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MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System Receives FDA Approval to Assess Kidney Function

  • Transdermal GFR System (TGFR) is a first-in-kind product for point of care assessment of kidney function in patients with normal or impaired renal function.
  • The transdermal GFR (tGFR) methodology has been designed to be effective across the adult population without input of age, weight, sex, gender, race, or ethnicity.
  • More than 800 million people have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), one of the world’s leading causes of mortality worldwide, with associated deaths increasing over the past two decades.1

ST. LOUIS, Jan. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MediBeacon Inc. today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the MediBeacon® TGFR for the assessment of kidney function in patients with normal or impaired renal function.

The TGFR is comprised of the TGFR Sensor, TGFR Monitor, and Lumitrace® (relmapirazin) injection, a non-radioactive, non-iodinated fluorescent GFR tracer agent, which together allow assessment of kidney function by measuring the clearance rate of the fluorescent agent as it leaves the body. The system records Lumitrace fluorescence intensity transdermally as a function of time via a sensor placed on the skin. The TGFR Sensor records 2.5 fluorescent readings per second and the TGFR Monitor will display the average session tGFR reading at the patient’s bedside or in the outpatient setting.

The TGFR is validated for use in the assessment of Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) in patients with stable kidney function at the point of care. The TGFR utilizes an intravenous Lumitrace injection but does not require blood draws or urine analysis, unlike current methodologies requiring multiple blood draws or urine samples. In addition, current clinical practice measured GFR (mGFR) assessment requires sophisticated clinical laboratory analysis away from the patient’s point of care.

“The development of a system such as the TGFR that assesses a patient’s kidney function without the need to use estimating equations is an important milestone for the nephrology community,” said Dr. Mitchell Rosner, chair of the Department of Medicine at University of Virginia and a highly regarded expert who has authored numerous articles on the challenges of assessing kidney function. “We are excited to explore applications of the transdermal GFR methodology in patients where current clinical practice is understood to be suboptimal.”

Dr. Pierre Galichon, an active kidney researcher at the Sorbonne Université and an attending physician in kidney transplantation at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris, said: “It has long been a challenge to understand kidney function in the context of its interaction with other vital organs, such as the heart and lungs. My experience with MediBeacon products in preclinical use, as relayed in Scientific Reports,2 has been exciting, and I look forward to evaluating how transdermal GFR can be applied in clinical practice.”

“The approval of the TGFR by the FDA demonstrates our proprietary system can provide an effective option for assessing kidney function,” said Steve Hanley, CEO of MediBeacon. “According to the National Kidney Foundation, CKD causes more deaths each year than breast cancer or prostate cancer. It is the under-recognized public health crisis.3 The potential applications for the TGFR are numerous, and we look forward to exploring them with clinicians both in the hospital and outpatient settings.”

The timing of FDA approval aligns well with the Q4 2024 publication by MediBeacon’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Richard Dorshow, et al. in Kidney International4 with data that supports the utility of MediBeacon’s patented agent Lumitrace®.

The TGFR met its primary efficacy endpoint as per agreement with the FDA by demonstrating a P30 value of 94% while recruiting patients with a range of GFR values and skin tones. P30 is defined as the percentage of GFR estimation falling within +/- 30% of measured GFR (mGFR) values. 

P30 Value

Upper 95% Confidence Bounds

Lower 95% Confidence Bounds

94.0 %

96.9 %

89.4 %

 

In clinical studies no serious or severe adverse events have been observed. For more information, including the FDA Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data, please refer to www.fda.gov.

About MediBeacon Inc.
MediBeacon is a medical technology company specializing in the advancement of fluorescent tracer agents and their transdermal detection. MediBeacon’s use of proprietary fluorescent tracer agents coupled with transdermal detection technology focuses on providing vital and actionable measurement of organ function. MediBeacon owns over 55 granted U.S. patents and over 215 granted patents worldwide that provide extensive coverage of the MediBeacon® TGFR, including Lumitrace® injection, the sensor and algorithms, as well as other strategic uses of its proprietary pyrazine platform and sensor technology. The TGFR is approved for human use. Potential technology applications in gastroenterology, ophthalmology and surgery are in various stages of clinical development. MediBeacon is based in St. Louis, Missouri, with additional operations in Mannheim, Germany. For more information, please visit: www.medibeacon.com.

