QIONGHAI, China, March 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Sub-forum on Religious Harmony and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations took place at the BFA (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 on March 28. The sub-forum focused on the theme “Countless Dharma Doors Converge in a Square Inch: A Discussion on the Future of Digitization Project of Buddhist Scriptures.” The gathering brought together 12 eminent monks and cultural researchers from six countries and regions to explore the current state and future of digitizing Buddhist scriptures. Chaired by Venerable Master Yin Shun, Vice President of the Buddhist Association of China, and President of the Buddhist Association of Hainan Province, the event aimed to advance the preservation and development of Buddhist culture through international collaboration.

BFA’s Decade of Progress: A Solid Foundation for the Future

Yin Shun, reflecting on the ten-year journey of the BFA Religious Sub-forum, noted its steadfast commitment to the foundational goal of building a global community united by a common destiny. The sub-forum has been instrumental in promoting religious harmony and fostering cross-cultural dialogues, while also enhancing international cooperation in the fundamental domains of religion, culture, education, philanthropy, and healthcare. A notable achievement of the sub-forum has been in the area of digital preservation and accessibility of Buddhist teachings. It has effectively used digital technology to compile the Encyclopedic Dictionary of Chinese Buddhist Terms and has facilitated the digital translation of Buddhist classics across the economically important Pan-South China Sea region. Furthermore, it has proposed initiatives to raise the digitization of these texts as a major national concern. The South China Sea Buddhist Academy, China’s premier international Buddhist educational platform targeting Southeast Asia, has made significant contributions by educating 106 international students from several nations, most notably from Laos, Mongolia, Cambodia, and Nepal, and, by doing so, playing a crucial role in the international effort to digitize Buddhist scriptures.

Digital Empowerment: Advocating for the Chinese Adaptation of Buddhism

Ven. Guang Quan, Deputy Secretary General of the Buddhist Association of China and President of the Buddhist Association of Zhejiang Province, noted the crucial role of digitizing Chinese Buddhist scriptures in enhancing the international dissemination of Buddhist culture. He highlighted the accomplishments of Hangzhou Lingyin Temple in this area, including the development of an AI-based OCR engine for ancient books, production and tool platforms for digitizing ancient books, and a Buddhist scriptures reading hub. Building on these advancements, efforts are underway to digitize Buddhist canons, citing, in particular, the Jingshan Canon, the Yongle Northern Canon and the Siji Canon. Guang Quan’s initiatives aim to further the interconnection of civilizations through digital technology, breathing new life into Asian Buddhist wisdom in the digital realm.

Bhikshu HUIMIN, President, Comprehensive Buddhist Electronic Text Archive Foundation (CBETA) Taiwan, China, reflected on the establishment of the Electronic Buddhist Text Initiative (EBTI). He provided an overview of the current status of global Buddhist text digitization, highlighting its evolution from digital archives (DA) to digital humanities (DH). Additionally, he unveiled the groundbreaking concept of Artificial Intelligence and Brain-Computer Interface (AI – BCI) for the digitization of Buddhist culture. He stressed that the transition of Buddhism from traditional scriptures to cloud-based platforms represents not only the future of Buddhism but also a new civilization where mindfulness and technology merge.

Hong Xiang, Research Assistant at the Centre of Buddhist Studies, The University of Hong Kong, highlighted the transformative impact of digital technology on the collation and proofreading of the Dunhuang manuscripts, starting from the digitization project. He noted that the preservation of the Dunhuang manuscripts, which embody the essence of a multi-faceted and symbiotic civilization, demands interdisciplinary collaboration. Moreover, he advocated for global resource sharing in the digitization of Buddhist scriptures.

Zhu Cuiping, Editor-in-Chief of Zhonghua Book Company GuLian (Beijing) Digital Media Tech Co., Ltd, China, pointed out that the digitization of Buddhist scriptures is an enormous undertaking that requires a collaborative effort among the government, religious organizations, universities, research institutes, and publishing entities. She called for the initiation of a global initiative to compile Buddhist literature to drive the worldwide project of digitizing Buddhist scriptures.

