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OKX’s 28th Consecutive Proof of Reserves: $28.1 bn in Primary Assets, Up 59% Year-on-Year

DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OKX, a leading crypto exchange, today released its 28th consecutive Proof of Reserves (PoR) report, demonstrating $28.1 billion in primary assets backing customer funds – a 59% increase year-on-year.

The latest PoR report, audited and verified by blockchain security firm Hacken, shows OKX maintains a 1:1 or greater reserve ratio across 22 of the most commonly traded assets on the platform, with current reserve ratios for primary assets standing at:

  • BTC: 104%
  • ETH: 102%
  • USDT: 102%
  • USDC: 100%

Breaking down the $28.1 billion in assets:

  • BTC holdings: $13.2 billion
  • ETH holdings: $4.9 billion
  • USDT holdings: $8.7 billion
  • USDC holdings: $1.3 billion

OKX’s robust security framework builds on this foundation of verifiable truth through multiple layers of protection. The platform features a multi-billion-dollar Insurance Fund*, AI-powered security tools and OKX Protect – an educational hub helping customers implement essential security features. The PoR program continues to be independently verified by third-party auditor Hacken, whose comprehensive methodology includes zk-STARK proofs and signature validation to validate reserve ownership. Its thorough audit process examines public wallet addresses and cryptographic proofs.

Over the past two years, OKX has significantly enhanced its PoR program by optimizing zk-STARK technology, reducing proof file size from 2.55GB to 598KB and expanding verifiable assets to 22 major cryptocurrencies. This combines with state-of-the-art encryption protocols and advanced wallet infrastructure to ensure both security and usability.

For OKX’s full PoR report, visit: okx.com/proof-of-reserves

*Insurance Fund available in specific markets only

For further information, please contact:
Media@okx.com

About OKX

OKX is a technology company with a mission to make blockchain-based assets more accessible. Our pursuit takes us to a decentralized future that makes our world more efficient, transparent and connected.

OKX began as a crypto exchange giving millions of people access to trading and over time became among the largest platforms in the world. In recent years, we have developed one of the most connected onchain wallets used by millions to access decentralized applications (dApps).

OKX is trusted by hundreds of large institutions seeking access to crypto markets on a reliable platform that seamlessly connects with global banking and payments.

Our most well-known products include: OKX Exchange, OKX Wallet, OKX Explorer, OKX OS, OKX Ventures and OKX Institutional. To learn more about OKX, download our app or visit: okx.com

Disclaimer

Keypoint Intelligence Releases New Insights on the Future of the Document Scanner Market

FAIRFIELD, N.J., Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Keypoint Intelligence, a leading provider of digital imaging market research, has released two new reports offering critical insights for the document scanner industry: North American Document Image Scanner Market Estimate: 2024 and Western Europe Document Image Scanner Market Estimate & Forecast: 2024. These reports explore evolving industry trends, shifting customer needs, and competitive developments to help manufacturers and resellers refine their strategies and seize new opportunities.

As businesses increasingly adopt digital workflows, the demand for smarter, faster, and more connected document scanning solutions continues to rise. These reports provide manufacturers and resellers with a clear understanding of market changes and how to position their products for success. “These reports are designed to help scanner manufacturers and resellers navigate an evolving market,” said Mark Davis, Editorial Analyst at Keypoint Intelligence. “By understanding where the industry is headed and what customers prioritize, businesses can make informed product and sales decisions.”

Key insights from the reports:

  • Industry trends: The growing demand for distributed scanning, cloud connectivity, and intelligent automation is reshaping the market.
  • Competitive landscape: A deep dive into key players, emerging brands, and the innovations setting certain products apart.
  • Customer priorities: An analysis of what buyer’s value most, from enhanced security to seamless software integration and ease of use.
  • Future outlook: How AI-driven capture, workflow automation, and remote work trends are shaping purchasing decisions.

For companies looking to fine-tune their market approach, these reports provide essential data and expert analysis to stay ahead of the competition. Covering key trends, competitive insights, and evolving customer priorities, the research offers valuable guidance for manufacturers and resellers aiming to refine their strategies and adapt to market shifts.

