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TOKYO, Mar 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. announced today that it has received an order from Chubu Electric Power Grid for Hitachi Energy’s EconiQⓇ 550 kilovolt (kV) sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)-free gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). This is set to be the world’s first project with 550 kV GIS*1 in which the entire equipment is SF₆-free.*1 In gas-insulated switchgear, all components are housed in fully sealed gas‑insulated compartments to reduce the substation size and protect the equipment from storms and other external interference.The EconiQ 550-kV GIS reduces CO2-equivalent emissions from the insulating gas by 99 percent compared with conventional SF₆‑insulated equipment. By delivering this technology, Hitachi will support Chubu Electric Power Grid in making Japan’s transmission network sustainable.For decades, SF6 gas has been widely used in power grids due to its excellent insulation properties and switching performance. However, it has a global warming potential 24,300 times higher than CO2 and remains in the atmosphere for more than 1,000 years if released. Many governments are now introducing regulations to phase out new SF6–based equipment to address climate change. Currently, Japan has no regulations on eliminating SF6 gas equipment.As Japan's electricity demand rises with increased electrification and the growth of data centers, the need to reinforce the grid while reducing greenhouse gas emissions becomes more urgent. SF6-free switchgear, such as Hitachi Energy's EconiQ technology, offers the solution to this twofold challenge – combining proven reliability and compact design with the lowest carbon footprint.In 2024, Chubu Electric Power Grid announced its policy on adopting SF₆‑free equipment for each voltage class and decided to introduce SF₆‑free GIS for voltages up to 77 kV, as well as SF₆‑free circuit breakers rated 275 kV and above. In line with the adoption policy defined in 2024, and with the aim of accelerating its efforts toward achieving carbon neutrality, Chubu Electric Power Grid has now chosen to deploy SF₆‑free equipment for 550 kV GIS. This equipment will be used in its backbone transmission network.Hitachi Energy launched its EconiQ high-voltage portfolio in 2021 to support the industry’s transition to SF6-free technologies. EconiQ products eliminate greenhouse gas emissions by replacing SF6 gas with an eco-efficient alternative while maintaining the same performance, size, safety, and reliability as conventional SF6-insulated equipment.About Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.About Hitachi EnergyHitachi Energy is a global technology leader in electrification, powering a sustainable energy future with innovative power grid technologies with digital at the core. Over three billion people depend on our technologies to power their daily lives. With over a century in pioneering mission-critical technologies like high-voltage, transformers, automation, and power electronics, we are addressing the most urgent energy challenge of our time – balancing soaring electricity demand, while decarbonizing the power system. With an unparalleled installed base in over 140 countries, we cocreate and build long-term partnerships across the utility, industry, transportation, data centers, and infrastructure sectors. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ over 50,000 people in 60 countries and generate revenues of around $16 billion USD.https://www.hitachienergy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergyhttps://x.com/HitachiEnergy Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Japan, Mar 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced that it has made a decision to cancel the development and market launch of three EV (electric vehicle) models that had been planned for production in North America. This decision was made as part of the reassessment of the company’s automobile electrification strategy due to various factors including recent changes in the business environment.Consequently, Honda now expects to record losses in its consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ending March 2026, resulting in the revision of previously announced forecasts for the consolidated financial results for the fiscal year. More details and background of the decision and revisions made to the fiscal year forecasts are explained below.Automobile electrification strategy to date and changes in the business environmentSetting a goal to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050, and due to a major policy change in the U.S. seeking to accelerate the transition to EVs, Honda undertook a major strategic shift toward the popularization of EVs based on its belief that EVs will be the optimal solution to realize carbon neutrality especially for small-size mobility products, including passenger cars, from a long-term perspective.Honda had been making steady progress in pursuit of EV adoption by leveraging its stable earnings base provided by existing gasoline and hybrid vehicle business based on technologies and know-how amassed through the development of hybrid models over many years, and motorcycle and financial services businesses with a solid customer base.However, the profitability of Honda automobile business is currently declining due primarily to 1) the unfavorable impact of changes in U.S. tariff policies on the gasoline and hybrid vehicle business and 2) a decline in the competitiveness of Honda products in Asia due to the impact of the allocation of more resources to EV development.In