10 5 月, 2022

Hitachi High-Tech and Invivoscribe Partner to Advance Molecular Diagnostics

TOKYO, May 10, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation has entered into a strategic partnership (the Partnership) with Invivoscribe, Inc., a global provider of blood cancer testing kits and services, by undertaking a minority investment-based, third-party allotment of shares. The Partnership aims to accelerate the molecular diagnostics(1) and precision medicine businesses of both companies by combining Invivoscribe's technology, assay and bioinformatics development, global clinical testing, and international regulatory expertise with Hitachi High-Tech's core expertise in measurement and analysis systems technologies.In recent years, cancer treatments have begun to offer personalized medicine, in which genes and proteins are examined in detail and the treatment is tailored to the individual patient. In the medical field, there are growing expectations and demands for molecular diagnostics, including high-precision measurement devices that measure genes and proteins, and testing services that deliver highly reliable results to doctors and patients. These molecular diagnostic tests are being further developed as highly precise, sensitive, and affordable methods with minimal burden on the body. The use of molecular diagnostics is expected to expand from diagnostic and therapeutic drug selection to early detection and prognosis monitoring.Invivoscribe is a privately-held, California-based life science corporation with 7 wholly-owned subsidiaries in 5 countries, including clinical laboratories in 4 countries. Invivoscribe is engaged in three core business functions: 1) testing services for blood cancers, 2) global sales and distribution of test kits and licensing bioinformatics software, and 3) the development and commercialization of companion diagnostics(2) to support pharmaceutical approval of new oncology treatments.Hitachi High-Tech's Analytical & Medical Solutions Business aims to support emerging businesses in the life science and healthcare industries while building out its own in vitro diagnostics (IVD) business. This Partnership is part of Hitachi High Tech's growth strategy of strengthening this molecular diagnostics business, whose mission is to contribute to the early detection and treatment of cancer, and discover new drugs, by providing molecular cancer diagnostics to all people, thereby realizing a healthy and secure society.Through this strategic partnership, Hitachi High-Tech aims to cooperate across development, manufacturing, sales and testing services, while developing systems that provide solutions that better address the on-site needs of cancer diagnosis and monitoring throughout the course of treatment.Hitachi High-Tech will continue to strengthen and expand the IVD business including the molecular diagnostic business by incorporating digital and information technologies and contribute to improving the quality of medical care by providing solutions for early diagnosis and optimal treatments of cancers to improve people's QoL"Invivoscribe is excited at the synergistic opportunities, combining our core expertise in global standardization of tests and bioinformatics, our clinical lab services, and our processes for developing custom companion diagnostics from analytical/clinical validations through international regulatory approvals and commercialization, with Hitachi's expertise in instrumentation development and manufacturing," said Jeffrey Miller, CEO and founder of Invivoscribe. "Hitachi manufactures and distributes in vitro diagnostic instruments that we currently use to standardize testing for the international community; we are looking forward to further deepening our Partnership so we can advance precision medicine worldwide.""Hitachi High-Tech has been strengthening its molecular diagnosis business centered on genetic testing. By combining Invivoscribe's testing service business with our experiences gained from the equipment business, we aim to build a unique business model and provide a wide range of services to medical professionals," said Yoshimitsu Takagi, Vice President and Executive Officer, and General Manager, Analytical & Medical Solution Business Group of Hitachi High-Tech.(1) Molecular diagnostics business: A business that measures biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, and protein contained in tissues and blood (body fluids) and provides information necessary for diagnosis and selection of therapeutic agents to healthcare professionals.(2) Companion diagnostics: In-vitro diagnostics to test the indication of a specific drug to improve the efficacy or safety of the drug.About InvivoscribeInvivoscribe has been Improving Lives with Precision Diagnostics for more than twenty-five years, advancing the field of precision medicine by developing and selling standardized reagents, tests, and bioinformatics tools to more than 700 customers in 160 countries. Invivoscribe also has a significant impact on global health working with pharmaceutical companies to accelerate approvals of new drugs and treatments by supporting international clinical trials, developing, commercializing companion diagnostics, and providing expertise in both regulatory and laboratory services. With its proven ability to provide global access to distributable reagents, kits, and controls, as well as clinical trial services through our international clinical lab subsidiaries (LabPMM), Invivoscribe has demonstrated it is an ideal partner. For additional information please visit: www.invivoscribe.comor contact Invivoscribe at: customerservice@invivoscribe.com.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including manufacture and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, and analytical instruments, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and analysis equipment. and providing high value-added solutions in fields of social & industrial infrastructures and mobility, etc. The company's consolidated revenues for FY 2021 were approx. JPY 576.8 billion [USD 5.1 billion]. For further information, visit http://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/Contact:Maya OkamuraBusiness Creation Dept., Business Strategy Planning Div.,Hitachi High-Tech Corporatione-mail: maya.okamura.yr@hitachi-hightech.com Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

