PROLOR Biotech Awarded Two U.S. Patents for Its Longer-Acting Human Growth Hormone and Longer-Acting Erythropoietin

NES-ZIONA, Israel, June 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PROLOR Biotech, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: PBTH), formerly Modigene Inc., today announced that the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has issued two new patents for the company's long-acting CTP-enhanced human growth hormone (hGH-CTP) and human erythropoietin (EPO-CTP). The patents cover the composition of PROLOR's proprietary pharmaceutical compounds as well as certain associated methods. PROLOR's CTP technology is based on a short amino acid sequence, the Carboxyl Terminal Peptide that occurs naturally in humans. When attached to a therapeutic protein, CTP extends the time that the protein is active in the body.


"These two new patents covering CTP-enhanced human growth hormone and erythropoietin represent another significant layer of protection within our CTP-based intellectual property portfolio," said Shai Novik, president of PROLOR. "We have also filed several other patent applications for additional CTP-enhanced long-acting therapeutic proteins and peptides that are currently pending. We are confident that our growing CTP patent estate will provide excellent protection for both our compounds under development and for our innovative and versatile platform technology, and we believe it will serve as an important value driver for PROLOR in the future."


The potential utility of the CTP technology has been demonstrated by Schering-Plough, which is developing the technology for fertility applications only. Data from its Phase III ENGAGE trial demonstrated that women receiving a single injection of the fertility drug FSH-CTP achieved the same pregnancy rates as women receiving seven consecutive daily injections of commercial FSH. This 1,509 patient trial, which was the largest double-blind fertility trial ever conducted, formed the basis for a Marketing Authorization Application by Schering-Plough that is under review by the European Medicines Agency.


PROLOR is using the same CTP technology to extend the duration of action of other therapeutic proteins. CTP was discovered at Washington University in St. Louis, which has exclusively licensed rights for the use of CTP with all therapeutic proteins to PROLOR, with the exception of four endocrine hormones licensed to Schering-Plough. PROLOR plans to initiate human clinical trials with hGH-CTP, its longer-acting version of human growth hormone, later this year.


The issue date for U.S. Patents 7,553,940 (hGH-CTP) and 7,553,941 (EPO-CTP) is June 30, 2009.


ABOUT PROLOR BIOTECH

PROLOR Biotech, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company applying its patented CTP technology to develop longer-acting, proprietary versions of already approved therapeutic proteins that currently generate billions of dollars in annual global sales. The CTP technology is applicable to virtually all proteins and PROLOR is currently developing long-acting versions of human growth hormone, interferon beta and erythropoietin, which are in late preclinical development, as well as GLP-1. For more information on PROLOR, visit http://www.modigeneinc.com.


Safe Harbor Statement: This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the results of current studies and preclinical experiments and the effectiveness of PROLOR's long-acting protein programs, which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may affect PROLOR's business and prospects, including the risks that PROLOR may not succeed in developing any commercial products based upon its long-acting protein technology, including any long-acting versions of human growth hormone, erythropoietin, interferon beta or GLP-1; that the long-acting products in development may fail, may not achieve the expected results or effectiveness and/or may not generate data that would support the approval or marketing of these products for the indications being studied or for other indications; that ongoing studies may not continue to show substantial or any activity; that the actual dollar amount of any grants from the OCS is uncertain and is subject to policy changes of the Israeli government, and that such grants may be insufficient to assist with product development; and other risks and uncertainties that may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. The development of any products using the CTP platform technology could also be affected by a number of other factors, including unexpected safety, efficacy or manufacturing issues, additional time requirements for data analyses and decision making, the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation, the impact of competitive products and pricing and the impact of patents and other proprietary rights held by competitors and other third parties. In addition to the risk factors set forth above, investors should consider the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors discussed in PROLOR's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


PROLOR CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACT:
Shai Novik, President Barbara Lindheim
PROLOR Biotech, Inc. GendeLLindheim BioCom Partners
Tel: +1 866 644-7811 +1 212 918-4650
Email: shai@modigeneinc.com






SOURCE PROLOR Biotech, Inc.

Frost & Sullivan Looks at Biometrics Advancement in Civil Security: Exploring Opportunities for Today and Beyond

Frost & Sullivan to Host Analyst Briefing on Biometrics Advancement in Civil Security on Tuesday, 7 July 2009 at 16.00 BST


LONDON, June 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Governments across the globe are looking for new and sophisticated technologies to combat rising crime and terrorism. Recent advancements in biometric technology provides early warning support and enables government forces and agencies to protect and detect potential terrorist threats and criminal activities, rather than responding to attacks. The success of biometric technology in providing enhanced security with accuracy and efficiency has prompted the biometric industry to focus more on research and development and the civil security industry is opening up numerous opportunities to implement these evolving technologies across all domains including border control, airport screening and surveillance.


(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081117/FSLOGO)


Highlights of the briefing include analyses of: trends, current programs, opportunities, challenges, growth and restraining factors.


This briefing will benefit security system manufacturers, biometric system manufacturers, system integrators, distributors and end-users by discussing emerging trends and providing challenges along with the growth/restraining factors for the European Civil Security Industry.


