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Berlin Heals Announces Publication of Two-Year Clinical Outcomes of Cardiac Microcurrent Therapy in ESC Heart Failure

Study shows sustained improvements in heart failure symptoms and function following long-term C-MIC therapy

ZUG, Switzerland, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Berlin Heals, a pioneer in bioelectric medicine for the treatment of heart failure, is pleased to announce the publication of a new peer-reviewed study titled “Two-year outcomes of a cardiac microcurrent device in chronic heart failure: A first-in-human pilot study” in the ESC Heart Failure journal.

The study presents the long-term follow-up of patients enrolled in the initial pilot trial of the Cardiac Microcurrent Implantable Device (C-MIC), designed to restore myocardial function in patients with chronic heart failure. This publication marks the first report of sustained clinical benefit following the discontinuation of active therapy—two years after initial device implantation.

Study Summary
The two-year follow-up evaluated the safety, durability, and efficacy of C-MIC therapy in seven patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA Class III, mean LVEF 31.7%). Patients who had completed the initial six-month pilot trial were reassessed for mortality, hospitalization rates, device-related adverse events, and functional status.

Key findings include:

  • No device-related adverse events were reported over the two-year period.
  • LVEF improvements of +11.6% at 6 months were sustained at +12.6% two years after deactivation of the device.
  • 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) improved by over 200 meters at 6 months and remained nearly +191 meters above baseline at two years.
  • Improvements in NYHA functional class and SF-36 quality-of-life scores were maintained.
  • Only one patient required C-MIC reactivation.

“These findings offer important clinical insights into the long-term potential of C-MIC therapy,” said Prof. Dragana Kosevic, the study’s first author and Co-Principal Investigator. “What’s most encouraging is that the improvements in cardiac function and patient well-being were sustained even after the device was deactivated, suggesting a disease-modifying effect.”

John Brumfield, CEO of Berlin Heals, added: “The publication of this study reinforces our confidence in microcurrent therapy as a transformative treatment for heart failure. These two-year results validate both the safety and long-lasting impact of C-MIC and set the stage for larger clinical trials.”

Berlin Heals is currently expanding its clinical development program, with the multicenter C-MIC III trial now underway in several European countries.

To access the full publication in ESC Heart Failure, please visit http://doi.org/10.1002/ehf2.15369.

Media Contact:
John Brumfield
media@berlinheals.de

Disclaimer:
The C-MIC device is investigational and not approved for commercial use in any jurisdiction. Its safety and effectiveness are still under evaluation.

 

Klook and Hoshino Resorts Are Making It Easier To Explore Japan’s Hidden Gems

  • Klook and Hoshino Resorts are reshaping how the world explores Japan—making it easier than ever for travelers to tap into regional travel.
  • With new Stay+ bundles that combine Hoshino Resorts’ KAI ryokans and Klook’s transport strength, the partnership tackles overtourism while unlocking seamless access to Japan’s lesser-known destinations.

SINGAPORE, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Klook, a leading platform for experiences and travel services in Asia Pacific, has teamed up with Japan’s renowned hospitality brand Hoshino Resorts to make regional Japan more accessible than ever. The collaboration aims to connect travelers with authentic local experiences beyond the usual tourist hotspots—think beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—helping to ease overcrowding while driving fresh demand to Japan’s up-and-coming destinations.

From left to right: Wilfred Fan (Chief Commercial Officer, Klook), Yoshiharu Hoshino (CEO of Hoshino Resorts), Wataru Masuda (General Manager, Klook Japan)
From left to right: Wilfred Fan (Chief Commercial Officer, Klook), Yoshiharu Hoshino (CEO of Hoshino Resorts), Wataru Masuda (General Manager, Klook Japan)

 

Hoshino Resorts' signature KAI ryokans and transportation pass bundles are now available on Klook (KAI Poroto pictured).
Hoshino Resorts’ signature KAI ryokans and transportation pass bundles are now available on Klook (KAI Poroto pictured).

“Overtourism is a global issue, and Japan feels it strongly,” said Wilfred Fan, Chief Commercial Officer of Klook. “Alongside Hoshino Resorts, we’re committed to promoting sustainable tourism through regional travel, and take this step toward securing the long-term future of Japan’s tourism ecosystem.”