addition, the automobile business environment surrounding Honda is undergoing significant changes, and the outlook remains uncertain. Previously, with stringent environmental regulations fully implemented in the U.S. and other countries, Honda pursued EV adoption with strong determination that striving for carbon neutrality is a responsibility Honda, as a manufacture of mobility products, must fulfill for the future. However, in the U.S., the expansion of the EV market has slowed down due to several factors including the easing of fossil fuel regulations and revisions to EV incentives.Moreover, in China, what customers value more in automobiles is shifting from hardware features, such as fuel efficiency and cabin space, to software-based features that will continuously advance according to customer preferences. This has intensified the competition due to the rapid emergence of newer EV manufacturers that leverage their short product development cycles and strengths in the area of software-defined vehicle (SDV) technologies, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). In such a difficult competitive environment, Honda was unable to deliver products that offer value for money better than that of newer EV manufacturers, resulting in a decline in competitiveness.Honda automobile business has fallen into an extremely challenging earnings situation due to various factors, including its inability to respond flexibly to these changes in the business environment, compounded by a decline in the profitability of gasoline and hybrid models due to the impact of newly imposed tariffs.Incurring losses associated with reassessment of automobile electrification strategyIn order to improve the current earnings situation as early as possible, Honda considered various options; however, after careful consideration, the company made the decision to cancel the development and market launch of three EV models that had been planned for production in the U.S., namely the Honda 0 SUV, Honda 0 Saloon, and Acura RSX. Honda determined that starting production and sales of these three models in current business environment where the demand for EVs is declining significantly would likely result in further losses over the long term.Based on this decision, Honda now expects to record 1) write-off and impairment losses on tangible and intangible assets that were intended to be used for the production of these three EV models, as well as 2) losses related to additional expenses resulting from the cancellation of the development and sales of these models.In addition, in consideration of the intensification of competition in China, Honda reassessed the recoverability of investments accounted for using the equity method in China, and now expects to incur an impairment loss on the investments accounted for using the equity method.As a result, in the consolidated financial results for the current fiscal year, Honda expects to record 1) operating expenses of 820 billion yen to 1.12 trillion yen and 2) a share of the loss of investments accounted for using the equity method of 110 billion yen to 150 billion yen. Moreover, Honda expects to record special losses of 340 billion to 570 billion yen in the non-consolidated financial results for the same fiscal year.These amounts are preliminary estimates as of today (March 12, 2026), and should be finalized in the consolidated and non-consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026.Furthermore, in the next fiscal year or later, additional expenses or losses may be incurred in connection with the above-mentioned reassessment of the automobile electrification strategy. Combined with the losses to be recorded in the current fiscal year, the total amount of losses is expected to be a maximum of 2.5 trillion yen. This amount is estimated based on information currently available to Honda, and as this estimate includes risks and uncertainties, the actual amount to be recorded may differ from this estimate.In order to achieve more stable and continuous dividends, Honda adopted DOE (dividend on equity ratio) as its shareholder redistribution indicator; therefore, despite this revision to the consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, Honda made no revision to the forecast for the dividend per share for this fiscal year.Future direction for automobile business transformationIn order to respond flexibly to rapid changes in its business environment, Honda is making progress in reorganizing its strategic framework and reestablishing its competitive strengths.In light of the recent slowdown in the growth of the EV market in the U.S., Honda will reassess its resource allocations and further strengthen its hybrid models. As for regional business, in addition to its main markets, namely Japan and the U.S., Honda will enhance the model lineup and cost competitiveness in India, where market expansion is expected. In other countries in Asia as well, Honda will strive to enhance its competitiveness by introducing next-generation hybrid models and reassessing the allocation of its resources.Moreover, in order to strengthen its business structure, Honda will establish  a fixed-cost structure appropriate for the scale.  Initiatives toward the future introduction of EV models will be implemented flexibly from a long-term perspective, while monitoring the balance between profitability and market trends.Although there is a possibility that additional expenses and/or losses will be recorded in the next fiscal year or later, Honda will maintain stable returns to shareholders by 1) improving profitability of its automobile business with the enhancement of the lineup, including next-generation hybrid models, and 2) leveraging solid earnings power and the cash-generating capability of its motorcycle and financial services businesses.Honda is planning to announce details of the reestablishment of its mid- to long-term strategy for its automobile business at a press conference to be held in May this year. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, March 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Japantastics, Inc. has announced the launch of a new collection featuring Kodaimoji artworks by Kei Sato, a Japanese calligrapher and contemporary artist who reimagines ancient Chinese scripts such as oracle bone and bronze inscriptions as modern expressions of art. These early forms of writing, dating back more than 3,000 years, are recognised as the origins of modern Chinese characters and as vessels of timeless human emotion and spirituality.Guided by the concept "Bringing Ancient Characters into Modern Spaces," Sato transforms these primordial symbols into living works that resonate with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. Her art transcends traditional calligraphy, appearing in diverse media such as wood, metal, ceramics, and stone. By merging historical depth with modern design, Sato creates works that channel the spirit of ancient writing into today's architecture, interiors, and art environments.Kei Sato explains: "Ancient characters are the prototypes of the kanji used today. Although they are the oldest form of written language, their rediscovery in 1988 makes them both ancient and new. Inspired by oracle bone and bronze inscriptions, born from cultures that reflect unchanging human emotions across time, I continue to create under the theme 'Bringing Ancient Characters into Modern Spaces,' hoping to share their essence across all environments.""Child""Happiness"Through her creative practice, Sato seeks not only to preserve these scripts as historical artefacts but to reinterpret and revitalise them, awakening the fundamental beauty and meaning of written forms within the context of contemporary art and space."Sun""Spring"The Japantastics.jp online site now features a selection of Sato's works, which serve as a cultural bridge, reviving the rhythm and beauty of the world's earliest scripts for the modern era. Through her reinterpretations, the primitive strokes once carved into bone or cast in bronze are reborn as expressions of universal harmony, emotion, and timeless design.Kei Sato's major overseas activities:1970: Began practising ancient Chinese calligraphy.1994: Became independent.1997: Established Raira Studio. Developed an original technique of expressing letters with granite in its original stone colour, and presented a lithograph. Held an exhibition at Nagoya Gallery 141, themed “Taking ancient Chinese Calligraphy into modern times”. Her works were exhibited at the Jiangsu Golden Mausoleum Restaurant in Nanjing, China.1999: Her works were exhibited in the Beijing China Museum of History International Calligraphy Exhibition. Held an exhibition at the gallery in Hakuseki Museum in Gifu Pref.2000: Her works were exhibited in the Jiangsu Provincial Art Museum International Calligraphy Exhibitions, Jiangsu, China. Held an exhibition at Nihonbashi Gallery “Kai” in Tokyo, Japan.2006: Her works were exhibited at Melbourne Art Show ’06, Australia. Her works were exhibited at Collingwood Gallery (Art Collection ’06), Australia.2009: Won China-Japan Peace Prize at Tokyo International Art Exhibitions (Sesion Suginami, Tokyo). Her works were exhibited at the Euro-American “America Arts Exhibitions” in Tennessee, USA.2010: Won “Art Gallery Prize” at Tokyo International Art Exhibitions (Tokyo Metropolitan Arts Museum).2011: Exhibited at the International “Japan – France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, Aoyama Spiral. Won “Art Gallery First Prize” at the International Art Exhibition, Tokyo Metropolitan Arts Museum. Won the Award of Excellence at the Mexico International Art Exhibition, Mexico. Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition, Seoul. Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France).2012: Participated in International Art Exhibitions “Spain Art Exhibitions”, Spain. Won “Special Prize” (The Window of Art Prize) at *International Japan–France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, National Art Centre. Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition, Jilin (China). Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France).2013: Exhibited at the International “Japan–France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, The National Art Centre.2014: Exhibition at Kyoto International Hotel, Kyoto. Exhibited at the International “Japan – France Exhibition of Contemporary Art”, The National Art Centre. Held an exhibition in Salon d’Automne, Paris (France). Participated in the 21st Century International Artists Exchange and Exhibition. Won Mayor’s Award, Keelung City (Taiwan).2015: International Arts Exhibition (Belgium – Holland Arts Exhibition), Belgium 45th Anniversary.2016: Participated in the Euro-American 'French Art Prize Exhibition' featuring a special large-scale display of black and white works (Corsica).2018: Participated in the Euro-American 'Spanish Art Prize Exhibition' (Spain). Participated in the Euro-American 'Japan-France Contemporary Art World Exhibition' (The National Art Centre, Tokyo). Participated in the 21st Century Calligraphic and Painting Artists International Exchange Exhibition (Seoul). Exhibited at the Salon d'Automne (Paris, France).2019: Participated in the Euro-American 'Finland Art Prize Exhibition' (Finland). Selected