Scientists from the University of Leicester have discovered that tuberculosis disrupts glucose metabolism in the body.

The findings, which have now been published in PLoSPathogens complement the understanding that diabetes worsens the symptoms of tuberculosis. Importantly, they now say, undiagnosed tuberculosis could be pushing vulnerable patients towards metabolic disease such as diabetes.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection which spreads by inhaling tiny droplets from the lungs of an infected person. It can affect any part of the body but mainly affects the lungs and remains one of the most devastating infectious diseases worldwide, killing over 4,000 people every day. 

Prevention through the development of improved vaccines remains a priority for the World Health Organisation. Currently only one vaccine exists for TB and this is predominantly given to infants and young children to help protect them from severe forms of infection. 

Scientists at the University are researching tuberculosis in the hope of creating improved vaccines and are specifically looking at ways in which undiagnosed and subclinical infection can impact health. 

This new discovery, they say, could pave the way to define the molecular pathways by which the immune response changes liver metabolism, thereby allowing for the creation of targeted interventions.

Professor Andrea Cooper from the University’s Leicester Tuberculosis Research Group (LTBRG), is among the authors on the paper.

She said: “Our paper changes the focus from diabetes making TB worse to the possibility that late diagnosis of TB can contribute to disruption of glucose metabolism, insulin resistance and therefore can promote progress towards diabetes in those that are susceptible.

“As diabetes compromises drug treatment, our paper also supports the idea that metabolic screening should be involved in any drug or vaccine trials.”

The study first used laboratory models of pulmonary TB to examine the changes happening within the liver during the early stages of infection. It found that an immune response was triggered within the liver cells and glucose metabolism was altered.

The primary author Dr Mrinal Das then reanalysed published metabolic data from humans, where he found that liver glucose metabolism was also disrupted when people progressed to TB from latent infection.

Professor Cooper added: “Our future aim is to define the molecular pathways by which the immune response is changing liver metabolism, allowing us to potentially create targeted interventions.

“We will also be investigating how latent TB (which is infection with the bacterial agent of TB without significant symptoms) might be impacting metabolic health in humans.”

Ras Al Khaimah, 21 October 2024: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) continues to build on its position as a premier destination for global investment, following a successful week-long roadshow across Canada. The initiative engaged Canadian businesses, showcasing the wide range of investment opportunities and strategic advantages that make Ras Al Khaimah a leading gateway for business expansion into the Middle East, North Africa (MENA), and beyond.

Throughout the roadshow, RAKEZ conducted numerous B2B meetings with Canadian companies looking to capitalise on Ras Al Khaimah’s cost-efficient and low-tax business environment, as well as easy access to emerging markets in the MENA region. Given that the UAE was ranked as one of the leading destinations for Canadian exports in the MENA region in 2023, these meetings emphasised how establishing a presence in Ras Al Khaimah provides Canadian businesses with a strategic foothold to expand their operations and tap into new, growing markets.

A key highlight of the roadshow was an exclusive event held in collaboration with Canada India Foundation in Toronto. The event, hosted by the RAKEZ team, provided Canadian businesses with valuable insights into the wide range of investment opportunities and competitive advantages offered by Ras Al Khaimah. The Business Round Table and Networking Dinner created an ideal platform for Canadian companies to explore how establishing a presence in Ras Al Khaimah can help them tap into the growing markets of the MENA region.

Chirag Shah, President, Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce, said, “The business event presented a unique opportunity for us to explore new avenues of collaboration and investment, focusing on the growing relationship between Canada, India, and Ras Al Khaimah. Indo-Canadian businesses are recognised worldwide for their innovation, entrepreneurship, and global perspective, making this roadshow an ideal platform for mutual exchange and partnership.”

Commenting on the success of the roadshow, Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, said, “The response from Canadian businesses has been overwhelmingly positive. With bilateral trade between Canada and the UAE surpassing USD 2 billion, there is growing momentum to explore the vast opportunities available in Ras Al Khaimah. As an integral part of the UAE’s thriving economy, Ras Al Khaimah serves as a strategic gateway for companies looking to expand into the region. Our goal is to strengthen economic ties between Canada and the UAE by facilitating investments that benefit both regions. We are committed to providing Canadian businesses with the support they need to successfully establish and grow in Ras Al Khaimah’s dynamic economic zone.”