Rising Demand for Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

According to Klook’s latest Travel Pulse survey, 63% of Asia Pacific travelers want to avoid crowded destinations and seek out less-traveled places. And in Japan, Klook data reveals surging interest in emerging cities such as Kunigami, Nagakute, and Usu that are witnessing a rapid rise in demand.

What’s fueling this shift?

  • Opening of JUNGLIA, a new theme park that is putting Northern Okinawa’s Kunigami on the map
  • Nagakute continues to shine, from the continued demand around Ghibli Park.
  • Usu, tucked away in Hokkaido, is drawing nature lovers with its volcano treks, scenic trails, and open-air onsen escapes.

Stay+ Bundles: Seamless Travel Made Simple

Interest in exploring Japan’s emerging cities is on the rise, yet many international visitors still face practical barriers: limited transport coverage, language gaps, and a lack of reliable booking information. At the heart of the partnership are co-designed Stay+ bundles that pair stays at Hoshino Resorts’ signature KAI ryokans with transportation passes like the JR Pass. Think tranquil onsens, authentic kaiseki cuisine, and hyper-local touches, paired with effortless rail travel, all easily bookable on Klook with instant confirmation and multilingual support.

Mapped to 21 KAI properties located in places like Poroto in Hokkaido, Tsugaru in Tohoku, or Okuhida in the Japanese Alps, these bundles give travelers an easy step into Japan’s lesser-known culture, flavours, and traditions.

“We’re honored to partner with Hoshino Resorts. Their unique accommodation and brand appeal, combined with Klook’s strength in transportation, platform access, and regional marketing capabilities, will help raise awareness of Japan’s lesser-known destinations,” said Wataru Masuda, General Manager of Klook Japan. “This will encourage more travelers to explore regional areas and experience Japan’s diverse natural and cultural offerings. Looking ahead, we plan to expand with more hotel brands from Hoshino Resorts and leverage AI tools to help travelers plan and book local travel experiences directly on the platform.”

Expanding and Encouraging Deeper Travel

The rollout kicks off in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and Korea, with more markets to come. It’s the first step in a bigger vision: reimagining how the world discovers Japan, one local gem at a time.

Yoshiharu Hoshino, CEO of Hoshino Resorts added, “With growing pressure on urban tourism, guiding travelers deeper into regional areas and achieving tourism dispersion has become a long-standing priority. By partnering with Klook to integrate accommodation and transportation, we believe we can effectively address the challenge of limited local transportation and attract more travelers to explore various regions of Japan, improving both the visibility and accessibility of local tourism.”

About Klook

Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 3,400 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.

For media enquiries, please contact:
press@klook.com

Ancient Buddha Statues Unearthed During Temple Renovation in Champasack

The ancient Buddha images (Photo: ວັດກາງເມືອງ ຈຳປາສັກ)

On 14 July, workers and local villagers unearthed a total of 70 ancient Buddha statues during restoration work at Muang Kang temple in Champasack district, Champasack Province, on 14 July.

Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide

JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia has officially launched Event by Indonesia, a digital platform designed as a centralized hub for information on various events across the country.

Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide
Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide

The official accounts Event by Indonesia provides comprehensive and engaging information across seven Wonderful Event pillars: Music, Creative, Culinary, Sports & Wellness, Arts & Culture, Carnival, and MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, and Exhibition) that is available on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Event by Indonesia provides detailed information on a wide range of event scales, including international, national, regional events, MICE, and 110 events under Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) program.

As one of Indonesia’s tourism platforms, Event by Indonesia aims to simplify public access to up-to-date information on upcoming events, ticketing and accommodation, event line-ups and schedules, and to enhance overall event engagement through real-time updates.

“The presence of Event by Indonesia is expected to simplify access to information for both local and international audiences, allowing them to enjoy a diverse and exciting events Indonesia has to offer,” said Vinsensius Jemadu, Deputy for Tourism Products and Event Organizers at the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia, during the official launch at the Sapta Pesona Building on Monday, July 7, 2025.

“This platform is also part of our ongoing efforts to promote Indonesia as a top destination with high-quality events that support the tourism sector.”

Through the official Event by Indonesia accounts, people can also find curated tourism references including natural, cultural, and culinary destinations near events location, making it a practical guide for planning travel experiences in Indonesia.

Online-to-offline (O2O) activations will be held at selected events supported by Event by Indonesia as a promotional initiative to build engagement with people and communities. These activations will encourage attendees to share their event experiences via Instagram Stories for a chance to win exclusive prizes.

