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BlackLine Appoints Greg Hughes to Board of Directors, Expanding Enterprise Software and Strategic Growth Expertise

LOS ANGELES, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BlackLine, Inc. (Nasdaq: BL), the future-ready financial operations platform for the Office of the CFO, today announced the appointment of Greg Hughes to its Board of Directors effective July 25, 2025. A seasoned enterprise software executive, Hughes brings decades of experience leading strategic transformation at scale.

Hughes most recently served as CEO of Veritas, a global leader in data protection and other mission-critical software. Under his leadership, Veritas re-ignited ARR growth, successfully transitioned to a new subscription pricing model, and created and scaled a cloud business. The transformation of Veritas culminated in a merger of the data protection business with Cohesity, an AI-powered data security and management company. Hughes continues to serve on the board of the merged entity.

In addition to his executive roles, Hughes brings significant public board experience, having served on the board of LogMeIn, a publicly traded collaboration software company, from 2011 to 2017.

Hughes’ appointment follows the addition of Sam Balaji, former CEO of Deloitte Consulting, to BlackLine’s board in June 2025. Together, Hughes and Balaji bring decades of executive leadership across enterprise software, consulting, cybersecurity, and digital transformation—adding to an already experienced and engaged board that continues to play a vital role in guiding BlackLine’s growth and innovation strategy.

“We are thrilled to welcome Greg to BlackLine’s Board of Directors,” said Owen Ryan, Co-CEO and Chairman of the Board of BlackLine. “With Greg and Sam joining an already strong and strategic board, we are deepening our bench of expertise in enterprise technology, global operations, and transformation at scale. The collective leadership and experience of our board is a powerful asset as we continue executing our strategy and delivering long-term value to our customers and shareholders.”

“Greg’s track record of scaling companies and leading through inflection points makes him a natural fit for BlackLine,” added Therese Tucker, Co-CEO and Founder of BlackLine. “He understands what it takes to build and grow category-defining platforms, and I’m excited to welcome him as we continue to innovate for the Office of the CFO.”

“BlackLine has built a differentiated platform with significant opportunities ahead,” said Greg Hughes. “I’m honored to join the board and look forward to working with the other board members and leadership team to help advance the company’s strategy and support its continued momentum as a category leader in financial operations.”

About BlackLine
BlackLine (Nasdaq: BL), the future-ready platform for the Office of the CFO, drives digital finance transformation by empowering organizations with accurate, efficient, and intelligent financial operations.

BlackLine’s comprehensive platform addresses mission-critical processes, including record-to-report and invoice-to-cash, enabling unified and accurate data, streamlined and optimized processes, and real-time insight through visibility, automation, and AI. BlackLine’s proven, collaborative approach ensures continuous transformation, delivering immediate impact and sustained value. With a proven track record of innovation, industry-leading R&D investment, and world-class security practices, more than 4,400 customers across multiple industries partner with BlackLine to lead their organizations into the future.

For more information, please visit blackline.com.

 Media Contact

Samantha Darilek
VP, Communications,
samantha.darilek@blackline.com

Investor Contact:

Matt Humphries
SVP, Investor Relations,
matt.humphries@blackline.com

Safe Harbor

This document contains forward-looking statements. These statements may relate to, but are not limited to, expectations of future operating results or financial performance of BlackLine, Inc. (“BlackLine” or the “Company”), the calculation of certain key financial and operating metrics, capital expenditures, introduction of new solutions or products, expansion into new markets, regulatory compliance, plans for growth and future operations, technological capabilities, and strategic relationships, as well as assumptions relating to the foregoing. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “intend,” “potential,” “would,” “continue,” “ongoing” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved, if at all.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management’s good faith beliefs and assumptions as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward looking statements. In light of these risks and uncertainties, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this presentation may not occur and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are described in greater detail under the heading “Risk Factors” in the filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) from time to time, which are available on our website at http://investors.BlackLine.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Except as required by law, BlackLine does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. 

In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this presentation, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.

In addition to U.S. GAAP financials, this document includes certain non-GAAP financial measures, including non-GAAP revenue, gross profit, gross margin, free cash flow, sales and marketing expense, research and development expense, general and administrative expense, loss from operations and operating margin (loss). These non-GAAP measures are in addition to, not a substitute for or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measures we use may differ from the non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies.

