Latest news with #RWTHAachenUniversity
Cision Canada
a day ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Rock Tech Receives Further Research Funding From German Government
After having received funding from EIT Raw Materials, a body of the European Union, the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space has selected Rock Tech for funding in the lithium field. Rock Tech will collaborate with research partners from RWTH Aachen University (Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen), one of Europe's leading technical universities, especially renowned for its strong competencies in engineering and applied sciences. TORONTO, Aug. 12, 2025 /CNW/ - Rock Tech Lithium Inc. (TSXV: RCK) (OTCQX: RCKTF) (FWB: RJIB) (WKN: A1XF0V) (the "Company" or "Rock Tech") is pleased to announce that it has been awarded funding from the Bundesministerium für Forschung, Technologie und Raumfahrt (Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space) for the project "ELiSePro – Efficient Lithium Recovery Using Selective Processes". The aim of this initiative is to further increase lithium yield in our converter process at the Guben site, making a significant contribution to Germany's raw material independence. The project will be implemented in collaboration with RWTH Aachen University, highlighting the strong partnership between industry and leading academic research in Germany. The total funding amount is approximately 250,000 Euros. As part of the project, various state-of-the-art ion separation methods (including nanofiltration, capacitive deionization, and lithium-ion sieves) will be systematically compared to minimize lithium losses in the process. The results will be evaluated based on economic and technological criteria and are intended for direct industrial application in our Guben converter in order to increase our recovery. Innovative findings will also be published in scientific journals and be patented. "This funding supports the technological advancement of the German and European battery industry – and even it's a relatively small amount, it's an important step towards building additional know-how for strengthening security of supply for critical raw materials and building sustainable value chains in Europe" says Mirco Wojnarowicz, CEO of Rock Tech. In the past few months, Rock Tech has received funding from several public sources, to become a technological leader in lithium processing. This new funding underlines the strategic relevance of Rock Tech and its projects in Canada and Germany, the latter one of which was selected as strategic project under the EU Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). After having granted funding from EIT RawMaterials under the prestigious KAVA (Knowledge and Innovation Activities) grant program (800,000 Euros) as well as from Ontario's Critical Minerals Innovation Fund (CMIF) to advance lithium ore sorting technologies (388,000 CAD), this new funding is the third program to position Rock Tech as strategic relevant player in the lithium industry. On behalf of the Company, Mirco Wojnarowicz CEO ABOUT ROCK TECH Rock Tech's vision is to supply the electric vehicle and battery industry with sustainable, locally produced lithium, targeting a 100% recycling rate. To ensure resilient supply chains, the company plans to build lithium converters at the doorstep of its customers, beginning with the Company's proposed Lithium Hydroxide Converter in Guben, Brandenburg, Germany. The second Converter is planned to be built in, Ontario, Canada. Rock Tech Lithium plans to source raw material from its own Georgia Lake spodumene project in the Thunder Bay Mining District of Ontario, Canada, and procure from other ESG-compliant mines. Ultimately, Rock Tech's goal is to create a closed-loop lithium production system. Rock Tech has gathered one of the strongest teams in the industry to close the most pressing gap in the clean mobility story. The Company has adopted strict environmental, social and governance standards and is developing a proprietary refining process to increase efficiency and sustainability further. Rock Tech Lithium Inc, 2700-40 Temperance Street, Toronto ON M5H 0B4 CAN. CAUTIONARY NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable securities laws and are referred to herein as "forward-looking statements". All statements, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that the Company expects to occur are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, words such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "predicts", "believes", "estimates", "intends", "targets", "projects", "forecasts", "may", "will", "should", "would", "could" or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information pertaining to expectations concerning the Guben Converter, including the design and features of the Guben Converter, as well as the expected costs, capital expenditures, timing and outcomes thereof; statements regarding the Company's future plans, estimates, and schedules relating to the Guben Converter, including the anticipated timing