In addition to the Toronto event, the roadshow featured a High Net-Worth Individual gathering and a networking session organised by the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce, where the President of the Indo-Canada Chamber emphasised the advantages of establishing a presence in Ras Al Khaimah.

The success of the roadshow further strengthens the economic ties between Canada and Ras Al Khaimah, with over 700 Canadian companies already thriving in RAKEZ. With its business-friendly environment and strategic location, RAKEZ remains committed to supporting Canadian businesses as they expand into the MENA region and beyond. As global interest continues to grow, RAKEZ stands as the gateway for innovation, business growth, and international collaboration.

About Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ):

RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 25,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries.

RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers.

A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.

PHU QUOC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 October 2024 – Southern Phu Quoc is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and the largest coral conservation area on Pearl Island. The area, known as Sun Paradise Land, has been developed into a 24/7 destination for entertainment and leisure, offering many one-of-a-kind and captivating experiences.

More than just a destination with rich and stunning nature, southern Phu Quoc is offering luxurious resorts, artistic architectural landmarks and unique attractions. It provides a memorable journey for every visitor, especially in the best season.

The best time to visit

Southern Phu Quoc has two distinct seasons, the dry and the rainy season. The ideal time to visit is from November to April, which is the dry season in the south of Vietnam.

During this time, there is little rain, calm seas, gentle waves and warm sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities. For the remaining months, the eastern coast of the southern island, including Bai Sao and Bai Kem beaches, becomes the ideal choice for a peaceful getaway.

Getting to southern Phu Quoc

Southern Phu Quoc is about a 30-minute drive from Phu Quoc International Airport. Most resorts in the area offer private cars or scheduled buses to pick up guests. Alternatively, taxis are available, costing approximately VND300,000 (US$12).

It’s also about a 45-minute drive from Duong Dong town, with taxis costing around VND400,000 ($16). Recently, Sun Group launched a double-decker bus service with tickets priced at VND100,000 ($4) per trip.

Beautiful natural features

Bai Kem and Bai Sao beaches boast fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for families to swim and engage in water sports, including kayaking, banana boat rides and speed boating.

The An Thoi archipelago is home to vibrant coral reefs spread across various islands, hosting a rich diversity of marine life, making it a perfect spot for diving enthusiasts. Some of the best places to view coral include Hon Thom, May Rut Trong and May Rut Ngoai.

Tours to three islands start at $30 per person, and small-group diving tours begin at $50 per person. Those who can’t dive or swim, can try sea walking at Eco Beach on Hon Thom Island.

All-day and night entertainment hub

Hon Thom Island is the entertainment hub in southern Phu Quoc, featuring Aquatopia – Asia’s leading water park, and Exotica Village, home to Moc Xa Thinh No – Viet Nam’s first and only wooden roller coaster. Visitors can reach Hon Thom via the world’s longest three-wire cable car ride.

In addition, Sunset Town in the southern Phu Quoc offers romantic European-style streets designed in a terraced format descending toward the sea. In the evening, there will be performances at the A Oi Theater, featuring Vietnamese folk art, and the Kiss of the Sea show staged at the world’s largest sea-based theatre.

Toward the end of the year, the Symphony of the Sea show will be launched, featuring a thrilling combination of Jetski and Flyboard performances. This show will bring together over 120 athletes and performers and incorporate Vietnamese cultural elements, including festival drums, lion dances and vibrant fireworks.

The seaside VUI-Fest bazaar also becomes an unmissable destination. Over 50 stalls open up a food paradise, offering dishes ranging from Vietnamese cuisine to other Asian and European specialities. This year, Phu Quoc Brew House, a brewery and beer restaurant, will open in Sunset Town, promising to be a year-round party hub with beer festivals every day of the year.

Golf lovers should not miss the 18-hole golf course with a beautiful sea view and sunset at Eschuri Vung Bau Golf, about 30 minutes from the Southern Phu Quoc. For beginners, Kem Beach Driving Range at Kem Beach is a reasonable choice to hone your skills.