"The rising crime and terrorist attacks has compelled the government agencies and private sector to focus on preventive and early detection technologies, rather than completely investing in first responders. Biometrics provides the perfect platform to detect potential threats. Recent advancements in integrated biometrics and multi-biometrics and its dramatic acceptance in the industry as well as in the society would soon find its adoption in a wider range of applications," observes Research Analyst V V Mohan Kumar.


To participate, please email Monika Kwiecinska at monika.kwiecinska@frost.com with the following information: your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail, address, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a registration link will be e-mailed to you. You may also register to receive a recorded version of the briefing at anytime by submitting the aforementioned contact details.


Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best in class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best practice models to drive the generation, evaluation and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 35 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.


Contact:
Monika Kwiecinska
Corporate Communications
T: +48 (0) 22 390 4127
F: +48 (0) 22 390 4160
E: monika.kwiecinska@frost.com

http://www.frost.com









SOURCE Frost & Sullivan

Huge Potential Returns for Healthcare Innovators

LONDON, June 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Health systems should have bigger incentives and rewards for innovators - according to a panel of European healthcare experts.

Healthcare systems are large, complex and slow to respond to innovation from outside. But effective innovation in healthcare is not impossible - new ideas and approaches have shown that organisational and structural change can deliver clear benefits to consumers of healthcare and those who work in the system.

Drawing on a new report by the Economist Intelligence Unit, commissioned by Philips, this video webcast features a panel of experts, including successful innovators who discuss some of the biggest barriers to change, and how they can be overcome.

The presentation Doctor Innovation: Shaking up the health system can be viewed at http://w3.cantos.com/09/emst005-905-5lbh9/index_archive_page.php.

If you would like to contact us, please email enquiries@cantos.com or phone +44-207-936-1333.



SOURCE Economist Intelligence Unit

Sentry Data Systems Announces Claims Guardian(TM)

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla., June 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Sentry Data Systems, Inc. announced Claims Guardian(TM), a new module for its SentinelRCM(TM) Hospital Pharmacy and Revenue Cycle Management application. Claims Guardian is designed to help hospitals quickly and easily examine their bills for unusual, missing, or errant charges that may affect reimbursement from all payors.


"We believe that automatically matching actual procurement activity to billing activity is critical for establishing visibility into the financial operations of any hospital," said Travis Leonardi, President and Founder of Sentry Data Systems. "Claims Guardian leverages our core business intelligence platform that enables end-to-end data capture which is essential to managing the revenue cycle."


Building on Sentry's experience with pharmacy revenue cycle management and claims data, Claims Guardian provides visibility into hospital claims which are examined by payor, categorized by risk and presented to Finance for review. Relevant information on costs, patient classes, physicians involved, and past activity are all provided to the reviewer in one location where adjustments can be made.


Claims Guardian provides the following:



Stratification of hospital claims based on benchmarks and published coverage guidelines, and identification of outliers categorized by risk.




Identification of missed billing opportunities based on identifying "orphan" charges and mapping inconsistencies.




Documentation of actual invoice costs matched to submitted charges on claims.




Automated flagging of fluctuating reimbursements for procedures by payor, provider, and location.




Examination of outbound claims for areas where hospitals can substantiate compliance with published quality indicators.



All of this information is available via executive dashboards that illuminate activity, providing key contract performance indicators to serve as a basis for renegotiation of payor contracts.


As a module for Sentinel RCM, Claims Guardian operates on standard claims formats and is designed for integration with existing billing systems and claims scrubbers. More information can be found online at www.SentryDS.com.


About Sentry

Sentry Data Systems, Inc. offers healthcare business intelligence technology solutions that address a variety of operational, workflow, compliance, and financial challenges found within hospitals and pharmacies. These products include the hospital pharmacy management application Sentinel RCM(TM) (Revenue Cycle Manager), pharmacy transaction processing platform Sentrex(TM), and the healthcare business intelligence application HealthBIT(TM) (Business Intelligence Technology). These tools run on top of Sentry's healthcare cloud computing platform, Datanex(TM), which is available to independent software developers and other healthcare entities.


Headquartered in Deerfield Beach, FL, Sentry Data Systems, Inc. currently serves clients in over 30 states and its systems process millions of healthcare transactions per day. More information can be found online at www.SentryDS.com .


NOTE: Sentinel RCM, Sentrex, HealthBIT, Datanex, Claims Guardian and any additional Sentry marks herein are trademarks of Sentry Data Systems, Inc. Product specifications subject to change at any time without prior notice. (C) Sentry Data Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.





SOURCE Sentry Data Systems, Inc.

SIMPONI(TM) (golimumab) Receives Positive Opinion From CHMP for Once-Monthly Subcutaneous Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis and A

Positive Opinion Recommends Approval of New Anti-TNF Therapy in Three Rheumatic Diseases with Novel SmartJect(TM) Autoinjector


HORSHAM, Pa. and KENILWORTH, N.J., June 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. and Schering-Plough Corporation (NYSE: SGP) announced today that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) adopted a positive opinion recommending the approval of SIMPONI(TM) (golimumab) as a once-monthly, subcutaneous therapy for the treatment of moderate-to-severe, active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), active and progressive psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and severe, active ankylosing spondylitis (AS).