of future activities taken in support of the development thereof; Rock Tech's potential financing arrangements; the expected funding from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space for the project ELiSePro as well as from EIT RawMaterials under the KAVA program and the CMIF, the expected economic performance of the Guben Converter and anticipated production of battery-grade Lithium Hydroxide and related processing methods and innovation employed; the estimated capital and operating costs of the Guben Converter; the anticipated timing and outcomes of a final investment decision, construction activities and commissioning of the Guben Converter; statements regarding the Company's sustainability and ESG related goals and strategy, including the benefits and achievement thereof and future actions taken by the Company in relation thereto; expected regulatory processes and final outcomes; expectations regarding the electric vehicle industry, including the demand for and pricing of battery-grade Lithium Hydroxide and the benefits therefrom, and the development of political and regulatory frameworks especially in Germany and the European Union; Rock Tech's opinions, beliefs and expectations regarding the Company's business strategy, development and exploration opportunities and projects; and plans and objectives of management for the Company's operations and properties. Forward-looking statements by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed in the Company's most recent management's discussion and analysis and annual information form filed with the applicable securities regulators. No assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, and the Company cautions the reader not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, nor does it assume any obligation to update or revise any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, changes in assumptions, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Medscape
16-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Psychiatric Issues Worsen Autoimmune Encephalitis Outcomes
TOPLINE: Psychiatric comorbidities were the strongest independent predictors of unfavourable outcomes in autoimmune encephalitis (AE); however, severe infections reflected acute disease severity rather than comorbidity burden. METHODOLOGY: This multicentre, retrospective analysis included 308 adults with definite antibody-positive AE from the GErman NEtwork for REsearch on AuToimmune Encephalitis registry (June 2004 to July 2023). Patients had definite AE with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (n = 144), anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (n = 98), anti-contactin-associated protein-like 2 (n = 47), and anti-immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecule 5 (n = 19) antibodies, with at least 12 months of follow-up. Preexisting conditions (PECs) and secondary diagnoses documented during hospitalisation were categorised on the basis of the organ system; the severity of infectious complications was graded using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0. The primary outcome was functional status, assessed using a modified Rankin scale (mRS) at a minimum of 12 months post-admission, with unfavourable outcome defined as a mRS score > 2. TAKEAWAY: The presence of three or more PECs increased the risk for unfavourable long-term functional outcomes (odds ratio [OR], 2.80; 95% CI, 1.57-4.92; P < .001). Psychiatric comorbidities had the strongest association with unfavourable outcomes (OR, 4.55; 95% CI, 1.99-10.60; P < .001). Cardiovascular PECs (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.09-3.30; P = .03) and higher disease severity at peak (mRS score > 2; OR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.36-7.20; P = .01) were linked to unfavourable outcomes. A total of 13.6% of patients experienced severe infections during hospitalisation, which were not significantly associated with unfavourable outcomes in the univariable analysis (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 0.97-3.89; P = .10). IN PRACTICE: "As premorbid psychiatric conditions are main factors associated with unfavorable outcomes, these patients would highly benefit from integrated interdisciplinary treatment centers, or at least heightened awareness of these factors," the authors wrote. SOURCE: This study, led by Amelie Bohn, Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany, was published online on July 07, 2025, in Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation. LIMITATIONS: This study's retrospective, multicentre design introduced potential selection and information biases. The reliance on electronic health records and overlapping definitions of comorbidities may have resulted in underrepresentation or overrepresentation of certain conditions. Additionally, varying follow-up durations and the use of the mRS as an outcome measure may not have fully captured cognitive or emotional dysfunction. DISCLOSURES: This research was supported by the Clinician Scientist Program of the Faculty of Medicine RWTH Aachen University and partially supported by grants from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. Few authors reported receiving travel and speaker honoraria from various sources, including Merck and Roche, and one author reported supporting neuroimmunologic studies for several pharmaceutical companies. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Web Release