To explore the findings in more detail and understand how they can impact business decisions, visit here.

About Keypoint Intelligence

For over 60 years, clients in the digital imaging industry have relied on Keypoint Intelligence for independent hands-on testing, lab data, and extensive market research to drive their product and sales success. Keypoint Intelligence has been recognized as the industry’s most trusted resource for unbiased information, analysis, and awards due to decades of analyst experience.

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Esco Lifesciences Group and Allwin Medical Devices Announce Strategic Partnership


SINGAPORE and ANAHEIM, USA – Media Outreach Newswire – 25 February 2025 – Allwin Medical Devices Inc. (“Allwin”), a leading manufacturer of a wide range of medical devices addressing women’s health (IVF), urology, gastroenterology and interventional radiology has partnered with Esco, a leading global provider of life sciences equipment that serves multiple global markets including the in vitro fertilization (IVF) market, via a strategic partnership. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Esco Lifesciences Group and Allwin Medical Deal Signing, 13 February 2025
Esco Lifesciences Group and Allwin Medical Deal Signing, 13 February 2025

Strategic Partnership Rationale

  • The IVF consumables portfolio of Allwin Medical will expand Esco’s IVF instrument portfolio, and the combined product portfolio will have a complementary balance between consumables and instruments.
  • IVF clinicians and embryologists who use either Allwin’s consumables or Esco’s time lapse or standard IVF incubators will have access to a more complete workflow solution.
  • The strong sales and operational presence of Allwin Medical in India will serve Esco well by providing the company with an established base and strong presence in the country, one of the largest and fastest growing economies in the world.
  • Most significantly, the management and personnel of Allwin Medical have demonstrated exceptional talent, acumen, and expertise in the IVF consumables market. Their ongoing contributions to the advancement and success of Allwin Medical is highly valued.

XQ Lin, Chief Executive Officer of Esco, said, “Infertility is a problem that has social, psychological, and economic impacts to the afflicted individuals and couples. It has been estimated that 1 in 6 couples will struggle with infertility at least once in their lifetime. This transaction brings together two companies intent on accelerating innovation for our IVF customers and enabling dreams of couples around the world. Through Esco Medical, our IVF medical devices business unit, Esco Lifesciences Group provides comprehensive ART workflow solutions to IVF clinics, laboratories, and research centers worldwide. Our integrated portfolio, including Time-Lapse Incubators, IVF Workstations, and a witnessing and traceability system designed in Denmark and manufactured in Europe, streamlines processes and optimizes outcomes. With our majority stake, strategic investment in Allwin, we will be in a strong position to fulfill our companies’ missions of enabling our customers to make the world healthier, more equitable, and resilient.”

Dhiren Mehta, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Allwin Medical, noted, “Allwin’s mission since our inception has been to deliver high quality, innovative, and reliable product to laboratories in the IVF/ART and urology markets. We enable our customers to deliver better outcomes to patients globally. By partnering with Esco, we expect to be well-positioned to better serve our customers’ needs worldwide. With Allwin we All Win!”

Dr. Amit Kakar, Managing Partner and Head of Asia at Novo Holdings, and a member of Esco’s Board of Directors, added, “Novo Holdings has been a strong supporter of Esco since our investment in 2021. The strategic investment in Allwin provides a meaningful growth opportunity for Esco. We are confident that the partnership with the Allwin team and expansion of Esco’s presence in IVF consumables and India will serve both companies well.”

Advisors
Forvis Mazars served as exclusive financial advisor to the Esco Lifesciences Group. IndusLaw and Finn Dixon & Herling LLP served as legal advisors to the Esco Lifesciences Group. Confluentia Advisors served as exclusive financial advisor to Allwin Medical. Khaitan & Co and Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP served as legal advisors to Allwin Medical.

Hashtag: #EscoLifesciencesGroup #EscoMedical #Esco #AllwinMedical #Allwin #StrategicInvestment #IVF #MedicalDevices #AssistedReproductionTechnlogies







The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Allwin Medical

Allwin Medical is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of medical devices including Women’s Health (IVF) and Urology. Headquartered in Anaheim, California, USA, the company is committed to providing its customers with high quality devices. Its products are sold in 90+ countries globally through a network of 100+ distributors that cater to global markets. Within India, 100+ dealers support and promote sales for the Indian market. Founded in 2006 by Dhiren Mehta who has more than 35+ years of experience in the medical device industry, the company has exhibited consistent and strong growth.