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FROM THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2025: U.S. POINTER STUDY SHOWS STRUCTURED LIFESTYLE PROGRAM TARGETING MULTIPLE RISK FACTORS IMPROVES COGNITION IN OLDER ADULTS AT RISK OF COGNITIVE DECLINE

Key Takeaways

  • Two lifestyle interventions in U.S. POINTER improved cognition in older adults at risk of cognitive decline. A structured intervention with more support and accountability showed greater improvement compared to a self-guided intervention.
  • In a large, representative group of older adults at high risk for cognitive decline, multidomain lifestyle interventions were delivered with high adherence and safety.
  • Cognitive benefits were consistent across age, sex, ethnicity, heart health status and apolipoprotein E-e4 genotype.

TORONTO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Alzheimer’s Association U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk (U.S. POINTER) — a two-year, multi-site clinical trial testing two different lifestyle interventions in a representative population of older adults at risk for cognitive decline and dementia — found that both interventions improved cognition in older adults at risk of cognitive decline. Trial participants in the structured (STR) intervention showed greater improvement on global cognition compared to the self-guided (SG) intervention, protecting cognition from normal age-related decline for up to two years. The STR intervention differed from the SG intervention in intensity, structure, accountability and support provided.

The results were reported for the first time today at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2025 in Toronto and online. “Effects Of Structured vs Self-Guided Multidomain Lifestyle Interventions for Global Cognitive Function: The U.S. POINTER Randomized Clinical Trial,” was published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) simultaneously with the report at AAIC 2025.

U.S. POINTER is the first large-scale, randomized controlled clinical trial to demonstrate that an accessible and sustainable healthy lifestyle intervention can protect cognitive function in diverse populations in communities across the United States.

“As the burden of dementia grows world-wide, U.S. POINTER affirms a vital public health message: healthy behavior has a powerful impact on brain health,” said Joanne Pike, DrPH, Alzheimer’s Association president and CEO.

“This is a critical public health opportunity. The intervention was effective across a broad, representative group — regardless of sex, ethnicity, APOE genetic risk, or heart health status — demonstrating its applicability and scalability for communities across the country,” said Pike. “The positive results of U.S. POINTER encourage us to look at the potential for a combination of a lifestyle program and drug treatment as the next frontier in our fight against cognitive decline and possibly dementia.”

U.S. POINTER leadership acknowledges participants, their family members and study site staff for their unique and essential contributions: “You helped change what we know about brain health. Thanks to your dedication, time and support, U.S. POINTER delivered groundbreaking results. Your children, grandchildren and generations to come will benefit from the commitment you made.”

Both interventions focused on physical exercise, nutrition, cognitive challenge and social engagement, and heart health monitoring, but differed in intensity, structure, accountability and support provided.

  • Structured lifestyle intervention. Participants attended 38 facilitated peer team meetings over two years, and were provided with a prescribed activity program with measurable goals for: aerobic, resistance and stretching exercise; adherence to the MIND diet; cognitive challenge through BrainHQ training and other intellectual and social activities; and regular review of health metrics and goal-setting with a study clinician.
  • Self-guided lifestyle intervention. Participants attended six peer team meetings to encourage self-selected lifestyle changes that best fit their needs and schedules. Study staff provided general encouragement without goal-directed coaching.

“The potential to improve cognition with fewer resources and lower participant burden is compelling. It highlights that while not everyone has the same access or ability to adhere to more intensive behavior interventions, even modest changes may protect the brain,” said Laura D. Baker, Ph.D., Professor of Gerontology and Geriatrics, and Internal Medicine, at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Advocate Health, and U.S. POINTER principal investigator.

“These are the initial results. Over the coming weeks and months, study leadership will be exploring all of the data collected in the trial to paint an even more comprehensive picture of the U.S. POINTER intervention effects on brain health,” Baker said.

People with cognitive decline and dementia often have a variety of damaging changes in their brain. This means effective treatment will likely require a multi-pronged or combination strategy to address multiple disease mechanisms.

“Complex diseases like heart disease and cancer use combination treatment strategies tailored to individual characteristics. The next generation of treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s will likely integrate drug and non-drug strategies. U.S. POINTER provides a strong foundation for such combination approaches,” said Heather M. Snyder, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association study primary investigator and senior vice president of medical and scientific relations.

“While these results are fascinating and extremely hopeful, how they are rolled out to the public — especially those at risk for Alzheimer’s and other diseases that cause dementia — needs to be handled with care and individual attention to tailor to the local environment,” said Snyder.

