Wanda Realm Jinhua-Tourism news

Ping An's Financial LLM Ranks First in CNFinBench Evaluation

HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, March 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. ("Ping An" or "the Group"; HKEX: 2318/82318; SSE: 601318) announced that PingAnGPT-Qwen3-32B, the Group's financial large language model (LLM), achieved the highest overall score on the CNFinBench leaderboard, an authoritative benchmarking system for large language models in the industry, as of March 15. The latest CNFinBench evaluation included a range of models representing the forefront of global artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, including GPT-4o and Claude Sonnet 4, as well as mainland Chinese open-source models such as DeepSeek-R1 (671B) and Qwen3-235B-A22B. CNFinBench is an industry leading benchmark for evaluating financial LLM capabilities in Chinese mainland, jointly developed by Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and leading authorities in the financial industry. It assesses models across five dimensions: financial expertise, business understanding and analysis, reasoning and computation, compliance and risk control, and application security. In the latest evaluation, PingAnGPT‑Qwen3‑32B demonstrated outstanding performance across multiple core metrics, including financial factual reasoning and computation, financial knowledge Q&A, and financial compliance and risk control. The model showcased high numerical accuracy and rigorous logical reasoning, especially in application scenarios such as financial investment research and risk measurement. These strengths highlight its significant practical value and advantages in safety and controllability. PingAnGPT-Qwen3-32B has been deployed across the Group and supports 97 real‑world business scenarios, including auto insurance claims, customer service, expense auditing, and intelligent call operations. The model continues to empower the business, driving greater efficiency and service quality. Through strengthening its AI capabilities, accelerating model optimization and iteration, and deepening scenario‑based deployment, Ping An continues to translate technological strengths into tangible customer value. The Group remains committed to meeting the evolving customer needs by focusing on worry‑free, time‑saving, and cost‑efficient services through high‑quality, digital financial offerings. About Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (HKEX:2318 / 82318; SSE:601318) is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. It strives to become a world-leading provider of integrated finance, health and senior care services. Under the technology-enabled "integrated finance + health and senior care" dual-pronged strategy, the Group provides professional "financial advisory, family doctor, and senior care concierge" services to its nearly 250 million retail customers. Ping An advances intelligent digital transformation and employs technologies to improve financial businesses' quality and efficiency and enhance risk management. The Group is listed on the stock exchanges in Hong Kong and Shanghai. As of the end of December 2024, Ping An had more than RMB12 trillion in total assets. The Group ranked 27th in the Forbes Global 2000 list in 2025, 47th in the Fortune Global 500 list in 2025, and ranked AAA in MSCI ESG Ratings in 2025. For more information, please visit the www.group.pingan.com and follow our LinkedIn page - PING AN.