09-07-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Hotpack sustainability report reveals 97% of its 4,000-product portfolio now recyclable
Hotpack, the UAE-based leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has unveiled its 2024 Sustainability Report, spotlighting that 97 per cent of its portfolio of over 4,000 products, is now recyclable or environmentally friendly. The company said in a statement that this achievement reflects on its commitment to reducing environmental impact while focusing on the ethical business practices and employee well-being. The report outlines Hotpack's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To scientifically track its progress and measure the environmental impact of its operations and products, the company has partnered with RWTH Aachen University in Germany to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This assessment provided a rigorous analysis of Hotpack's entire value chain, from sourcing and production to disposal, ensuring that each step aligns with environmental best practices. Speaking about the report, Mr. Abdul Jebbar PB, Group CEO & Managing Director of Hotpack said, 'We are deeply committed to our sustainability goals and are confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of net-zero by 2050. Our efforts reflect a proactive approach to innovation, collaboration with global experts, and investment in eco-friendly materials that pave the way for a greener future.' 'Our journey to net-zero is fuelled by continuous innovation and a relentless pursuit of sustainability,' Mr. Jebbar added. 'From developing materials like H-PET to collaborating on life cycle assessments with renowned institutions, we are transforming our operations to support a circular economy in the UAE and beyond. These innovations are crucial in reducing our environmental impact and meeting the evolving needs of our customers and communities.' 'At Hotpack, we believe that empowered and valued employees are integral to driving sustainability and growth because they are the backbone of our success,' said Mr. Zainudeen PB, Group Executive Director at Hotpack. 'By fostering diversity, inclusion, and robust well-being programs, we are building a stronger and more resilient organisation, one that can drive forward our shared goals for sustainability and growth.' The report also highlights Hotpack's continuous product innovation, including the development of H-PET (Hotpack-modified polyethene terephthalate), a lightweight and fully recyclable PET material that significantly reduces the carbon footprint of its packaging solutions. Hotpack's collaboration with RECAPP (Recycling & Recovery Platform) has further strengthened its commitment to environmental responsibility, aiming to collect 40 tons of waste annually and divert it from landfills. This initiative translates into a reduction of 84 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO?) emissions each year. Additionally, the report highlighted Hotpack's the company's stringent Supplier Code of Conduct that sets clear expectations for environmental stewardship, labour practices, and responsible sourcing in its supply chain. This approach is further reinforced by Hotpack's Sustainable Procurement Strategy, which prioritises local sourcing and partnerships with diverse suppliers to support community livelihoods and reduce carbon footprints. Hotpack also enforces a comprehensive Human Rights Policy that upholds zero tolerance for forced labour and ensures that all supply chain partners align with the highest ethical standards. Hotpack's report also spoke about the company's efforts in employee engagement and well-being. The company has achieved 1:1 pay equity for all genders, ensuring that all employees are rewarded fairly for their contributions. Women's representation spans all levels of the organisation, reflecting Hotpack's inclusive culture. Additionally, 18% of Hotpack's workforce comprises individuals from minority or vulnerable groups, creating a diverse and dynamic workforce. Hotpack's employee engagement platform, Hotpack Happiness Initiative, now in its third edition, includes initiatives focused on wellness, health screenings, and progressive workplace policies that support a healthy work-life balance. These efforts reflect the company's broader people-first approach to business. On the community front, Hotpack continues to invest in a wide range of corporate social responsibility initiatives, from participating in wellness events to partnering with civic organisations on awareness and safety campaigns. These programmes reflect the company's ongoing commitment to creating long-term, positive impact in the communities it serves.