23 2 月, 2022

CATALIST-listed AOXIN Q&M records 21% growth in revenue for full year ended 31 December 2021

– EBITDA grew 47% for 12 months ended 31 Dec 2021– Proposed listing of 49%-owned Acumen Diagnostics on NASDAQ will enhance AOXIN’s shareholder value– Growth trend in revenue expected to continue as COVID-19 situation in China improves SINGAPORE, Feb 23, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Catalist listed Aoxin Q&M Dental Limited (“Aoxin” or “the Group”), today announced a 20.8% increase in revenue to RMB160.2 million for full year ended 31 December 2021 (“FY2021”). The Group reported a net loss after tax of RMB7.3 million for FY2021, an improvement from the net loss of RMB12.1 million from a year ago. In 2020, in view of COVID-19 situation, the Chinese government provided temporary relief to businesses by waiving the social security insurance contributions. Aoxin would have additional RMB6.3 million of social security insurance expenses recorded in FY2020 resulting in a Net Loss of RMB18.4 million, instead of RMB12.1 million. Dr. Shao Yongxin, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aoxin Q&M said, “Global economic prospects for 2022 will continue to be uncertain, with many countries still struggling to contain the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. The possibility of new COVID-19 strains cannot be ruled out. However, Aoxin Q&M’s dental services make it resilient and well-positioned ride out the current downturn to capitalize on strategic opportunities in the post-COVID healthcare sector”. Mr Ryan San, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Aoxin Q&M said, “The Group has been operating in a challenging environment, severely impacted by the recurring lockdowns of entire cities in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”). We are keeping a close watch on the evolving COVID-19 situation in PRC, while managing our costs with strict discipline.” Revenue The Group’s revenue increased by RMB27.6 million or 20.8%, from RMB132.6 million in FY2020 to RMB160.2 million in FY2021, mainly due to the recovery in all business segments. Revenue from primary healthcare segment increased by 19.7% from RMB78.5 million in FY2020 to RMB93.9 million in FY2021. The increase in revenue were from our key hospitals in Shenyang and Dalian cities, and a polyclinic in Panjin city mainly due to increase in patients. Revenue from distribution of dental equipment and supplies segment achieved a significant growth of 24.8%. Revenue was RMB50.4 million in FY2021 as compared to RMB40.4 million in FY2020. There was a higher demand for dental supplies materials from government hospitals amidst a gradual economic recovery in China backed by rolling out of the COVID-19 vaccination in the country. Revenue from laboratory services segment increased by 15.9% to RMB15.9 million in FY2021 as compared to RMB13.7 million in FY2020 due to increase in demand of such services from the government dental hospitals in Shenyang City. EBITDA The Group’s EBITDA also increased from RM9.5 million in FY2020 to RMB13.9 million in FY2021. The increase in EBITDA was mainly attributable to higher revenue and better performance from key dental hospitals and polyclinics as well as higher sales for dental equipment and supplies. Despite a positive EBITDA of RMB13.9 million, the Group recorded a loss of RMB7.3 million due to salary increment and recruitment expenses, as well as higher other expenses, such as acquisition related fees for Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. (“Acumen Diagnostics”) and other tax expenses. Mr Ryan San, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Aoxin Q&M added. “We are also hopeful that moving forward, our recent acquisition of a 49% stake in Acumen Diagnostics will improve the profitability and cashflow of the Group. With Acumen Diagnostics expertise in R&D and medical diagnostics we will be able to play a vital role in support of the Singapore government’s strategy of living with COVID-19. Concomitantly, this will also contribute to the growth of the Group.” Updates on associate – Acumen Diagnostics – Capabilities to Tackle Omicron COVID-19 Variant Acumen Diagnostics will continue to offer COVID-19 testing by polymerase chain reaction (“PCR”) for patients that require PCR test results and for travelers as Singapore opens its borders, as well as distribute COVID-19 antigen rapid tests (“ART”). It will also launch a panel of new PCR tests for infectious diseases, sepsis and cancer. On 3 December 2021, Acumen Diagnostics announced that its proprietary, locally-manufactured PCR test kits Acu-Corona 2.0 and Acu-Corona Duplex are able to detect COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Omicron variant. On 16 December 2021, Acumen Diagnostics announced that it has been granted a license by Ministry of Health, Singapore to provide offsite COVID-19 PCR swab services and serology sample collection at 100 clinics. Acumen Diagnostics will continue to roll out its testing services via the Q&M Dental Group Limited’s network of clinics, and also at its headquarters located at The Gemini, 41 Science Park Road, Singapore. Currently, Acumen Diagnostics has about 61 clinics providing the testing services island-wide. – Proposed listing on NASDAQ stock exchange in relation to Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. On 17 January 2022, Aoxin announced that the associated company of the Group, Acumen Diagnostics is exploring a proposed listing of its securities on the NASDAQ stock exchange in New York, USA. In this regard, Acumen Diagnostics has appointed UOB Kay Hian Private Limited to assist Acumen Diagnostics with the listing evaluation and all relevant preparatory work including the selection of professional advisers and underwriting banks in relation to the proposed listing and fund-raising exercise. Looking Forward Aoxin’s FY2021 results reflects the significant upturn in revenue as compared to FY2020 revenue which was the period when the COVID-19 pandemic in PRC was in a more serious phase. As the COVID-19 situation in the PRC continues to improve, we expect the Group’s revenue to correspondingly improve. In addition, the recent 49% acquisition of medical technology company, Acumen Diagnostics for S$29.4 million on 1 November 2021, will enhance the profitability of the Group going forward. The business environment is expected to remain challenging for the year ahead, as many countries including PRC struggle to contain the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus demonstrated by new waves of infections. The Group will continue to focus on disciplined management of operating expenditures, costs and capital expenditures. The Group will continue to monitor its expenses and maximise cost efficiency for operations. Barring any unforeseen circumstances and further worsening of the COVID-19 situation such as ad-hoc lock down or temporary closures in cities where we operate, there are no known significant changes in the trends and competitive conditions of the industry in which the Group operates and no other major known factors or events that may adversely affect the Group in the next reporting period and the next 12 months. The Group will continue to monitor its operating expenses and maximise cost efficiency for operations. For more information, please see attached files or the below links:https://links.sgx.com/FileOpen/AoxinPressRelease-FY2021_final_23.2.22.ashx?App=Announcement&FileID=703172https://links.sgx.com/FileOpen/AXQM%20Announcement%20FY2021.ashx?App=Announcement&FileID=703171 This announcement has been reviewed by the Company’s sponsor, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd. (the “Sponsor”). It has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “Exchange”) and the Exchange assumes no responsibility for the contents of this document, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this document. The contact person for the Sponsor is Ms. Lim Hui Ling, 16 Collyer Quay, #10-00 Income at Raffles, Singapore 049318, sponsorship@ppcf.com.sg About Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (Stock Code: 1D4.SI) www.aoxinqm.com.sg Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (“Aoxin Q&M” or together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) is a leading provider of private dental services in the Liaoning Province, Northern People’s Republic of China (“PRC”). The Group operates 16 dental centres, comprising 10 dental polyclinics and 6 dental hospitals, located across 8 cities in Liaoning Province, namely Shenyang, Huludao, Panjin, Gaizhou, Zhuanghe, Jinzhou, Dalian and Anshan. We currently have 400 dental professionals, including 170 dentists, 180 dental surgery assistants and 50 laboratory technicians. A majority of the dental centres are accredited as Designated Medical Institutions of Medical Insurance. Additionally, the Group is engaged in the provision of dental laboratory services, as well as the distribution and sale of dental equipment and supplies in the Liaoning, Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces in Northern PRC. Aoxin Q&M was listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited on 26 April 2017. About Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. (www.acumen-research.com) Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. (“Acumen Diagnostics”) is a homegrown Singaporean, award-winning medical technology company. It is fully integrated with functions in research and development, manufacturing, as well as commercialisation of molecular diagnostics by distribution as well as conducting clinical laboratory testing services for (including but not limited to) infectious diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. It has also actively established frontline services such as COVID-19 on-site swabbing operations. Acumen Diagnostics is a 51% subsidiary of SGX-listed Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (SGX: 1D4.SI) and 49%-owned by SGX-listed Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (SGX: QC7.SI). Media and Analysts: please contact below for more information: Waterbrooks Consultants Pte. Ltd.+65 6958 8008, query@waterbrooks.com.sgWayne Koo (M): +65 9338 8166, wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sgDerek Yeo (M): +65 9791 4707, derek@waterbrooks.com.sg