2026-03-15

Lord Ashcroft's VCs and GCs to have a new home at the National Army Museum

LONDON, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Lord Ashcroft's collection of Victoria Crosses and George Crosses is to have a new home at the National Army Museum in London. The collection is the largest of its kind in the world. It has been built up by Lord Ashcroft over the past 40 years and includes nearly 250 VCs and a smaller number of GCs. It was previously housed at the Imperial War Museum, London, which closed the Lord Ashcroft Gallery in September last year after 15 years. The_Lord_Ashcroft_Medal_Collection Lord Ashcroft spoke today of his delight at the news: "I am thrilled to have found such a superb location for this unique collection of gallantry medals. I am so pleased that these VCs and GCs, spanning many major wars and conflicts of the past two centuries, will now be enjoyed by the public once again. "The National Army Museum shares my passion for the decorations themselves and also to tell the incredible stories of bravery that go with them. I look forward to a long and happy partnership with the Museum for many years to come." Justin Maciejewski, the Director of the National Army Museum, said: "We are honoured to be entrusted with these VCs and GCs from the Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection. We are grateful to Lord Ashcroft for his continued generosity and commitment in championing these stories of extraordinary courage. "The National Army Museum shares the history and heritage of our soldiers across the globe and down the centuries. Within that wider narrative, these medals, and the individual acts of extraordinary bravery and valour they represent, form a powerful part of the Army's story." Chris Finney, a Trustee of the National Army Museum and the Chair of the VC and GC Association, said: "This rare and expansive collection spans centuries of military service, sacrifice, and extraordinary bravery across the Armed Forces. "We are privileged to be given the opportunity to share these medals—and the inspiring personal stories they represent—with visitors, and online for the wider public, where they can continue to inspire people of all ages for generations to come." Lord Ashcroft began his collection of VCs in 1986 with the purchase of a single medal group at auction. The VC, instituted by Queen Victoria in 1856, is Britain and the Commonwealth's most prestigious decoration for valour in the presence of the enemy. The GC, created by George VI in 1940, is Britain and the Commonwealth's most prestigious decoration for gallantry not in the presence of the enemy and it has been awarded to several civilians for acts of valour. Lord Ashcroft's VCs and GCs are part of the wider Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection, which includes Special Forces decorations and medals for valour in the skies and at sea. Lord Ashcroft's long passion for gallantry awards was initially inspired by his late father, Eric, who as a young officer took part in the D-Day Landings on June 6 1944. Lord Ashcroft's collection of VCs includes one of just three VCs and Bars—the equivalent of two VCs—that have been awarded over the past 170 years. This is the medal group awarded to Captain Noel Chavasse VC & Bar, MC, a medical officer who served and was killed during the Great War. Following the closure of the previous gallery, Lord Ashcroft has made his collection accessible digitally through his website. This new partnership with the National Army Museum will allow the public to visit the collection and be inspired by the remarkable stories they represent. The VC and GC collection will go on display at the National Army Museum within the next two years. In the meantime, from July onwards some of Lord Ashcroft's medals will go on display at the museum, including pop-up exhibitions. As the home of the Army's history and heritage, the National Army Museum will be displaying items from the Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection alongside its existing collections of objects, archives and artworks, telling the stories of soldiers and their service—including the origins of the Victoria Cross in the Crimean War. Lord Ashcroft's VCs and GCs will be shared on a long-term loan with the National Army Museum. Alongside their display, the Museum is planning a programme of exhibitions, educational resources, talks, tours and digital content exploring the human stories of courage behind the decorations. Further details of the new partnership between Lord Ashcroft and the National Army Museum relating to the display of his VC and GC collection will be released over the coming months. NOTE TO EDITORS For more information on Lord Ashcroft's work, visit: LordAshcroft.com LordAshcroftMedalCollection.com Follow Lord Ashcroft on X and Facebook @LordAshcroft Join in the conversation on: X: @NAM_London Facebook: facebook.com/NationalArmyMuseum Instagram: @nam_london More information on the Museum: Opening times:Tuesday to Sunday10:00 – 17:00 Address:National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, London, SW3 4HT Website:nam.ac.uk National Army Museum The National Army Museum shares the history and heritage of our soldiers and their service in the Army, across the globe and down the centuries. Through our collections we explore the history of the Army from its origins to the present day. We aim to engage and inspire everyone with the stories of our soldiers and how their service shapes our world; past, present and future.

2026-03-15

Inside VEVOR's Houston Opening Where Home Creators Gather to Build, Test, and Create