Furthermore, Event by Indonesia embraces the concepts of sustainability and festivity, blending the vibrancy and grandeur of events with a commitment to environmental care. Through these two approaches, the platform aims to promote not only festive celebrations, but also create positive social and economic impacts while preserving the local environment.

Event by Indonesia stands as an innovative solution for bringing event information closer to the public in an accessible way, while supporting The Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia commitment to develop sustainable tourism in Indonesia.

For more information about Event by Indonesia and other tourism-related events, visit www.indonesia.travel or follow the official Instagram account of Event by Indonesia.

Sustainability in Event Activation: The Blue Zone at UNFCCC COP29

HONG KONG, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pico delivered the largest temporary infrastructure around a permanent facility in the history of UNFCCC COP and the first COP event certified under ISO20121 for sustainability, demonstrating its unmatched expertise in sustainable construction and large-scale event management.


Pico’s Activation at COP29

The Brief

Held from 11-22 November in Baku, Azerbaijan, the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) was the second largest in this globally significant event’s history. With Pico working as main official contractor of the event’s ‘Blue Zone’, it also represented a milestone in sustainable event management and an impressive demonstration of how large-scale event activations can align with sustainability goals.

Insight

Led by Pico’s multinational team of more than 1,200 professionals and workers, the project transformed the 215,000 sq. m. Baku Stadium into the COP29 ‘Blue Zone’. Themed ‘Make Waves’, it contained vital conferencing and negotiation facilities, country/corporate pavilions, and an offsite information centre within central Baku. The ‘Blue Zone’ was the biggest design-and-build temporary infrastructure around a permanent facility in the history of UNFCCC COP. 

Key project challenges included balancing the zone’s massive infrastructural needs with health, safety and environmental standards – and completing its full planning and execution within six months. The team responded with an intensive mobilisation programme for the workforce, production sites and key supply chain partners designed to overcome the logistical challenges.

Solution

The Pico team took an innovative approach to the Blue Zone by implementing realistic sustainability goals for design and construction that would allow for ISO20121 event certification at the outset. The event’s information centre and country/ corporate pavilions also not only demonstrated effective environmental stewardship, but also exceeded the Conference’s needs by increasing Azerbaijan’s long-term capacity to host environmentally responsible international gatherings.

Over a six-month period, the team leveraged expertise in design, management, master site planning, branding, wayfinding and signage design, and substantially reduce carbon footprint and increase potentials with venue facility optimisation capabilities. Among other project elements, Pico was responsible for site groundwork, steelwork, temporary infrastructure and AV-CCTV conduit works. The team executed a comprehensive interior fit-out including detailed design, VVIP joinery, flooring, furniture, landscaping and decor. Executed tasks also included the construction of toilet and kitchen infrastructure, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), and art exhibition curation.

Information centre & country pavilions

A further significant feature was the COP29 information centre, designed and built as a permanent structure to serve future events right in the heart of Baku. Pico also designed and built pavilions for Azerbaijan, Singapore, FINS and the Zero Waste Pavilion.

Sustainable leadership

A solar glass-powered entrance arch introduced design features for renewable energy generation and was a significant development in integrating cutting-edge technology and functional design for sustainable event spaces without compromising aesthetic appeal or operational efficiency.

As the event’s sole ISO 20121 sustainable certification auditee amongst the host country’s appointed contractors, Pico stood out for its in-depth knowledge, experience and leadership with environmental stewardship in the events industry. The project integrated sustainable construction methods with local supply chain initiatives, developed permanent infrastructure and in turn transferred valuable skills and knowledge as legacy for Azerbaijan’s events industry.

Result

COP 29 attracted over 70,000 visitors.

Testimonials

‘The Pico team’s expertise, dedication and professionalism played a pivotal role in the smooth execution of this globally significant event. The high standards of quality and attention to detail the team demonstrated throughout the project were truly impressive. From planning and construction to final delivery, your commitment to excellence helped create a world-class venue that met the needs of all participants and stakeholders.’ 

– Narmin Jarchalova, CEO, COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company

‘As we approach the end of another year in the UNFCCC climate change process, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for your cooperation and support during the preparation of COP 29 and throughout the conference. This conference has been challenging because of the huge number of participants and the limited preparation time. I would like to extend to you my appreciation for the support of the Pico team for their extraordinary efficiency, flexibility and friendly manner.’ 