Places to stay

Southern Phu Quoc offers a wide range of accommodations. Designed by the famous architect Bill Bensley, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay has become a symbol of luxury vacations on the island.

Meanwhile, New World Phu Quoc Resort reflects Vietnamese culture with its coastal village-style villas and traditional three-room house architecture. Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is also an interesting affordable choice.

For those seeking privacy, Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort offers an exclusive getaway in harmony with nature at Ong Doi Cape.

La Festa Phu Quoc – Curio Collection by Hilton’s rooms offering views of fireworks throughout the year. Located in the heart of Sunset Town, it is an ideal choice for guests who prefer convenience and vibrancy.

Sunset Town also offers mini-hotels with modern designs, priced from VND600,000 ($21) per night.

Ras Al Khaimah, 18 October 2024: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) hosted a workshop ‘Harnessing the power of social media for business growth’, packed with tools to help its business community members enhance their digital marketing strategies. The event provided practical tips for effectively utilising social media platforms for branding and business expansion, underlining the critical role of digital proficiency in today’s market dynamics.

The workshop featured top digital marketing experts who shared knowledge on creating successful social media campaigns and emphasised the importance of storytelling in marketing. Participants gained insights into the significance of storytelling as a tool to engage audiences and drive actionable results through well-crafted narratives.

Central to the discussions was the importance of understanding the customer base. Knowing precisely who the target customers are, and the platforms they frequent, is essential for the success of any marketing campaign. Moreover, the workshop stressed on building long-term relationships with customers by delivering personalised content, engaging with the community actively, and responding promptly to feedback.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “Social media is a dynamic tool for business growth, and mastering it can lead to significant benefits. We are committed to providing our clients with the resources and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s digital-first marketplace. Our community events contribute to the ongoing development of our clients, preparing them to stay agile in competitive markets.”

The workshop also featured interactive sessions where participants received actionable advice on leveraging digital tools to maximise their reach and impact. Additionally, it offered valuable networking opportunities, enabling business leaders and entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded peers and industry leaders.

RAKEZ continues to support its community by organising events that promote the adoption of innovative and effective business practices across various industries.

RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 25,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries.

RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers.

A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.

HOHHOT, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – Under the warm autumn sun, hundreds of farmers are racing to seize the remaining chance before winter to plant trees along the banks of Ulan Suhai Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the Yellow River basin.

A key battlefield in China’s ecological project, known as the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, the lake located on the northern bank of the middle reaches of the Yellow River is on the edge of the Ulan Buh Desert, the eighth-largest in China.

The autumn afforestation campaign this year is expected to add 28 hectares of artificial forest in the northwestern bank of the lake, said Zhao Guochen, director of the forest and grass bureau of Urad Front Banner in the city of Bayannur, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

He said that in recent years thanks to improvements in the sand-control planting technique, tree saplings planted between Oct. 1 and the end of November have had a high survival rate, despite the seasonal drop in temperatures.

“Compared with traditional planting time in spring and summer, the evaporation in autumn is smaller and the incidence of plant diseases and pests is lower, so newly-planted seedlings can absorb sufficient water and nutrients from the soil to sprout new roots,” Zhao said.

In addition, in autumn, farmers have more spare time to take part in the ecological campaign after they reap their own harvest, he added.

The afforestation is a part of integrated ecological conservation efforts that span mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes, grass and sand in the area, aimed at creating a wildlife haven and erecting a green ecological barrier to besiege desertification.

Liu Wenbin, 53, is the captain of the lake’s patrol team. Looking up at flocks of migratory birds flying over the lake, he said the lake’s 293 square kilometers of water area is like his home. “It’s all too familiar to me.”

The local veteran conservationist believes the number of wild birds is an important indicator of the lake’s ecology.

“There are now more than 260 varieties of birds migrating and breeding in the lake area. In May this year, we discovered greater flamingos; the first sighting of the species in the lake,” he said.

However, over two decades ago, yellow algae often blanketed the lake in summer, resulting in the deaths of large numbers of fish and driving away birds. The large algae blooms were the result of pollutants, in the form of industrial and agricultural wastewater and domestic sewage, discharged into the lake, said Liu.