Upon Commission approval in the European Union, SIMPONI given as a 50 mg subcutaneous injection once a month will be indicated for:


In combination with methotrexate, the treatment of moderate-to-severe, active RA in adult patients when the response to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy, including methotrexate, has been inadequate. SIMPONI has also been shown to improve physical function in this patient population.
Alone or in combination with methotrexate, the treatment of active and progressive PsA in adult patients when the response to previous DMARD therapy has been inadequate. SIMPONI has also been shown to improve physical function in this patient population.
The treatment of severe, active AS in adult patients who have responded inadequately to conventional therapy.



"With today's decision, SIMPONI moves one step closer to becoming the first once-monthly subcutaneous anti-TNF therapy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis in the European Union," said Jerome A. Boscia, M.D., Senior Vice President, Clinical R&D, Centocor Research & Development, Inc. "We are optimistic that SIMPONI will be a welcome addition as a new anti-TNF treatment option for rheumatologists, and adults living with these inflammatory conditions who are seeking an effective and convenient therapy."


Upon receipt of the corresponding Commission Decision, SIMPONI will be the first and only once-monthly subcutaneous anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha therapy approved in Europe for the simultaneous treatment of RA, PsA, and AS. SIMPONI will be available in two device forms, either through the SmartJect(TM), a novel autoinjector designed to meet the needs of arthritis patients, or as a prefilled syringe.


The CHMP recommendation serves as the basis for a European Commission approval decision. A Commission approval of this application will result in Marketing Authorization with unified labeling that will be valid in all European Union Member States.


In April 2009, SIMPONI(TM) (golimumab) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada for the treatment of moderately to severely active RA, active PsA and active AS.


"This positive opinion is an important step toward an approval as SIMPONI has the potential to benefit a broad range of patients in Europe by offering once-monthly subcutaneous treatment administered through an autoinjector device designed specifically with arthritis patients in mind," said Thomas P. Koestler, Ph.D., executive vice president and president, Schering-Plough Research Institute. "Schering-Plough continues to pride itself on being a leading provider of rheumatic disease therapies within the European rheumatology community."


The efficacy and safety of SIMPONI have been studied in a comprehensive Phase 3 development program that included more than 2,000 patients living with moderately to severely active RA, active PsA and active AS. In Phase 3 rheumatoid arthritis trials, SIMPONI was shown to be effective regardless of prior treatment experience, which included patients inadequately responding to methotrexate and patients previously treated with anti-TNF agents.


Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. developed and discovered golimumab and has exclusive marketing rights to the product in the United States. Following regulatory approvals, Schering-Plough will assume exclusive marketing rights outside the United States except in Japan, Indonesia and Taiwan, where golimumab will be co-marketed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation and Janssen Pharmaceutical Kabushiki Kaisha; Hong Kong, where golimumab will be exclusively marketed by Janssen-Cilag; and China, where golimumab will be exclusively marketed by Xian-Janssen.


About Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and debilitating disease that affects more than three million people in Europe. Signs and symptoms of RA include pain, stiffness and motion restriction in multiple joints. Because RA is a progressive disease, over time it can cause permanent joint deformity and severe disability. RA can occur at any age, but is most common in adults 30-50 years old and is two-to-three times more prevalent in women than in men. The cause of RA is unknown, although genetic factors may contribute to the disease.


About Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory arthropathy manifesting with joint pain and swelling that can lead to joint destruction and debilitation over time. The Arthritis Research Campaign estimates one in 50 people have psoriasis. Of these, about one in 14 will develop PsA. It is frequently associated with inflamed, scaly, red patches of skin psoriasis and psoriasis nail involvement. Symptoms may include stiffness and tenderness of the joints and surrounding tissue and reduced range of motion. Joints of the hands, wrists, knees, ankles, feet, lower back and neck are commonly affected. Psoriasis affects an estimated two to three percent of the world's population, and approximately one out of three patients affected by psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. Both men and women are equally affected by psoriatic arthritis, most commonly between the ages of 30 and 50, in the peak of their productive years.


About Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a painful and progressive form of spinal arthritis, and symptoms of inflammatory back pain often first present in people under the age of 35 years. On the European continent, it is estimated that prevalence ranges from 0.2 to one percent of the entire population. It typically begins in the late teens and early 20s, and in severe cases can result in fusing of the spinal vertebrae and cause structural damage to hips and other joints. Often misdiagnosed as "just back pain" or undifferentiated arthritis, AS is a systemic inflammatory disease that, in addition to its effect on the spine, can affect internal organs, peripheral joints and vision.


About SIMPONI

SIMPONI is a human monoclonal antibody that targets and neutralizes excess TNF alpha, a protein that when overproduced in the body due to chronic inflammatory diseases can cause inflammation and damage to bones, cartilage and tissue. Upon approval in the European Union, SIMPONI will be the first once-monthly subcutaneous anti-TNF-alpha therapy for the treatment of moderate-to-severe, active RA, active and progressive PsA and severe, active AS, and will be available either through the SIMPONI SmartJect(TM) auto injector or a prefilled syringe. The approved dose for SIMPONI in the US and Canada is a 50 mg subcutaneous injection given once a month.


