Technology

IDEXX Expands Test Menu for the Catalyst Platform to Support Veterinarians Globally in Diagnosing Pancreatitis

Published

2 years ago

June 4, 2024

The launch of the Catalyst® Pancreatic Lipase Test demonstrates IDEXX’s Technology for Life strategy and will provide veterinarians with quantitative results at the point-of-care in less than 10 minutes

WESTBROOK, Maine, June 4, 2024 /CNW/ — IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), a global leader in pet healthcare innovation, announces the launch of the Catalyst® Pancreatic Lipase Test, a single-slide solution for canine and feline patients suspected of pancreatitis. With the innovative load-and-go workflow of the Catalyst analyzers, the test can run effortlessly alongside chemistry profiles, leading to a faster path to diagnosis and enhanced patient outcomes. The Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test will be available in the U.S. and Canada this September, with a global rollout to the over 70,000 Catalyst installed base planned to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Pancreatitis is a common disease among cats and dogs, and while treatable, it can prove fatal if not caught early. Diagnosing pancreatitis can be difficult due to its nonspecific symptoms and subtle clinical signs, including vomiting and weight loss, which are among the 10 most frequently recorded clinical signs in primary care clinics.1 Now, with the Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test, veterinarians can receive quantitative results in under 10 minutes. By delivering quantitative diagnostic insights during the patient visit, the new test empowers veterinarians to confidently confirm or rule out pancreatitis and immediately begin treatment, saving crucial time and improving patient outcomes.

“The Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test marks the tenth menu addition launched for the Catalyst platform since 2012, reinforcing our commitment to extend the clinical value and diagnostic capabilities of our technologies,” said Jay Mazelsky, President and Chief Executive Officer of IDEXX. “We are pleased to deliver a highly requested test, which will streamline the diagnostic workflow and equip veterinarians with the necessary clinical insights for prompt action.”

The Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test, coupled with VetConnect® PLUS software, provides a critical solution for the long-term management of pancreatitis patients due to the chronic nature of the disease. VetConnect PLUS allows for seamless integration of historical data and test results, enabling efficient patient progress evaluation and treatment response.

“The Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test is the first test to use dry chemistry slide technology that specifically measures pancreatic lipase and correlates with the IDEXX Reference Laboratories Spec cPL® and Spec fPL® tests* to provide the most accurate, quantitative results patient-side for dogs and cats,” said Jörg M. Steiner, Dr.med.vet., PhD, DACVIM-SA, DECVIM-CA, AGAF, Texas A&M University.†

New Catalyst SmartQC Control
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Catalyst platform will be further enhanced with the launch of the Catalyst® SmartQC® Control, a load-and-go quality control testing system that is 90% faster than current methods.2 The Catalyst SmartQC Control offers an intuitive workflow that takes less than 15 minutes, ensuring quality control is run consistently without compromising staff productivity. These enhancements will be delivered through IDEXX SmartService™ Solutions, a cloud-based software that supports in-house instruments and powers seamless upgrades for new tests and features.

Please visit idexx.com for more information on the Catalyst Pancreatic Lipase Test and Catalyst SmartQC Control.

About IDEXX
IDEXX is a global leader in pet healthcare innovation. Our diagnostic and software products and services create clarity in the complex, constantly evolving world of veterinary medicine. We support longer, fuller lives for pets by delivering insights and solutions that help the veterinary community around the world make confident decisions—to advance medical care, improve efficiency, and build thriving practices. Our innovations also help ensure the safety of milk and water across the world and maintain the health and well-being of people and livestock. IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a member of the S&P 500® Index. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX employs approximately 11,000 people and offers solutions and products to customers in more than 175 countries and territories. For more information about IDEXX, visit: www.idexx.com.

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains or may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “expects,” “may,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “would,” “will,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “should,” “project,” and similar words and expressions. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide our current expectations or forecasts of future events; are based on current estimates, projections, beliefs, and assumptions; and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such forward-looking statements because actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied. The reports filed by IDEXX pursuant to United States securities laws contain discussions of some of these risks and uncertainties. IDEXX assumes no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers are advised to review IDEXX’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (which are available from the SEC’s EDGAR database at sec.gov and via IDEXX’s website at idexx.com).

1Robinson NJ, Dean RS, Cobb M, Brennan ML. Investigating common clinical presentations in first opinion small animal consultations using direct observation. Vet Rec. 2015;176(18):463. doi:10.1136/vr.102751
*The Spec cPL Test for dogs and the Spec fPL Test for cats measure the level of pancreas-specific lipase in the blood: www.idexx.com/en/veterinary/reference-laboratories/pancreatic-health.
†Dr. Steiner has received compensation from time to time for consulting services he has provided to IDEXX.
2Data on file at IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, Maine USA.