About Lumitrace® (relmapirazin) injection
Relmapirazin is a non-radioactive, non-iodinated pyrazine-based compound, which has been engineered to be inert, highly fluorescent, and have the clearance properties of a GFR tracer agent in the body. The unique photophysical characteristics of Lumitrace have been designed to enable the collection of fluorescence data via a photodetector sensor placed on the skin. Data collected by the sensor measures the change in the intensity of Lumitrace fluorescence over time and is converted into a transdermal GFR (tGFR) by proprietary algorithms. In a phase 2 investigational study mGFR deduced from Lumitrace matched that of mGFR deduced from iohexol over a range of GFR values. See the peer reviewed article published in the October 2024 issue of Kidney International by Dorshow et al.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR TGFR 

Indication for Use:
The MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System (TGFR) is intended to assess the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) in adult patients with impaired or normal renal function by noninvasively monitoring fluorescent light emission from an exogenous tracer agent over time. This device has been validated in patients with stable renal function.

The MediBeacon® TGFR is not approved for use in patients with GFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2, GFR >120 ml/min/1.73m2, patients on dialysis, or anuric patients. The use of this device in patients with dynamic and rapidly changing renal function has not been validated. This device is not intended to diagnose acute kidney injury (AKI).

The MediBeacon® TGFR Sensor and exogenous tracer agent, Lumitrace® injection, are single use and are only used with the MediBeacon® TGFR.

The MediBeacon® TGFR Sensor is a single use device intended to attach to the patient’s skin and excite fluorescence in Lumitrace® injection, the tracer agent, and measure the returning light intensity. The data is sent to the MediBeacon® TGFR Monitor.

Lumitrace® is an injectable exogenous fluorescent tracer indicated for use with the MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System (TGFR) for Glomerular Filtration Rate assessment.

Contraindications:
There are no known contraindications.

Warnings and Precautions:

  • See ifu.medibeacon.com for full instructions, warnings, and cautions.
  • In clinical studies no serious or severe adverse events have been observed.
  • Lumitrace® injection has light absorbance at 266nm and 435nm, and broad fluorescent emission at ~560nm when excited at ~440nm. Any drug activated at these wavelengths should not be used in conjunction with Lumitrace.
  • Lumitrace injection may interfere with clinical laboratory tests. DO NOT ADMINISTER if the patient is expected to need clinical laboratory testing while Lumitrace is present in their system (up to 72 hours for renally-impaired patients). The presence of Lumitrace decreased B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) results by around 20% in limited testing.
  • Bolus infusions may impact the GFR assessment temporarily while the vasculature-tissue equilibrium is re-established.
  • During a TGFR session, the patient should be as still as possible, especially during the “Establishing Baseline” stage. The current system is designed to compensate for light activity such as reading or eating after the Baseline stage.

1 Epidemiology of chronic kidney disease: an update 2022, Kidney International Supplement, 2022 Apr;12(1):7-11. doi: 10.1016/j.kisu.2021.11.003., Csaba P Kovesdy
2 Pulmonary hypertension without heart failure causes cardiorenal syndrome in a porcine model, Scientific Reports (2023) 13:9130, Orieux et al, doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-36124-1
3 National Kidney Foundation, Fast Facts (2024 Update), Updated as of 8/6/2024
4 Clinical validation of the novel fluorescent glomerular filtration rate tracer agent relmapirazin (MB-102), Kidney International, Volume 106, Issue 4, P679-687, October 2024, DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2024.06.012

EZGO ANNOUNCES FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024

CHANGZHOU, China, Jan. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EZGO Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq: EZGO) (“EZGO” or “we”, “our”, or the “Company”), a leading short-distance transportation solutions provider in China, today announced its audited financial results for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 (the “Fiscal Year 2024”).

Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Highlights (all results compared to the prior year period unless otherwise noted)

  • Revenues were $21.1 million, an increase of 32.7%, which was primarily due to the increase of sales of battery packs resulting from the increased acceptance of our lithium battery packs in the market.
  • Gross profit was $1.5 million, an increase of 32.5%. Gross margin was 7.1%, which remained stable with a slight decrease from 7.2% for the fiscal year 2023.
  • Net loss was $8.1 million, an increase from net loss of $7.3 million for the fiscal year 2023, representing an increase of 11.4%, which was primarily raised from the increase in impairment of long-term equity investment.
  • Basic and diluted loss per share attributable to shareholders was $2.80, compared to $5.91 for the fiscal year 2023.
  • As of September 30, 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $3.5 million, compared to $17.3 million as of September 30, 2023.

Management Commentary

Mr. Jianhui Ye, Chief Executive Officer of EZGO, stated, “In the past fiscal year, the Company’s operating revenue increased by over 30%, which was attributed to the timely adjustment of business strategies by the Company’s management, their proactive response to new industry and market challenges, and the timely shift of business focusing on the lithium-ion battery (LIB) for low-speed e-bicycles. During the second quarter of this fiscal year, the e-bicycle business experienced a significant decline due to the “Nanjing EV Charging Station Massive Fire” accident, leading most dealers and consumers to adopt a wait-and-see attitude towards the existing stock of e-bicycles in the short term.