for the Salon d'Automne (Paris, France).2020: Selected for the Salon d'Automne (Paris, France).2021: Participated in the Euro-American 'Japan-France Contemporary Art World Exhibition' (The National Art Centre, Tokyo). Selected for the Salon d'Automne (Paris, France).Read more about the Artist at Kei Sato's website (Jap): https://www.kodaimoji.comAbout JapantasticsJapantastics, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company dedicated to promoting and distributing authentic Japan-made products to global audiences. Through its online platform japantastics.jp, the company connects Japanese artisans and small manufacturers with customers worldwide who value quality, creativity, and cultural authenticity. Visit https://japantastics.jpMedia Contact: Japantastics at japantastics@gmail.com Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo, CEO: Haruo Naito, “Eisai”) announced today that it is launching an initiative to raise public awareness of the importance of sleep in collaboration with the smartphone application “Pokémon Sleep”.It is estimated that 12.4 million adults in Japan—equivalent to 11.8% of the adult population—experience insomnia and the resulting daytime functional impairments.1 According to the 2023 National Health and Nutrition Survey by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the percentage of people aged 20 and older who feel they have sufficient rest through sleep has shown a gradual decline, highlighting a consistent downward trend for over a decade.2 The proportion of people who sleep less than six hours per night has also reached 38.5% among men and 43.6% among women.2The feeling of insufficient rest has been linked to decreased daytime performance and an increased risk of lifestyle-related diseases, and securing adequate sleep in terms of both quality and quantity is essential for health promotion and maintenance across all age groups.3 Accordingly, the importance of educational activities aimed at disseminating accurate sleep knowledge is increasing.This initiative is part of Eisai’s efforts to build an ecosystem in the sleep field, a key focus area for the company. By leveraging Eisai’s scientific expertise in sleep and the ability of “Pokémon Sleep” to “inspire action through fun”, the collaboration aims to create opportunities for all generations to reflect on their own sleep and daytime performance, and subsequently raise awareness of the importance of healthy sleep.As the first step of this collaborative awareness initiative, Eisai will provide the picture book “Snorlax’s Dream” to medical institutions across Japan that are actively involved in sleep disorder consultation, primarily to those registered with “Sleep Consultation Navigator” information site powered by Eisai. The story is set in the world of “Pokémon Sleep”. Through an adventure in search of Snorlax, the Pokémon characters convey the “importance of getting sufficient sleep and staying healthy” and “tips for a good sleep” in an entertaining way to readers of all ages. By making the picture book available in the waiting areas of medical institutions, the initiative aims to encourage patients to reflect on their own sleep habits in an environment where they are more likely to be considering their physical condition and lifestyle. Additionally, under the collaboration with Pokémon Sleep, Eisai plans to expand its awareness activities by updating patient education leaflets and creating video content that promotes healthy sleep habits.(Please note that all materials provided are intended for distribution to medical institutions in Japan.)Eisai aims to effectively achieve social good in the form of relieving anxiety over health and reducing health disparities not only through the development of therapeutic drugs, but also by building an ecosystem in collaboration with other industries. Together with “Pokémon Sleep,” Eisai will continue to create an environment where people of different generations can reflect on their sleep habits and achieve positive behavioral changes toward a healthy lifestyle. Through these efforts, Eisai will further contribute not only to individuals living with insomnia and their families but also to those who have concerns about their sleep.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120About “Pokémon Sleep”Pokémon Sleep, the sleep tracker app that turns sleep into entertainment, can be downloaded for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Learn more about Pokémon Sleep at PokemonSleep.net.[Product Information]Title: Pokémon SleepMSRP: Free to play *Features in-app purchasesPublisher: The Pokémon CompanyDeveloper: SELECT BUTTON Inc.Platforms: iOS/AndroidGenre: SimulationMode: Single-playerSupported languages: Japanese, English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Traditional Chinese *The "Spanish" supported by this software is European Spanish.