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SOURCE IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Technology

Meridian Singapore Immigration Launches New Website to Simplify the PR Application Journey for Foreigners in Singapore

Published

3 hours ago

April 30, 2026

New online platform provides clear, structured guidance for Employment Pass and S Pass holders navigating Singapore’s residency and Permanent Residency pathways

SINGAPORE, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Meridian Singapore Immigration Pte. Ltd. has officially launched its new website at meridianimmigration.sg, a resource built specifically for foreigners living and working in Singapore who are exploring Permanent Residency or long-term residency options.

The platform arrives at a time when Singapore’s expatriate and foreign professional community is growing rapidly, yet many EP and S Pass holders report struggling to find clear, reliable information on the PR application process. Singapore’s immigration framework is among the most structured in Southeast Asia, with eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and submission windows that change frequently. For individuals navigating this process without professional guidance, the stakes are high and the margin for error is narrow.

Meridian’s website was built to address that gap directly. The platform offers detailed explanations of available immigration pathways, structured consultation options, and educational resources developed by the firm’s team of immigration specialists. Rather than presenting a services catalogue, the site walks users through the considerations relevant to their specific situation, whether they hold an Employment Pass, S Pass, or are planning for their family’s long-term residency in Singapore.

“We built this platform because we saw how overwhelming and confusing the immigration process can be for people who genuinely want to build their lives here,” said a spokesperson for Meridian Singapore Immigration. “Our goal is to be the trusted partner that walks them through every step with clarity and integrity.”

Singapore’s continued attractiveness as a regional hub for multinational corporations, financial institutions, and technology firms means the pipeline of foreigners seeking long-term residency options remains substantial. At the same time, the ICA’s PR application framework has grown more nuanced, with factors such as economic contributions, family ties, and community integration weighed during assessment. Applicants who proceed without a clear understanding of these criteria often submit applications that are either premature or structurally incomplete.

Meridian’s approach centres on preparation and transparency, helping applicants understand where they stand before they apply and what supporting documentation strengthens their case.

Meridian Singapore Immigration Pte. Ltd. is a professional immigration consultancy dedicated to guiding individuals and families through Singapore’s immigration process. Specialising in Permanent Residency (PR) applications, residency pathways, and compliance support, Meridian offers clear, structured solutions tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Founded on the values of Guidance, Integrity, and Success, Meridian is committed to making immigration simple, transparent, and accessible for everyone. For more information, visit meridianimmigration.sg or contact info@meridianimmigration.sg / +65 8873 1113.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/meridian-singapore-immigration-launches-new-website-to-simplify-the-pr-application-journey-for-foreigners-in-singapore-302757392.html

SOURCE Meridian Singapore Immigration Pte. Ltd.

Technology

Socomec, Daitron team up to meet Japan’s growing power demands

Published

3 hours ago

April 30, 2026

TOKYO, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Socomec, a century-old electrical group specialising in mission-critical energy, and Japan’s Daitron, an electronics components distributor, have signed a partnership to deliver power conversion solutions and service backup power and electrical-switching systems across Japan.

The deal combines Socomec’s equipment with Daitron’s on-the-ground engineering team, which has more than 74 years of experience in the Japanese market. The two companies will handle everything from project delivery to ongoing maintenance and spare parts.

The partnership covers three product areas: uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), which keep facilities running during outages; power conversion systems, which ensure the availability and continuity of high-quality energy; and static transfer switches, which automatically reroute power loads between sources without interruption.

Beyond equipment sales, the agreement includes training, spare parts, long-term service contracts and a full range of expert services covering prevention, measurement and analysis, consultancy, deployment and optimisation. Socomec will provide product and technical training to Daitron’s team, while Daitron handles installation, servicing and day-to-day client support in Japan.

The target market spans data centres, semiconductor plants, industrial facilities, hospitals and green buildings, all areas where even brief power interruptions can prove costly. Data center demand in particular is surging, driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, with colocation and enterprise facilities among the primary targets.

“Daitron knows the Japanese market inside and out. They have the people, the relationships, and the hands-on experience, and we bring the technology to match,” said Socomec Asia-Pacific CEO O’Niel Dissanayake. “It’s a natural fit, and together we can offer something neither company could deliver alone.”

“Japan’s data centres, chip factories and industrial plants all require power systems they can count on,” said Masaharu Kato, corporate officer of Daitron. “Socomec’s technology is exactly what these customers need, and our job is to make sure it’s installed, maintained and supported properly. That’s what we do best.”

The partnership comes as Japan faces a step change in power demand. Electricity consumption is expected to grow 5.3% over the next decade, driven by data centres and semiconductor factories, according to the country’s grid operator. Industrial energy demand alone is forecast to rise 18.3% over the same period.