Important Safety Information

In Europe, SIMPONI is contraindicated in patients with active tuberculosis, severe infections such as sepsis, opportunistic infections, in patients with moderate or severe heart failure (NYHA Class III/IV), as well as in patients who are hypersensitive to SIMPONI or any of its excipients. Serious infections, including sepsis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, invasive fungal and other opportunistic infections have been observed with the use of TNF antagonists including SIMPONI. Some of these infections have been fatal. SIMPONI should not be given to patients with a clinically important, active infection. Caution should be exercised when considering the use of SIMPONI in patients with a chronic infection or a history of recurrent infection. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection before, during and after treatment with SIMPONI. If a patient develops a serious infection or sepsis, SIMPONI therapy should be discontinued and appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be initiated. Patients should be advised of and avoid exposure to potential risk factors for infection as appropriate. For patients who have resided in or traveled to regions where invasive fungal infections such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis are endemic, the benefits and risks of SIMPONI treatment should be carefully considered before initiation of SIMPONI therapy. Patients must be evaluated for the risk of tuberculosis (TB), including latent tuberculosis, prior to initiation of SIMPONI. If active TB is diagnosed, SIMPONI must not be initiated. If latent TB is suspected then the benefit/risk balance should be considered for the following: treatment of latent tuberculosis infection should be initiated prior to therapy with SIMPONI. Antituberculosis therapy prior to initiating SIMPONI should also be considered in patients who have several or highly significant risk factors for tuberculosis infection and have a negative test for latent tuberculosis. Patients receiving SIMPONI should be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of active tuberculosis during and after treatment, including patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infections.


The use of TNF blocking agents including SIMPONI has been associated with reactivation of hepatitis B virus in patients who are chronic carriers of the virus. Some of these cases have been fatal. Chronic carriers of hepatitis B should be appropriately evaluated and monitored prior to the initiation of, during treatment with, and for several months following discontinuation of SIMPONI. In patients who develop HBV reactivation, SIMPONI should be discontinued.


Lymphomas have been observed in patients treated with TNF blocking agents, including SIMPONI. The incidence of non-lymphoma malignancies was similar to controls, and lymphoma is seen more often than in the general population. The potential role of TNF-blocking therapy in the development of malignancies is not known. Based on an exploratory clinical trial in patients with COPD, caution should be exercised when using any TNF-blocking therapy in COPD patients, as well as in patients with an increased risk for malignancy due to heavy smoking.


Worsening congestive heart failure (CHF) and increased mortality due to CHF have been reported with another TNF blocker. SIMPONI has not been studied in patients with CHF. SIMPONI should be used with caution in patients with mild heart failure and must be discontinued if new or worsening symptoms of heart failure appear.


TNF-blocking agents, including SIMPONI, have been associated in rare cases with new onset or exacerbation of demyelinating disorders, including multiple sclerosis. The benefits and risks of anti-TNF treatment should be carefully considered before initiation of SIMPONI therapy in patients with pre-existing or recent onset of demyelinating disorders.


There is limited safety experience of SIMPONI treatment in patients who have undergone surgical procedures, including arthroplasty. A patient who requires surgery while on SIMPONI should be closely monitored for infections, and appropriate actions should be taken.


The possibility exists for TNF-blocking agents, including SIMPONI, to affect host defenses against infections and malignancies. Treatment with SIMPONI may result in the formation of auto-antibodies and, rarely, in the development of a lupus-like syndrome.


There have been postmarketing reports of pancytopenia, leukopenia, neutropenia, aplastic anemia, and thrombocytopenia in patients receiving TNF blockers. Cytopenias including pancytopenia, have been infrequently reported with SIMPONI in clinical trials. Discontinuation of SIMPONI should be considered in patients with significant hematologic abnormalities.


The concurrent administration of TNF-antagonists with anakinra or abatacept is not recommended. Concurrent administration has been associated with increased infections, including serious infections without increased clinical benefit.


Patients treated with SIMPONI may receive concurrent vaccinations, except for live vaccines. Non-serious allergic reactions associated with SIMPONI occurred in clinical trials, and included urticaria, bronchospasm, and hypersensitivity. If an anaphylactic reaction or other serious allergic reactions occur, administration of SIMPONI should be discontinued immediately and appropriate therapy initiated.


The needle cover on the syringe in the pre-filled pen is manufactured from dry natural rubber containing latex, and may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to latex. SIMPONI also contains sorbitol; patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take SIMPONI.


Women of childbearing potential must use adequate contraception to prevent pregnancy and continue its use for at least 6 months after the last SIMPONI treatment.


The most common adverse drug reaction reported from clinical trials through week 16 was upper respiratory tract infection (7.2 percent of SIMPONI-treated patients compared with 5.8 percent in control-treated patients). In controlled Phase 3 trials through Week 16 in RA, PsA and AS, 5.8 percent of SIMPONI treated patients had injection site reactions compared with 2.2 percent in control-treated patients. The majority of the injection site reactions were mild and moderate, and the most frequent manifestation was injection site erythema.


For the Full U.S. Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, please visit www.SIMPONI.com.


About Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc.

Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. redefines the standard of care in immunology, nephrology, and oncology. The company was created when Ortho Biotech Inc. merged into Centocor, Inc., and Centocor, Inc. was renamed Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. Built upon a pioneering history, Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. harnesses innovations in large-molecule and small-molecule research to create important new therapeutic options. Beyond its innovative medicines, Centocor Ortho Biotech is at the forefront of developing education and public policy initiatives to ensure patients and their families, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals have access to the latest treatment information, support services, and quality care. Centocor Ortho Biotech is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.