The Alzheimer’s Association has invested nearly $50 million to lead this study to date, with additional support from the National Institute on Aging at the National Institutes of Health for add-on studies exploring imaging, vascular measures, sleep and gut microbiome-related health data. In addition to its investments to date, the Alzheimer’s Association will invest more than $40 million over the next four years to continue to follow U.S. POINTER participants, and to bring U.S. POINTER interventions to communities across America.

U.S. POINTER is a phase 3, five-site, two-year, single-blind randomized clinical trial of two lifestyle interventions in older adults at risk for dementia. U.S. POINTER was developed to assess whether the results of the FINGER study [Lancet, 6-6-15] generalize to a larger, more diverse U.S. population at risk for cognitive decline and dementia, using culturally adapted protocols. The primary aim was to compare the effects of two multimodal lifestyle interventions on global cognitive function in 2,000+ at-risk older adults. Secondary aims assessed intervention effects on specific cognitive domains, and potential differences based on baseline cognition, sex, age, APOE-e4 genotype, and cardiovascular risk.

The study was conducted at five geographically dispersed U.S. academic centers and health care systems in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association. Participant eligibility criteria were designed to enrich the risk of cognitive decline and included older age (60-79 years), sedentary lifestyle, suboptimal diet and cardiometabolic health, and family history of memory impairment. 2,111 participants were enrolled and randomized to STR (n=1,056) or SG (n=1,055). Mean age was 68.2 years, 68.9% were female, 30.8% were from ethnoracial minority groups. Seventy-eight percent (78%) reported a first-degree family history of memory loss, and 30% were APOE-e4 carriers. Retention was high, with 89% completing the final 2 year assessment.

At two years, there was a statistically significant intervention group difference on the primary outcome. Global cognitive composite scores (primary outcome) increased over time in both groups but the improvement over time was statistically significant for a greater benefit for the STR versus SG: 0.029 SD per year (95% CI, 0.008-0.050, P=0.008). For secondary outcomes, the increase in executive function z-score was greater in STR than SG by 0.037 SD per year (95% CI, 0.010-0.064). Processing speed showed a similar trend but was not statistically significant. There were no group differences in memory.

Looking ahead, the Association will build on the momentum of U.S. POINTER by launching several programs and initiatives, including:

  • A personal brain health assessment tool.
  • A virtual brain health training program for health care providers.
  • A community recognition program for organizations championing brain health.
  • A brain health roundtable that will unite leaders across health care, public health, community and corporate sectors to accelerate impact.

About AAIC
AAIC is the world’s largest gathering of researchers from around the world focused on Alzheimer’s and other diseases that cause dementia. As a part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s research program, AAIC serves as a catalyst for generating new knowledge about dementia and fostering a vital, collegial research community.
AAIC 2025: alz.org/aaic
AAIC 2025 newsroom: alz.org/aaic/pressroom.asp
AAIC 2025 hashtag: #AAIC25

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call +1 800.272.3900.

Eventify Launches Comprehensive Event Marketing Suite

Comprehensive platform addresses $34.7 billion market with integrated email campaigns, social virality tools, and drag-and-drop website builder for event managers worldwide

LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Eventify, the all-in-one event marketing software platform, today announced the launch of its comprehensive marketing suite designed specifically for B2B event managers. The platform combines advanced email marketing automation, viral social media tools, and intuitive website builders into a unified solution addressing the rapidly expanding event management market, projected to reach $34.7 billion by 2029.

Revolutionary social marketing drives unprecedented engagement

The platform’s standout Social Viralizer feature automatically generates personalized social media graphics for each attendee during registration, creating viral marketing campaigns that reach an average of 2,500+ potential attendees per share. Event managers using the tool report 500% average ROI on marketing spend through organic sharing alone, with 72% of attendees actively promoting events when provided with custom social content.

“We’re solving the fundamental challenge every event manager faces: how to maximize attendance and engagement while operating under tight budgets and time constraints,” said Hussain Fakhruddin, CEO of Eventify. “Our platform transforms hours of manual marketing work into automated campaigns that deliver measurable results.”

Comprehensive email marketing drives superior performance

Eventify’s visual email builder enables event organizers to create professional campaigns with drag-and-drop functionality, achieving 2.8X higher open rates than generic promotional emails. The platform automates everything from registration confirmations to post-event follow-ups, with 83% of organizers using integrated marketing tools successfully reaching their registration targets.

The accompanying website builder offers both single landing pages for focused campaigns and comprehensive multi-page sites, all optimized for mobile devices and integrated with secure payment processing.