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Hotpack sustainability report reveals 97% of its 4,000-product portfolio now recyclable
The company targets net-zero emissions by 2050 through global research partnerships and innovation-led sustainability efforts, with plans to divert 40 tons of waste annually. To introduce lightweight, fully recyclable packaging materials to significantly reduce carbon footprint and support circular economy goals. Dubai, UAE: Hotpack, the UAE-based leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has unveiled its 2024 Sustainability Report, spotlighting that 97 per cent of its portfolio of over 4,000 products, is now recyclable or environmentally friendly. The company said in a statement that this achievement reflects on its commitment to reducing environmental impact while focusing on the ethical business practices and employee well-being. The report outlines Hotpack's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To scientifically track its progress and measure the environmental impact of its operations and products, the company has partnered with RWTH Aachen University in Germany to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This assessment provided a rigorous analysis of Hotpack's entire value chain, from sourcing and production to disposal, ensuring that each step aligns with environmental best practices. Speaking about the report, Mr. Abdul Jebbar PB, Group CEO & Managing Director of Hotpack said, 'We are deeply committed to our sustainability goals and are confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of net-zero by 2050. Our efforts reflect a proactive approach to innovation, collaboration with global experts, and investment in eco-friendly materials that pave the way for a greener future.' 'Our journey to net-zero is fuelled by continuous innovation and a relentless pursuit of sustainability,' Mr. Jebbar added. 'From developing materials like H-PET to collaborating on life cycle assessments with renowned institutions, we are transforming our operations to support a circular economy in the UAE and beyond. These innovations are crucial in reducing our environmental impact and meeting the evolving needs of our customers and communities.' 'At Hotpack, we believe that empowered and valued employees are integral to driving sustainability and growth because they are the backbone of our success,' said Mr. Zainudeen PB, Group Executive Director at Hotpack. 'By fostering diversity, inclusion, and robust well-being programs, we are building a stronger and more resilient organisation, one that can drive forward our shared goals for sustainability and growth.' The report also highlights Hotpack's continuous product innovation, including the development of H-PET (Hotpack-modified polyethene terephthalate), a lightweight and fully recyclable PET material that significantly reduces the carbon footprint of its packaging solutions. Hotpack's collaboration with RECAPP (Recycling & Recovery Platform) has further strengthened its commitment to environmental responsibility, aiming to collect 40 tons of waste annually and divert it from landfills. This initiative translates into a reduction of 84 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions each year. Additionally, the report highlighted Hotpack's the company's stringent Supplier Code of Conduct that sets clear expectations for environmental stewardship, labour practices, and responsible sourcing in its supply chain. This approach is further reinforced by Hotpack's Sustainable Procurement Strategy, which prioritises local sourcing and partnerships with diverse suppliers to support community livelihoods and reduce carbon footprints. Hotpack also enforces a comprehensive Human Rights Policy that upholds zero tolerance for forced labour and ensures that all supply chain partners align with the highest ethical standards. Hotpack's report also spoke about the company's efforts in employee engagement and well-being. The company has achieved 1:1 pay equity for all genders, ensuring that all employees are rewarded fairly for their contributions. Women's representation spans all levels of the organisation, reflecting Hotpack's inclusive culture. Additionally, 18% of Hotpack's workforce comprises individuals from minority or vulnerable groups, creating a diverse and dynamic workforce. Hotpack's employee engagement platform, Hotpack Happiness Initiative, now in its third edition, includes initiatives focused on wellness, health screenings, and progressive workplace policies that support a healthy work-life balance. These efforts reflect the company's broader people-first approach to business. On the community front, Hotpack continues to invest in a wide range of corporate social responsibility initiatives, from participating in wellness events to partnering with civic organisations on awareness and safety campaigns. These programmes reflect the company's ongoing commitment to creating long-term, positive impact in the communities it serves. About Hotpack Global Founded in 1995, Hotpack Global is a recognized leader in both the manufacture and supply of food packaging products. Today, the company has operations in 17 countries which include GCC countries, India, the UK, the USA, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Spain, and Australia. Within a limited span of time, the company has grown to become one of the leading players in the packaging sector because of its reputation for supplying quality products, its reasonable price structure and outstanding service. Hotpack is seen as a one-stop shop that offers a complete range of packaging products for HORECA, Retail and Industrial Packaging sectors. It represents other major manufacturing companies worldwide and products are packed hygienically in modern and attractive designs and marketed under 'Hotpack' (Packaging Range) and 'Soft n Cool' (Tissue Range) brands. As a food packaging company, Hotpack has been certified with BRCGS, FDA, SEDEX, ESMA, PEFC, FSC, ISO 9001: 2015, ISO 22000: 2018, ISO 14001: 2015, ISO 45001: 2018 which ensures the top quality of its products. Hotpack was adjudged winner of the coveted Dubai Quality Award under the category of Dubai Smart Industry Award 2020 for the manufacturing sector. Hotpack today has 50 standalone Retail centres across the MENA offering 600 plus Specialty range products which are not available in Supermarkets. Also, is the region's largest online store for food packaging products. Over the years, Hotpack has become a trusted brand with its excellent products, services, and continuous brand communication.