(This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. and/or Johnson & Johnson's expectations and projections. Risks and uncertainties include general industry conditions and competition; economic conditions, such as interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; technological advances and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approvals; domestic and foreign health care reforms and governmental laws and regulations; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Exhibit 99 of Johnson & Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2008. Copies of this Form 10-K, as well as subsequent filings, are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Neither Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. nor Johnson & Johnson undertake to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events or developments.)


About Schering-Plough

Schering-Plough is an innovation-driven, science-centered global health care company. Through its own biopharmaceutical research and collaborations with partners, Schering-Plough creates therapies that help save and improve lives around the world. The company applies its research-and-development platform to human prescription and consumer products as well as to animal health products. Schering-Plough's vision is to "Earn Trust, Every Day" with the doctors, patients, customers and other stakeholders served by its colleagues around the world. The company is based in Kenilworth, N.J., and its Web site is www.schering-plough.com.


SCHERING-PLOUGH DISCLOSURE NOTICE: The information in this press release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the potential market for SIMPONI. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations or forecasts of future events. Schering-Plough does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from Schering-Plough's forward-looking statements, including market forces, economic factors, product availability, patent and other intellectual property protection, current and future branded, generic or over-the-counter competition, the regulatory process, and any developments following regulatory approval, among other uncertainties. For further details about these and other factors that may impact the forward-looking statements, see Schering-Plough's Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in Schering-Plough's 2009 10-Q, filed May 1, 2009 and the "Risk Factors" section in Schering-Plough's Form S-4 registration statement filed on June 16, 2009.







SOURCE Schering-Plough Corporation; Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.

The Breast Center at Houston Northwest Medical Center Receives Prestigious National Award

HOUSTON, June 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The Breast Center at Houston Northwest Medical Center is one of only two breast centers in the United States -- and one in Texas -- to be recognized as a Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence by the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers (NQMBC) Program(TM). The NQMBC Program is a quality initiative designed to measure performance of interdisciplinary breast care nationwide. The designation is the highest certification level of the program.


"We are very proud to receive this honor because it symbolizes the hospital's commitment to provide quality breast health care to patients in our community," says Tosha Morton, RT(R)(M)(CT), Breast Center manager. "This award not only reflects the collaboration of our professional staff with physicians to help ensure the success of the Breast Center, but also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the early detection and treatment of breast cancer."


Houston Northwest Medical Center has taken a major step to ensure that patients consistently benefit from a high standard of care. The hospital promotes excellence in breast health care through a network of diverse professionals dedicated to the active exchange of ideas and resources. In addition, the measurement of quality performance and comparison of outcomes data is essential in assessing patient care and allocating resources where improvement is desired.


"Pathologists, breast surgeons and radiologists work closely with nurses, technologists and ultrasonographers to create a multidisciplinary team that provides comprehensive, coordinated patient care," adds Morton. "They are all dedicated to helping detect breast cancer early, providing in-depth patient education, and offering the care and support needed if breast cancer is diagnosed."


The Breast Center at Houston Northwest Medical Center offers an extensive program that focuses on detecting breast cancer early using advanced imaging equipment and providing ongoing support if breast cancer is diagnosed. The Breast Center has experienced staff specially trained in breast imaging and is accredited by the American College of Radiology to perform mammography, stereotactic biopsy, ultrasound guided biopsy and fine needle aspiration.


National Quality Measures for Breast Centers is a quality initiative of the National Consortium of Breast Centers, Inc. The National Consortium of Breast Centers promotes excellence in breast health care for the public through a network of diverse professionals dedicated to the active exchange of ideas and resources. It serves as an informational resource and provides support services to those providing care to people with breast diseases through educational programs, newsletters, a national directory and patient forums. For more information visit www.breastcare.org.


About Houston Northwest Medical Center

Houston Northwest Medical Center is located at 710 F.M. 1960 West in Houston. Houston Northwest Medical Center has been serving the North Houston community for 35 years. The hospital is an Accredited Chest Pain Center by the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Houston Northwest Medical Center ranks among the nation's top hospitals for several service lines including critical care, stroke and general surgery by HealthGrades, an independent health care ratings company. Houston Northwest Medical Center is also a designated Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. To learn more about Houston Northwest Medical Center, a facility accredited by The Joint Commission, visit www.hnmc.com.


Contact: Theresa Lewis
Houston Northwest Medical Center
(281) 440-2444
Theresa.Lewis@tenethealth.com






SOURCE Houston Northwest Medical Center

ThromboGenics' Microplasmin Phase III Program Progressing According to Schedule

LEUVEN, Belgium, June 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

- Recruitment on Track for ThromboGenics' Lead Product for the Non-Surgical Treatment of Eye Disease With No Reported Safety Issues

ThromboGenics NV (Euronext Brussels: THR), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative treatments for eye disease, vascular disease and cancer, announces today that its lead product microplasmin, which is in Phase III trials for the treatment of vitreomacular adhesion, is progressing according to schedule. All protocol-specified, interim masked analyses by the independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) have been completed. Recruitment is on track and the DMC, having found no safety concerns, has unanimously recommended proceeding without protocol modification.