16 12 月, 2021

Acumen Diagnostics granted Ministry of Health COVID-19 offsite PCR testing license, up to 100 sites island-wide

SINGAPORE, Dec 16, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Homegrown medical technology Company, Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics" or the "Company"), a 51% owned subsidiary of Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited ("Q&M Dental") and 49% owned by Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited ("Aoxin Q&M Dental"), today announced that it has been granted a license by the Ministry of Health, Singapore to provide offsite COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction ("PCR") swab services and serology sample collection.The Company will roll out its testing services via Q&M Dental's network of clinics, and also at Acumen Diagnostics' headquarters located at The Gemini, 41 Science Park Road, Singapore.Dr Ong Siew Hwa, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Scientist of Acumen Diagnostics and Executive Director of Aoxin Q&M Dental, said "Vaccination coupled with a robust testing regime remains the best strategy to tackle the virus enabling a safe and more sustainable re-opening of the economy.PCR tests remain the gold standard for accurately detecting COVID-19 cases and with the potential higher transmissibility of new variants such as Omicron, testing needs to be deployed quickly and provide highly accurate results to control the spread of the virus."With the onset of the Omicron variant and Vaccinated Travel Lane arrangements with more countries being added, the Company will ramp up its COVID-19 PCR testing services in anticipation of the increased demand for PCR testing, at an initial 10 Q&M Dental outlets plus the Company's headquarters, by 31 December 2021. See Annex A below for details of the 10 Q&M Dental outlets. More sites will be added in the next few months to the rest of the Q&M Dental network, with a potential capacity to activate 100 sites island-wide.Dr Ng Chin Siau, Chief Executive Officer of Q&M Dental said, "Through Q&M Dental's extensive network of clinics, with capacity to roll out to 100 sites island-wide, we as a Group are committed to provide highly accurate and accessible PCR tests to make COVID-19 testing hassle-free and convenient for all Singapore residents.And with one of the most competitive pricing available in Singapore, we will ensure that our tests remain affordable for everyone who needs to be tested. We will continue to do our part to contribute to the national effort to combat the COVID-19 virus and progress towards living with endemic COVID-19."Those who require their PCR test results on urgent basis can also visit Acumen Diagnostics' headquarters at The Gemini, 41 Science Park Road, Singapore. With its headquarters located in close proximity to the Company's two laboratories, PCR test results will be available in as early as 4 hours. For an additional fee, the Company also provides doorstep PCR testing services to your home or workplace.Acumen Diagnostics possesses deep technical capabilities and the supporting infrastructure in molecular diagnostics, spanning R&D, manufacturing, and clinical laboratory testing, with 2 laboratories that are able to process over 7,000 COVID-19 diagnostics tests daily.Recently, on 3 December 2021, Acumen Diagnostics also announced that its proprietary, locally-manufactured PCR test kits Acu-Corona 2.0 and Acu-Corona Duplex are able to detect COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Omicron variant. In addition to detecting COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Delta variant, the Company's proprietary PCR test kits are able to pick-up COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Omicron variant as well.Annex A: Initial testing sites at Acumen Diagnostics and Q&M Dental branches by 31 December 2021S/N - Acumen HQ & Q&M Dental Outlet - Address - TelephoneHQ - Acumen Diagnostics (Headquarters) - 41 Science Park Road #01-02 Gemini (Lobby B) (S) 117610 - 6980 00801 - Canberra - Blk 126 Canberra Street #01-03 Multi Storey Car Park (S) 750126 - 6518 31152 - Geylang - 1 Lorong 22 Geylang #01-01 Grandview Suites (S) 398664 - 6741 20713 - Jurong East - 2 Jurong East Street 21 #02-61A IMM Building (S) 609601 - 6980 39994 - Jurong - Blk 353 Jurong East Street 31 #01-107 Yuhua Place (S) 600353 - 6980 38685 - Kim Seng - 1 Kim Seng Promenade #03-117 Great World City (S) 237994 - 6734 06036 - Kim Tian - Blk 126 Kim Tian Road #01-03 Kim Tian Green (S) 160126 - 6979 76687 - North Bridge - 107 North Bridge Road #B1-37/38 Funan Mall (S) 179105 - 6979 92968 - Potong Pasir - 51 Upper Serangoon Road #03-10/11 The Poiz Centre (S) 347697 - 6968 51319 - Sembawang Way - Blk 355 Sembawang Way #01-07 (S) 750355 - 6235 278210 - Tanjong Katong - 11 Tanjong Katong Road #B1-13 Kinex (S) 437157 - 6241 6562About Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. (www.acumen-research.com)Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics") is a homegrown Singaporean, award-winning medical technology company. It is fully integrated with functions in research and development, manufacturing, as well as commercialisation of molecular diagnostics by distribution as well as conducting clinical laboratory testing services for (including but not limited to) infectious diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. It has also actively established frontline services such as COVID-19 on-site swabbing operations.Acumen Diagnostics is a 51% subsidiary of SGX-listed Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (SGX: 1D4.SI) and 49%-owned by SGX-listed Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (SGX: QC7.SI).About Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (QC7.SI) (www.QandMDental.com.sg)Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited ("Q&M" or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") is a leading private dental healthcare group in Asia. The Group owns the largest network of private dental outlets in Singapore, operating 90 dental outlets across the country. Underpinned by about 270 experienced dentists, 7 doctors and more than 350 supporting staff, the Group sees an average of 40,000 patient visits a month in Singapore. The Group also operates 5 medical clinics and a dental supplies and equipment distribution company.Outside of Singapore, the Group has 38 dental clinics and a dental supplies and equipment distribution company in Malaysia, as well as a dental clinic in the People's Republic of China ("PRC"). Q&M is also the substantial shareholder of Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited, a dental Group listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange, which operates dental clinics and hospitals primarily in the Northeastern region of the PRC. The Group aims to expand its operations geographically and vertically through the value chain in Malaysia, the PRC and within ASEAN.In 2018, the Group made inroads into the development of advanced technology in healthcare with the establishment of EM2AI Pte. Ltd. ("EM2AI", formerly known as Q&M Dental AI Pte. Ltd.). EM2AI focuses on developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethical enhanced guided treatment plan.In 2019, the Group expanded into dental postgraduate education with the establishment of the Q&M College of Dentistry. It offers Singapore's first private postgraduate diploma programme in clinical dentistry.In 2020, the Group also expanded into the medical laboratories and research industry with the incorporation of Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics"). Acumen Diagnostics currently focuses on the manufacture, sale and distribution of COVID-19 diagnostic test kits, as well as COVID19 testing.The Group was listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited ("SGXST") on 26 November 2009.About Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (Stock Code: 1D4.SI) (www.aoxinqm.com.sg)Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited ("Aoxin Q&M Dental" or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") is a leading provider of private dental services in the Liaoning Province, Northern People's Republic of China ("PRC"). The Group operates 16 dental centres, comprising 10 dental polyclinics and 6 dental hospitals, located across 8 cities in Liaoning Province, namely Shenyang, Huludao, Panjin, Gaizhou, Zhuanghe, Jinzhou, Dalian and Anshan. We currently have 400 dental professionals, including 170 dentists, 180 dental surgery assistants and 50 laboratory technicians. A majority of the dental centres are accredited as Designated Medical Institutions of Medical Insurance. Additionally, the Group is engaged in the provision of dental laboratory services, as well as the distribution and sale of dental equipment and supplies in the Liaoning, Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces in Northern PRC.Aoxin Q&M Dental was listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited on 26 April 2017.Media and Analysts: please contact below for more information:Waterbrooks Consultants Pte. Ltd.+65 6958 8008, query@waterbrooks.com.sgWayne Koo (M): +65 9338 8166, wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sgDerek Yeo (M): +65 9791 4707, derek@waterbrooks.com.sg Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