Timing aligned with industry transformation

Eventify’s event management software addresses critical market needs identified in recent industry research, including the 95% of events teams prioritizing ROI demonstration and the growing demand for hybrid event capabilities. With 74% of Fortune 1000 marketers planning increased event budgets in 2025.

“The event marketing industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, but existing solutions are either too complex for mid-market teams or lack the sophisticated features modern events require,” added Fakhruddin. “Eventify bridges this gap perfectly.”

About Eventify: Eventify’s event app integrates with Salesforce, HubSpot, Zapier, and over 1,000 third-party applications, supporting the 60% of events now utilizing hybrid formats while maintaining the simplicity event managers demand in an increasingly complex landscape.

Ulanzi Launches GlideGo JJ05 & JJ06 Tripods: Innovative Dual Center Column Design & Lightweight Carbon for All-Scenario Shooting Creativity

HONG KONG, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ulanzi, a globally recognized brand specializing in innovative photography accessories, today announced the launch of its latest GlideGo JJ05 & JJ06 tripods—a revolutionary duo designed to empower videographers & photographers with unmatched versatility, portability, and stability.


NEW RELEASE! Spin and glide, with the Ulanzi JJ06 GlideGo Tripod

The key features include:
1. Dual-Stage No-Remove Horizontal Center Column Design for Creative Flexibility
The GlideGo series introduces a groundbreaking approach to tripod flexibility. Its patent-pending dual-stage center column allows photographers to:

  • Instantly flip between standard, overhead, and inverted shooting modes without tools or disassembly
  • Achieve true 360° rotation in BOTH horizontal and vertical orientations simultaneously
  • Create cinematic slider movements by rotating the horizontal column while panning with the tripod head
  • Execute complex hyperlapse sequences with dual-axis precision control

The system’s carbon fiber center column maintains perfect balance even at extreme angles, while the dual panoramic gears (with 5° increment markings) ensure buttery-smooth rotation.

2. Ultra-Stable, Ultra-Light Build
Crafted from 3K Twill Weave Carbon Fiber legs and CNC-machined aluminum alloy, the GlideGo series offers 35% improved stability over previous models. Weighing just 1.56kg (3.44 lbs), the JJ05 Tripod provides rock-solid support for cameras while remaining lightweight and easy to carry. Similarly, the JJ06 Tripod, at 1.76kg (3.88 lbs), offers enhanced stability without compromising portability. The upgraded quick-flip leg locks boost locking force by 28%, enabling faster adjustments for dynamic outdoor shoots.

3. Uka Quick-Release System: Faster Than Ever
Ulanzi’s proprietary Uka Quick-Release System replaces traditional knobs with a one-push mechanical clip, enabling instant plate locking. Fully compatible with Uka and F38 quick-release plates, it ensures seamless integration with existing gear while speeding up workflow.

“We’ve packed years of carbon fiber tripod innovation into the JJ05 and JJ06,” said a Ulanzi spokesperson. “Whether you’re hiking to a remote location or shooting a time-sensitive project, these tripods deliver stability, speed, and versatility—all in one lightweight package.”

From landscape and astrophotography to overhead product shots and low-angle videos, the GlideGo series adapts to any creative need.

About Ulanzi:
Founded in 2015, Ulanzi is committed to streamlining content creation with user-focused, highly compatible photography gear. Ranked as the world’s top seller of photography accessories, Ulanzi is trusted by creators across the globe for its innovative designs, exceptional durability, and effortless usability.

Pricing Overview
Regular Daily Price (All Channels Included):

  • GlideGo JJ06: $299 USD
  • GlideGo JJ05: $269 USD

To celebrate the launch, Ulanzi is also offering an exclusive early bird discount for the first two weeks after release, offering $30 off for 2 weeks, starting July 28th!

Early Bird Price (First 2 Weeks):

  • JJ06: $269 USD
  • JJ05: $239 USD

Use code “609” at checkout of Ulanzi official website for an extra 5% discount.

Plus, you can get a 4-year warranty when you purchase on the official Ulanzi website.

Tracking link and tags

Official website:bit.ly/40AerQv

B&H Photos:https://bit.ly/46lyl5x

Amazon:

JJ05: https://amzn.to/3GOFCAs
JJ06: https://amzn.to/45gPoo8

CONTACT: Ulanzi
marketing@ulanzi.com 

Creality Falcon A1 Pro: A Smarter, Faster 20W Laser Engraver Built to Go Pro

AUSTIN, Texas, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Creality Falcon, the high-performance laser engraving sub-brand from Creality — a global leader in accessible digital manufacturing tools — is once again set to redefine what’s possible in desktop laser engraving. Launching this August, the new Falcon A1 Pro brings together 20W of professional-grade laser power, advanced automation, intelligent safety features, and a next-level user experience.