[Official website] https://www.pokemonsleep.net/en/[App store] https://app.adjust.com/1xkxcsv1[Copyright]©Pokémon/Nintendo/Creatures/GAME FREAKPokémon Sleep is developed by SELECT BUTTON inc.TM, ®, and character names are trademarks of Nintendo.The Pokémon Company was established to manage the Pokémon brand. Currently, the company develops and produces video games, which is where Pokémon originates, as well as trading card games, animated TV series and movies, merchandise, tie-up promotions, events, and the Pokémon Center, directly managed Pokémon shops.About the Sleep Information Website Operated by Eisai Eisai provides basic knowledge about sleep and insomnia, self-checks for sleep, information about treatments and medications for insomnia, through "Sodan.e-Nemuri". Additionally, the website offers a wide range of content about sleep for those struggling with sleep issues, including the "Sleep Consultation Navigator" which helps users search for medical institutions that can provide advice and treatments for sleep disorders and insomnia. Please see https://e-nemuri.eisai.jp/ for details. (Japanese only)References1. Clinical Guideline for the Management and Treatment of Sleep Disorders, 3rd Edition (Japanese only)2. The 2023 National Health and Nutrition Survey by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japanese only) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10900000/001338334.pdf3. Sleep Guide for Health Promotion 2023 - Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japanese only) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/001305530.  Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) has developed a first-of-its-kind physical AI (*1) that proactively controls robots to help reduce human stress. This technology utilizes a proprietary "world model" (*2) from NEC to predict human movement and psychological states, quantitatively estimating a person's level of stress.The technology was developed based on a world model, an AI system that is attracting attention globally for accelerating robot adoption. It anticipates the direction a person will move based on the relative position and posture between a robot and the person, predicting the person's level of stress in real time. This enables robots to be controlled along paths and at speeds that reduce human stress.In collaborative human-robot work environments, this reduction of psychological stress can be closely linked to physical safety, helping to avoid collisions and unexpected contact. As a result, expectations are growing for robots utilizing physical AI as a solution to labor shortages and hazardous tasks.However, it is not easy for robots to control their movements based on expected human movements and psychological states. Moreover, robot behavior may cause humans to feel uneasy or tense, potentially hindering smooth collaboration.NEC developed this technology to address these challenges. The technology promotes robot deployment in environments where dedicated robot zones are not yet established, such as small-to-medium-sized logistics warehouses, factories, and retail stores with narrow aisles—locations where stress-related barriers to robot use are conventionally high.This development was achieved by integrating the knowledge and expertise NEC previously accumulated through the research and development of globally recognized models in the field of Physical AI and robot control technologies.The proprietary world model utilized by this technology was developed by combining two prediction models. This has enabled robots to predict the future level of human stress when executing a specific driving control, thereby achieving optimal driving control that anticipates human movement. As a result, it can navigate at speeds and along paths that minimize human stress while maintaining mobility efficiency and suppressing unnecessary deceleration or stops, which can contribute to resolving labor shortages and improving productivity.1. Predicting human movement that changes based on robot behavior and physical surroundingsBy understanding the relationship between "human and robot behavior" as well as "humans and their physical surroundings," NEC has developed a unique prediction model capable of forecasting changing human movement. Using camera footage from robots and their control data, the model can predict with high accuracy the future 3D position and posture of people visible in current footage. This is accomplished in consideration of a robot's behavior and surrounding environmental information.2. Real-time, quantitative estimation of the degree of human stress in relation to a robot’s positionThrough the operation of robots and training AI with experimental results from stress surveys and robot movement data, NEC developed a unique predictive model that quantitatively estimates human stress levels based on the position, posture, and speed among humans and robots. This model enables real-time estimation of stress levels felt by individuals as robots approach them, tailored to each specific situation.Going forward, NEC will continue contributing to the creation of environments where humans and robots can collaborate safely through the implementation of Physical AI.(1) The amount of carbon dioxide absorbed and emitted between forests and the atmosphere.(2) Source: Verra, a nonprofit organization that operates standards in environmental and social markets. "VCS VM0012 Improved Forest Management in Temperate and Boreal Forests (LtPF)."About NECThe NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society. For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, March 11, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – March 9, Everest Medicines (1952.HK) announced the commercial launch of VELSIPITY(R) (etrasimod arginine tablets) in Mainland China, highlighted by the issuance of the first prescription at The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, marking a milestone in patient access in the region. According to reports, on the day the first prescription was issued in mainland China, VELSIPITY(R) was simultaneously prescribed in eight tertiary hospitals across seven key cities—Guangzhou, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Xi’an, Chongqing, Beijing, and Nanjing—achieving immediate coverage of patients in major regions nationwide on its launch day. The drug has also expanded patient access through internet hospital platforms. To date, patients