3 12 月, 2021

Acumen Diagnostics’ PCR capabilities to tackle Omicron COVID-19 variant

SINGAPORE, Dec 3, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Homegrown medical technology Company, Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics" or the "Company"), a 51% owned subsidiary of Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) and 49% owned by Aoxin Q&M Dental, today announced that its proprietary, locally-manufactured polymerase chain reaction ("PCR") test kits Acu-Corona 2.0 and Acu-Corona Duplex are able to detect COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Omicron variant.Acumen Diagnostics' series of Acu-Corona and SatuGen COVID-19 PCR test kits can detect the presence of the Omicron variant in SARS-CoV-2 samplesDr Ong Siew Hwa, Executive Director of Aoxin Q&M Dental and Chief Executive Officer & Chief Scientist of Acumen Diagnostics said, "As the COVID-19 threat continues to evolve with the emergence of a potentially more transmissible variant, Omicron, highly-accurate and cost-effective COVID-19 testing becomes even more important to detect and help curb the spread of the virus. With PCR tests remaining the gold standard to detect COVID-19, Acumen Diagnostics remains well-positioned to help Singapore tackle this new challenge posed by the virus, with our effective and affordable PCR test kits that are equipped to detect COVID-19 positive cases infected with Delta and Omicron, as well as our laboratory testing capabilities that can run 7000 tests daily. We will continue to contribute to national COVID-19 testing efforts to support Singapore's safe and sustainable re-opening."In addition to detecting COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Delta variant, the Company's proprietary PCR test kits are able to detect COVID-19 positive cases infected with the Omicron variant as well.The Acu-Corona 2.0 PCR test targets two COVID-19 genes - RdRp and E, while the Acu-Corona Duplex PCR test targets the E gene and S gene. The portion of the S gene targeted by the Acu-Corona Duplex PCR test does not contain any of the 32 mutations that occurred in the Omicron variant, hence it can detect the Omicron variant without any loss of sensitivity.This proprietary technology used in PCR test kits and laboratory testing is developed and owned by Acumen Diagnostics. Being locally manufactured, the Company's test kits can be deployed quickly and are more cost-effective and allow for greater self-sufficiency, compared to that of its peers imported from overseas.Acumen Diagnostics possesses deep technical capabilities and the supporting infrastructure in molecular diagnostics, spanning R&D, manufacturing, and clinical laboratory testing, with 2 laboratories that are able to process 7000 COVID-19 diagnostics tests daily.About Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics") is a homegrown Singaporean, award-winning medical technology company. It is fully integrated with functions in research and development, manufacturing, as well as commercialisation of molecular diagnostics by distribution as well as conducting clinical laboratory testing services for (including but not limited to) infectious diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. It has also actively established frontline services such as COVID-19 on-site swabbing operations. Acumen Diagnostics is a 51% subsidiary of SGX-listed Q&M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (SGX: 1D4.SI) and 49%-owned by SGX-listed Aoxin Q&M Dental Group Limited (SGX: QC7.SI). For more information, please visit the company website at www.acumen-research.com.For more information, please contact:Waterbrooks Consultants Pte. Ltd.+65 6958 8008, query@waterbrooks.com.sgWayne Koo (M): +65 9338 8166, wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sgDerek Yeo (M): +65 9791 4707, derek@waterbrooks.com.sg Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