In response to changes in the market and regulatory environment, the Company has shifted its business focus towards LIB, intensifying product development efforts and cooperation with LIB manufacturing partners. The Company has also introduced multiple safe and efficient LIB products to the market through various channels, rapidly capturing the LIB market for e-bicycles and e-tricycles. Additionally, the e-bicycle business has transitioned from channel marketing to direct client marketing, with a focus on developing the e-bicycle sharing and rental market.

The aforementioned adjustment of business focus and new business layout have significantly tied up the Company’s working capital, resulting in a substantial year-on-year decline in working capital at the end of this fiscal year. However, as the expansion of new LIB product channels gradually takes shape and the sales of electric vehicle begins to show results, the occupation of operating capital in these two business segments will be effectively alleviated.

During the past fiscal year, the sales of the Company’s electronic control system products declined slightly compared to the previous period, yet the gross profit margin remained high. With the business strategy of increasing research and development expense and continuous market development investment, this business line is expected to contribute persistently to improving the Company’s overall profitability over the next three years. The intelligent robotics business is in the market introduction phase and has not yet formed sustained and stable order support. However, the Company will continue investing in research and development for this business line, aiming to build a new product matrix.”

Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Review

Net revenues

The following table identifies the disaggregation of our revenue from continuing operations and reportable segments for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2022, 2023 and 2024, respectively:

Years Ended September 30,

Segment

2022

2023

2024

Sales of batteries and
battery packs

Battery cells and
packs segment

$

6,990,215

$

8,245,966

$

16,318,839

Sales of e-bicycles

E-bicycle sales
segment

9,405,103

4,276,147

2,899,541

Sales of electronic
control system and
intelligent robots

Electronic control
system and intelligent
robot sales segment

2,344,373

1,401,783

Others

993,899

1,054,173

514,262

Net Revenue

$

17,389,217

$

15,920,659

$

21,134,425

Net revenues from continuing operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 (the “Fiscal Year 2024”) was $21.1 million, an increase of 32.7% from $15.9 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023 (the “Fiscal Year 2023”). The increase in revenue from Fiscal Year 2023 to Fiscal Year 2024 was mainly due to the increased sales of battery packs and partially offset by the decreased sales of e-bicycles and the decreased sales of electronic control system and intelligent robots.

The revenue from sales of battery packs was $16.3 million for Fiscal Year 2024, an increase of 97.9% from $8.2 million for Fiscal Year 2023, due to the remarkable increase in sales volume derived by several large orders from major customers responding to the heightened market demand for high-performance battery solutions. In addition, such an increase mainly resulted from the increased acceptance of our lithium battery packs in the market and the development of the lead-acid battery market in Sichuan. Overall, our sales volume of lithium battery packs increased by 256.5% for the year ended September 30, 2024, compared to fiscal 2023.

The revenue from sales of e-bicycles was $2.9 million for Fiscal Year 2024, a decrease of 32.2% from $4.3 million for Fiscal Year 2023 due to the decreased sales volume of the e-bicycles resulting from the fierce competition of the e-bicycle industry.

The revenue from sales of electronic control systems and intelligent robots was $1.4 million for Fiscal Year 2024, a decrease of 40.2% from $2.3 million for Fiscal Year 2023, mainly due to the decrease of $1,510,225 in sales of intelligent robots and offset by the increase of $951,665 in sales of electronic control systems. The revenue from sales of electronic control systems increased significantly by 211.4 % for fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to the increased emphasis on environmental protection and construction safety within the industrial machinery sector. The decrease in sales for intelligent robots is primarily attributed to the fact that our main clients were upgrading and renovating their park facilities, resulting in no demand for intelligent robots during fiscal 2024.

Cost of revenues

Cost of revenues was $19.6 million for Fiscal Year 2024, an increase of 32.8% from $14.8 million for Fiscal Year 2023, which was primarily due to the increase of manufacturing and purchase cost of battery packs for sales of batteries and battery packs, which is in line with the increase of revenues.

Gross profit

Gross profit was $1.5 million for Fiscal Year 2024, an increase of 32.5% from $1.1 million for Fiscal Year 2023.

Gross profit margin remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease from 7.2% in fiscal 2023 to 7.1% in fiscal 2024. The gross profit from electronic control system and intelligent robot sales segment increased from 25.8% for fiscal 2023 to 47.3% for fiscal 2024, predominantly attributable to the enhanced contribution of electronic control system sales business with a higher gross profit margin. The electronic control system developed and manufactured by Changzhou Higgs was embedded with highly complex software and the limited competition in the market results in a relatively high gross profit margin of 47.3% for electronic control system sales, which accounts for 6.6% of our total revenue in fiscal 2024 compared to 5.0% in fiscal 2023.