Guided by the vision of Go Pro. Go Smart. Go Earn.”, the Falcon A1 Pro is built for creators who demand more — not just more power, but more intelligence, control, and real-world results.

Go Pro. Go Smart. Go Earn
Go Pro. Go Smart. Go Earn

Launch Pricing & Early-Bird Offers

Pre-orders for the Falcon A1 Pro open from August 5 to August 18, 2025 (EST) with limited-time early-bird pricing:

  • Super Early Bird$659.40 (40% OFF)
    Aug 5–6 | Limited to 200 units
  • Early Bird$769.30 (30% OFF)
    Aug 6–8 | Limited to 400 units
  • Last Chance$879.20 (20% OFF)
    Aug 8–18 | Limited to 600 units

Regional pre-launch product pages are now available, including the US store: https://us.store.creality.com/products/falcon-a1-pro-20w-laser-engraver-cutter

Customers in the US and Europe can also apply a regional launch discount code during checkout:
US: NFAP ($10 off) | EU: NFAP (€10 off)

Why the Falcon A1 Pro Isn’t Just Another Engraver

This isn’t an incremental update — it’s a leap forward. At its core is a robust 20W blue laser module, capable of engraving and cutting across 350+ materials, from wood and leather to coated metals and ceramics. For added versatility on dark surfaces or specific plastics, the optional 2W IR red laser module further expands its reach.

Where Precision Meets Intelligence: 3 Key Innovations

What truly separates the Falcon A1 Pro from typical desktop laser engravers isn’t just its 20W power — it’s the intelligence behind the design.

  • Remote Monitoring, Wherever You Are
    Stay connected to your project from anywhere via the mobile app. Whether you’re in another room or out running errands, real-time updates let you monitor progress without hovering.
  • AI Autofocus with ±0.012″ Accuracy
    The built-in AI vision system combines a smart camera and red-dot laser ranging to automatically lock focus in under 3 seconds, ensuring first-pass precision — even on curved or uneven materials.
  • Smart Touchscreen, Streamlined Workflow
    With a smartphone-like interface, the touchscreen puts key functions at your fingertips. Reopen past projects, preview progress in real time, or start engraving directly from your phone — no PC required.

Additional highlights include 600mm/s engraving speed, an 8-layer safety system, and seamless integration with Creality’s ecosystem of materials, rotary attachments, and new-generation software for a smarter, smoother creative workflow.

Designed for Makers, Designers, and Side-Hustlers Alike

Whether you’re customizing gifts, creating prototypes, or scaling your creative business, the Falcon A1 Pro helps you go from idea to execution in minutes, not hours. It’s not just faster or smarter — it’s built for real-world results, right out of the box.

Mark the Dates: Aug 5

The countdown has begun. Join the early access list and claim your launch discount while it lasts. Follow Creality across channels for sneak peeks, live demos, and community stories.

Falcon A1 Pro is here — to make professional engraving faster, smarter, and finally within reach.

Regional product information is available via the following official Creality stores:

United States: https://us.store.creality.com/products/falcon-a1-pro-20w-laser-engraver-cutter
Canada: https://store.creality.com/ca/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-20w-enclosed-laser-engraver-and-cutter
Mexico: https://store.creality.com/mx/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-grabador-laser
United Kingdom: https://store.creality.com/uk/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-20w-enclosed-laser-engraver-cutter
European Union: https://eu.store.creality.com/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-20w-enclosed-laser-engraver-cutter
Germany: https://de.store.creality.com/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro
France: https://store.creality.com/fr/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-20w-graveur-et-decoupeur-laser
Spain: https://store.creality.com/es/products/creality-falcon-a1-pro-20w-grabado-laser
Australia: https://store.creality.com/au/products/falcon-a1-pro-20w-laser-engraver-cutter
Japan: https://store.creality.com/jp/products/falcon-a1-pro-20w-laser-engraver-cutter

Contact: Kazaf Ye
Email: kazaf@naturality.io 

Siemens Healthineers Receives Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 North America Company of the Year Award for Excellence in Advanced Visualization Applications