– Wasim Mir, Director, Conference Affairs Division, United Nations Climate Change Secretariat

LG BRINGS PREMIUM STREAMING TO NEW KIA MODELS IN EUROPE WITH WEBOS AUTOMOTIVE CONTENT PLATFORM

Proven In-Car Entertainment Solution Delivers Immersive Media Experiences and Transforms New Kia Models into “Living Spaces on Wheels”

SEOUL, South Korea, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LG Electronics (LG), a leading innovator in mobility technology, announced that its webOS-based Automotive Content Platform (ACP) will power in-car streaming for Kia Corporation’s new European models.  Debuting on the recently introduced EV3, the platform will also be extended to the upcoming EV4, EV5 and New Sportage. This marks an expansion of LG’s innovative in-car experience to the European market, following successful deployments in Korea.

LG Brings Premium Streaming to New Kia Models in Europe With webOS Automotive Content Platform
LG Brings Premium Streaming to New Kia Models in Europe With webOS Automotive Content Platform

LG’s ACP runs on the powerful and versatile webOS platform, which already powers over 240 million LG Smart TVs worldwide. Building on the TV platform’s proven reliability and intuitive user experience, the automotive-optimized webOS offers drivers and passengers instant access to a wide array of content and services, tailored specifically for the in-car environment.

As a core component of “LG AlphaWare,” the company’s comprehensive software-defined vehicle (SDV) solution suite, the ACP redefines the car as a true “living space on wheels.” The platform allows passengers to stream their favorite content directly on the vehicle’s infotainment display,* delivering an experience comparable to that of a smartphone or smart TV – while adhering to driving safety regulations.

Kia’s European model lineup will offer a diverse in-car entertainment experience, featuring popular content from platforms including Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, LG Channels, Baby Shark World for Kids, Stingray Karaoke, Play.Works, Haystack News and Vasari. Later this year, the content library will expand to include Rakuten TV, Napster, and German OTT service Joyn. Available only when parked, these video streaming services let occupants turn the car into a private cinema – further enhancing the in-car media ecosystem.

“By bringing the webOS Automotive Content Platform to Kia’s European model lineup, we are making it easy for people to enjoy their favorite content wherever they go,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of the LG Vehicle Solution Company. “LG remains committed to enhancing partnerships and expanding our content ecosystem to deliver premium in-vehicle entertainment and next-level connectivity.”

An automotive data plan is required to access streaming services. Access to certain apps may require a separate subscription.

About LG Electronics Vehicle Solution Company

The LG Vehicle Solution Company (VS) is bringing LG’s unique human-centered innovations to the automotive industry. As a trusted and innovative partner, the company provides intelligent solutions including head units, displays, connectivity, ADAS vision systems, and software solutions for software-defined vehicles. Committed to “Driving Better Future Mobility,” the company has diversified its portfolio to further strengthen its capabilities, including automotive lighting systems, e-powertrain, and cybersecurity. For more information, visit www.LG.com/global/mobility. To stay updated with the latest news, subscribe to the LG mobility newsletter, LG Loop at www.LG.com/global/mobility/newsletter and follow the LG VS Company LinkedIn channel at www.linkedin.com/company/lgvehiclesolution.

JETRO and METI Hold First-ever “Global Healthcare Challenge,” Featuring International Symposium in Healthcare Sector and Pitch Competition among World’s Startups

– AI Medical Service Inc. from Japan Wins Gold Prize –

TOKYO, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During the “Health and Well-being” theme week at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) jointly hosted an international symposium on healthcare and a pitch competition for healthcare startups from around the world, titled the “Global Healthcare Challenge” (GHeC), at the Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay on June 25 (Wednesday) and 26 (Thursday), 2025. The event was designed to help Japanese startups expand their business operations overseas.

Photo: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108748/202507021569/_prw_PI1fl_F16QhTGJ.jpg 

Approximately 40 influential global figures, including Joelle Barral, Senior Director of Research & Engineering at Google DeepMind, and Carla Goulart Peron, Chief Medical Officer at Philips, participated in the symposium and engaged in panel discussions on topics such as the development of the medical ecosystem and innovations in health technology.

In the pitch competition, 20 startups from Japan and abroad (representing nine countries, including four Japanese companies), selected from over 350 global candidates, vied for top awards. Following the evaluation of the participating startups by six global leaders in the healthcare sector, Japan’s AI Medical Service Inc. won the gold prize, with trophies awarded to the top three startups.