HOUSTON, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 9, VEVOR unveiled its first global flagship store in Houston—a 32,000-square-foot space signaling a new chapter in the brand's expansion into experiential retail. The launch drew a lively mix of home creators, DIY enthusiasts, and makers eager to experience VEVOR's tools firsthand, including renowned automotive YouTuber ChrisFix, whose presence added extra excitement to the day. Bridging the Gap Between Pro and DIY For many creators, the gap between imagining a project and completing it is often the cost and accessibility of professional tools. VEVOR is closing that gap. As soon as the doors opened, the Houston flagship quickly came alive with visitors moving through hands-on experience zones—testing tools, exchanging project ideas, and sharing practical tips. More than a typical retail launch, the space felt like a creative workshop, where inspiration met action. Reflecting on VEVOR's global physical debut, automotive content creator ChrisFix said, "As someone who has been helping the DIY automotive community for years, I'm excited to see VEVOR open this store, bringing pro-level gear and high-performance tools within reach for every car enthusiast ready to take their garage to the next level." VEVOR Houston Grand Opening VEVOR Houston Grand Opening Other creators expressed similar enthusiasm. One visitor shared her excitement after exploring the crafting area: "I loved the DIY section of the store. I enjoy learning new skills, so seeing all the options for vinyl cutters and heat presses was so fun. I also love that there are so many items I could actually use at home—from appliances to tools." Many attendees noted that being able to see and try such a wide range of tools in one place sparked fresh ideas for future projects. From home upgrades and furniture restoration to garage builds and custom creations, the experience made DIY feel more approachable, inspiring, and achievable for creators of all levels. Hands-On Confidence Supporting this growing community is central to VEVOR's brand vision. The company focuses on making capable, professional-grade tools more widely accessible. VEVOR, which built its customer base through e-commerce before opening its first physical location this year, positions itself around professional-grade tools at accessible price points. "Our goal is to support the growing community of creators who want to make things themselves," said Gavin Wu, VEVOR Brand Director, "When more people have access to capable tools, they gain the confidence to take on projects of their own. That's why the Houston store is staffed by people who can talk through a project with you—not just ring up a purchase." Designed as both a retail destination and an experience center, the Houston flagship reflects that philosophy—bringing tools, inspiration, and a creator community together in one place. Located at 10951 Farm to Market 1960 Road W in Houston, the store is open Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Throughout the year, VEVOR will host community workshops and neighborhood improvement initiatives—creating a space where creators connect, skills grow, and ideas come to life. About VEVOR VEVOR is a global home improvement brand that empowers home creators, who actively reshape living spaces to express their inner pursuits, finding joy in turning visions into reality with their own hands to upgrade spaces with pro-level gear at fair prices. From backyard makeovers to apartment innovations, VEVOR delivers uncompromised quality through vertical integration — combining precision engineering with the joy of making. Founded in 2007 as an eBay seller, VEVOR began selling on Amazon in 2013 and launched vevor.com in 2020. The brand unveiled its refreshed identity in 2025. Today, VEVOR operates in over 50 countries, with a network of 200+ global warehouses and a catalog of over 15,000 products spanning tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement solutions. The brand's promise is built on four pillars: professional-grade performance, unexpected value, complete home ecosystem coverage, and uncompromising quality. This commitment is reflected in its 90% customer satisfaction rate, supported by 24/7 assistance and a 30-day hassle-free return policy. For more information, visit www.vevor.com or search "vevor" on Amazon. Media Contact: media@vevor.com

2026-03-15

Vantage Foundation and Banking Academy of Vietnam Launch Nationwide AI Finance Programme with Vietnam's Top Universities for More Than 1,500 Educators and Students