For more information about Allwin Medical:

About Esco Lifesciences Group

Esco Lifesciences Group is a world-leading manufacturer of laboratory, pharmaceutical equipment, bioprocess tools and IVF medical devices, delivering sustainable workflow solutions to advance global health. Since 1978, the Singapore-based company is committed to excellence, ensuring forward-thinking technology, responsive support, and reliability, making Esco a trusted partner for the life science and medical markets in more than 150 countries.

Esco, through its business unit Esco Medical, leads in delivering comprehensive workflow solutions for assisted reproduction technologies (ART) to IVF clinics, laboratories, and research centers worldwide.

For more information about Esco Lifesciences Group:

MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System receives device approval in China

Peer-reviewed articles on MediBeacon technology published

  • 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 Clinical Kidney Journal in February published MediBeacon study results on measured GFR (mGFR) using relmapirazin versus estimated GFR (eGFR) for the purpose of classifying patient Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stages.
  • MediBeacon TGFR study results have been posted online in the February ahead of print section in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN).

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MediBeacon Inc. today announced the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China has approved the MediBeacon® TGFR Monitor and TGFR Sensor for the assessment of kidney function in patients with normal or impaired renal function. Lumitrace® (relmapirazin) injection, categorized as a drug in China, is under review and is targeted for approval in late 2025. The transdermal GFR technology includes Lumitrace (relmapirazin) injection, a non-radioactive, non-iodinated fluorescent GFR tracer agent, which together with the TGFR Monitor and TGFR Sensor allow assessment of kidney function by measuring the clearance rate of the fluorescent agent as it leaves the body.

In 2021, the NMPA granted the TGFR Innovative Medical Device Designation. Only 10% of applications are granted this designation. Benefits of this registration route including early product promotion are considerable.

In February, the Clinical Kidney Journal published MediBeacon data in an article on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stage misclassification via estimated GFR (eGFR) compared to measured GFR (mGFR) using relmapirazin. In a stable CKD population, more than one-third of the subjects had an actual mGFR (relmapirazin) that differed by at least one CKD stage from their estimated GFR (eGFR).1  Relmapirazin is indicated for use with the TGFR.

“The Clinical Kidney Journal study raises serious concerns about how chronic kidney disease is diagnosed today,” said Dr. Ira Kurtz, Chief of the Division of Nephrology at UCLA Medical Center. “Researchers found that current eGFR methods misclassified 35% of patients, leading to potentially incorrect treatments and delayed interventions.”

In the February ahead of print section in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN), MediBeacon clinical study data from the use of transdermal detection of relmapirazin in patients with normal to impaired kidney function across a range of skin color types was posted online.2 JASN publishes high-impact research to advance the understanding and treatment of kidney diseases.3

In addition to his leadership role at UCLA Medical Center, Dr. Kurtz is active in the development of an artificial kidney and artificial intelligence in the training and practice of nephrology.

Dr. Kurtz commented that: “The study in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology introduces a wearable, transdermal device that assesses GFR without the need for blood samples. The fluorescence-based test, developed by MediBeacon, demonstrated an exceptional correlation (r² = 0.90) with plasma mGFR across all skin types, paving the way for more equitable and accurate kidney function assessment. These two new studies have reshaped the landscape of kidney disease diagnostics, offering both a cutting-edge innovation and a stark warning about current practices. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved kidney function assessment tools, with non-invasive, point of care GFR measurement emerging as a game-changing solution.”

“Awareness of kidney disease is relatively low despite the fact that it is the 7th leading risk factor for mortality worldwide.4 MediBeacon is pleased to have the opportunity to aid in the assessment of kidney function in China,” said Steve Hanley CEO of MediBeacon. “NMPA approval is the culmination of a rigorous device application process that required close collaboration of the MediBeacon and Huadong Medicine teams. We look forward to the next phase of our partnership with Huadong Medicine and eagerly anticipate Lumitrace approval in China later this year.”