14 10 月, 2021

HSA probing unauthorised distribution and supply of SG Diagnostics antigen rapid test kits

SINGAPORE - The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is investigating the unauthorised distribution and supply of antigen rapid test (ART) kits manufactured by Singapore-based company SG Diagnostics. They are meant for professional use in "healthcare settings by healthcare professionals who are trained to administer the test and validate the results", said the authority on Thursday (Oct 14) in response to queries from The Straits Times. The kits should not be used by untrained lay users, who may derive inaccurate results, the HSA said, adding that this could lead to them not getting timely treatment if they have Covid-19, or failing to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and the people around them. SG Diagnostics had urged consumers in an advertisement in ST Classifieds on Tuesday to stop using the product. When ST called the SG Diagnostics hotline listed in the ad, an operator said buyers are advised to return the ART kits to their suppliers and ask for a refund. ST has contacted SG Diagnostics for comment. Sellers had put up listings on e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada and Carousell, pricing a box of two kits at about $18. Listings for group orders were also seen on shopping platform WeBuy. Many of the listings have been taken down. The kits were also seen to be for sale in physical stores like IT retailer Challenger. The HSA said regulatory and enforcement actions under the Health Products Act will be taken against any party involved in unauthorised distribution and supply of the kits. It advised consumers to purchase and use self-administered ART kits approved in Singapore. The list of kits can be found on the HSA's website. For inquiries on returning the kits, consumers should call the SG Diagnostics hotline on 8030-5766 or e-mail info@sgdiagnostics.com More on this topic Related Story Buyers urged to return SG Diagnostics ART kits meant only for professional use Related Story Covid-19 survival kit: All your must-haves