Bao Wei, director of the lake’s ecological protection center, said that since 2018, the local authority has carried out comprehensive conservation of mountains, water, forests, fields, lakes, grass and sand in the river basin.

The afforestation efforts have been combined with dredging to smooth out river-lake connectivity, pollution treatment, biodiversity protection and the lake water protection and management, said Bao.

Similar to Ulan Suhai Lake, many places in China’s western region is ecologically fragile, suffering problems such as vegetation destruction, soil erosion, rocky desertification, desertification, soil salinization and biodiversity reduction.

For example, there are the high-altitude headwaters of the Yellow River in west China’s Gansu Province, which are primarily composed of grassland and wetlands, and the karst landscape in south China’s Guizhou Province that renders rocky desertification challenges.

The Chinese government has embarked on a raft of measures to carry out comprehensive and integrated conservation and restoration of the mountain, water, forest, farmland, lake, and grassland in these ecologically fragile places.

In 2021, the General Office of the State Council issued a guideline on scientific measures to fundamentally improve the country’s natural environment, urging efforts to grow trees and grass following the inherent rules of the ecosystem to improve the stability of the ecosystem and its capacity for self-repair, while coordinating the protection, restoration and controlling of mountains, rivers, forests, farmland, lakes, grass and sand.

The guideline underscores the principle of considering local conditions, land situations and the capacity of water resources in vegetation selection, in order to build a healthy and stable ecosystem, as well as carrying out land greening frugally and pragmatically across the country.

“In October, some 50,000 to 60,000 ruddy shelducks perched around Ulan Suhai Lake, attracting a swarm of tourists during the week-long National Day holiday from Oct. 1 to 7,” said Liu.

In 2023, the lake area received 412,400 tourists and achieved direct tourism income of 38.2 million yuan (about 5.4 million U.S. dollars), a year-on-year increase of 806.37 percent and 780.78 percent, respectively, which further proved the feasibility of China’s development concept of “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.”

Ras Al Khaimah, 16 October 2024: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is participating in GITEX Global 2024, including the niche exhibition segment—Expand North Star—dedicated to connecting startups with tech industry leaders across 100 countries. The economic zone is showcasing its thriving business ecosystem and unique opportunities for tech companies at the mega annual event.

At GITEX this year, the economic zone is highlighting the substantial advantages for tech companies looking to establish or expand their operations in the UAE, such as significantly lower operating costs—up to 40% less than other regional markets—enhancing their ability to scale efficiently. The support offered by RAKEZ includes seamless business registration, licensing, visa processing, and a suite of post-set-up business services. The economic zone also meets the diverse needs of startups, SMEs, and established tech firms with the availability of modern coworking spaces and private offices. Furthermore, RAKEZ provides access to industry experts and tech leaders through dedicated mentorship programmes supporting business growth, while its networking events and advisory services foster entrepreneurial expansion and innovation.

The economic zone also participated in a panel discussion on how trends in innovation will shape the UAE’s future landscape where the speakers highlighted RAKEZ dedication to supporting the growth of innovative startups and technology-driven enterprises.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “GITEX Global and Expand North Star are the best-suited platforms for technology firms looking to tap into or expand within the Middle Eastern markets. These events align with the UAE’s governmental efforts to integrate digital transformation into our national strategies, emphasising the importance of technology in diversifying the economy. At RAKEZ, we are ideally positioned to facilitate this rapid growth and innovation, offering tech companies the tools and resources necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Our active participation in such events reflects our dedication to supporting the UAE’s vision by empowering tech businesses to succeed.”

RAKEZ continues to enhance its global tech connections through strategic partnerships with international IT companies, research institutions, and innovation hubs, including a recent collaboration with The Dollar Business.

Home to over a hundred tech enterprises, RAKEZ facilitates a wide spectrum of IT service companies and tech consultancy endeavours, encompassing fields from artificial intelligence and cyber security to e-commerce and telemedicine. Notable IT companies thriving within RAKEZ include ComStar Security, Knightrider Technologies, Caresoft Global, and Falcons.AI, demonstrating the zone’s appeal to both emerging entrepreneurs and established tech enterprises.

About Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ):

RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 25,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries.

RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers.

A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.

HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Taobao and Tmall Group (“TTG”), Alibaba Group’s domestic commerce business, is kicking off its 16th 11.11 Global Shopping Festival (“11.11” or “Festival”) today by putting users first with unprecedented shopping incentives. TTG will offer RMB30 billion ( ~US$4.2 billion) worth of vouchers and red packets in anticipation of the record-high volume of users participating in this year’s Festival.

“This year’s 11.11 is unfolding as Chinese consumer sentiment is improving. TTG serves China’s largest and most valuable consumer base, and is well positioned to capture and further boost rising consumer confidence and activity,” Bo Liu, Vice President of Alibaba Group and President of Tmall, said. “We are making unprecedented investments to incentivize our users and support our brands and merchants to drive high-quality growth. We are excited about the high level of merchant participation and robust product offerings, which have exceeded expectations. We have strong confidence in branded products sales growth this 11.11.”

The presale of 11.11 will begin at 8:00 p.m. Beijing time on October 14. There will be two checkout periods: the first one from 8:00 p.m. on October 21 until the end of the day on October 24 and the second one from 8:00 p.m. on October 31 until the end of the day on November 11.

For consumers: doubling down on 88VIP membership

Driven by our user-first strategy, TTG is accelerating user investment this 11.11. The platforms will offer RMB30 billion worth of spending incentives through coupons and red packets, on top of a 15% discount and “RMB50 off every RMB300” promotion.

TTG will double down on exclusive benefits and services for its 88VIP members, currently the largest paid e-commerce membership in China with over 42 million paying members. 88VIPs will receive exclusive high-value coupons, the total value of which will be greater than the RMB20 billion distributed last year. They will also enjoy exclusive interest-free installment payment privileges and premium return service.

The value and frequency of product categories vouchers and red packets distributions will progressively increase throughout the Festival. For example, Taobao Live, the live-streaming commerce channel, will distribute RMB2 billion worth of red packets in conjunction with merchants and partners. Each user can collect up to RMB1,500 daily across the live stream rooms.

The RMB10 Billion Subsidy program features the best deals for branded products and offers discounts of up to 80% off. To date, this program has over 500 million active users.

User experience has been further improved this 11.11 with easy-to-understand product information and a new payment option. TTG team will work with merchants to ensure simplified pricing on the product listing page so users can easily see the final sale price. The introduction of WeChat Pay in late September also offers mainland China users an additional payment option for their purchases.

For merchants: Robust measures to capture the most significant growth opportunities

This year’s Festival will host around 300,000 brands and a multitude of SME merchants, with the number of products on offer exceeding expectations. In the September quarter, the number of newly launched brands on Tmall increased by 70% quarter-over-quarter. This is a strong testimonial for TTG’s latest industry-leading support initiatives to help merchants achieve quality growth within a cost-efficient and optimized operating environment.

For this 11.11, TTG will invest RMB10 billion to boost cross-platform traffic and RMB3 billion to subsidize merchants’ marketing costs. Commissions will be waived for Taobao store owners participating in 11.11.

These investments are in addition to previously announced merchant support initiatives introduced ahead of the Festival, including:

• Optimization of “refund-only” policy: Since the launch of the upgraded policy in August, Taobao has intercepted over 400,000 unreasonable “refund-only” transactions daily. At the same time, the proportion of merchants with high Store Experience Scores (4.8 or above) has increased to 36%. The increase in high-quality merchants has reduced Taobao’s intervention for refund-only scenarios.
• Reduction in Return Logistics Costs: Tuihuobao, a new return service launched in September, has served ~1 million merchants. It has reduced merchant return order logistics costs by 23% in the past week. TTG will also offer discounts for SMEs during this 11.11, further reducing their logistics costs for return orders.
• Upgraded AI Tools for Merchants: The AI-powered analytics platform Business Advisor has served over three million Taobao SMEs since April. TTG’s AI tools for image and text generation are frequently used by over one million merchants weekly. 74% of merchants using TTG’s AI image generation tools have reported savings equivalent to hiring a full-time graphics designer.