BANGKOK, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Plaud.ai, the only AI note-taking platform that bridges in-person, phone calls, and online meetings into one workflow, today announced an expanded focus on the Southeast Asia (SEA) market. As part of this regional momentum, Plaud will attend GATES Consumer Tech Channel Summit, taking place from 3–5 February 2026 in Bangkok.

Plaud will be exhibiting at Booth B43 during the event and will showcase its hero products — Plaud Note Pro, the world’s most advanced AI note taker, and Plaud NotePin S, the world’s most wearable AI note taker which officially launched at CES 2026 to demonstrate how professionals can stay fully present while capturing everything that matters.

The participation at GATES reflects Plaud’s continued efforts to engage with regional partners and professionals around practical AI workflows and real-world productivity use cases. Southeast Asia represents a key growth region for Plaud, driven by increasingly cross-border, multilingual, and fast-paced professional environments. Plaud’s current market priorities in the region include Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, where teams and individuals are seeking AI tools that go beyond simple recording to deliver clarity, structure, and execution support.

Event Details

• Dates: 3–5 February 2026
• Booth: B43
• Location: 1695 Phaholyothin Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

Plaud’s presence at GATES Thailand 2026 is part of a broader initiative to deepen engagement across Southeast Asia through industry dialogue, regional collaboration, and the sharing of practical insights on AI adoption in everyday professional workflows.

About Plaud
Plaud is building the world’s most trusted AI work companion for professionals to elevate productivity and performance through note-taking solutions, loved by over 1,500,000 users worldwide since 2023. With a mission to amplify human intelligence, Plaud is building the next-generation intelligence infrastructure and interfaces to capture, extract, and utilize what you say, hear, see, and think. Plaud Inc. is a Delaware-incorporated, San Francisco-based company pushing the boundary of human–AI intelligence through a hardware–software combination. With ISO 27001, ISO 27701, GDPR, SOC 2, HIPAA, and EN 18031 compliance, Plaud is committed to the highest standards of data security and privacy protection.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is collaborating with the Vietnam National Cancer Hospital (K Hospital) to adapt regional recommendations for treating breast and ovarian cancers.

HANOI, Vietnam, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®)—an alliance of leading cancer centers in the United States—is marking a major milestone in work to improve outcomes for people with cancer across Vietnam, in collaboration with the Vietnam National Cancer Hospital (K Hospital). The organizations have now published NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines^®) Adaptations for Vietnam for both breast and ovarian cancers, marking their commitment to address high-incidence cancers for women in Vietnam, enhance overall quality of care, and strengthen Vietnam’s role in the region.

International Adaptations of the NCCN Guidelines^®—which are customized for regional practice patterns, regulatory status, and health care technologies—are available for free at NCCN.org/global or via the Virtual Library of NCCN Guidelines App.

“We continuously strive to access, update, and apply the most advanced medical progress worldwide to provide optimal diagnostic and treatment quality for cancer patients in Vietnam,” said Prof. Le Van Quang, MD, PhD, Director, Vietnam National Cancer Hospital and Chair of the NCCN Guidelines for Vietnam Panel for Ovarian Cancer. “The collaboration with NCCN carries profound significance. NCCN Guidelines embody internationally-recognized standards grounded in the most up-to-date scientific evidence. The joint effort to develop, adapt, and localize these guidelines in Vietnam represents an important step toward harmonizing cancer treatment practices with global standards. We believe that the strategic agreement between K Hospital and NCCN will continue to expand, creating a solid foundation for training, research, and improving the quality of cancer care in Vietnam.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Vietnam, representing approximately one in every seven new cancer cases in 2022¹. Globally, one in three women diagnosed with breast cancer is under 50 years old, but in Southeast Asia, almost half of all women diagnosed with breast cancer are below this threshold².

NCCN and K Hospital first signed a memo of understanding in 2023, when they embarked on a successful pilot program to adapt and publish evidence-based, expert-consensus-driven guidelines for lung cancer based on the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and tailored for patients in Vietnam. They subsequently added liver cancer, with the new guidelines for breast and ovarian cancers bringing the total to four adaptations. Additional resources for colorectal, stomach, and other cancers are coming soon.

During the adaptation process, local panel members for the NCCN Guidelines for Vietnam for Ovarian Cancer contributed essential information on addressing the treatment of ovarian cancer during pregnancy.