4 10 月, 2021

Aoxin Q & M acquires 49% stake in Acumen Diagnostics for S$29.4m

SINGAPORE, Oct 4, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Aoxin Q & M Dental Group Ltd (SGX: 1D4.SI) ("Aoxin Q & M") and Q & M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (SGX: QC7.SI) ("Q & M"), announced today that Aoxin Q & M will acquire 49% of Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics") for a consideration of S$29.4 million. Acumen Diagnostics has a preliminary valuation of S$60 million.Diagram 1: Shareholdings upon completion of acquisition of Acumen Diagnostics by Aoxin Q & MAcquisition & ValuationAoxin Q & M has entered into a conditional sale and purchase deed with Acumen Diagnostics' shareholders, Dr Ong Siew Hwa and Acumen Holdings Pte. Ltd., to acquire their 49% shareholding in Acumen Diagnostics.The preliminary valuation of Acumen Diagnostics (upon completion of a restructuring exercise involving Acumen Research Laboratories Pte. Ltd.) is S$60 million, derived based on the latest financial statements of Acumen Diagnostics, taking into account the earnings and growth prospects of its business.The purchase consideration for the shares is S$29.4 million, to be satisfied by way of the allotment and issuance of new ordinary shares in the capital of Aoxin Q & M at an issue price of S$0.231 per share, credited as fully paid-up shares in the capital of Aoxin Q & M which will rank pari passu in all respects with the existing shares in the capital of Aoxin Q & M.Upon completion of the acquisition, Aoxin Q & M will directly hold 49% of Acumen Diagnostics, with Q & M holding the balance of 51%. Q & M's total effective ownership of Acumen Diagnostics will thus amount to 67.15%, based on its 32.95% equity stake in Aoxin Q & M. See diagram 1 below.Diagram 1: Shareholdings upon completion of acquisition of Acumen Diagnostics by Aoxin Q & Mhttps://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_aoxinqm20211004.jpgRationale of Acquisition & ValuationThe acquisition and integration of the Acumen Diagnostics business into Aoxin Q & M is timely and strategic, allowing Aoxin Q & M to enter the medical diagnostics business in Singapore and capture a significant portion of the testing capacity market in conducting frequent and widespread testing, in support of Singapore's national COVID-19 strategy.The proposed acquisition would also improve the profitability of Aoxin Q & M through the sharing of profits and improve the cashflow position of Aoxin Q & M as and when Acumen Diagnostics declares dividends down the line. Over time, Aoxin Q & M will benefit from potential commercial, operational and costs synergies between itself and Acumen Diagnostics. The Board of Directors of Aoxin Q & M believes that the proposed acquisition will enhance the long-term interests of Aoxin Q & M and its shareholders.With over 80% of the population now vaccinated, Singapore is moving towards a "living with COVID-19" strategy or treating COVID-19 as an "endemic" disease. In a live address in May 2021, the Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, laid out the government's three-pronged strategy of "vaccination, contact-tracing and testing" as the country starts to reopen.Mr. Ryan San, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Aoxin Q & M, said "Learning to live with COVID-19 in the new "normal" requires a deliberate and rapid response from both the public and private sector. We believe this acquisition is an important and strategic one for Aoxin Q & M as the availability of good quality performing test kits and testing services will be an important cog in the overall national response to treating and living with COVID-19. While the acquisition will be immediately profit accretive, we see this as a fantastic opportunity to assist in providing an essential capability to Singapore in this next phase of tackling the COVID-19 pandemic."Dr Ng Chin Siau, Chief Executive Officer of Q & M said, "Strategic business development is a top priority for Q & M as we look to drive sustainable growth and further bolster and balance our pipeline with innovations and businesses that contribute to our responses to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Q & M supports this transaction, and this transaction is likely to be beneficial to Q & M and its shareholders and financially strengthen Q & M and Aoxin Q & M in the mid and long term.""Acumen Diagnostics' innovative products and capabilities have yielded exciting growth that complements and strengthens our company's overall portfolio and pipeline and holds the potential to build upon our proud legacy in the healthcare sector. To date, it is able to handle 7,000 COVID-19 tests daily and has the ability to ramp up for more tests, if called upon by Health Promotion Board ("HPB") or Ministry of Health ("MOH")." added Dr Ng.Dr Ong Siew Hwa, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Scientist, Acumen Diagnostics said, "We are very excited about joining the Aoxin Q & M family and the new growth opportunities both in Singapore and China, that this acquisition will present. Our technical capabilities and infrastructure in molecular diagnostics, spanning R&D, manufacturing, clinical laboratory