International Cooperation: Jointly Advancing the Global Digitization Project of Buddhist Scriptures

The sub-forum placed particular emphasis on the contributions of Japanese and Korean Buddhism to the digitization of Buddhist scriptures. KAWANAKA KOKYO, Director-General of Administration of Jodoshu, Japan, presented the “Digitization of Zōjō-ji’s Three Great Buddhist Canons” project. He urged all parties to collaborate in furthering the global effort to digitize Buddhist scriptures, with the aim of fostering a more peaceful and harmonious future for humanity.

JONG-RIM, Honorary Chairman of Tripitaka Koreana Research Institute, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, shared insights from the digitization efforts of the Tripitaka Koreana at Haeinsa Temple in Korea. He proposed the future goal of completing a comprehensive Tripitaka and developing a dictionary of concepts and terms utilizing digital technology.

South China Sea Buddhist Friendship Circle: Fostering Digital Connections

The sub-forum highlighted the role of the South China Sea Buddhist Friendship Circle in the digitization of Buddhist scriptures. Ven. PHRAPROMMASITH (Thongchai Sukkayano) Supreme Patriarchs, elaborated on Thailand’s experience in safeguarding Buddhist cultural heritage. He urged international cooperation to facilitate the digitization of Buddhist scriptures, aiming to provide convenient access to anyone anywhere with an interest in reading and better understanding the Dharma.

SANDI MARBHIVAMSA, Chairman of Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, Myanmar, and Ven. (Dr.) KIRINDE ASSAJI, Chief Prelate (Malwatta Chapter) Sanghanayaka of Sri Lanka’s Western Province, provided insights into the current state of Buddhism in their respective countries and the advancements made in the digitization of Buddhist scriptures. They both expressed a strong willingness to collaborate with Buddhist communities from other nations in these endeavors.

Looking to the Future: Consultation, Collaboration, and Sharing

Ven. YAN JUE, President of the Buddhist Association of China, concluded by emphasizing that Buddhist scriptures represent a shared cultural heritage of humanity. He noted that their digitization presents not only a technical challenge but also a cultural mission. He also underscored the commitment of the Chinese Buddhist community to the global governance principles of consultation, collaboration, and sharing. By partnering with Buddhist and academic communities worldwide, they aim to advance the digitization of Buddhist texts, share the outcomes of these efforts, and further disseminate the teachings and scriptures of Buddhism.

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SOURCE The Buddhist Association of Hainan Province

Preliminary data from Cohort 4 of the ENSURE study supports a novel enrichment strategy to utilize BRII-179 to identify patients who are immune responders and have the potential to achieve higher HBsAg loss at EOT48-week EOT data from Cohort 1-3 of the ENSURE study clearly suggests the added benefits of elebsiran towards achieving a higher rate of HBsAg loss in combination with PEG-IFNα

DURHAM, N.C. and BEIJING, China, March 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Brii Biosciences Limited (“Brii Bio,” or the “Company”, stock code: 2137.HK), a biotechnology company developing therapies to improve patient health and choice across diseases with high unmet medical needs, announced new data from its ongoing Phase 2 ENSURE study as a late-breaking oral presentation at the 34th Annual Meeting of Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL 2025) in Beijing, China.

ENSURE (NCT05970289) is a multicenter, open-label Phase 2 study. Cohorts 1-3 were designed to evaluate the contribution of elebsiran, an investigational small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA), in combination with pegylated interferon alpha (PEG-IFNα) in participants with chronic HBV infection with baseline hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) of 100-3,000 IU/mL. Participants who completed 9 doses of BRII-179, a recombinant protein-based therapeutic vaccine, in combination with elebsiran (BRII-835) in a previous APAC study BRII-179-835-001 (NCT04749368) were enrolled to Cohort 4 of this study and received elebsiran and PEG-IFNα combination treatment. The design of Cohort 4 as part of this study was based on insight from previous studies that a significant proportion of the chronic HBV patients fail to generate a sufficient immune response after receiving multiple doses of BRII-179, and therefore unlikely to have the immune support to achieve sustainable functional cure.