“Although uncommon, ovarian cancer during pregnancy requires complex decision-making with a high potential for adverse maternal and fetal outcomes if management is not standardized,” explained Dr. Quang. “This added algorithm provides explicit criteria for surgical management, chemotherapy indications and timing, and coordinated maternal-fetal monitoring.”

“The feedback we get from international experts helps us to improve care in the United States as well,” said Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, CEO, NCCN. “We are proud to exchange knowledge that drives research, training, and education for cancer care worldwide. These regionally-adapted guidelines can serve as the basis for a National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) and provide a foundation for future work to improve cancer treatment and build capacity in Vietnam and globally.”

There are currently nearly 100 global adaptations of NCCN Guidelines available across Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. NCCN resources have also been translated into more than 70 languages. Visit NCCN.org/global for more information on ongoing collaborations and how they elevate cancer care worldwide.

About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to defining and advancing quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care and prevention so all people can live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines^®) provide transparent, evidence-based, expert consensus-driven recommendations for cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services; they are the recognized standard for clinical direction and policy in cancer management and the most thorough and frequently-updated clinical practice guidelines available in any area of medicine. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients^® provide expert cancer treatment information to inform and empower patients and caregivers, through support from the NCCN Foundation^®. NCCN also advances continuing education, global initiatives, policy, and research collaboration and publication in oncology. Visit NCCN.org for more information.

¹ Giang Nguyen Huong et al. Thirty-Year Trends (1991-2020) in Breast Cancer Incidence Rates: Hanoi, Vietnam. JCO Glob Oncol 11, e2400570(2025). DOI:10.1200/GO-24-00570
² Phuong Dung (Yun) Trieu, Claudia Mello-Thoms, Patrick C. Brennan. Female breast cancer in Vietnam: a comparison across Asian specific regions. Cancer Biology & Medicine Sep 2015, 12 (3) 238-245; DOI: 10.7497/j.issn.2095-3941.2015.0034

Media Contact:
Rachel Darwin
267-622-6624
darwin@nccn.org

The new technology is the world’s smallest, catheter-delivered defibrillation lead

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Electrophysiologists at the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute (TCAI) at St. David’s Medical Center recently became the first in the nation to implant an FDA-approved novel defibrillation lead—a specialized, insulated wire that connects to an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT-Ds) device to the heart and corrects abnormal rhythm. The defibrillation lead is the world’s smallest, catheter-delivered defibrillation lead, which allows for precise delivery and placement in the right ventricle.

The first procedure was performed by Robert Canby, M.D., and Amin Al-Ahmad, M.D., clinical cardiac electrophysiologists at TCAI, on Jan. 7. Dr. Canby also participated in the trial that led to FDA approval.

“When treating patients, safety and efficacy are paramount, and this novel technology allows us to achieve both with greater precision,” said Andrea Natale, M.D., F.H.R.S., F.A.C.C., F.E.S.C., cardiac electrophysiologist and executive medical director of TCAI. “This milestone is a testament to the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute’s continued pursuit of innovation that will improve outcomes and access to life-saving care.”

A lead senses the heartbeat and transmits signals to the implanted device, which then delivers therapy to correct or interrupt abnormally fast rhythms—called arrhythmias—that can result in sudden cardiac arrest. Existing defibrillation leads are larger in diameter, increasing the potential for future complications.

According to the Journal of the American Heart Association, an estimated 12.1 million people in the U.S. are expected to have atrial fibrillation—the most common arrhythmia—by 2030.

TCAI is a state-of-the-art Electrophysiology Center that includes six labs equipped with advanced technology where a group of esteemed cardiac electrophysiologists—led by Dr. Natale, a world-renowned expert in the field—perform a high volume of the most complex electrophysiology procedures.

Attracting Next-Generation SportsTech Solutions Through a New Open Innovation Program  

MACAO, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BEYOND Expo 2026 today announced a focused collaboration that will feature UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, as part of a dedicated Open Innovation Program during BEYOND Week, May 27-31, 2026. This initiative will explore how emerging technologies are reshaping athlete performance, wellness, and the future of sports and entertainment.

BEYOND Expo 2026, the flagship event of BEYOND Week, will take place from May 27–30, 2026, in Macao, China. Guided by its vision of “Empowering Asia, Bridging the World,” BEYOND Expo convenes global innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, corporations, and policymakers to explore frontier technologies across AI, robotics, healthcare, sustainability, consumer technology, and digital entertainment.