The TGFR, which includes Lumitrace (relmapirazin), was approved on January 17th by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). MediBeacon continues development of future TGFR products including a next-generation TGFR Sensor with updated software and algorithms.

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.5

About MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System (TGFR) 
The TGFR is comprised of the TGFR Sensor, TGFR Monitor, and Lumitrace® (relmapirazin), 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR TGFR (U.S. FDA)

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 CKD stage misclassification between estimated GFR and measured GFR in a clinical study of chronic kidney patients, Clinical Kidney Journal,  Dorshow, Richard B. et al., 2025 Jan 9;18(2):sfaf006. DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfaf006
2 Glomerular Filtration Rate Measurement Utilizing Transdermal Detection Methodology, Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN), Dorshow, Richard B. et al., February 7, 2025, DOI: 10.1681/ASN.0000000639
3 https://www.asn-online.org/publications/
4 Chronic kidney disease and the global public health agenda: an international consensus, Nature Reviews Nephrology, 20, 473-485 (2024), doi.org/10.1038/s41581-024-00820-6
5 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

BUYING SQUARE Opens Experiential Brand Showroom ‘VIBE TWLV’ in Brooklyn

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BUYING SQUARE, operator of the next-generation digital wholesale platform Catalog Shop, unveiled its experiential brand showroom, VIBE TWLV, in Brooklyn, New York. The 4,270-square-foot space on Berry Street in Williamsburg enhances the neighborhood’s vibrant artistic landscape, joining nearby luxury fashion houses such as Hermès and Chanel, and global streetwear retailers like Supreme and Kith.

BUYING SQUARE to open first brand showroom, VIBE TWLV, in New York.
BUYING SQUARE to open first brand showroom, VIBE TWLV, in New York.

Under the concept of “SUPERNORMAL UNIVERSE,” VIBE TWLV is a unique cultural complex that defies conventional retail logic by harmonizing diverse art forms. The name combines “VIBE,” symbolizing complete spiritual communion, and “TWELVE,” considered the most perfect number, to create a compelling spatial narrative. The interior design incorporates signature retail elements while serving as a platform to amplify the creativity of participating artists and designers through regular brand installations and performances.

“VIBE TWLV will be more than a retail space; it’s an authentic artistic hub where brands, artists and cult followings directly participate,” said Evan Choi, founder of VIBE TWLV.

The space features DMX lighting and modern displays that respond dynamically to the background music, creating a captivating visual experience. Movable, independent modular showcases house a curated mix of pieces from global designers, including Martine Rose, KidSuper, Hed Mayner, JUUN.J, RECTO, and Post Archive Faction, and can be reconfigured for runway shows and DJ parties. Sleek, super-mirror metal sculptures and witty furniture designs in striking colors add distinct energy to the space. A centrally located mystery box promises intriguing interactions between shoppers and the environment, ultimately focusing on facilitating brand growth while embracing designers’ aspirations for innovation and originality.

This year, VIBE TWLV plans to spotlight emerging South Korean fashion brands, designers, and artists with distinctive voices in New York, a global fashion capital. Through experiential retail strategies, the showroom aims to boost brand recognition and serve as a launchpad for international market entry, leveraging precise insights and in-depth analysis of segmented global fashion consumer demands. Beginning February 28, the space will host the ‘URBAN KAWAII: HYPER-HYBRID’ exhibition in collaboration with Gallery STAN, showcasing works by six of Korea’s leading pop art creators.

VIBE TWLV, which has redefined experiential retail by establishing a dynamic commercial and cultural hub in Williamsburg, recently received the ‘Asia Design Prize 2025‘ in recognition of its innovative spatial adaptability and forward-thinking design. Standout features of the space include a naturally lit VIP room for private shopping experiences, an infinity room encased in infinite lighting and three-sided mirrors, outdoor signage employing LED animation boxes, and interior displays showcasing immersive video art by graphic artist Deok-hyeong Lee (DHL).

