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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has experienced a year of achievements across its three Centres of Excellence—Oncology, Genomics, and Transplantation.

KFSH&RC’s Oncology Centre of Excellence continues to lead the fight against the disease in the Kingdom. This year alone, the centre has treated 25% of all cancer cases in Saudi Arabia, achieving a 50% overall recovery rate and up to 90% recovery in leukemia cases. With almost five decades of service, the centre’s commitment to providing advanced cancer treatments is evident in its adoption of technologies such as CAR T-cell therapy and liquid biopsy, which provide less invasive alternatives to traditional methods, along with extensive bone marrow transplants, and revolutionary techniques like Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC).

Notably, KFSH&RC has achieved a milestone by completing over 100 CAR T-cell therapy procedures, a novel treatment that genetically modifies a patient’s immune cells to fight cancer. This achievement puts it on par with renowned institutions that are also advancing CAR-T cell therapy for various blood cancers and exploring expanded applications through clinical trials and new treatment protocols. Furthermore, the centre’s focus on pediatric oncology boasts a 97% five-year survival rate for renal tumors and a 92% survival rate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children.

With rapid advancements in genomic medicine, KFSH&RC is adopting next-generation sequencing technologies into patient care in its Genomic Centre, revolutionizing local and regional approaches to disease management. KFSH&RC’s discovery of the bacterial strain Stenotrophomonas Riyadhensis, facilitated by whole-genome sequencing (WGS) technology, has contributed to our understanding of bacterial antibiotic resistance mechanisms. With 15,698 patient visits and over 5,658 whole genomes completed in 2023, the centre ensures that prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are precise and personalized.

KFSH&RC’s Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (OTCoE) continues to be the primary contributor to organ transplantation activities in the Kingdom, accounting for 65% of all transplants performed nationally. In 2023, OTCoE performed 1,092 solid organ transplants, including the world’s first fully robotic liver transplant— where doctors employed robotic technology to conduct surgery on both patient and donor — an achievement that places the centre at the forefront of global transplantation practices.

As KFSH&RC continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in medical science, its efforts not only inspire but also significantly impact the global healthcare community, reaffirming its role as a leader in medical innovation and specialized healthcare.

About King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC):

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) stands as a leading healthcare institution in the Middle East, envisioned to be the optimal choice for every patient seeking specialized healthcare. The hospital boasts a rich history in the treatment of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, organ transplantation, neurosciences, and genetics.

In 2024, “Brand Finance” ranked King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre as the top academic medical centre in the Middle East and Africa, and among the top 20 globally for the second consecutive year. Additionally, in 2024, it was recognized as one of the leading global healthcare providers by Newsweek magazine.

As part of Saudi Vision 2030, a royal decree was issued on December 21, 2021, to transform the hospital into an independent, non-profit, government-owned entity, paving the way for a comprehensive transformation program aimed at achieving global leadership in healthcare through excellence and innovation.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Essam Al-Zahrani, Acting Media Affairs Head, 0555254429

Mr. Abdullah Al-Aown, Media Coordination Officer, 0556294232

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e99afd2f-d5c6-400e-9290-26b36a580bee

SOURCE: King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre

–BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Bernama) — The Guangzhou Opera House has welcomed nearly 200 international guests for the revival of the opera “Marco Polo” on May 3 and 4.

According to a statement, this three-act opera in Chinese melds a rich historical narrative with the enduring friendship between China and Italy, providing a unique cultural experience for both Chinese and international audiences.

“The extensive histories and cultural heritages of China and Italy enrich our cooperation, strengthening the bonds between our peoples,” said Italian Consul General in Guangzhou, Valerio De Parolis.

Marco Polo, the renowned 13th-century Italian explorer, chronicled his travels in China in the book “The Travels of Marco Polo”, igniting the first “China fever” in the West, in which this opera exemplifies East-West collaboration, integrating Chinese and Western cultural elements seamlessly.

Premiered in 2018 at the same venue, the production featured a globally diverse team, with Chinese poet Wei Jin as scriptwriter and President of the German Composers Association DKV, Enjott Schneider as composer.

Directed by former Director of Opera at the London Royal Opera House, Kasper Holten, the opera has toured from Quanzhou to Italy, earning international praise.

This revival marks the 20th anniversary of the China-Italy Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the 700th death anniversary of Marco Polo.

The prelude event, titled “Sharing Salon to An Encounter with Marco Polo”, held on May 4 drew nearly 200 delegates from 29 countries, including representatives from consulates and chambers of commerce, to engage in discussions on Sino-foreign cultural exchanges.

The salon featured “Marco Polo’s Reverie” by Italian painter Sandro Trotti and works by Guangdong artist Wang Shaoqiang, who is participating in La Biennale di Venezia, with discussions highlighted Marco Polo’s impact and the broader scope of China-Italy cooperation.