The announcement aligns with UFC’s broader activities in Macao, following its multi-year strategic agreement with Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort, which will bring three UFC FIGHT NIGHT® events to Galaxy Arena starting from 2026, including the opening round of Road to UFC Season 5, the breakout tournament that provides top Asia-Pacific MMA prospects a direct pathway to UFC. Together, these developments reinforce Macao’s emergence as a regional hub for major sports, entertainment, and innovation.

At BEYOND Expo 2026, the Open Innovation Program will convene technology companies, startups and industry leaders to showcase and exchange perspectives on the frontier of SportsTech. The program focuses on bold, multi-dimensional solutions — spanning robotics and wearable biometrics; AI-driven coaching and predictive analytics; and immersive health training alongside next-generation fan engagement technologies. These innovations are set to redefine athlete performance, recovery, and the global sports experience. With UFC representatives and other industry experts providing insights during curated showcases and forums, the SportsTech track stands as a must-attend component of BEYOND Expo 2026.

Jason Ho, Co-Founder of BEYOND Expo, said:

“Innovation thrives at the intersection of industries. BEYOND Expo provides an open platform where global organizations and innovators can exchange ideas and explore how technology is shaping performance, wellness, and engagement across sectors. We are pleased to feature UFC within our 2026 Open Innovation Program as we advance our mission of “Empowering Asia, Bridging the World”.”

Kevin Chang, Senior Vice President and Head of Asia added:

“Asia remains a vital region for the evolution of global sports and entertainment. Being featured at  BEYOND Week 2026 represents an exciting opportunity to engage with the innovation community and contribute  to meaningful conversations around technology, performance, and the future of the sports experience.”

BEYOND Expo 2026 will take place in Macao from May 27–30, 2026. Further information on the event, including registration details, is available at www.beyondexpo.com.

About BEYOND Expo

The BEYOND International Technology Innovation Expo (BEYOND Expo) is Asia’s largest tech and innovation expo. Since 2021, it has served as a dynamic platform that not only showcases global technological innovations but also creates unique opportunities to drive innovation upgrades across diverse industries and regions.

With the vision of “Empowering Asia, Bridging the World,” BEYOND Expo has attracted participation from Asia’s Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, unicorns, and emerging startups. Through a multifaceted program of exhibitions, summits, and various activities, BEYOND Expo has successfully built a thriving innovation ecosystem, accelerating collective progress in the Asia-Pacific region and the global technology innovation industry.

www.beyondexpo.com

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and approximately 330 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while distributing programming to more than 950 million broadcast and digital households across more than 210 countries and territories. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC. 

LONDON, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zevero, a global carbon management platform, today announced the acquisition of Inhabit, a UK-based sustainability solutions provider. Under the arrangement, Zevero will assume responsibility for supporting a portfolio of organisations across Europe previously served by Inhabit, with onboarding taking place in phases to ensure continuity of service. 

Through the transition, customers will gain access to  Zevero’s AI-powered carbon accounting platform, including automated data collection, visualisation, and reporting, while continuing to receive hands-on advisory. Existing projects will continue without disruption, with customers supported by the same delivery teams.

The acquisition strengthens Zevero’s advisory capabilities and supports its strategy to scale sustainability delivery through a combination of experienced practitioners and technology. It enables organisations to move from consultancy-led engagement toward a more structured, platform-based approach as sustainability and reporting requirements evolve.

For customers, the transition provides a clear foundation for long-term sustainability reporting and emissions management, supported by a UK-led team with global reach and a data-driven model designed to scale over time.

George Wade, Chief Commercial Officer at Zevero, said:

“Over the past few months, it has become clear that Sam and the Inhabit team share our commitment to helping organisations decarbonise through high-quality, practical delivery. I’m looking forward to welcoming Inhabit’s team and customers to Zevero and continuing to deliver strong results together.”

Sam McKay, Co-founder and CEO of Inhabit, said:

“We’re excited about this next chapter. There is a strong alignment of purpose and approach, and Zevero provides a platform that allows us to extend the value we deliver to customers while maintaining continuity and trusted relationships.”

About Zevero

Zevero helps organisations turn emissions data into climate action through a combination of AI-powered automation and in-house sustainability expertise. Our platform streamlines carbon measurement and reporting while supporting teams in setting credible targets and accelerating decarbonisation. Zevero operates in more than 20 countries and manages over 1 million tCO₂e.

To learn more, visit https://zevero.earth and follow us on LinkedIn.