Selling and marketing expenses

Selling and marketing expenses remained relatively stable at $0.6 million for Fiscal Year 2024, a slight decrease of 9.5% compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to the decrease in advertisement and business promotion expenses, service expenses and travel expenses. Advertisement and business promotion expenses s decreased by $71,610 or 92.6% to $5,751 in fiscal 2024, mainly due to the reduced advertising demands as our existing customer base and sales force were sufficient to support our business development and expansion. Travel expenses decreased by $13,607 or 15.3% to $75,504 in fiscal 2024; Service expenses decreased by $15,297, or 78.3%, from $19,529 in fiscal 2023 to $4,232 in fiscal 2024.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses remained relatively stable at $4.3 million for Fiscal Year 2024, a slight decrease of 8.3% from $4.7 million for Fiscal Year 2023. The decrease was primarily attributed to (1) the decrease of the share-based compensation expense of $880,851; (2) the decrease of depreciation and amortization expenses of $257,460, or 76.3%, mainly due to the disposal of Property, plant and equipment, including production lines and buildings of Tianjin Dilang and Tianjin Jiahao and E-bicycle charging piles; (3) the decrease of the professional service fees of $191,352, which was mainly due to the decrease of the investment consultancy fee. The decrease was partially offset by (1) the increase of credit losses expense on accounts receivable of $837,863, or 168.4%, mainly due to the difficulties in collecting accounts receivable from individual dealers of e-bicycles who was facing fierce competition from the industry-leading enterprises, and (2) the liquidated damages expense of $138,806 due to the early termination of a procurement contract.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses was $0.9 million for Fiscal Year 2024, an increase of 37.0% from $0.7 million for Fiscal Year 2023. The increase was primarily attributed to (1) the increased expenses in research and development activities for engineering vehicle wireless measurement and control system and construction worker safety positioning system of $84,735; (2) the increased depreciation and amortization expenses of $191,676 due to the patents and software acquired in May 2023, which were partially offset by the decreased expenses of $28,084 in research and development activities due to the disposal of Tianjin Dilang.

Income tax expense/benefit

EZGO incurred an income tax benefit of $786,369 for Fiscal Year 2024. This was a result from the increased deferred tax assets of $681,785, mainly due to the recurring net loss in fiscal 2024.

Net loss

Net loss was $8.1 million for Fiscal Year 2024, compared to $7.3 million for Fiscal Year 2023.

Financial Condition

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $3.5 million, and a fixed deposit receipt of $1.5million with a maturity date of December 21, 2024 compared to $17.3 million as of September 30, 2023.

For additional information, please see EZGO’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024, which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on January 17, 2025.

About EZGO Technologies Ltd.

Leveraging an Internet of Things (IoT) product and service platform and two e-bicycle brands, “EZGO” and “Cenbird,” EZGO has established a business model centered on the design, manufacturing and sale of two-and three-wheeled electric vehicles, intelligent robots, complemented by electric vehicle accessories including batteries, charging piles and electronic control system. For additional information, please visit EZGO’s website at www.ezgotech.com.cn. Investors can visit the “Investor Relations” section of EZGO’s website at www.ezgotech.com.cn/Investor.

Exchange Rate

This announcement contains translations of certain Chinese Renminbi (“RMB”) amounts into U.S. dollars (“US$”) at specified rates solely for the convenience of the readers. Unless otherwise stated, all translations from RMB to US$ were made at the rate of RMB7.0176 to US$1.00, the exchange rate in effect as of September 30, 2024, the middle price of RMB exchange rate announced by the People’s Bank of China. The Company makes no representation that the RMB or US$ amounts referred could be converted into US$ or RMB, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the growth of the short-distance transportation solutions market in China and the other international markets the Company plans to serve; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in China and the international markets the Company plans to serve and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 20-F and its subsequent filings. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

Investor Relations Contact

At the Company:
Shawn Wen
Phone: +86 13502829216
Email: ir@ez-go.com.cn

LONG AN INTERNATIONAL PORT JOINS 12TH PORTECH ASIA SUMMIT 2025 IN MALAYSIA

Long An International Port made its inaugural appearance at the 12th PorTech Asia Summit 2025 and left a strong impression by showcasing its vision for green and smart port development.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The PorTech Asia Summit has been held annually since 2005, attracting top global experts in the port and maritime industry. In 2025, the 12th PorTech Asia Summit took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on January 9-10, with the theme “Smart Green, Multi-Win.” This event gathered 300 industry experts, port authorities, associations, and leading enterprises, contributing to a vibrant forum on developing smart and sustainable ports and promoting regional cooperation.

Mr. Vo Quoc Huy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Long An International Port, discussing with regional experts and partners.
Mr. Vo Quoc Huy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Long An International Port, discussing with regional experts and partners.