HANOI, Vietnam, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Vantage Foundation, in collaboration with the Banking Academy of Vietnam (BAV) and more than 10 leading universities, has launched a nationwide programme equipping more than 1,500 educators and students with advanced skills in AI-driven financial data analysis and decision-making, drawing interest from more than 3,000 students nationwide. Held on 12 and 14 March at BAV's Hanoi campus, the initiative comes at a time when Vietnam's financial sector is rapidly strengthening its digital capabilities, with artificial intelligence playing an increasingly central role in financial analysis, risk management and strategic decision-making. The programme, titled "Financial Data Analysis and Decision-Making in the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI)", combined in-person sessions with nationwide virtual participation. More than 10 universities co-organised the initiative, including the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH), National Economics University (NEU), Vietnam National University – Hanoi (VNU-Hanoi), Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) and Foreign Trade University (FTU). Together, these institutions represent some of Vietnam's most influential centres for financial education and a key talent pipeline for the country's banking and financial services sector. Hosted at the Banking Academy's Hanoi campus, the programme explored how AI-powered analytics, predictive modelling and financial data visualisation are transforming how financial institutions interpret market data and make strategic decisions. Strengthening AI Capabilities Across Vietnam's Finance Education Network A central component of the initiative was a Training-of-Trainers (ToT) programme designed to strengthen AI-driven financial analytics capabilities among lecturers. The faculty session attracted more than 250 professors who participated both in person and online. Among them were the dean and lecturers from Can Tho University, who travelled more than 1,500 kilometres from the Mekong Delta to Hanoi to attend. A key component of the initiative was a Training-of-Trainers (ToT) programme designed to strengthen AI-driven financial analytics capabilities among university lecturers from the leading schools. The ToT session on 12 March drew strong engagement from professors across Vietnam's finance education network, with more than 250 academics participating both in person and online. Among those attending were the dean and lecturers from Can Tho University, who travelled more than 1,500 kilometres from the Mekong Delta to Hanoi to participate in person, underscoring the growing demand among educators to integrate AI-driven financial analytics into university curricula. By equipping educators with these frameworks, the programme enables advanced financial data capabilities to cascade into classrooms nationwide, extending its long-term impact across Vietnam's finance education ecosystem. Industry Expertise and Real-World Financial Applications Industry experts also shared practical insights into real-world AI applications across financial markets, providing participants with practical exposure to how AI is being applied across financial data analysis and trading technologies. Ms. Truong Thi Minh Trang, M.Sc., Managing Director of Financial Information Services at FiinGroup, Vietnam's leading financial data and analytics provider, delivered a session on financial data analytics. FiinGroup counts Nikkei Inc. and QUICK Corp among its strategic shareholders, while its credit-rating subsidiary FiinRatings has S&P Global as a strategic investor. Participants also attended a live demonstration led by Dr. Vu Xuan Tung, AI Solution Architect at Goline Financial Technology JSC, a Vietnamese fintech developer of securities trading systems used by brokerage firms, showcasing AI-enabled trading software and emerging AI-powered technologies used in modern securities trading systems. The demonstration showcased AI-enabled trading software and emerging AI-powered trading technologies, giving participants direct insight into how artificial intelligence is already being deployed in modern financial market infrastructure. Preparing Finance Professionals for an AI-Driven Industry According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong, Deputy Director of the Banking Academy of Vietnam, artificial intelligence is rapidly redefining the capabilities required of finance professionals. "Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept. It has already become a reality reshaping the structure of the global financial industry," he said. He noted that financial professionals increasingly need the ability to interpret complex datasets and respond to market developments in real time. "In today's digital economy, data is the new fuel. Without the skills to collect, analyse and interpret data effectively, professionals may struggle to keep pace with the industry's development." He added that modern financial institutions increasingly require professionals who combine technical data expertise with strong risk awareness and strategic decision-making capabilities. Strengthening Global Collaboration in Financial Education The Banking Academy highlighted that its collaboration with Vantage Foundation reflects a shared commitment to advancing financial education while expanding international knowledge exchange. "As Vietnam implements its National Digital Transformation Strategy, it is crucial that our students and educators develop the technological competencies required for the future financial industry," Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong said. He noted that partnerships with international organisations help ensure that Vietnamese students engage with both academic theory and global financial industry perspectives. Investing in the Future of Intelligent Finance During the programme's opening session for students on 14 March, Mr. Adam Siew, Vice President of Business Development, representing Vantage Foundation, highlighted the accelerating convergence between finance and advanced technologies. "Artificial intelligence is transforming how financial institutions interpret data, understand markets and make decisions. Processes that once required weeks of analysis can now be completed in seconds." He emphasised that technological advancement must remain guided by responsible human judgment. "Data becomes meaningful only when guided by human insight, responsibility and sound judgment." Bringing together educators and students from across Vietnam's leading finance universities, the initiative aims to strengthen the country's pipeline of data-literate financial professionals capable of navigating increasingly complex global markets. "By investing in education today, we are investing in the future leaders who will shape the next era of intelligent and responsible finance," he said. The programme concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony jointly conducted by Mr. Floyd Wong, Head of Vietnam representing Vantage Foundation, together with representatives from the Banking Academy of Vietnam. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape financial systems worldwide, collaborations between leading academic institutions and organisations connected to the global fintech ecosystem will play an increasingly important role in preparing the next generation of finance professionals. Vantage Foundation Vantage Foundation is an independent charitable organisation launched at the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK in 2023. The foundation partners with organisations worldwide, including Grab Indonesia, the iREDE Foundation in Nigeria, Teach For Malaysia and Instituto Claret in Brazil, to support impactful social initiatives. For more information, please visit:www.vantage.foundation Banking Academy of Vietnam The Banking Academy of Vietnam (BAV) is a leading public higher education institution specialising in banking, finance, economics and business administration. Established under the State Bank of Vietnam, BAV has played a pivotal role in developing the nation's financial and banking workforce. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, applied research and industry relevance, the Academy serves as a key talent pipeline for Vietnam's public and private financial sectors. For more information, please visit:https://en.hvnh.edu.vn/