VIBE TWLV SHOWROOM NEW YORK
50 BERRY STREET, BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

About BUYING SQUARE

BUYING SQUARE, an innovative South Korean startup, operates Catalog Shop, a B2B solution based on digital product catalogs that addresses inefficiencies in traditional wholesale trading. Catalog Shop is a next-generation brand wholesale platform that visualizes original wholesale product information through standardized product catalog creation and provides comprehensive brand wholesale process management. Using proprietary AI technology, it automatically generates standardized product catalogs from unstructured brand wholesale product data including Excel, PDF, and image files. Global buyers can select their preferred language and currency on Catalog Shop and immediately add desired products to their cart for ordering.

Leveraging partnerships with numerous brands and wholesalers, along with distinctive big data refinement technology, BUYING SQUARE achieved transactions worth KRW 8 billion (approximately USD 5.5M) in its first year and surpassed KRW 140 billion (approximately USD 97M) in cumulative transactions by 2024, its fifth year of operation.

In October 2024, BUYING SQUARE became the first Korean B2B distribution company to open a 4,270-square-foot experiential brand showroom, ‘VIBE TWLV,’ in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. As a total platform integrating fashion with comprehensive cultural arts, ‘VIBE TWLV’ hosts diverse regular events including exhibitions, concerts, fashion shows, parties, and order sessions. The showroom maximizes offline spatial flexibility through easily dismantled, transported, and reassembled modular furniture and fixtures. This year, BUYING SQUARE plans to expand its global brand and buyer network through brand incubation, creative content collaborations, and promising K-brand exhibitions and runways utilizing this space.

Headquartered in Seoul, the company also operates offices in New York, Shanghai, Tokyo, and Kowloon.

Website: official.buying-square.com/en

Gaudio Lab Returns to SXSW with an Immersive “Audio-Driven Campsite” Experience

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gaudio Lab, a leading innovator in AI-powered audio and spatial sound technology, will return to SXSW 2025, unveiling an immersive “audio-driven campsite” experience. This marks the company’s second consecutive year at SXSW, reinforcing its position as a global pioneer in cutting-edge AI audio solutions.

Step inside the sound by Gaudio Lab. (SXSW EXPO #1124)
Step inside the sound by Gaudio Lab. (SXSW EXPO #1124)

For this year’s showcase, Gaudio Lab will introduce a fully immersive spatial audio experience, demonstrating its proprietary binaural rendering technology—a solution recognized as an ISO/IEC MPEG-H international standard. The company will also present its latest advancements in AI-driven noise removal, vocal isolation, and automated background music replacement technology, which serve industries ranging from entertainment and gaming to automotive and content distribution.

SXSW: A Global Stage for Innovation

SXSW, which began as a regional music festival in Austin, Texas, in 1987, has grown into one of the most influential global platforms for technology, film, music, education, and culture. Known for showcasing breakthrough innovations, the event attracts industry leaders, investors, and media from around the world.

At SXSW 2024, Gaudio Lab was named a Finalist in the SXSW Innovation Awards, highlighting its real-time AI noise removal technology, Just Voice. The company now returns to the global stage with an even more immersive and interactive experience.

Bringing Sound to Life: The Audio-Driven Campsite

At SXSW EXPO Booth #1124, Gaudio Lab will unveil an interactive spatial audio experience, transforming its exhibition space into a campsite where sound becomes the key storytelling element. Using 360-degree binaural rendering, the company’s technology creates a hyper-realistic three-dimensional audio environment, allowing visitors to experience sound with unparalleled depth and immersion.

Designed to showcase next-generation spatial audio applications, this experience demonstrates how sound positioning and depth can enhance media consumption, gaming, and extended reality (XR) content.

AI-Driven Innovation: Beyond Spatial Audio

In addition to its spatial sound technology, Gaudio Lab is expanding its portfolio with AI-powered solutions designed to streamline audio processing across industries. The company will introduce Gaudio Music Replacement, an AI-driven tool that automatically detects and seamlessly replaces copyrighted background music in content, resolving music licensing challenges with minimal manual intervention. Already adopted by major Korean broadcasters, this solution enables fast and efficient global content localization and distribution for film, television, and streaming media.

Gaudio Lab’s expertise in real-time noise removal, audio enhancement, and AI vocal separation positions it as a key player in the evolving audio technology landscape.