During the event, Mr. Vo Quoc Huy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Long An International Port, shared insights on the sidelines of the conference, earning commendation from international experts. He emphasized, “Green transformation represents a comprehensive revolution in the production and operation process. In line with new regulations set to take effect in 2030, Long An International Port is committed to restructuring its entire value chain to minimize environmental impact and fulfill Vietnam’s global commitments. Particularly for Long An International Port, we focus on the main objectives of raising awareness among employees, efficient use of resources, environmental quality management, prioritizing the use of green energy, promoting the application of information technology, and minimizing the impact on climate change.”

Long An International Port distinguishes itself as a leading seaport in Vietnam by employing world-class bulk and general cargo handling systems such as CATOS and MOST. By integrating state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technologies into its operational framework, the port has significantly enhanced its efficiency. This strategic optimization enables Long An International Port to swiftly and flexibly address the diverse requirements of its customers, solidifying its position as a pivotal player in the industry.

As a featured speaker during the conference, a representative from Long An International Port shared a presentation on “Initiatives for the Economic Development and Green Logistics in Vietnam’s Southern Key Economic Region.” The presentation left a strong impression as the international audience was introduced to a versatile, modern seaport committed to sustainable development, garnering significant interest from regional partners. The presentation highlighted comprehensive port solutions, showcasing the application of technology in port management and operations. The port’s openness to networking, knowledge sharing, and experience exchange paves the way for new cooperation opportunities, contributing to the sustainable development of the region and Vietnam’s logistics sector.

Long An International Port’s participation at the 12th PorTech Asia Summit 2025 serves as a platform to showcase Long An Province and Vietnam as a dynamic, modern, and integrated location to the international community, with strong focus on sustainable development.

Media Contacts:

ROSE CASTILLO YAP (Ms)

HEAD OF PORT COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

Long An International Port

Telephone: +84 272 374 1515

Mobile: +84 76 351 6656

Email: roseyap@longanport.com

 

7-Part Documentary Series “Perfect Sweat” Now Available On Demand

SEATTLE, Jan. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Perfect Sweat, a seven-part docuseries exploring the rebirth of ancient sweat bathing traditions around the world, is now available on demand.

The hit series that has sparked a revival in bathing and wellness culture across the globe follows sweat bathing guru and author Mikkel Aaland as he retraces his steps from his 70s classic, Sweat, to discover the resurgence of these ancient rituals. From Finland to Burning Man — sauna rafts, mobile saunas, and cold plunges, to Aufguss performances in large group saunas — Aaland joins local guides in eight countries, exploring diverse cultures and traditions, showcasing the profound impact of community sweat bathing on the human spirit.

My vision is to see bathhouses on every corner instead of a bar, or a Starbucks,” says Aaland in an interview at the Bathhouse – Banya London.

Perfect Sweat features a diverse cast of local guides and hosts, including sauna master Miki Tokairin and actor/dancer Sho Ikushima of Japan and sauna expert Lasse Eriksen of Norway. The series episode, Burning Man is directed by Emmy Award-nominated and Grammy award-winning filmmaker Doug Pray and other talented directors from around the globe.

The series premiered on June 8th, 2024 – Global Wellness Day and National Sauna Day to a global audience, with viewers tuning in from over 50 countries and has aired on broadcast networks in Finland, Greece, the Czech Republic, and Romania.

About the Seven Episodes:

  • Finland: In Finland, saunas are everywhere, and no steam is left unexplored with guide Samuel Aarnio. Mikkel and Samuel island hop by boat, visit old friends for a traditional smoke sauna, and test their limits in 60+ saunas at the Mobile Sauna Festival in Teuva. (Directed by Mika Hotakainen)
  • Aufguss: Experience the art of Aufguss, where sauna meets performance. Mikkel dives into the competitive world of Aufguss with Christine Rose, witnessing elaborate rituals, mesmerizing music, and the power of aromatherapy. (Directed by Wolfgang Ettlich)
  • Russia: Journey through Russia with Anna Artemieva, exploring the social and spiritual heart of the banya. From traditional village banyas to modern urban bathhouses, Mikkel uncovers the deep-rooted traditions and camaraderie of this communal steam bath. (Directed by Sasha Kulak and Alina Rudnitskaya)
  • Japan: Immerse yourself in the serene world of Japanese bathing culture with hosts Sho Ikushima and Miki Tokairin. Mikkel explores ancient onsen and sento rituals, from steaming volcanic hot springs to traditional public bathhouses, where cleansing and relaxation intertwine with nature. (Directed by Kaoru Ima and Michiko Zentoh)
  • Turkey: Step into the opulent world of the Turkish hammam with Elizabet Kurumlu. Mikkel experiences the elaborate cleansing and rejuvenation rituals of this ancient tradition, visiting historical bathhouses and uncovering the secrets of this luxurious bathing culture. (Directed by Tuba Guvelioglu)
  • Norway: Embrace the revitalizing power of the Norwegian sauna with Lasse Eriksen. Mikkel explores the connection between sauna and the outdoors, from breathtaking fjord-side saunas to traditional farm saunas, discovering the health benefits and social customs of this invigorating practice. (Directed by Robin Hansen-Tangen)
  • Burning Man: Explore the unique sweat lodge culture of Burning Man with Zack Robertson and Teresa Yung. As a first-time “burner,” Mikkel discovers a vibrant sweat bathing community where self-expression and communal healing converge in the Nevada desert. (Directed by Doug Pray)