2026-03-14

China International Supply Chain Expo Unveils AI Zone as 100-Day Countdown Begins With 500+ Exhibitors

BEIJING, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The fourth China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) has entered its 100-day countdown. Themed "Connecting the World for a Shared Future," the event has evolved over three editions into an important platform for facilitating international cooperation across industrial and supply chains. Its model and value have extended well beyond China to help shape a global standard. The ISO 25639-1 international standard for "Exhibitions and Events—Vocabulary," developed jointly by the global business community, explicitly incorporates the CISCE's innovative approach and includes language reflecting the expo's emphasis on connecting companies with potential partners across supply chains. This year's expo will mark a milestone with the launch of its first-ever Artificial Intelligence zone, offering a comprehensive look at the AI ecosystem encompassing data, computing power, and applications. Across its featured six supply chain sectors—Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy, Smart Vehicles, Digital Technology, Healthy Living, and Green Agriculture—alongside the Supply Chain Services Exhibition Area, visitors will encounter a lineup of new players—both Chinese and international—in emerging and future fields such as AI-enabled robotics, the drone and low-altitude aviation sector, and biomanufacturing, alongside established names showcasing the latest advances in industrial and supply chain modernization. Another new feature of the fourth CISCE will be an increased focus on targeted cooperation. Building on the previous "Guest Country of Honor" format, this year will introduce "Guest Provinces" for the first time, inviting overseas provinces, states, and regions with unique industrial advantages to participate and facilitate more targeted business matchmaking with Chinese provinces, cities, and companies. Enthusiasm from the international business community remains high. At the third CISCE, exhibitors from outside China accounted for 35% of participants, with over 40 leaders from Fortune Global 500 companies and 172 delegations from abroad making dedicated trips to China for the expo. This reflects the strong interest of international businesses in supply chain partnerships and opportunities in the Chinese market. Preparations are moving forward smoothly. Nineteen international roadshows have already been held to present the expo around the world, with organizers aiming to achieve further growth in both the proportion of global exhibitors and the number of visiting delegations. More than 500 companies from China and around the world have already signed up to exhibit, and the recruitment phase is nearing completion. For more information, please visit: https://en.cisce.org.cn/

2026-03-14

ISLE 2026 Successfully Defining New Trends in Smart Display and System Integration

SHENZHEN, China, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 7, ISLE 2026 draw a successful conclusion at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center (Shenzhen World). As a global arena for display innovation and a barometer for system integration, ISLE 2026 fully showcased the whole industrial chain's achievements in LED displays, audio-video system integration, professional light and sound, stage performance equipment, and more. ISLE 2026 Successfully Defining New Trends in Smart Display and System Integration With 80,000 square meters floor area, ISLE 2026 attracted over 1,000 exhibitors online and offline. Despite the Middle East civil aviation suspension caused by regional conflicts prior to the opening, ISLE 2026 overseas buyers number increased by 6% compared to the previous edition, highlighting its global influence and industrial standing. China is the world's largest market for LED display manufacturing and application. ISLE brings together top exhibitors, and is the primary platform for launching new products and solutions. Key technological trends showcased at ISLE 2026 include: COB and MIP have emerged as the two core technical routes in LED display. Manufacturers actively displayed their Micro-LED and COB fine-pitch LED displays. These next-generation displays offer significant advantages such as high contrast, high reliability, low power consumption, and lightweight design, while achieving major breakthroughs in color performance, lifespan, and response speed. They are widely applied in high-end conferencing and commercial display fields. AI has deeply penetrated every critical link of the industrial chain. On the front end, large AI models empower content creation and interactive methods, greatly enriching screen presentation forms. On the back end, AI technology is extensively applied in intelligent control of display systems, further enhancing performance. Green and low-carbon development has become a new industry consensus. Low-power design, common-cathode energy saving, and air-conditioning-free heat dissipation solutions have become key promotional points for major LED display manufacturers. The physical boundaries of displays are gradually dissolving. Hundreds of exhibitors launched products such as transparent screens, holographic screens, textured screens, and creatively shaped displays, deeply integrating display technology with spatial design and artistic decoration, bringing unprecedented visual experiences and interactive possibilities to commercial displays, home environments, and public art spaces. In the system integration field, multi-scenario application solutions have become increasingly popular. The era of exhibiting "single hardware products" is outdated. Exhibitors now comprehensively offer "one-stop solutions," presenting application solutions for commercial retail, command centers, smart meetings, broadcasting, stage performances, tourism & home entertainment, providing buyers from various industries with accessible "future templates."