Emerging data from Cohort 4 showed that participants who previously had BRII-179 induced anti-HBs response achieved a substantially higher rate of HBsAg seroclearance than those who did not. At Week 24, more than half of the BRII-179 responders (55.6% [10/18]) achieved HBsAg seroclearance, compared to only 10.0% (1/10) in non-responders. These latest data suggest that BRII-179 can serve as a predictive tool for enriching patients more likely to respond to curative therapies.

Additional data from Cohorts 1-3 of the ENSURE study showed that higher end of treatment (EOT) HBsAg loss and seroconversion rates in participants receiving elebsiran in combination with PEG-IFNα than those receiving PEG-IFNα alone.  

“The positive Cohort 4 data from the ENSURE study opens new doors for HBV functional cure,” said Dr. Grace Lai-Hung Wong, Professor of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at CUHK Medical Data Analytics Centre (MDAC) and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics in Hong Kong SAR, China. “Previous studies have suggested that BRII-179 may offer a unique opportunity to identify CHB patients who are able to elicit the necessary HBsAg antibody response. I believe these new findings provide clear evidence supporting such value proposition and further substantiate the role of BRII-179 in shaping future combination therapies.”

“We are encouraged that the Cohort 4 from the ENSURE study continue to support our enrichment strategy in developing a functional cure for chronic HBV in target populations,” said David Margolis, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Brii Bio. “The results underscore the potential of BRII-179 in identifying patients who are more likely to respond to regimens aimed at functional cure, thereby enhancing functional cure rates in the target population while reducing exposure to costly therapies for those with a lower probability of cure. We are committed to advancing BRII-179 in combination with various modalities through our ongoing studies and collaborations with strategic partners, aiming to deliver higher functional cure rates to 254 million patients worldwide living with chronic HBV infection.”

Abstract Number: OP0335

Presentation Title: Responders to Prior BRII-179 Treatment Achieved Faster and Higher Rate of HBsAg Seroclearance Following Treatment of Elebsiran and PEG-IFNα in Participants with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Preliminary Data from ENSURE Study

Presenter: Grace Lai-Hung Wong, MBChB (CUHK), MD (CUHK), FRCP (Lond, Edin), FHKCP, FHKAM (Medicine), Professor of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at CUHK Medical Data Analytics Centre (MDAC) and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics in Hong Kong SAR, China

Among the 28 of the 31 participants enrolled in Cohort 4 with baseline HBsAg ≥ 100 IU/mL being analyzed, 18 participants with peak anti-HBs ≥ 10 IU/L induced by prior BRII-179 treatment were defined as BRII-179 responders and 10 participants with peak anti-HBs < 10 IU/L were defined as non-responders.At Week 24 of treatment with elebsiran + PEG-IFNα, 39.3% (11/28) of the Cohort 4 participants achieved HBsAg seroclearance.The rate of HBsAg seroclearance at Week 24 in the BRII-179 responders was 55.6% (10/18), notably higher compared to the non-responders at 10% (1/10).Responders to prior BRII-179 treatment appeared to achieve a faster HBsAg seroclearance compared to BRII-179 naïve participants receiving elebsiran + PEG-IFNα as previously reported.Elebsiran and PEG-IFNα combination therapy was generally safe and well tolerated in participants with virally suppressed chronic HBV infection.Treatment with elebsiran + PEG-IFNα is ongoing for 48 weeks.