Perfect Sweat is available to stream now on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and YouTube in the English-Speaking territories of the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, and with bonus content worldwide through the film festival interface, Eventive.

Website: https://www.perfectsweatseries.com/

Social Media:

About Bray’s Run Productions: Bray’s Run Productions is an award-winning, Seattle-based independent film production company that specializes in exploring culture, history, and travel through the prism of charismatic people across the globe. We open doors into aspects of culture that traditional media has overlooked. 

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEW0uj6wmaI
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/brays_run_productions_logo.jpg

EBL Champions Sustainable Energy Vision at CES 2025, Paving the Way for a Greener Future

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From January 7 to 10, 2025, EBL, a pioneering sustainable energy brand committed to environmental protection, efficiency, and stability, made an impact at the CES 2025 held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The event served as a platform for the brand to introduce its latest range of batteries and charging products, designed to enhance energy efficiency across home, office, and outdoor environments. This initiative underscores the brand’s commitment to promoting sustainable energy practices and advocating for environmental responsibility and efficiency.

EBL Champions Sustainable Energy Vision at CES 2025.
EBL Champions Sustainable Energy Vision at CES 2025.

The exhibition was a bustling hub of activity, drawing the attention of over a thousand visitors to the EBL booth. Mars Huang, founder of EBL, engaged in meaningful dialogues with users, partners, and media representatives. EBL’s showcased products included an array of batteries and chargers, mobile power banks, portable energy storage systems, and solar panels. The highlight was its next-generation nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) products, which boast significant advancements in materials, lifespan, self-discharge rates, and battery management systems, making them more environmentally friendly and efficient.

These innovative products reflect the core values of EBL, which champions a sustainable approach to energy consumption. By promoting the cyclical use of batteries, the brand aims to minimize the environmental impact of battery waste. For EBL, true innovation transcends technological advancements; it embodies a profound responsibility toward the natural environment. As a sustainable energy brand, exploring sustainable development possibilities is a shared vision for the future.

The brand’s ethos, “Energizing Bright Lives,” encapsulates its commitment to creating a better, more sustainable future. Recognizing that genuine prosperity and development can only be achieved by respecting and protecting the environment, EBL is dedicated to developing and providing eco-friendly, efficient power solutions. These efforts aim to reduce environmental burdens while enhancing the quality of life. Through technological innovation and a responsible approach, the brand aspires to offer users a brighter, more vibrant life and contribute to the planet’s sustainable development.

In pursuit of this vision, EBL is taking concrete steps to realize a sustainable future. Rechargeability is central to the brand’s sustainable strategy and environmental considerations. The company is investing heavily in research and development within the rechargeable sector, further advancing ProCyco technology to enhance safety, performance, capacity, and durability throughout the battery’s lifecycle. By exploring more possibilities for sustainable development, EBL’s ultimate goal is to provide users with an intelligent, eco-friendly power experience, empowering a lifestyle of sustainable energy use.

EBL envisions making sustainable energy practices a way of life, reflecting its commitment to the future of the natural environment and sustainable development. Its mission is to offer global users a more eco-friendly, efficient, and intelligent energy experience, providing a wide range of rechargeable product options that cater to the diverse needs of home, office, and outdoor scenarios.

For more information, please visit: https://www.eblofficial.com/; or connect with them on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eblofficialstore  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebl_official_/  
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ebl_official_  
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Boosting Yeast Protein Production to Meet the Growing Global Demand for Alternative Proteins

YICHANG, China, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Angel Yeast (SH600298), a global leader in yeast manufacturing, has officially completed the topping out of the main plant for the industrial yeast protein production project at Baiyang Yichang, which will boost an annual output of 11,000 tons, a milestone of Angel Yeast’s sustainable protein development strategy. The company is committed to building a sustainable future with innovative fermentation technologies and advanced biomanufacturing capabilities to advance the development of global alternative proteins and new sustainable food products.