Recognized for delivering diagnostic innovation, workflow efficiency, and enterprise imaging leadership through advanced visualization solutions

SAN ANTONIO, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Siemens Healthineers has been awarded the 2025 North America Company of the Year Recognition in the advanced visualization applications industry for its outstanding achievements in diagnostic innovation, seamless platform integration, and customer impact. This recognition underscores Siemens Healthineers’ market leadership in transforming medical imaging with intelligent automation, scalable technology, and end-to-end workflow solutions. Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: visionary innovation and customer impact. Siemens Healthineers excelled in both, demonstrating a compelling ability to align long-term product development with the evolving demands of healthcare systems while executing consistently across complex, high-stakes clinical environments. “By continuously translating real-world insights into high-performing solutions, Siemens Healthineers maintains its reputation as a preferred partner across global health systems,” said Anantharaman Viswanathan, Research Director at Frost & Sullivan.

Guided by a focused growth strategy centered on organic development, digital innovation, and deep customer partnerships, Siemens Healthineers shapes the future of advanced visualization (AV) by delivering scalable, integrated platforms that enhance diagnostic confidence and operational agility. The company’s sustained investment in intelligent imaging software and adaptive workflow integration has enabled it to lead in a sector increasingly defined by complexity, interoperability, and performance at scale.

At the core of Siemens Healthineers’ AV leadership is its syngo.via platform, which powers disease-specific, multi-modality applications for specialties such as radiology, oncology, neurology, and cardiology. Seamlessly integrated with the company’s enterprise imaging backbone, Syngo Carbon, syngo.via offers 3D and 4D visualization, AI-enabled segmentation, and robust quantitative analysis—all designed to empower clinicians to make fast and accurate decisions across the care continuum. The interoperability and modularity of this ecosystem distinguish it from fragmented solutions, allowing healthcare providers to standardize diagnostics, streamline data continuity, and reduce variability in interpretation.

Innovation extends beyond clinical tools to include Siemens Healthineers’ delivery model. Unlike competitors that rely on external acquisitions, the company offers a fully homegrown ecosystem, engineered for consistency, security, and adaptability. Shared digital workspaces enable multi-site collaboration, ensuring that radiologists, referring physicians, and entire care teams can access and interpret imaging results regardless of location. These collaborative capabilities are further supported by structured reporting tools and embedded clinical decision support, which help unify diagnostic standards and promote evidence-based practice.

“We are honored to receive Frost & Sullivan’s Company of the Year Award, which reflects our team’s commitment to delivering meaningful innovation that drives clinical impact. Our advanced visualization portfolio empowers care teams with the tools they need to make efficient, more confident decisions across the entire patient journey,” said Marcus da Silva, Head of Clinical and Efficiency Portfolio at Siemens Healthineers. “This recognition reinforces our mission to support health systems with scalable, intelligent solutions that enable better outcomes without compromise.

The company’s commitment to implementation excellence is equally compelling. Siemens Healthineers provides structured onboarding that aligns with each organization’s infrastructure and workflow. Built-in education modules, role-specific training, and ongoing professional development ensure rapid user adoption and reduce technical overhead. By aligning its technology with how clinicians work, the company drives high utilization efficiency and long-term system value.

Frost & Sullivan commends Siemens Healthineers for raising the bar in advanced visualization. By unifying clinical, operational, and financial priorities through a user-centric design philosophy, the company enables healthcare organizations to deliver improved patient outcomes—without compromise.

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

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize 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, Mega Trends, 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:

Ashley Shreve
E: ashley.weinkauf@frost.com 

About Siemens Healthineers
Siemens Healthineers pioneers breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably. The company is a global provider of healthcare equipment, solutions and services, with activities in more than 180 countries and direct representation in more than 70. The group comprises Siemens Healthineers AG, listed as SHL in Frankfurt, Germany, and its subsidiaries. As a leading medical technology company, Siemens Healthineers is committed to improving access to healthcare for underserved communities worldwide and is striving to overcome the most threatening diseases. The company is principally active in the areas of imaging, diagnostics, cancer care and minimally invasive therapies, augmented by digital technology and artificial intelligence. In fiscal 2024, which ended on September 30, 2024, Siemens Healthineers had approximately 72,000 employees worldwide and generated revenue of around €22.4 billion. Further information is available at: www.siemens-healthineers.com.

