While M.E Real Estate Sdn Bhd; Hadson International University Sdn Bhd and Tanawal Sdn Bhd were each issued a fine amounting to $1,000.

 

Mass Kamal Sdn Bhd was found guilty by the Magistrate’s Court and fined $7,500.

 

The Revenue Division, Ministry of Finance and Economy would like to remind that companies registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 39 are required to submit their Income Tax Returns no later than 30th of June of the relevant Year of Assessment.

 

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei

 

Updated Management Procedures for the Deceased

Management procedures for handling the deceased who died due to COVID-19 have also been updated. The Minister of Health stated the deceased will no longer need to be managed at the National Isolation Centre.

 

This can now be done at the mosque or at home as per the family’s wish, in accordance to the set guidelines such as wearing face masks, gloves, apron and eye protection while handling the body. However, the deceased cannot be brought or managed at homes that have any positive cases. The deceased can now be buried in any suitable cemetery as per the family’s wish, and ART testing is not required for any deaths that occur at home and can be handled normally. Meanwhile, operating hours for the Swab Centre at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital and SARI Centre of the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in Kuala Belait is now from 8 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon during on working days, and are closed on Fridays, Sundays and public holidays.

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei

Retail Sales Performance Decreases in Q2 2022

Retail sales performance in second quarter of 2022 showed a year-on-year decrease of 4.1 per cent with an estimated value decreased from 488.2 million dollars to 468.3 million dollars. In terms of volume, the retail sales also recorded a negative growth of 6.8 per cent year-on-year. The Department of Economic Planning and Statistics in its press release stated that in terms of volume, the retail sales also recorded a negative growth of 6.8 per cent year-on-year.

 

The decline in retail sales was mainly caused by a drop in sales of Textiles, Wearing Apparel and Footwear; followed by Electrical Household Appliances and Lighting Equipment; sales at Petrol Station; and sales in Department Store. This was due to lack of domestic demand in line with the easing of cross-border travel restrictions and online learning and teaching.

 

 

Meanwhile, food and beverage services increased by point 2 per cent compared to the same period last year. However, in terms of volume, food and beverages activity recorded a negative growth of 1.1 per cent year-on-year. The rise in food and beverage sales revenue was mainly attributed by the increasing sales revenue of Other Food Service Activities and Restaurants.

 

Compared to the first quarter of 2022, the retail sales in the second quarter rose by 4 per cent, mainly due to an increase in the sales of Textiles, Wearing Apparel and Footwear; sales at Petrol Station; Furniture and Household Equipment; and sales in Department Store.

 

Food and beverage services also recorded an increase of 5.8 per cent in the second quarter compared to the first quarter of 2022, mainly due to rising sales revenue of Catering Service Activities; Beverage Serving Activities; Restaurants and Fast-Food Outlets.

 

Compared to the first quarter this year, the growing retail sales and food and beverage services activities were in line with the rising domestic demand as most control measures were reduced, such as increasing the capacity for the entry of customers into business premises from 75 per cent to full capacity following the cessation of the COVID-19 Early Endemic Phase.

 

The full report is available from ‘deps.mofe.gov.bn’.

 

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei

 

Dementia is not a Normal Aging Process

Dementia is a disease that affects the cognitive function of the brain which can affect memory, thinking, behaviour and feelings. Dementia is also the main cause of disability and dependency among the elderly. According to the Medical Officer, Geriatric Department of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital, there are various types of dementia of which Alzheimer’s is the most common type and contributes to 60 to 70 percent of dementia cases. She said that dementia is not a result of the normal aging process, it is a disease that affects the individual’s memory, thinking, behaviour and emotions. Symptoms of dementia include loss of memory and thinking, difficulty finding the right words or understanding what is being said, difficulty performing daily routine tasks, or changes in personality and mood.

 

The Lancet publication analysis of Global Burden of Disease study 2019, estimates that there are one thousand five hundred and seventy four cases in Brunei Darussalam and it is expected to increase by 365% to 7,317 by 2050. World Alzheimer’s Month is celebrated every September and this year’s theme is Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s.

 

 

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei

 

Flag Hoisting at Half-Mast

 

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented for the country’s national flag to be hoisted at half-mast. The hoisting began from 8am, 19th September, until 8am, 20th September.

 

The national flag is hoisted at half-mast at all government buildings, including all Brunei Darussalam representative offices abroad on occasion of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second. Commonwealth countries such as Australia, Malaysia and the Republic of Singapore also hoisted their respective flags at half-mast to express their mourning for the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second on Thursday, 8th of September 2022 at the age of 96.

 

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei

Updated Health Procedures

The Minister of Health also explained that after reviewing the control measures implemented in government health facilities, the Ministry of Health will implement several changes, starting on 20th September 2022.

 

Patients who are seeing a doctor and have no signs of infection are no longer required to do ART. However, ART is still required for patients who wish to get dental treatment, undergo certain medical procedures such as bronchoscopy and gastroscopy, seek treatment at the Accident and Emergency Department in hospitals, and patients who will be admitted to the hospital. ART is also encouraged for patients in health centres who have signs of infection to facilitate treatment. Meanwhile, PCR test will be done for certain patients only.

 

Meanwhile, the issuance of Self Isolation Notice will cease. Anyone with signs of infection but have negative ART result is advised to use the Self Certified Medical Leave, CSDS or a sick leave letter from parents or guardians for students. As a reminder, all positive cases will undergo self-isolation as per the Quarantine Order under the Infectious Diseases Act for the period set in accordance with the current SOP.

 

On Visiting Policy in hospitals, visits are only allowed during designated visiting hours. The number of visitors per patient in the hospital is no longer limited. However, only two visitors are allowed at one time per patient, and they must show negative ART result on the same day. Visitors are not allowed to visit patients in the holding ward or isolation ward, but a caregiver may be allowed to be with the patient depending on the assessment and suitability of the patient’s condition. Children under 12 years old are not allowed to visit.

 

 

Source: Radio Television Brunei