2026-03-14

Video Series "What International Friends Think of Shandong": Great Food, Enchanting Scenery

JINAN, China, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from Qilu Evening News • Qilu Yidian: What International Friends Think of Shandong From February 10 to 20, ten international friends were interviewed by reporters from Qilu Evening News • Qilu Yidian in Shandong, sharing their views on Shandong's delicious food and tourist attractions."What International Friends Think of Shandong" is a short video series featuring 10 international friends in Shandong Province, sharing their stories in China. In this episode, they chat about food and scenery in Shandong.

2026-03-14

Cherry Blossoms Aren't the Only Thing in Full Bloom This Spring: CASEKOO Debuts LinKOO, the World's First Open Clasp System

LOS ANGELES, March 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CASEKOO, a leader in innovative mobile lifestyle accessories, today announced the launch of LinKOO, a groundbreaking phone case featuring the world's first open clasp system. Celebrating the vibrant energy and happiness of Spring, LinKOO is designed for the season's getaways, outdoor adventures, and everyday moments of delight. Revolutionary design offers ultimate versatility, allowing the clasp to fold away seamlessly when not in use. The magic of LinKOO happens when the chain comes off. Engineered with a patented clasp at the base of the case, it securely holds a chain or wristlet to complement any spring look. But the true innovation? The clasp folds completely flat against the phone when not in use—instantly transforming from a statement accessory into a sleek, pocket-friendly case built for life in motion. "Spring represents a time of renewal and reconnection, so we designed LinKOO to be the perfect companion for the season's adventures," said Ralph, founder of CASEKOO. "We've engineered a clasp that simply 'disappears' when you don't need it—giving our community the freedom to move seamlessly from a morning run to an afternoon of shopping, all while keeping their style and their phone protected. But what truly excites us is how LinKOO sparks curiosity. It's designed to be noticed—inviting others to come closer, to ask what it is, and to start a conversation. Because the best connections happen when we're open to them." A Joyful, Adventure-Ready DesignJust as the season calls for versatility and a touch of whimsy, the LinKOO case is built to adapt. Key features include: World's First Open Clasp System: A unique, hinged clasp that opens to hold a chain and closes to lay flush against the case, offering a clean, uninterrupted profile. Transformative 2-in-1 Design: Effortlessly switches between a secure chain-carry mode for hands-free convenience and a compact traditional case for slipping into a pocket or bag. Spring-Ready Style & Protection: Constructed with a durable, impact-resistant frame and available in a range of fresh, seasonal colors and finishes to match any spring wardrobe. Interchangeable Chain Compatibility: Works seamlessly with CASEKOO's collection of chains and straps, allowing users to mix and match for a personalized look that fits every spring adventure. Playful Extras & AvailabilityEmbracing the spirit of discovery, the LinKOO launch invites users to refresh their style for the new season. The CASEKOO LinKOO case is now available in Vital Orange for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a full range of colors and finishes rolling out in late May. To inspire endless mix-and-match possibilities, complementary straps are currently included with every LinKOO case purchase. About CASEKOOCASEKOO is a design-led lifestyle brand dedicated to creating style-forward phone accessories for life in motion. Built for Innovation Enthusiasts and Style Pioneers, the brand blends purposeful protection with modern design and personal expression—empowering individuals to protect what matters while expressing who they are. Learn more at casekoo.com.