testing, positions us well to create value in the generation of both new patent assets and, revenues, through the sales of test kits and provision of testing services."Acumen Diagnostics will continue to operate independently post acquisition, driving forward a continued focus on its mission, employees, stakeholders, and community. Acumen Diagnostics will continue to be led by Dr Ong Siew Hwa and her team who will provide their unique expertise and technical know-how to manage the business. In the near term, Acumen Diagnostics will roll out in its clinical testing laboratory a pipeline of new tests, including PCR assays for dengue, sepsis and, identification of bacterial pathogens and their associated antibiotics resistance in pneumonia and bloodstream infections. Its longer-term plans include development of vaccines.This press release is to read in conjunction with the SGXNET announcements dated 4 October 2021.Link to SGXNET announcement https://bit.ly/3uAHpi2About Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd.Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics") is a Singapore-grown, award-winning medical technology company. It is fully integrated with functions in research and development, manufacturing, as well as commercialisation of molecular diagnostics by distribution as well as conducting clinical laboratory testing services for (including but not limited to) infectious diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. It has also actively established frontline services such as COVID-19 on-site swabbing operations. For more information, please visit the company website at www.acumen-research.com.About Aoxin Q & M Dental Group Limited (Stock Code: 1D4.SI)Aoxin Q & M Dental Group Limited ("Aoxin Q & M" or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") is a leading provider of private dental services in the Liaoning Province, Northern People's Republic of China ("PRC"). The Group operates 16 dental centres, comprising 10 dental polyclinics and 6 dental hospitals, located across 8 cities in Liaoning Province, namely Shenyang, Huludao, Panjin, Gaizhou, Zhuanghe, Jinzhou, Dalian and Anshan. We currently have 400 dental professionals, including 170 dentists, 180 dental surgery assistants and 50 laboratory technicians. A majority of the dental centres are accredited as Designated Medical Institutions of Medical Insurance. Additionally, the Group is engaged in the provision of dental laboratory services, as well as the distribution and sale of dental equipment and supplies in the Liaoning, Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces in Northern PRC.Aoxin Q & M was listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited on 26 April 2017. For more information, please visit the company website at www.aoxinqm.com.sg.About Q & M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited (QC7.SI)Q & M Dental Group (Singapore) Limited ("Q & M" or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") is a leading private dental healthcare group in Asia.The Group owns the largest network of private dental outlets in Singapore, operating 87 dental outlets across the country. Underpinned by about 230 experienced dentists and more than 350 supporting staff, the Group sees an average of 40,000 patient visits a month in Singapore. The Group also operates 5 medical clinics and a dental supplies and equipment distribution company.Outside of Singapore, the Group has 37 dental clinics and a dental supplies and equipment distribution company in Malaysia, as well as a dental clinic in the People's Republic of China ("PRC"). Q & M is also the substantial shareholder of Aoxin Q & M Dental Group Limited, a dental Group listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange, which operates dental clinics and hospitals primarily in the North-eastern region of the PRC. The Group aims to expand its operations geographically and vertically through the value chain in Malaysia, the PRC and within ASEAN.In 2018, the Group made inroads into the development of advanced technology in healthcare with the establishment of EM2AI Pte. Ltd. ("EM2AI", formerly known as Q & M Dental AI Pte. Ltd.). EM2AI focuses on developing AI-powered solutions in diagnosis and treatment planning.In 2019, the Group expanded into dental postgraduate education with the establishment of the Q & M College of Dentistry. It offers Singapore's first private postgraduate diploma programme in clinical dentistry.In 2020, the Group also expanded into the medical laboratories and research industry with the incorporation of Acumen Diagnostics Pte. Ltd. ("Acumen Diagnostics"). Acumen Diagnostics currently focuses on the manufacture, sale and distribution of COVID-19 diagnostic test kits, as well as COVID-19 testing.The Group was listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited ("SGX- ST") on 26 November 2009. For further information on the Group, please visit www.QandMDental.com.sgFor more information, please contact: Waterbrooks Consultants Pte LtdWayne Koo (M): +65 9631 3602, wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sgDerek Yeo (M): +65 9791 4707, derek@waterbrooks.com.sg Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