Contact:
Jeff Bell
E: jeffrey.t.bell@siemens-healthineers.com 

Makera Launches Cyclone Dust Collector: The Must-Buy Solution for Cleaner Desktop Fabrication

MIDDLETOWN, Del., July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Makera, the pioneer of intelligent desktop CNC (Computer Numerical Control) solutions, is expanding its ecosystem with the launch of a new product: the Makera Cyclone Dust Collector. But unlike their previous launches, including the Carvera and Carvera Air, this one is not a new milling machine, instead an accessory which advances usability for all desktop subtractive manufacturing processes.


Makera Cyclone Dust Collector

The Makera Cyclone Dust Collector is far more than a traditional shop vacuum. This new dust collector optimizes the user experience by offering a truly integrated desktop manufacturing system through its design features and performance. And what’s even more exciting is that the presale launch will kick off during Makera’s next Livestream on July 28th at 7 PM EDT via YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

High Performance Meets Seamless Integration

Makera’s Cyclone Dust Collector is a plug and play system for any desktop CNC, not just the Carvera and Carvera Air. It delivers unmatched performance with 12 kPa suction, 900 L/min airflow, and a triple-layer filtration system that captures 99.99% particles. Despite its powerful performance, which is truly unique for a vacuum of this size, the Makera Cyclone Dust Collector is also quiet, never exceeding 70 db, which allows it to offer minimal noise and maintenance. A 6-liter dustbin offers capacity for extended continuous machining sessions without interruption.

It’s clever too. The Cyclone Dust Collector has auto start / stop sensor functions which can be triggered by Makera’s CNCs, a key feature intended to offer a seemless way to integrate the collector into the desktop manufacturing workflow. And like Makera’s CNC milling machines, the Cyclone Dust Collector is designed to work with a wide range of materials including wood, fibers, metals, even filtering light laser engraving operations too.

“At Makera, we believe the user experience is just as important as machine performance. The Makera Cyclone Dust Collector is our response to a challenge every desktop manufacturer faces: keeping workspaces clean, quiet, and hassle-free.” said Josh Zhang, CEO of Makera, “By integrating smart features and plug-and-play design, we’re not just adding a vacuum to the desktop manufacturing infrastructure. We’re removing friction from the entire workflow.”

From Desktop CNC Maker to Desktop Manufacturing Ecosystem Builder

The launch of the Cyclone Dust Collector also marks a strategic shift for the company. Since the launch of their first CNC, the Carvera in late-2021, Makera has worked to not only change the way we think about desktop production technology, but now also work to build the infrastructure layer for compact, clean, and intelligent manufacturing spaces & ecosystems. This has been a project in the works following the launch of their second machine, the Carvera Air in early 2024, through the launch of Makera CAM – an intuitive approach to preparing designs for manufacturing later that same year. Now, the Makera Cyclone Dust Collector is another step towards the company’s mission.

The Cyclone Dust Collector will be available for pre-order starting on July 28th during Makera’s Livestream launch event at 7 PM EDT. Preorders can be placed directly on Makera’s website at www.makera.com, or www.global.makera.com for customers outside of North America. The retail price of the Cyclone Dust Collector is $599 USD, and a $110 coupon can be secured for the first 500 customers for just $10 during the pre-sale from July 28th.

About Makera, Inc:

Makera, Inc. is a pioneer in the field of desktop CNC milling technology, dedicated to empowering makers with safe, smart, and versatile manufacturing solutions. By continuously innovating and reducing barriers to creative production, Makera fuels a global community of makers, transforming ideas into reality.

The company’s desktop CNC machines represent years of focused engineering development. Among its cutting-edge products are the Carvera and Carvera Air, two desktop CNC machines designed for precision, reliability, and ease of use. These machines are perfect for a wide range of applications, from prototyping to small-scale production, and manufacturing for scientific research, enabling makers to bring their visions to life with professional-grade results.

 

XellSmart Completed World’s First Patient Dosing in its Registrational Clinical trial for iPSC-derived Subtype-specific Neural Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury

SUZHOU, China, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — XellSmart Biopharmaceutical (Suzhou/Shanghai) Co., Ltd. achieved a significant milestone in its “world’s first” China NMPA & US FDA-approved registrational clinical trial. This Phase I China registrational clinical trial for XS228 Cell Injection – the world’s first “off-the-shelf”, allogeneic, iPSC-derived, spinal neural progenitor cell therapy targeting major neurological disorders, specifically spinal cord injury (SCI) – has commenced. The clinical trial initiation meeting was held at The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU-3) in Guangzhou. Following this, the world’s first patient dosing with the therapy was successfully administered.