— BERNAMA

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 3 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KFSH&RC tops the healthcare sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, recognizing it as the most valuable healthcare brand in these regions for the second year. According to the 2024 Brand Finance reports, it placed 9^th in Saudi Arabia and 28^th in the Middle East. Additionally, KFSH&RC stands out as the only hospital worldwide to be ranked among its country’s top ten most valuable brands.

The Brand Finance Report shows that KFSH&RC brand value increased by 31%, exceeding 5.6 billion Saudi Riyals, equivalent to USD 1.5 billion. This increase is the result of the hospital’s unwavering commitment to incorporating the latest medical technologies and treatments and providing specialized medical care that adheres to the latest international standards.

Reflecting on KFSH&RC’s global recognition, Mr. Muhannad Kadi, the Chief Corporate Communications & Marketing Officer, commented, “This accomplishment underscores the hospital’s dedication to achieving the highest quality standards and providing outstanding healthcare, as well as the significant value it delivers to its beneficiaries.” He emphasized that the hospital’s position among the top ten most valuable brands in Saudi Arabia not only highlights its effectiveness but also the positive impact of the ongoing transformations within the Kingdom’s healthcare sector.

Over the past year, KFSH&RC has achieved several notable milestones that have significantly contributed to its brand strength and reputation. These include conducting four ground-breaking experiments in space medicine, performing the World’s first fully robotic liver transplant, and launching a rapid whole genome sequencing analysis service available to all beneficiaries. Furthermore, KFSH&RC celebrated the successful treatment of 100 T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia patients, a testament to our advanced medical capabilities and dedication to patient care.

In line with Saudi Vision 2030 and its transformation programs, initiated by His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister—which aim to enhance the Kingdom’s global position and establish it as a healthcare hub—KFSH&RC has been ranked as the top Academic Medical Centre in the Middle East and Africa. It also secured the 20th spot globally for two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, according to Brand Finance’s Global Top 250 Hospitals report. Additionally, it has been ranked among the top 250 Best Hospitals in the World by Newsweek Magazine.

For more information please contact:

Mr. Essam Al-Zahrani, Acting Media Affairs Head, 0555254429

Mr. Abdullah Alown, Senior Media Affairs Editor, 0556294232

Source: King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre

–BERNAMA

MALAYSIA, May 2, 2024/Maverick-AsiaNet/–

Malaysia (May 2, 2024) – Riot Games and VALORANT today revealed Mystbloom, a brand new skinline inspired by the spring festival in Japan and the blooming of Sakura during that season. Featuring an ethereal and magical thematic, weapons included in the Mystbloom Skinline are the Phantom, Sheriff, Judge, Operator and Mystbloom Kunai.

With Mystbloom, players will experience flowers blooming on weapons as they’re equipped and petal effects surrounding the weapon. Upon inspection, zen and serene moments are created with the skinline’s thematic shining through visuals and music. Mystbloom will also feature a unique looping inspect animation for the Kunai, as well as finishers that spawn an ethereal garden around the player. Color variants for Mystbloom are inspired by seasons (Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter), which applies to the weapons and finishers.

Episode 8 Act III also brings an all new Battle Pass, featuring items like the Epilogue: Mini Mecha Gun Buddy, Comet Sword and Wingman Wiggle Spray.

Episode 8 Act III begins April 30, 2024.
A press kit containing visual assets, a fact sheet, and a quote sheet for Valorant Mystbloom Skinline is available here and information about the company can be found here. 

Source: Riot Games and VALORANT

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48492

KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 (Bernama) — Nippon Express Holdings Inc has acquired a stake in KINS Co Ltd (KINS), which provides comprehensive microbiome care services, as an NX Global Innovation Fund project.

A startup company, KINS proposes to care for the resident microbiota on and within the human body, as well as conduct research, development, and sales in an integrated manner.

According to a statement, the company also has its own laboratory where it accumulates and analyses data provided by users on resident skin, scalp, and intestinal microbiota to aid in the development of various products.

With this investment, the Nippon Express (NX) Group will consider utilising the cell and specimen storage service offered by NX Wanbishi Archives Co Ltd, in the microbiome bank operated by KINS, and providing end-to-end transport of specimens from overseas clinics to laboratories and storage facilities in Japan.

The NX Group’s comprehensive capabilities will be leveraged to support KINS’ business expansion from a logistics perspective and create new business opportunities by expanding awareness of KINS within the healthcare industry, identified by the group as a priority industry.

It will continue addressing social issues through business co-creation with startup companies in Japan and overseas and helping put in place sustainable societies where all people can lead affluent and fulfilling lives.

The NX Group is working to enhance its corporate value and solve social issues to realise its long-term vision of becoming a “logistics company with a strong presence in the global marketplace”.

— BERNAMA