Boosting Yeast Protein Production to Meet the Growing Global Demand for Alternative Proteins
Boosting Yeast Protein Production to Meet the Growing Global Demand for Alternative Proteins

Traditional protein production, from cereal and legume cultivation to dairy farming, is time-consuming and may struggle to meet future demands for quantity, quality, and sustainable supply. Therefore, there is an urgent need to innovate large-scale, low-cost, and high-quality protein production methods. Angel Yeast has achieved the breakthrough to extract proteins from yeast, only taking hours, boosting production efficiency significantly. To meet the growing market demands, it is expanding production capacity and the 11,000-ton production line is expected to be put into operation in 2025.

Yeast protein boasts significant environmental advantages by effectively lowering dependence on land and water resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon dioxide emissions associated with producing yeast protein are approximately 1/20 of those from animal protein. AngeoPro by Angel Yeast has broadened the application of yeast protein significantly. The products range from protein bars, high-protein cereals and chips to yeast protein powder, cookies and alternative meats.

“AngeoPro has redefined ‘future protein’, boasting 80 percent higher protein content and a 96 percent protein utilization rate that surpasses nearly all plant-based proteins. It also provides the nine essential amino acids needed by the human body which account for 47 percent of total amino acids, while in comparison whey protein is 46% essential amino acids, while plant proteins are usually only 35 to 40 percent, making AngeoPro yeast protein a nutritionally advantaged and highly efficient source of high-quality protein,” said Zhang Yan, assistant general manager of Angel Yeast and dean of the Angel Yeast Research Institute.

Bruce Friedrich, founder and CEO of Good Food Institute, recently spoke at the The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit in Singapore, where he noted that the Asia-Pacific region’s demand for meat is expected to account for 50 percent of the global total by 2050. He compared alt protein development to that of solar and electric vehicles a decade ago, which was not seen as a viable choice of energy transformation at that time but is now mainstream.

With the costs of yeast protein coming down dramatically, the global and Asian markets are quickly responding to the trends and promoting the potential technologies.

Angel Yeast is taking a lead in global layout. It exhibited the AngeoPro products at Food ingredients Global Europe 2024 held in Frankfurt, Germany, and has introduced the ingredient to a famous vegan protein bar brand in India that further expands application.

“Looking forward, Angel Yeast will continue to increase our investment in the R&D of yeast proteins, improve production technologies and expand fields of expansion, and contribute to building a sustainable future for all,” said Zhang Yan.

AWE Celebrates 20 Years of Achievements with Stakeholders

A New Era of Premier Events unveiled

Diverse Opportunities for Hong Kong showcased

HONG KONG, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — To commemorate its 20th anniversary, AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) hosted a grand Banquet and Ceremony on 15th January 2025. As a premier conference and exhibition centre in the Asia-Pacific region, AWE unveiled a series of large-scale international events during the ceremony, heralding the arrival of many more visitors and the stimulation of local business markets to inject new energy into Hong Kong’s economy. The dinner was attended by an impressive assembly of leaders from both the political and business worlds, along with industry fellows, all of whom gathered to celebrate this significant milestone for AWE. Attendees were thrilled to learn about the series of exciting events scheduled for the year ahead, creating an atmosphere of great enthusiasm.

Michael Wong, Deputy Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government (Centre) pictured with government officials and the management teams of AsiaWorld-Expo and Airport Authority Hong Kong.
Michael Wong, Deputy Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government (Centre) pictured with government officials and the management teams of AsiaWorld-Expo and Airport Authority Hong Kong.

John Lee, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, conveyed his congratulatory message through a video, recognising AWE’s contribution to the city’s overall economy. He highlighted that AWE has successfully attracted participants from around the globe by hosting a multitude of large-scale activities, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a hub for iconic events. This has not only facilitated talent and business exchanges across various sectors, but also boosted the tourism, hospitality, retail, entertainment and transportation industries, contributing significantly to Hong Kong’s economy.

Michael Wong, the Deputy Financial Secretary, was guest of honour at the ceremony. He was joined by Simon Li, Chairman of AsiaWorld-Expo; Fred Lam, Chairman of the Airport Authority Hong Kong; Vivian Cheung, Acting CEO of the Airport Authority Hong Kong; and Irene Chan, CEO of AsiaWorld-Expo, to officiate the celebration’s lighting ceremony. 

In his speech, AWE Chairman Simon Li noted that AWE is facing intense competition in Asia as well as various economic challenges following the pandemic. However, he emphasised that his team had remained steadfast, proactively participating in international events to seize global opportunities. The team has consistently demonstrated its commitment to driving economic development in Hong Kong, having hosted over 330 major events in 2024, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a premier destination for large-scale events.