Tomohiro Tada, CEO of AI Medical Service Inc., commented: “I am sure it is valuable for Japan to have the opportunity to make presentations in English and compete internationally. From the beginning, we have set our sights on the world, so it is a great honor to see our company being recognized among the outstanding finalists from around the world. We were able to gain confidence and a network from this event to pursue challenges ahead on the global stage.”

Details: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202507021569-O1-9jtKFS3m.pdf 

Official website: https://ghec2025.jp/ 

Penta Security Receives Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 South Korea Company of the Year Recognition for Excellence in Web Application Firewall Technology

Penta Security honored for its innovation-driven cybersecurity strategy, delivering intelligent threat detection and robust customer-centric solutions in the web application firewall market

SAN ANTONIO, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Penta Security has been awarded the 2025 South Korea Company of the Year Recognition in the web application firewall (WAF) industry for its outstanding achievements in innovation, strategic execution, and customer value delivery. This recognition highlights Penta Security’s leadership in creating intelligent, high-performance web security solutions that address the rapidly evolving threat landscape while delivering measurable customer impact.

Penta Security’s leadership in creating intelligent, high-performance web security solutions that address the rapidly evolving threat landscape while delivering measurable customer impact.
Penta Security’s leadership in creating intelligent, high-performance web security solutions that address the rapidly evolving threat landscape while delivering measurable customer impact.

Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: visionary innovation and customer impact. Penta Security excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align intelligent cybersecurity innovation with real-world application and operational excellence. “Penta Security’s ability to analyze and anticipate new threat vectors is rooted in its deep expertise and technical leadership. Its WAPPLES solution consistently delivers intelligent, high-accuracy protection, setting a new standard in the South Korean WAF market,” said Ying Ting Neoh, industry analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

Guided by a long-term growth strategy centered on intelligence-driven innovation and strategic partnerships, Penta Security has demonstrated remarkable agility in addressing evolving customer needs. Its continued investment in proactive threat detection and advanced API protection has enabled the company to scale its WAF solutions across public sector, fintech, eCommerce, and cloud infrastructure environments.

Innovation remains central to Penta Security’s approach. Its flagship solution, WAPPLES, is powered by the patented Contents Classification and Evaluation Processing (COCEP™) engine, which utilizes behavior-based logic instead of traditional pattern matching to detect both known and unknown threats in real time. This intelligent detection mechanism minimizes false positives and accelerates mitigation without frequent signature updates. “Since its launch in 2005, WAPPLES has maintained its position as the undisputed leader in Korea’s web security market. With its exceptional detection accuracy and low false positive rate, WAPPLES has been adopted in 171 countries worldwide and is now recognized as a top-tier WAAP solution globally,” said Taejoon Jung, Director of Planning Division at Penta Security.

Penta Security’s commitment to customer-centric design is evident in its flexible deployment models and robust support systems. Whether deployed on-premises, as a software appliance, or as a cloud-based service, WAPPLES seamlessly integrates with multi-cloud and hybrid environments, supporting platforms such as AWS, Azure, and NAVER Cloud. The company enhances customer experience through its 24/7/365 information delivery and incident management systems, Self-Diagnostics, and Periodic Inspections tools that ensure system stability and continuity.

Frost & Sullivan commends Penta Security for its strategic foresight in aligning innovation with market needs, setting a high bar in execution and customer satisfaction. The company’s focus on intelligent detection, operational efficiency, and sustainability has positioned it as a frontrunner in South Korea’s web security space.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Company of the Year Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding strategy development and implementation, resulting in measurable improvements in market share, customer satisfaction, and competitive positioning. The recognition honors forward-thinking organizations that are reshaping their industries through innovation and growth excellence.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognitions acknowledge companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan
For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:
Tarini Singh
E: Tarini.singh@frost.com 

About Penta Security
Penta Security is a leading cybersecurity company specializing in encryption technology, committed to protecting digital systems and data worldwide. Since its founding in 1997, the company has built 28 years of advanced expertise at the forefront of cybersecurity. Penta Security leads the global market beyond South Korea across the three core pillars of enterprise security: data encryption, web security, and authentication. Backed by years of proven leadership and innovation, the company extends its world-class security capabilities to cloud environments and the Internet of Things (IoT), delivering trusted protection across modern digital infrastructures.