at leading medical institutions, including the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University of the People's Liberation Army, Chongqing People’s Hospital, and Peking Union Medical College Hospital, have already benefited from the therapy.Notably, VELSIPITY(R) was approved for marketing by China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in February this year. The first prescription in mainland China was issued just one month later, marking a rollout significantly faster than the industry average. Industry observers believe this not only reflects the strong clinical demand for the product but also demonstrates Everest Medicines’ execution capabilities in the commercialization of innovative drugs.From a disease burden perspective, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is considered one of the fastest-growing gastrointestinal diseases worldwide. IBD mainly includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). In recent years, the number of patients in China has continued to increase, driven by changes in dietary patterns, shifts in lifestyle, and improvements in diagnostic capabilities. Several industry research institutions predict that China’s IBD treatment market could exceed RMB 10 billion by around 2030, with novel small-molecule innovative drugs expected to become one of the key drivers of market growth.From a clinical perspective, ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory bowel disease characterized by symptoms such as mucus and blood in the stool, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal tenesmus, which can significantly affect patients’ quality of life. In China, both the incidence and prevalence of UC are increasing, with a clear trend toward younger patients. The patient population is projected to grow from approximately 0.98 million in 2025 to about 1.50 million by 2031. As the disease remains incurable, patients require long-term management to maintain disease control.VELSIPITY(R) is a next-generation, highly selective S1P receptor modulator with best-in-disease potential and strong first-line treatment recommendations for moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) in both the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Clinical Practice Guideline and the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Clinical Guideline Update.Results from multiple global clinical studies have demonstrated that VELSIPITY(R) delivers meaningful clinical benefits, including rapid onset of action, long-lasting clinical remission, steroid-free remission, and deep mucosal healing, with a favorable safety profile. In the ENLIGHT UC study, the largest Asian multicenter Phase 3 clinical study, the clinical remission rate at week 40 of the maintenance period reached 48.1%, and the deep mucosal healing rate reached 51.9%, with an endoscopic mucosal normalization rate of 45.5%. These findings demonstrate VELSIPITY(R)'s potential to improve long-term disease outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse and disease progression.Results from the ELEVATE UC open-label extension demonstrate continuous treatment with VELSIPITY(R) for up to 3 years resulted in 86.8% of patients achieving a clinical response among the observed cases, with both clinical remission and mucosal healing rates maintained at approximately 60%. Safety data extending up to five years from the global clinical program further confirm that VELSIPITY(R) is well tolerated and maintains a favorable and stable safety profile.Prof. Chen Minhu, Academic Leader of the Department of Gastroenterology at The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, noted that with the first prescription now issued, VELSIPITY(R) is being incorporated into routine clinical practice, providing physicians with an innovative treatment option for patients living with UC who continue to face ongoing disease challenges.“Early achievement of mucosal healing is recognized as a key treatment goal, as it can significantly reduce rates of disease relapse, hospitalization, surgery, and the risk of progression to colorectal cancer. VELSIPITY(R) addresses this need by targeting intestinal inflammation at its source and promoting mucosal healing, while offering a favorable profile of efficacy and safety, along with the convenience of an oral, once-daily regimen, supporting sustained disease management and improving patients' quality of life,” said Mr. Rogers Yongqing Luo, Chief Executive Officer of Everest Medicines.In 2024 and 2025, VELSIPITY(R) was included in the Catalogues of Guangdong Province on Drugs and Medical Devices from Hong Kong and Macao in Urgent Clinical Use in Nine Mainland Municipalities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, making it available at designated hospitals across the region. Real-world data have shown that the efficacy and safety of VELSIPITY(R) are consistent with those observed in clinical trials.From a commercialization perspective, Everest Medicines has already demonstrated a mature and replicable capabilities through its core nephrology product NEFECON(R). As the world’s first and currently the only etiological treatment for IgA nephropathy (IgAN) to receive full approvals in China, the United States, and Europe, Nefecon(R) generated more than RMB 1 billion in sales in the first three quarters of 2025. The product has set a new benchmark for non-oncology therapies and has become one of the best-performing chronic disease drugs added to China’s national reimbursement list over the past decade.This achievement has validated the company’s platform for the commercialization of innovative medicines, centered on