2026-03-14

CityUHK researchers unveil the mystery of "Asian Flush" mechanism, pioneering new directions in precision treatment for heart attacks

HONG KONG, March 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Approximately 40% of the East Asian population suffers from alcohol intolerance, commonly known as "Asian Flush Syndrome". This ALDH2 genetic mutation is more than just a metabolic defect; it conceals a deadly cardiovascular risk. While the medical community has long observed that carriers of this mutation suffer more severe heart damage during a myocardial infarction (heart attack), the specific underlying mechanism has remained a mystery until now. A research team led by Professor Yin Huiyong, Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), recently published a groundbreaking study in Circulation, a top-tier journal in cardiovascular medicine. Titled "ALDH2/eIF3E Interaction Modulates Protein Translation Critical for Cardiomyocyte Ferroptosis in Acute Myocardial Ischemia Injury", the research reveals for the first time how the ALDH2 mutation triggers "ferroptosis"—a specific type of cell death—during heart attacks, leading to a rapid deterioration of cardiac tissue. This discovery opens new doors for precision prevention and treatment for hundreds of millions of gene carriers worldwide. The study highlights that the ALDH2 mutation does not only impair alcohol metabolism but also significantly worsens heart damage during acute myocardial infarction. The team carried out a clinical study of 177 Chinese patients with acute heart failure, and found that those carrying the ALDH2 mutation exhibited much more severe cardiac dysfunction following a heart attack. In this study, the team observed clear signs of ferroptosis in these patients, including a significant drop in Coenzyme Q10 (a cardio-protective antioxidant) and a massive accumulation of bioactive lipids that cause oxidative damage to cells. Ferroptosis is a form of cell death driven by iron ions and lipid peroxidation. For the heart, this death process acts like a chain reaction, delivering an irreversible and devastating blow to myocardial cells, eventually leading to severe acute heart failure. The key scientific breakthrough of this study lies in identifying the ALDH2 protein's hidden role as a cellular "regulator". Under normal conditions, ALDH2 binds with the eIF3E subunit (part of the complex responsible for protein synthesis), acting like a "security lock" to maintain protein balance within the cell. However, in the presence of the ALDH2 mutation, structural changes cause this lock to fail. The released eIF3E then enters a "selective mode", prompting ribosomes to mass-produce pathogenic proteins that induce ferroptosis. This role reversal—from a "metabolic enzyme" to a "translational regulator"—explains why individuals with the "flushing gene" suffer significantly more heart damage when facing the same level of myocardial ischemia. To verify these mechanisms and identify therapeutic opportunities, the team conducted experiments using animal models. The results demonstrated that either inhibiting the ferroptosis process via medication or using genetic technology to regulate the protein translation pathway could significantly improve heart function in mice carrying the ALDH2 mutation after a heart attack. This suggests that existing iron chelators or specific ferroptosis inhibitors have immense potential to be developed into protective therapies specifically for East Asian populations. The study redefines the physiological role of ALDH2 in cardiac protection and underscores the vital importance of precision medicine in treating cardiovascular diseases. In the future, clinicians may be able to use genetic testing to identify high-risk ALDH2 carriers and implement "anti-ferroptosis" interventions early to predict and improve outcomes for heart attack patients. Other institutions participating in this joint study include Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Naval Medical University, Sun Yat-sen University, Fudan University, and Harbin Medical University. The research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Shenzhen Medical Research Fund, the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, and CityUHK. The global impact of this research is further highlighted by a dedicated editorial commentary in the same issue of Circulation. Entitled "Selective mRNA Translation: A New Player in Ferroptosis After Myocardial Infarction", the piece is authored by Professor Yi Zhu, a renowned scientist in the cardiovascular field from Tianjin Medical University. Such a commentary is a significant honour, reserved for studies that provide transformative insights and open new frontiers in medical science.