CEO Irene Chan announced that a series of international events would be hosted at the venue for the first time in 2025. Among these is the “Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show”, Asia’s first version replicating the 50-year established London show, which is renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious indoor equestrian events. Additionally, there will be the inaugural “Routes World 2025”, an international conference for the aviation sector, along with “Airspace Asia Pacific 2025” which is also the first in the city. The venue will also feature the large-scale convention-cum-exhibition “Connect Marketplace Hong Kong” and “UFI Global Congress” for the MICE industry. Four leading technology-focused exhibitions will also be held concurrently, including “Build4Asia 2025”, “The Battery Show Asia”, “Mobility Tech Asia” and the brand-new “Data Center Asia”. This comprehensive line-up of events at AWE is set to attract a substantial number of business travellers to the city, injecting further momentum into the local economy.

The celebratory event vividly showcased AWE’s successful hosting of numerous international exhibitions, conferences, cultural events, and entertainment activities since its opening. A series of striking light boxes highlighted significant milestones from the past 20 years, including the relocation of the China Sourcing Fair, organised by Global Sources, from Shanghai to Hong Kong in 2006; the exhibition “The River of Wisdom – Animated Version of the Riverside Scene at Qing Ming Festival”, which attracted over 900,000 visitors in 2010; Madonna’s Hong Kong concert in 2016; the iconic musical “The Lion King” in 2019; and the inaugural “Super Terminal Expo” in 2024.

Another captivating feature was the giant “Wall of Stars”, created with signatures from over 200 international superstars who have performed at AWE. This wall not only commemorates countless spectacular moments, but also symbolises AWE’s ongoing commitment to serving as a prominent stage for international concerts and performances.

The dinner event featured a vibrant array of activities, including a special video series entitled “Little Screws”, in which employees from various departments shared insights and amusing anecdotes behind large-scale events. This lively presentation effectively conveyed the theme “Outstanding Staff (the Little Screws), Achieving Great Events”. Another highlight was a sand art performance presented by Snow Chung, President of the Hong Kong Sand Painting Association. Her delicate artistry infused the evening with a creative atmosphere, captivating the audience while symbolising the many achievements of the AWE team, who have built a significant reputation in the industry through years of unwavering effort. The programme also included a game that offered a wonderful prize — a 2025 Mega Event Pass. Winners received a pair of tickets to any public event held at AWE throughout the year!

To celebrate the significant milestone of its 20th anniversary, the marketing campaign of the year is themed “Explore All in AWE”, reflecting the venue’s position as an inspirational hub for a world of dazzling discoveries and endless opportunities. Throughout 2025, AWE will welcome a series of distinctive exhibitions, a lineup of superstar concerts making their debut in Hong Kong, and other thrilling performances. This marks the beginning of an even more prosperous year for AWE.

Bybit: A Global Favorite Among Full-Time and Professional Traders and the World’s Second-most popular Crypto Exchange

DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has been recognized as the second most popular cryptocurrency exchange globally, according to the latest report from CryptoQuant. The “2024 Crypto Survey: Exchange Use and Investor Behavior” underscores Bybit’s unmatched appeal to professional traders, commitment to security, and innovative offerings that cater to a diverse, global user base.

Bybit’s platform has become a hub for full-time traders, with 52% of surveyed users identifying as professionals—outperforming rivals OKX (38%) and Binance (37%). This success is supported by initiatives like the Bybit Broker Program, which has onboarded over 700 new clients in 2024, raising the total to 1,500 institutional clients. Additionally, Bybit’s Unified Trading Account (UTA) simplifies trading by centralizing spot, futures, and options activities in one seamless interface. Supporting over 70 cryptocurrencies as collateral, this system empowers traders to maximize their capital efficiency by using unrealized profits as margin across various products. UTA’s role in managing 99% of the platform’s trading volume showcases its importance to Bybit’s ecosystem.

Furthermore, Bybit’s integration of MetaTrader 5 allows users to diversify into traditional markets, such as Gold and FX, using USDT, marking another step forward in meeting the needs of professional traders.

Bybit’s global popularity spans regions including Africa, South America, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, where it maintains a dominant presence. Even as the exchange strategically exits certain jurisdictions to comply with regulatory requirements, Bybit’s adherence to a compliance-first approach ensures sustainable growth in markets with clear regulatory frameworks. This adaptability has strengthened Bybit’s position as a trusted and reliable global platform.

The report also acknowledges Bybit’s excellence in security, customer service, and P2P trading, where it ranks as the third-best exchange globally. These accolades reflect Bybit’s dedication to delivering a secure, user-focused experience that builds trust and loyalty within its growing community.

Joan Han, Sales & Marketing Director at Bybit, shared:
“This achievement reflects our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment to delivering a world-class trading experience. We actively listen to our clients’ requests and continuously improve our tools to ensure a smoother trading journey. Our ability to adapt and thrive in diverse markets speaks to the strength of our vision and our focus on fostering a secure, accessible, and professional crypto ecosystem. As we continue to innovate and grow, we remain dedicated to empowering traders worldwide with the tools and trust they need to succeed.”

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit
Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

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