Abstract Number: LB0009

Presentation Title: Higher end of treatment (EOT) HBsAg loss and seroconversion rates in participants with chronic HBV infection receiving elebsiran (BRII-835) and pegylated interferon alfa-2a (PEG-IFNα) compared to PEG-IFNα alone: Week 48 results from ongoing ENSURE study

Presenter: Jidong Jia, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Medicine at the Liver Research Centre, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University in Beijing, China

The rates of HBsAg seroclearance at EOT in elebsiran 200 mg + PEG-IFNα and elebsiran 100 mg + PEG-IFNα cohorts were 26.3% (5/19) and 33.3% (6/18), respectively, notably higher compared to PEG-IFNα alone cohort (5.6%) in participants with baseline HBsAg levels 100-3,000 IU/mL.Greater HBsAg reductions at EOT were observed in elebsiran + PEG-IFNα combination cohorts (mean [SE]: -2.47 [0.28] or -3.01 [0.28] log10 IU/mL in elebsiran 200 mg or 100 mg, respectively) than in PEG-IFNα cohort (-1.02 [0.30] log10 IU/mL).Elebsiran in combination with PEG-IFNα at both 200 mg and 100 mg doses achieved similar HBsAg reductions and seroclearance rates. Elebsiran and PEG-IFNα combination therapy was generally safe and well tolerated in participants with virally suppressed chronic HBV infection.Post-treatment follow-up is ongoing and will continue for 24 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.

As part of Brii Bio’s unique approach to developing a functional cure for HBV, the Company and its partners are actively progressing multiple combination studies with our differentiated portfolio, including BRII-179, a recombinant protein-based HBV immunotherapeutic being evaluated in multiple combination studies with elebsiran led by Brii Bio; elebsiran being evaluated in combination with PEG-IFNα  in studies led by Brii Bio and tobevibart, an investigational broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody targeting HBV, being evaluated  in multiple Phase 2 and 3 tobevibart and elebsiran combination studies led by Vir Biotechnology. Key data readouts will be shared in the coming months at the scientific conferences throughout 2025.

About Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the world’s most significant infectious disease threats with more than 254 million people infected globally.[1] Chronic HBV infection is the leading cause of liver disease and an estimated 820,000 people die of complications from chronic HBV infection each year.[1] HBV is of exceptional concern in China, where 87 million people are chronically infected.[2]

About BRII-179

BRII-179 is a novel recombinant protein-based HBV immunotherapeutic candidate that expresses the Pre-S1, Pre-S2, and S HBV surface antigens, and is designed to induce enhanced and broad B-cell and T-cell immunity. In November 2023, the Center for Drug Evaluation (the “CDE”) of the National Medical Products Administration (the “NMPA”) granted BRII-179 Breakthrough Therapy Designation.

About Elebsiran (BRII-835, VIR-2218)

Elebsiran is an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-targeting siRNA designed to degrade hepatitis B virus RNA transcripts and limit the production of hepatitis B surface antigen. It has the potential to have direct antiviral activity against HBV and HDV. It is the first siRNA in the clinic to include Enhanced Stabilization Chemistry Plus technology to enhance stability and minimize off-target activity, which potentially can result in an increased therapeutic index. Brii Bio licensed exclusive rights to develop and commercialize elebsiran for the Greater China territory from Vir Biotechnology, Inc. in 2020.

About Brii Bio

Brii Biosciences Limited (“Brii Bio“, stock code: 2137.HK) is a biotechnology company developing therapies to address major public health challenges where patients experience high unmet medical needs, limited choice and significant social stigmas. With a focus on infectious diseases, the Company is advancing a broad pipeline of unique therapeutic candidates with lead programs against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The Company is led by a visionary and experienced leadership team and has operations in key biotech hubs, including Raleigh-Durham, the San Francisco Bay Area, Beijing and Shanghai. For more information, visit www.briibio.com.

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SOURCE Brii Biosciences Limited

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, March 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Anker Innovations, a global leader in mobile charging and consumer electronics, is redefining the boundaries of innovation with its latest campaign, Charge Up, SEA!—an electrifying fusion of augmented reality (AR) and computer-generated imagery (CGI) set to energize Southeast Asia. These experiences allow users to interact with technology and explore the future of charging, reinforcing Anker’s leadership in global innovation.