See - Sada Elbalad
19-03-2025
- Science
- See - Sada Elbalad
Egyptian Researcher Develops Global Information-Sharing Network for Industrial Production in Germany
By Ahmad El-Assasy In an era where digital transformation is a necessity for industrial efficiency and innovation, an Egyptian researcher, Mohamed Anwar Bahairi, has developed a groundbreaking roadmap for creating a global information-sharing network in production sites worldwide. His PhD dissertation at RWTH Aachen University, titled "Digital Shadows of Industrial Robots in the Global Production Network", has captivated German academia and industry experts alike. Bahairi's research focuses on defining robotic tasks within global production cycles and enabling robots to work seamlessly alongside humans. A key aspect of his study is making it easier for humans to program and control robots remotely using simplified, human-readable commands. His dissertation was reviewed by a panel of distinguished professors from the Faculty of Computer Science and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Bahairi outlined three major objectives in his research: Implementing a global industrial web network as an application of the Internet of Production (IoP). Developing a programming language that facilitates coordination between humans and robots, expanding its role in industrial production management. Enhancing robotic movement accuracy by minimizing unwanted oscillations and vibrations, ensuring precise execution of tasks in production lines. A Breakthrough in the Fourth Industrial Revolution Industrial robots typically function in one of three modes: working independently, remote-controlled, or in direct collaboration with humans. Bahiri's research centers on developing a programming framework to enhance human-robot interaction, a concept that impressed German academics and industry leaders. His findings were presented at international conferences and workshops across Slovenia, China, South Africa, and Australia, and published in renowned scientific journals. Experts in robotics and artificial intelligence were particularly intrigued by his innovative approach, which aligns with the Fourth Industrial Revolution—a phase driven by automation, connectivity, and artificial intelligence in industrial settings. A Journey of Excellence from Egypt to Germany Bahairi graduated from the German University in Cairo (GUC) in 2011, specializing in Computer Science and Engineering. His academic journey in Germany began in 2008 when he traveled for an exchange program. He later returned to complete his undergraduate thesis, pursued a Master's degree in 2017, and worked on research projects at the German Aerospace Center (DLR). He also spent years working at a leading German robotics company before returning to RWTH Aachen to complete his PhD. His doctoral research received high praise from his supervisors, particularly Professor Gerhard Lakemeyer, a renowned expert in information structuring and AI-driven robotic applications. The dissertation panel included three prominent scholars: Professors Christian Brecher, Bastian Leibe, and Wil van der Aalst. With this remarkable achievement, Bahairi has contributed significantly to the evolution of industrial automation, proving that Egyptian talent continues to make a global impact in science and technology. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) News Ireland Replaces Former Israeli Embassy with Palestinian Museum News Israeli PM Diagnosed with Stage 3 Prostate Cancer Lifestyle Maguy Farah Reveals 2025 Expectations for Pisces News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