6 7 月, 2021

ACT Genomics Completes Acquisition of MC Diagnostics

HONG KONG, Jul 6, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - ACT Genomics Co. Ltd. ("ACT Genomics" or "the Group") has completed the acquisition of MC Diagnostics Ltd. ("MCD"), a specialist molecular diagnostic company based in the United Kingdom, which marks the Group's entry into the European precision medicine market.MCD machine in operationFounded in 2006, MCD provides expertise in the automation of multiplexed molecular assays as well as custom-designed image analysis and interpretation software. MCD has designed, developed and manufactured an automated low density array platform ("ALDAS"), which is currently providing proven clinical diagnostic assays in the fields of HLA typing and blood group diagnostics. Revolutionary Breakthrough in Genechip TechnologyEffective and affordable cancer diagnostics testing tools with quick turnaround time and high sensitivity have always been sought after in the market. As a company at the forefront of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) molecular diagnostics in the field of oncology, ACT Genomics has partnered with MCD to develop fusion genechips on its ALDAS platform, which has recently yielded a notable breakthrough. Tests can now be easily and automatically performed at the point of care to achieve a result that is very close to that obtained by NGS. The first genechip - ACTSpot NTRK - will be launched in August 2021.A New Chapter for ACT Genomics ACT Genomics is an NGS-based assays specialist and a pioneer in oncology molecular diagnostics in Asia. The creation of this union with MCD not only secures the global pioneering position of ACT Genomics in the development and applications of genechips, but also reflects the Group's strategy to embrace new and exciting growth opportunities through diversification and globalization.Mr. Peter Maguire, Chief Executive Officer of MCD said, "Scientists at MCD are experts in transplant diagnostics, pcr-based diagnostic tests, microarray fabrication, robotics and automation, as well as software engineering. We are heavily focused on field application and have successfully optimized our manufacturing, assay and automation processes. The ALDAS system offers maximum flexibility as its 8-well strip array allows any throughput from 1 to 96 samples per run and the turnaround time is only 3 hours from sample extraction to report. I am excited to ally with ACT Genomics to bring our knowledge and experience to Asia." Mr. Hua Chien Chen, Chief Executive Officer of ACT Genomics said, "With a vision to transform genomic information into action for the benefit of cancer patients, we at ACT Genomics are dedicated to develop innovative and effective products that can cover a broader spectrum of patient needs. Working hand-in-hand with MCD has brought us to the frontier of genechip technology and we are excited to have already accomplished a promising breakthrough. We look forward to continue our close relationship with the experts at MCD to perfect the ALDAS system and develop additional practical products that exploit this cutting-edge platform for the well-being of cancer patients and also the general public at large."About ACT Genomics Holdings Co., LtdACT Genomics is an innovation-driven cancer solution provider in Asia with offices in Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. After setting up our laboratories in Taiwan and Japan, we opened our third laboratory in Asia at Hong Kong Science Park in July 2019. With our Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, CAP-accredited laboratories, experienced bioinformatics team and proprietary AI algorithms, we provide optimal cancer treatment planning, immunotherapy evaluation, cancer relapse & drug resistance monitoring, as well as cancer risk assessment services to medical professionals. Our team is specialized in biomarker identification, underlying disease mechanism discovery and genetic alteration exploration. Pharmaceutical communities are also able to benefit from our expertise in identifying targets for drug development, stratifying patients for clinical studies, and delineating drug responses with efficiency and efficacy. We also participate in various international precision medicine biomarker programs, such as the TMB and HRD Harmonization Programs led by FOCR in the United States. Together, we "Turn Genomics into Action".For further information, please contact:Strategic Financial Relations LimitedAngelus Lau Tel: (852) 2864 4805 Email: angelus.lau@sprg.com.hk Karen Kwan Tel: (852) 2114 4171 Email: karen.kwan@sprg.com.hk Doris Ho Tel: (852) 2114 4916 Email: doris.ho@sprg.com.hk Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)