“At Anker, our mission is to ignite possibilities through ultimate innovation,” said Leon Wu, General Manager of Southeast Asia at Anker Innovations. “We’ve not only created products that lead the industry in performance but also ones that fundamentally change the way people engage with power. This campaign reflects our vision of an interconnected world where innovation enhances the everyday lives of Southeast Asia consumers.”

Revolutionizing Charging with Anker

At the core of Charge Up, SEA! is Anker’s most advanced charging lineup to date, the Anker Prime Series. This revolutionary series redefines multi-device fast charging, offering a powerful, intelligent, and interactive solution that transforms what was once a passive task into an engaging experience. Designed with extensive user insights, the Anker Prime Series is engineered to be the ultimate power source for today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, empowering users with speed, efficiency, and innovation.

This innovation powers Charge Up, SEA!, an AR-driven journey that brings Anker’s cutting-edge technology to life by “charging” iconic landmarks across Southeast Asia. The visual narrative of the campaign showcases Anker Prime chargers energizing these landmarks, reflecting the brand’s commitment to efficient and intelligent charging solutions. Through advanced AR technology, Anker’s innovations seamlessly integrate into the cityscapes, reinforcing its position as the leader in next-generation charging while reshaping how users experience power in an increasingly connected world.

Lights Up the City’s landmark with Ultimate Innovation

Starting February 27, “Charge Up, SEA!” will light up five countries—Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam—through immersive digital storytelling and interactive experiences. In Singapore and Malaysia, users will have the exclusive opportunity to experience Anker’s AR world in person at key landmarks, while all five countries will engage with high-quality CGI videos that bring Anker Prime to life. These experiences allow users to interact with technology and explore the future of charging, reinforcing Anker’s leadership in global innovation.

For the Charge Up, SEA! campaign, Anker will launch a futuristic CGI video in Vietnam. The creative concept features the supertall Landmark 81 skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City as a physical backdrop, seamlessly integrating Anker’s innovative technology with local culture, resulting in a visually striking fusion of cutting-edge technology and heritage.

In this CGI video, Anker innovatively creates a stunning virtual space, with the Anker 30W Zolo Charger acting as the key to unlock this realm. The charger powers up the Landmark 81, and thanks to its outstanding temperature control, the space is immediately enveloped in polar ice and snow. This transformation sparks an innovative interaction between the landmark and the virtual world. To further energize the virtual space, the Anker 25,000mAh 165W Power Bank, the Anker 140W Charger, and the Anker Prime 250W GaN Desktop Charger deliver a continuous flow of high-speed power, keeping the experience alive.

Engaging with the dynamic world, consumers will witness how Anker’s advanced charging technology seamlessly integrates into this digital universe, providing a truly futuristic experience and a glimpse into the future of connected, intelligent charging.

Powering the Future with Limitless Possibilities

As a global pioneer in charging technologies, Anker consistently integrates user feedback and cutting-edge research to drive its innovation. With its innovations, Anker offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable, efficient power that is both portable and powerful—ideal for the modern, always-connected consumer.

As Anker expands its presence in Southeast Asia, the Charge Up, SEA! campaign reaffirms its commitment to pioneering innovation and user-centered design. By merging cutting-edge digital experiences with state-of-the-art charging technology, Anker is not just powering devices—it’s reshaping how consumers connect with the future.

Anker invites consumers across Southeast Asia to experience the next generation of charging—where every city, every device, and every moment is powered by limitless possibilities.

About Anker

Anker is the world’s #1 mobile charging brand and a developer of high-speed charging technologies for the home, car, and on the go. This includes wall plugs, wireless chargers, car chargers, power banks, cables, and more. Find out more about Anker at anker.com.

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SOURCE Anker Innovations