Microplasmin's Phase III program is referred to as the MIVI-TRUST (Microplasmin for IntraVitreous Injection-Traction Release without Surgical Treatment) program. This program involves two clinical trials, taking place in the United States (TG-MV-006 trial) and Europe and the United States (TG-MV-007 trial). The indication for both of the Phase III microplasmin trials is the non-surgical treatment of focal vitreomacular adhesion.

Focal vitreomacular adhesion is a condition in which the vitreous gel, in the center of the eye, has an abnormally strong adhesion to the retina at the back of the eye. These adhesions can cause vessel and retinal distortion which results in deterioration in the patient's vision. Moreover, vitreomacular adhesion is thought to play a key role in numerous back of the eye conditions such as macular hole formation, and some forms of macular edema. Vitreomacular adhesion is also potentially associated with a much poorer prognosis in certain major eye indications, including diabetic retinopathy and Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Both of the Phase III studies are multi-centre, randomized, placebo controlled, double-masked trials which will evaluate 125micro g of microplasmin versus placebo in the intravitreal treatment of patients with focal vitreomacular adhesion. The trials will enrol a total of approximately 320 patients each across approximately 40 centres in the United States (TG-MV-006) and 40 centres in Europe and North America (TG-MV-007). The safety review was the final of two safety reviews, and had been scheduled to take place after 50% of patients had been enrolled in one of the studies.

The primary endpoint of both trials is the non-surgical resolution of focal vitreomacular adhesion within one month. Additional measures of efficacy and safety will also be assessed at various intervals over six months in both studies. It is estimated that these two studies will be completed by the end of 2010.

Dr. Steve Pakola, Chief Medical Officer of ThromboGenics, commenting on the announcement said, "We are very pleased that the Phase III program for microplasmin is progressing well and that enrolment is on track. We remain confident that microplasmin could potentially make a significant difference to the treatment of back of the eye disease and we very much look forward to reporting the results from these trials."

About ThromboGenics

ThromboGenics is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative biopharmaceuticals for the treatment of eye disease, vascular disease and cancer. The Company's lead product microplasmin is in Phase III clinical development for the non-surgical treatment of back of the eye diseases. Microplasmin is also being evaluated in Phase II clinical development for additional vitreoretinal indications and as a potential therapy for stroke. ThromboGenics is also developing novel antibody therapeutics in collaboration with BioInvent International; these include TB-402 (Anti-Factor VIII), a long acting anti-coagulant, and TB-403 (anti-PlGF) for cancer.

ThromboGenics has built strong links with the University of Leuven and the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) and has exclusive rights to certain therapeutics developed at these institutions. ThromboGenics is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium. The Company is listed on Eurolist by Euronext Brussels under the symbol THR. More information is available at http://www.thrombogenics.com.

Important information about forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking". Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Company's Annual Report.

For further information please contact:

ThromboGenics
Dr. Steve Pakola, CMO
Tel: +1-212-201-0920
steve.pakola@thrombogenics.com

Dr. Patrik De Haes, CEO
Tel: +32-16-75-13-10
patrik.dehaes@thrombogenics.com

Citigate Dewe Rogerson
Amber Bielecka/ David Dible/ Nina Enegren
Tel: +44(0)207-638-95-71
amber.bielecka@citigatedr.co.uk





SOURCE ThromboGenics NV

Before You Take the Plunge ... Kessler Offers 10 Important Tips on Water Safety

WEST ORANGE, N.J., June 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer is here and along with days spent at the pool, lake or ocean comes the increased risk of water-related injuries. In fact, diving is among the leading causes of spinal cord and traumatic head injuries in the United States today.


"Diving is arguably the most dangerous thing a person can do in water," says Steven Kirshblum, MD, Medical Director and Director of Spinal Cord Injury Services (http://www.kessler-rehab.com/patient-center/staff/DoctorDetails.aspx?ID=12) at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, West Orange, NJ (http://www.kessler-rehab.com). "Injuries to the head, neck and spinal column are serious and can result in paralysis, or even death."


Each year thousands of people nationwide suffer spinal cord injuries and head trauma from diving into water that is too shallow. Diving accounts for more than half of all sports-related spinal cord injuries (http://www.kessler-rehab.com/programs/spinal-cord-injury-rehab/) and statistics indicate that 90% of diving-related accidents occur in water that is eight feet deep or less, and a majority of these accidents take place at home in above- or below- ground pools.


Whether you are a pool owner or guest, go to the lake or beach, safety is a priority. Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, one of the nation's leading rehabilitation hospitals and one of only 6 federally designated Model Systems for the treatment and research of both traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, offers these Top 10 Water Safety Tips:



If you are a pool owner, be sure to have clearly marked depth indicators around the entire pool. Post "No Diving" signs - and enforce that rule!




Watch your guests. More than 90% of injuries occur to visitors, rather than owners.




Never dive into an above-ground pool and be careful around ladders and other equipment.




Never drink and dive. "Drinking impairs an individual's judgment and slows reactions," explains Kirshblum. "Nearly half of all diving accidents resulting in a serious injury involve alcohol consumption."




Don't swim alone. Ideally, a lifeguard or someone trained in water safety should always be present.