the integrated coordination of access, medical, marketing, and sales (A2MS) driven by scientific and commercial insights. It has also provided replicable systems and experience for the market expansion of future products. The rapid issuance of the first prescription for VELSIPITY(R) further demonstrates the efficiency of this platform. Leveraging the channel network and market access experience built through Nefecon(R), the product is expected to replicate a similar growth trajectory.From a market landscape perspective, China’s UC treatment market has long been dominated by traditional immunosuppressants and injectable biologics. However, these therapies present certain limitations, including lack of oral convenience and potential long-term safety risks. With its differentiated advantages, VELSIPITY(R) is widely viewed by the industry as having the potential to address this unmet need. Market expectations suggest that the drug could reach peak sales of RMB 5 billion, becoming a key driver of revenue growth for Everest Medicines.Everest Medicines stated that it plans to build a multi-channel market access framework, provide diversified patient assistance programs and innovative payment solutions, and actively pursue the inclusion of VELSIPITY(R) in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) to improve the drug’s accessibility and affordability. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

The University of Tokyo’s carbon cycle assessment model, VISIT, and NEC’s data assimilation technology calculate decarbonization effect in forests with greater efficiency and accuracy than conventional methodsTOKYO, Mar 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, and NEC have calculated carbon accumulation rates for Lambir Hills National Park in Malaysia based on observed removals data for greenhouse gases (GHG) utilizing the university’s VISIT (Vegetation Integrated SImulator for Trace gases) terrestrial ecosystem model.NEC’s data assimilation technology (patent pending) was used to correct data errors, and observed data was compared with simulated data in order to calculate carbon accumulation rates with a high degree of accuracy, achieving a daily margin of error of 9.4%.BackgroundNEC is promoting initiatives to quantify GHG removals in forests across Southeast Asia and to develop carbon credits in the forest sector. As part of these efforts, NEC has been conducting joint research with the Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences at The University of Tokyo, which developed the VISIT model, an ecosystem model with strengths estimating carbon stocks and fluxes (*1) in forests in the Asian region.The VISIT model estimates carbon stocks and fluxes based on forest vegetation, soil, and meteorological data. By combining VISIT with NEC’s data assimilation technology, exceptionally high-precision estimation of forest carbon accumulation rates has become possible.Data assimilation technology is a computational method that improves model accuracy by adjusting model parameters based on differences between model outputs and observed data. NEC’s data assimilation technology is designed to enhance the accuracy of carbon flux estimations for the future by linking VISIT with image data obtained from satellite-mounted sensors. A patent application has been filed by NEC for this technology.Key features of the VISIT modelThe VISIT model assesses carbon cycles in terrestrial ecosystems. In addition to enabling estimation of carbon stocks and fluxes using vegetation, soil, and meteorological data, the model can also assess the impacts of land-use changes and climate change. VISIT is particularly well suited for improving accuracy based on observed data and is regarded as highly reliable compared with other similar models.Furthermore, the VISIT model is applicable to forests across Asia, including Japan. The methodologies recommended by the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), the world’s largest voluntary carbon crediting program, primarily reference models developed for Europe and North America and have not specified models tailored to Asian regions (*2). This joint research utilizing the VISIT model is expected to make important contributions to the advancement of forest carbon credit development in Asia.Key features of data assimilationData assimilation is a computational method that improves the accuracy of model estimation by correcting model parameters based on differences between model outputs and observed data. The NEC data assimilation technology used in this joint research has the potential, in the future, to enhance the accuracy of carbon flux estimation by linking the VISIT model with satellite-mounted hyperspectral sensors. A patent application has been filed by NEC for this technology.Currently, the application of data assimilation technology to observational models in the forestry field is not widespread. By applying this technology to the VISIT model, more efficient and highly accurate data collection in forest environments becomes possible, contributing to the advancement of forest conservation initiatives.Building on the findings obtained through this joint research, NEC will accelerate its initiatives in natural capital accounting and carbon credit development.(1) The amount of carbon dioxide absorbed and emitted between forests and the atmosphere.(2) Source: Verra, a nonprofit organization that operates standards in environmental and social markets. About NECThe NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society.For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com, Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com