Shaping the Future of Audio at SXSW

“SXSW is a hub for innovation, making it the ideal stage for Gaudio Lab to showcase our latest advancements,” said Henney Oh, CEO of Gaudio Lab. “This year, we are excited to present an experience that redefines how people interact with sound—delivering a level of immersion that goes beyond traditional audio technology.”

Gaudio Lab’s immersive experience will be open to SXSW attendees from March 9–12 at SXSW EXPO Booth #1124.

About Gaudio Lab

Gaudio Lab is a leading AI audio technology start-up that was founded in 2015 following the company’s spatial audio technology for headphones was adopted as the binaural renderer for the ISO/IEC MPEG-H Audio standard in 2014. Ever since its establishment, the company has worked to develop technologies to deliver superior audio experiences wherever there is sound, gaining the attention and support from top global strategic investors such as Softbank Ventures, Samsung Venture Investment and Naver Corp. Across and between reality and virtual reality, Gaudio Lab’s solutions will continue to provide optimized audio on a diverse range of platforms such as earbuds, smartphones, VOD, VR/AR, theaters, automotives and more. Gaudio Lab secured two consecutive CES Innovation Awards (2024/2023), finalist nominated for the SXSW Innovation Award (2024), adopted the ANSI/CTA international standard (2022), and obtained recognition through the adoption of the ISO/IEC MPEG-H international standard (2018, 2013). The company was also honored with the VR Awards for the Best VR Innovation Company in London (2017).

AtHome expands with great determination into the European and American markets, launching the Minix food waste compost dryer

  • Successfully signed an export contract with European home appliance distributor Mares… Initial shipment of thousand units, with plans to increase volume.
  • Targets Europe’s high food waste disposal costs… Minix food waste compost dryer, a compact electric composter, chosen as a strategic solution.
  • Participating in the Chicago Housewares Show (HIS)… Aims to elevate the status of Korean home appliances in the U.S., the heart of the industry.

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AtHome (CEO Yang Jeong-ho) is gaining momentum both domestically and internationally with its home appliance brand Minix, which aims to maximize space efficiency. Minix’s flagship product, the food waste compost dryer, has sold 150,000 units in South Korea within just 17 months since its launch in September 2023. In light of this success, AtHome has designated the Minix food waste compost dryer as a strategic product for global expansion and has begun securing overseas distribution channels.

Minix food waste compost dryer (Provided by AtHome)
Minix food waste compost dryer (Provided by AtHome)

On February 5, AtHome officially signed an export contract with Mares, a European home appliance distributor with over 40 years of experience and headquartered in Italy. AtHome will supply an initial batch of thousand of Minix food waste compost dryer units, making the product available to European consumers.

AtHome had previously explored entry into the European market by showcasing the Minix food waste compost dryer at the IFA 2024 exhibition in Berlin last September. At the time, the product’s excellent performance, affordable pricing, and sleek, compact design attracted interest from multiple local distributors. Additionally, Europe’s high food waste disposal costs were a key factor that contributed to securing this export deal.

AtHome is also set to participate in The Inspired Home Show 2025, North America’s largest and most prestigious housewares exhibition with a 125-year history. The event will take place from March 2–4 in Chicago, where the company will operate a promotional booth showcasing Minix food waste compost dryer, along with its dishwashers and mini dryers. Given that approximately 40% of food in the U.S. goes to waste, the company anticipates significant consumer interest in its food waste compost dryer, which offers an efficient solution to the country’s ongoing food waste problem.

“AtHome’s recent Series A investment of KRW 18 billion (approximately USD 13.5 million) from major Korean venture capital firms—including Korea Investment Partners, Shinhan Venture Investment, and Hana Ventures—has played a crucial role in accelerating Minix’s global expansion, including its export contract with Mares and participation in international exhibitions,” said CEO Yang Jeong-ho. “We will continue to grow Minix as a leading K-appliance brand that is loved worldwide.”

MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System receives device approval in China; Peer-reviewed articles on MediBeacon technology published

  • 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 Clinical Kidney Journal in February published MediBeacon study results on measured GFR (mGFR) using relmapirazin versus estimated GFR (eGFR) for the purpose of classifying patient Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stages.
  • MediBeacon TGFR study results have been posted online in the February ahead of print section in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN).