That growth is creating strong demand for reliable power infrastructure. Data centres, for example, run around the clock and cannot afford downtime, making backup power and efficient energy management essential. Socomec’s systems are designed to reduce power consumption without sacrificing reliability, a balance that is becoming increasingly important as operators look to manage both costs and environmental commitments.

Both companies say project planning and bids are already underway, with a long-term goal of expanding the partnership’s reach across Japan as demand grows.

About Daitron

Daitron Co., Ltd. is a Japanese engineering and trading company founded in 1952 and headquartered in Osaka. Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TYO: 7609), Daitron sells and manufactures electronic components, semiconductor processing equipment and power supply systems. The company has more than seven decades of experience serving Japan’s electronics and manufacturing industries.

SOCOMEC: When energy matters

Founded in 1922, SOCOMEC is an independent industrial group of more than 4,800 experts spread across the world in 30 subsidiaries. Our vocation: design, manufacture and sale of electrical equipment, with a strong expertize in critical power applications. In 2025, SOCOMEC achieved a turnover of 997 million euros (not yet audited).

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SOURCE Socomec

Technology

Multi-Destination Travel Surges Across Asia-Pacific This Labour Day, Trip.com Group Data Shows

Published

3 hours ago

April 30, 2026

Multi-city travel across Asia-Pacific grew 35% year-on-yearMulti-city travel outpaces single-destination growth by more than 2xSoutheast Asia sees strong double-digit growth, with Thailand up to 52% YoY

SINGAPORE, April 29, 2026 /CNW/ — Multi-city travel across Asia-Pacific grew 35% year-on-year this Labour Day period, according to data from Trip.com Group. Several Asia-Pacific markets including Japan, South Korea, parts of Southeast Asia and Mainland China celebrate Labour Day, driving strong cross-border and domestic travel flows across the region.

Over 30% of international trips now span multiple destinations, highlighting a continued shift towards more complex, itinerary-led travel. This shift reflects a growing preference to maximise time and value with multiple destinations within a single trip rather than a single location.

Multi-destination trips become a defining travel pattern

While single-destination travel continues to account for most bookings, growth is increasingly driven by more complex itineraries. Multi-destination bookings are growing at more than twice the pace of single-destination travel, reflecting stronger demand for flexibility and deeper exploration.

Travellers are increasingly structuring trips across multiple cities to maximise both time and value, with popular combinations including:

Tokyo – Osaka – Kyoto (Japan)Seoul – Busan (South Korea)Bangkok – Phuket (Thailand)

These itineraries reflect a growing preference for multi-stop journeys that blend urban experiences with leisure destinations.

Southeast Asia sees fast growth in multi-destination travel

Across Southeast Asia, demand for multi-destination travel is rising steadily, with strong growth across key markets of Thailand: 52%, Malaysia: 40%, and Singapore: 17%, according to Trip.com Group data.

Top outbound destinations across Southeast Asian markets include Japan (Tokyo, Osaka), South Korea (Seoul), China (Shanghai, Beijing), Thailand (Bangkok), Indonesia (Bali).

In other parts of Asia such as Hong Kong SAR, multi-destination travel also grew by over 50% year-on-year, highlighting growing preference for more complex itineraries over traditional single-destination trips, particularly in well-connected urban markets.

In Mainland China, domestic travel remains a strong base, while overseas journeys are increasingly shaped by multi-destination itineraries, with over 40% of outbound trips spanning multiple destinations and continuing to grow.

This suggests that travellers in this region are increasingly combining multiple cities within a single trip, supported by strong regional connectivity.

Japan’s domestic travel momentum on the rise

Japan is also seeing shifts in domestic travel behaviour, even as outbound demand continues to grow.

In Japan, domestic travel is growing rapidly, indicating rising interest in travelling within the country, accounting for one-quarter of all flight bookings, and to cities such as Tokyo, Sapporo and Okinawa.

Intra-Asia travel dominates Labour Day demand

The Labour Day holiday period continues to be driven by regional travel within Asia-Pacific, with travellers favouring destinations that offer ease of access, diverse experiences, and flexible itineraries.

The Group’s data highlights the continued strength of short-haul travel, supported by strong connectivity and shorter flight durations.

More broadly, the way people travel across Asia-Pacific is evolving. Travellers taking a more deliberate approach to how they plan their trips. While cross-border journeys are increasingly shaped by multi-city itineraries, domestic travel remains a strong and steady part of the landscape. Together, these patterns point to a more flexible and value-conscious mindset, as travellers look to make the most of both time and budget.

About Trip.com Group

Trip.com Group is a leading global travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of comprehensive travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. Find out more about Trip.com Group here: group.trip.com.