2026-03-14

Hiboy C1 E-Bike Lands at Costco Stores

GLENDORA, Calif., March 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Electric mobility brand Hiboy is making a bigger move into physical retail. The company's compact commuter e-bike, the Hiboy C1, is now appearing in select Costco warehouse locations across the United States, and members can currently find it. Hiboy C1 E-Bike Lands at Costco Stores with a 20% Discount For a brand that first built its reputation online, the Costco rollout signals a broader shift toward traditional retail shelves. It also puts the Hiboy C1 in front of a much wider audience of everyday riders who may be encountering electric bikes for the first time during a routine warehouse visit. From Online Mobility Brand to Warehouse Aisles Costco has become an increasingly interesting place to spot e-bikes lately. Alongside everything from bulk groceries to patio furniture, the warehouse giant has quietly expanded its selection of personal mobility products. For Hiboy, getting a product onto those warehouse floors is no small feat. Costco is known for a tightly controlled product lineup, often carrying only a handful of models in each category. That means every item must pass internal evaluations around reliability, value, and customer demand. The appearance of the Hiboy C1 suggests the retailer sees growing interest in affordable electric transportation, particularly bikes designed for short daily trips and city commuting. Hiboy has been steadily expanding its retail footprint in recent years. In addition to Costco, the brand's scooters and e-bikes can also be found through national retailers like Best Buy and Walmart, signaling a shift from a purely digital brand toward broader mainstream distribution. 20% OFF: A Lower Entry Price for Costco Members For Costco shoppers, the new listing also comes with a price advantage. The Hiboy C1 is currently offered with a 20% discount, bringing the commuter-focused e-bike into a price range that's attractive for riders curious about trying electric transportation without committing to a high-end model. That combination, warehouse availability plus a reduced price, is often how many first-time riders end up purchasing their first e-bike. And unlike online orders, warehouse availability means some customers may be able to pick one up and ride it home the same day. The Hiboy C1: A Compact City Commuter Positioned as an everyday commuter bike, the Hiboy C1 focuses on practical urban riding rather than high-performance specs. The bike features a minimalist step-through design with a streamlined one-piece frame and internally routed wiring. The integrated construction removes visible weld seams, giving the bike a cleaner appearance compared to many entry-level commuter models. Key features include: Suspension: Front suspension fork for smoother city riding Lighting: Integrated headlight for improved visibility Riding Modes: Pure electric, pedal assist, and standard bicycle mode The setup makes the Hiboy C1 suitable for short urban commutes, neighborhood rides, and quick errands, exactly the kind of trips where many riders are starting to swap cars for lighter electric mobility. Why Warehouse Retail Still Matters for E-Bikes While many e-bike brands grow primarily through online channels, physical retail remains an important way for new riders to discover and experience e-bikes. Seeing a bike in person, and knowing it comes from a retailer with a well-known return policy, can make customers more comfortable making the jump to electric transportation. For Costco, adding more personal mobility products also reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior. E-bikes and electric scooters have become increasingly common in cities as commuters look for alternatives to traffic, parking costs, and rising fuel prices. Affordable, entry-level commuter bikes like the Hiboy C1 are often where that transition begins. Looking Ahead Hiboy's arrival in Costco stores may be just the beginning of a deeper retail partnership. As interest in electric transportation continues to grow, warehouse retailers and big-box chains are becoming an important gateway for bringing e-bikes to a broader audience. For now, Costco members browsing the warehouse aisles may notice something new parked between the seasonal displays and sporting goods section: a compact commuter e-bike designed to make everyday trips a little easier. And with a 20% member discount attached, the Hiboy C1 could end up being one of the more accessible entry points into electric riding yet. About Hiboy Hiboy is a personal mobility brand in North America known for its reliable and accessible electric scooters and e-bikes. The company focuses on developing practical short-distance transportation solutions that prioritize safety, durability, and everyday usability. . Guided by its slogan, "Begin the Joyride," Hiboy is committed to delivering dependable and cost-effective products that make everyday transportation more enjoyable and sustainable, helping riders embrace smarter, greener mobility.

2026-03-14