Always check the depth of water before going in. Levels may be deceptive, especially where drought conditions existed. Be sure that there are no rocks or debris below the surface.




Enter the water at lakes and ponds feet first to avoid injury.




Never dive into the ocean. It's difficult to see what's under the surf, particularly sand bars. And tides constantly cause the ocean sands to shift.




Even if areas are marked as being safe for diving, do not dive if your trajectory will place you in less than nine feet of water. When diving from a board, the water should be deeper than 12 feet.




Educate children. Safe water behaviors should be taught at an early age so children can make smart decisions when involved in water activities.



Contact: Irene Maslowski, 973-226-1494 or Irene@imassocpr.com


For Fast Facts About Spinal Cord Injury, visit http://www.kessler-rehab.com/company/newsroom/.


This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.





SOURCE Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Key to Fetal Development - Possible Mercury Contamination Concerns in Some Fish Oil Avoided With Plant-based DHA in PreNexa(R) Pre

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., June 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading experts specifically recommend Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as a key omega-3 fatty acid for prenatal development(1, 2, 3). DHA, derived from plants or fish, is consumed in the form of food or nutritional supplements. However, there is increasing discussion about the risk of mercury contamination and fish allergies in association with some fish-based DHA. The plant-based DHA found in PreNexa(R) prenatal vitamins offers mothers-to-be a "next generation" option to support optimum health and development for themselves and their baby.


"Plant-based DHA, like that in PreNexa(R), does not contain fish oil. Since the DHA in PreNexa(R) is derived directly from a plant source, concerns about ocean-borne contaminants or toxins, such as mercury, which may be associated with fish-based DHA, can be avoided," said Mary Harris, M.S., Ph.D., registered dietitian and professor of food science and human nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colo. "PreNexa(R) is a valuable option for health professionals and mothers-to-be."


DHA is a long-chain, polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid found in all organs of the body(2). It is a major structural fat in the brain and retina of the eye, representing up to 97 percent of the omega-3 fatty acids in the brain and up to 93 percent of the omega-3 fatty acids in the eye(4, 5). It is also naturally found in breast milk(1). Developing infants cannot efficiently produce their own DHA, so they must obtain this vital nutrient through the placenta during pregnancy or from an outside source such as breast milk after birth(6). The result is that mothers continuously lose their omega-3 fatty acid stores during pregnancy(7). Since many women do not consume the amount of DHA recommended by experts in diet alone, a prescription prenatal vitamin with DHA can help satisfy the daily needs of a mother and her baby.


"A prescription prenatal vitamin with DHA helps ensure that the mother's DHA intake is greater than or equal to 200 to 300 mg per day recommended during pregnancy and while breastfeeding," added Dr. Harris(1, 2, 3).


DHA can be derived from a direct plant source (microalgae) or an indirect fish source. Fish oil-based DHA is obtained by extracting DHA after the fish have eaten algae and the oil has been processed through varying filtration methods(8). Unfortunately, fish oil can leave patients with a fishy smell, taste and aftertaste(9).


PreNexa(R) is the first single gel capsule with plant-based DHA. PreNexa(R) also contains more plant-based DHA than other all-in-one gel capsule prenatal vitamins(10-12). It can be taken at any time of the day or night and includes: Folic Acid (1.2 mg), Vitamin C (25 mg), Vitamin D3 (170 IU), Vitamin E (30 IU), Iron (30 mg), Calcium (160 mg) and Vitamin B6 (25 mg)(10). It also contains a gentle stool softener known as docusate sodium which is an added comfort for approximately 50 percent of pregnant women who suffer from irregularity at some point in their pregnancy(13).


The DHA in PreNexa(R) is the same DHA source that has been granted Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status for use in infant formulas by the United States Food and Drug Administration and is used in 97 percent of infant formulas(8, 14). The DHA in PreNexa(R) is derived from algae grown in fermentation tanks and processed in a closed and controlled manufacturing process in an FDA-inspected facility offering high standards of quality control.


PreNexa(R) is available nationwide, by prescription only, in bottles containing a 30-day supply.


WARNING: Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children less than six years of age. KEEP THIS PRODUCT OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. In the case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison control center immediately. Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for a complete list of warnings and precautions.


Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is pursuing drug therapies to improve people's lives. The company is driven by the ever-changing needs of patients, physicians, pharmacists and healthcare organizations. Focused on market expansion in women's health, dermatology, cardiology and in developing products for neurology, their perspective is not "more products" but the "right products" to improve lives. For additional information about PreNexa(R), visit www.prenexa.com, or to learn more about Upsher-Smith, visit www.upsher-smith.com.