Following the world’s first transplantation of clinical-grade, iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells in the registrational clinical trial, the initial subject exhibited no surgical or perioperative complications or other adverse safety events. All monitored parameters remained within normal ranges. The subject successfully completed the observation period uneventfully and has now entered the formal follow-up period.

XellSmart has achieved a significant milestone in global central nervous system (CNS) injury repair — having completed the world’s first patient dosing in its China registrational clinical trial. This landmark event serves as a benchmark for evaluating the safety of transplanted, iPSC-derived, spinal-cord neural progenitor cells and analyzing their potential therapeutic effects on patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

XellSmart is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative iPSC-derived cell therapies. To date, the company has secured seven Investigational New Drug (IND) approvals from both China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for registrational clinical trials. All approved programs focus on clinical-grade, off-the-shelf, allogeneic, iPSC-derived cell therapies targeting central nervous system (CNS) diseases with significant unmet medical needs, including:

  • Parkinson’s Disease (PD): The world’s second most common neurodegenerative disorder, affecting over 10 million patients globally (Phase I clinical trials ongoing in China and approved in the US);
  • Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): A major CNS disorder impacting more than 10 million patients worldwide with no effective treatment (a first-in-class therapy; a Phase I clinical trial ongoing in China and approved in the US);
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A devastating rare neurodegenerative disease (a first-in-class therapy; a Phase I/II clinical trial ongoing in China and approved in the US; granted Orphan Drug Designation by the US FDA).

For funding and BD cooperation, please contact: BD@xellsmart.com

XellSmart, standing at the forefront of advancing innovative iPSC-based therapies, is committed to developing clinical-grade, off-the-shelf, allogeneic, iPSC-derived cell therapies targeting major and intractable central nervous system (CNS) diseases with no effective treatment options. The following is an overview of its clinical milestones:

In 2023, China’s first iPSC-derived cell therapy (XS228 injection), developed by XellSmart, received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the US FDA for the treatment of ALS.

In 2024China’s first national-level registered clinical study of an iPSC-derived cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease—also developed by XellSmart—was approved and initiated, including the first case treated in China.

In 2024, the world’s first national-level registered clinical study of a subtype-specific, iPSC-derived, neural progenitor cell therapy (XS228 injection) for ALS was approved. Multiple patients, including the world’s first ALS case treated with this approach, received the therapy with preliminary data showing good safety profiles and slowed disease progression.

In 2025, China’s first registrational Phase I clinical trial of an off-the-shelf, allogeneic, iPSC-derived, dopaminergic neural progenitor cell therapy (XS411 injection) for Parkinson’s disease was launched, led by the National Neurological Disease Medical Center at Beijing Tiantan Hospital.

In 2025, China’s first randomized, double-blind, controlled Phase I/II clinical trial of XS411 injection was initiated to treat early-onset Parkinson’s disease (EOPD), led by Huashan Hospital of Fudan University, a National Neurological Disease Medical Center.

In 2025, the world’s first registrational Phase I clinical trial of an off-the-shelf, allogeneic, iPSC-derived, subtype-specific, neural progenitor cell therapy was launched by The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, targeting SCI.

In 2025, the world’s first Phase I/II registrational clinical trial of XS228 injection — an off-the-shelf, allogeneic, iPSC-derived, subtype-specific, neural progenitor cell therapy — was initiated by Peking University Third Hospital, targeting ALS.

XellSmart has established a fully dedicated and internationally competitive team focusing on development of clinical-grade, allogeneic, off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived cell therapies for central nervous system (CNS) diseases that currently lack effective treatment options. XellSmart has built a portfolio of proprietary, globally leading industrial technologies and platforms, fueling sustained in-house innovation centered on its core business. To develop iPSC-derived cell therapy candidates, XellSmart has established and operates an R&D center, a B+ and A-grade GMP manufacturing facility, and a quality control center spanning over 5,000 square meters.

With completed core CMC development, fully integrated clinical-grade manufacturing processes and quality control systems in place, XellSmart has successfully produced clinical batches of multiple GMP-grade, iPSC-derived, subtype-specific, neural progenitor cell therapies, currently deployed in multiple clinical trials.

XellSmart has secured multiple rounds of financing, collectively led by renowned market-driven venture capital firms including Qiming Venture Partners, Eli Lilly Asia Ventures, Sequoia Capital China (Hongshan), and others.

For funding and BD cooperation, please contact: BD@xellsmart.com