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MediBeacon Inc. today announced the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China has approved the MediBeacon® TGFR Monitor and TGFR Sensor for the assessment of kidney function in patients with normal or impaired renal function. Lumitrace® (relmapirazin) injection, categorized as a drug in China, is under review and is targeted for approval in late 2025. The transdermal GFR technology includes Lumitrace (relmapirazin) injection, a non-radioactive, non-iodinated fluorescent GFR tracer agent, which together with the TGFR Monitor and TGFR Sensor allow assessment of kidney function by measuring the clearance rate of the fluorescent agent as it leaves the body.

In 2021, the NMPA granted the TGFR Innovative Medical Device Designation. Only 10% of applications are granted this designation. Benefits of this registration route including early product promotion are considerable.

In February, the Clinical Kidney Journal published MediBeacon data in an article on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stage misclassification via estimated GFR (eGFR) compared to measured GFR (mGFR) using relmapirazin. In a stable CKD population, more than one-third of the subjects had an actual mGFR (relmapirazin) that differed by at least one CKD stage from their estimated GFR (eGFR).1  Relmapirazin is indicated for use with the TGFR.

“The Clinical Kidney Journal study raises serious concerns about how chronic kidney disease is diagnosed today,” said Dr. Ira Kurtz, Chief of the Division of Nephrology at UCLA Medical Center. “Researchers found that current eGFR methods misclassified 35% of patients, leading to potentially incorrect treatments and delayed interventions.”

In the February ahead of print section in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN), MediBeacon clinical study data from the use of transdermal detection of relmapirazin in patients with normal to impaired kidney function across a range of skin color types was posted online.2 JASN publishes high-impact research to advance the understanding and treatment of kidney diseases.3

In addition to his leadership role at UCLA Medical Center, Dr. Kurtz is active in the development of an artificial kidney and artificial intelligence in the training and practice of nephrology.

Dr. Kurtz commented that: “The study in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology introduces a wearable, transdermal device that assesses GFR without the need for blood samples. The fluorescence-based test, developed by MediBeacon, demonstrated an exceptional correlation (r² = 0.90) with plasma mGFR across all skin types, paving the way for more equitable and accurate kidney function assessment. These two new studies have reshaped the landscape of kidney disease diagnostics, offering both a cutting-edge innovation and a stark warning about current practices. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved kidney function assessment tools, with non-invasive, point of care GFR measurement emerging as a game-changing solution.”

“Awareness of kidney disease is relatively low despite the fact that it is the 7th leading risk factor for mortality worldwide.4 MediBeacon is pleased to have the opportunity to aid in the assessment of kidney function in China,” said Steve Hanley CEO of MediBeacon. “NMPA approval is the culmination of a rigorous device application process that required close collaboration of the MediBeacon and Huadong Medicine teams. We look forward to the next phase of our partnership with Huadong Medicine and eagerly anticipate Lumitrace approval in China later this year.”

The TGFR, which includes Lumitrace (relmapirazin), was approved on January 17th by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). MediBeacon continues development of future TGFR products including a next-generation TGFR Sensor with updated software and algorithms.

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.5

About MediBeacon® Transdermal GFR System (TGFR) 
The TGFR is comprised of the TGFR Sensor, TGFR Monitor, and Lumitrace® (relmapirazin), 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR TGFR (U.S. FDA)

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 CKD stage misclassification between estimated GFR and measured GFR in a clinical study of chronic kidney patients, Clinical Kidney Journal,  Dorshow, Richard B. et al., 2025 Jan 9;18(2):sfaf006. DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfaf006
2 Glomerular Filtration Rate Measurement Utilizing Transdermal Detection Methodology, Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (JASN), Dorshow, Richard B. et al., February 7, 2025, DOI: 10.1681/ASN.0000000639
3 https://www.asn-online.org/publications/
4 Chronic kidney disease and the global public health agenda: an international consensus, Nature Reviews Nephrology, 20, 473-485 (2024), doi.org/10.1038/s41581-024-00820-6
5 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