References:

1. Koletzko, et al. The roles of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in pregnancy, lactation and infancy; review of current knowledge and consensus recommendations. J Perinat Med 36 (2008) 5-14. 2. Arterburn LM, Oken HA, Bailey Hall E, et al. Algal-oil capsules and cooked salmon: nutritionally equivalent sources of docosahexaenoic acid. J Am Diet Assoc. (2008);108:1204-1209. 3. Simopoulos AP, Leaf A, Salem N Jr. Workshop on the essentiality of and recommended dietary intakes for omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. J Am Coll Nutr. 1999;61:57-62. 4. Lauritzen, L, Hansen HS, Jorgensen MH, et al. "The essentiality of long chain n-3 fatty acids in relation to development and function of the brain and retina." Prog Lipid Res. 2001;40:1-94. (Calculated using Table 1 data 22 6n-3/Total n-3). 5. Martinez M. "Tissue levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids during early human development." Pediatr. 1992;120:S129-138. 6. Szajewska, et al. Effect on n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation of women with low-risk pregnancies on pregnancy outcomes and growth measures at birth: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. American Journal Clinical Nutrition, (2006);83:1337-44. 7. Hornstra G, Al MD, van Houwelingen AC, Foreman-van Drongelen NM, Essential fatty acids in pregnancy and early human development. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1995;61:57-62. 8. Martek Biosciences Corporation. Data on file. 9. Harris WS. Fish oil supplementation: evidence for health benefits. Cleve Clin J Med. 2004;71:208-221. 10. PreNexa [package insert]. Minneapolis, MN: Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc; 2008. 11. Neevo DHA [package insert]. Covington, LA: PamLab LLC; 2009. 12. Prenate DHA [package insert]. Atlanta, GA: Sciele Pharma, Inc; 2007. 13. American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy and Constipation. http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/constipation.html. Accessed August 21, 2008. 14. U.S. FDA GRAS Notice No. GRN 000041.





SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

New Study Shows Antioxidant Quercetin Can Extend Endurance Without Regular Exercise Training

The FRS Company Corporate Logo. (PRNewsFoto/The FRS Company)

FOSTER CITY, CA UNITED STATES





Research Finds Quercetin Supplements Can Produce 13.2 Percent Increase in Endurance in Healthy, Active Individuals;


Study Provides Further Evidence Quercetin is a Healthy, Effective Alternative to Caffeine and Other Short-Term Stimulants;


FRS(R) Healthy Energy(R) Is One of the Only Commercial Sources of QU995(TM), the Highest Purity Quercetin Used in the Study


FOSTER CITY, Calif., June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study released by the University of South Carolina and published online today by the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism shows that daily quercetin supplementation - available in FRS(R) Healthy Energy(R) products - can improve endurance in healthy, active people without regular exercise training.


(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090624/CG37751LOGO)


The study demonstrates that when individuals consumed 1000 milligrams daily of quercetin - a safe and natural antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables - they experienced a 13.2 percent increase in endurance and a 3.9 percent increase in VO2max, maximal oxygen consumption, which is a typical measure of fitness(i). One-thousand milligrams is equivalent to eating 100 red apples - or drinking approximately three cans of FRS. FRS is one of the only sources of the highest purity quercetin, QU995(TM), used in the study.


"We are excited by these new findings, which show that quercetin can positively impact the fitness ability of healthy, active people who aren't involved in a regular exercise training program," said Maigread Eichten, president and chief executive officer of The FRS Company. "This study provides further evidence that quercetin is a unique and healthy way to naturally sustain energy for anyone from professional athletes to everyday, active people. We are just at the early stages of understanding the full range of benefits that quercetin can provide. Our mission is to help people move from short-term stimulants to a better option for naturally enhancing their energy and performance, no matter what they are doing."


The study was partially funded by the Department of Defense (DOD). For more detailed information on the research, visit http://hk.humankinetics.com/IJSNEM/viewarticle.cfm?jid=X474w8UbX628bJ7yX862daj4X378m4C4X872v8YgX8&view=abs&aid=17245&site=X474w8UbX628bJ7yX862daj4X378m4C4X872v8YgX8 .


The University of South Carolina findings build on other research - including studies published by the American Journal of Physiology and conducted at academic institutions such as Pepperdine University - that has shown quercetin's positive impact on performance and immune support.


Other clinical trials are now underway or being planned on quercetin's potential to make additional contributions to health and sports performance. These ongoing studies are funded in part by the Department of Defense (DOD), The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Institutes for Health (NIH).


FRS Healthy Energy Provides Quercetin Supplementation


FRS's main ingredient is the antioxidant quercetin, which is naturally found in fruits and vegetables such as red apples, grapes and berries. The patented FRS formula contains the highest purity quercetin, QU995(TM), as well as a mix of vitamins and metabolic enhancers to help increase quercetin absorption, or bioavailability.


While short-term stimulants like caffeine can produce a feeling of alertness, they do not provide actual energy to muscles and the brain, the way that quercetin does. Quercetin increases energy by using different mechanisms than traditional stimulants. Pre-clinical research indicates that quercetin works by increasing the production of the energy-producing parts of the cell, which mirrors an effect of exercise. Previously, exercise training has been considered the only practical way to achieve this effect and, in turn, build endurance.


"This new study further validates my own experience that quercetin naturally enhances my energy without the side effects of sugar or caffeine," said Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner and FRS board member. "As a dad and professional athlete, FRS Healthy Energy helps me keep up with my active lifestyle by sustaining my energy and enhancing my training and competitive efforts. FRS is a key part of my daily fitness routine."


FRS comes in many convenient products including chews, concentrate, ready to drink and powder forms. FRS is available for sale at FRS.com, Amazon.com and in GNC, Super Target(R) and Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide. It can also be found at Safeway stores in California and Oregon, including Vons in Southern California.


About The FRS Company

FRS Healthy Energy products contain the antioxidant quercetin, which is naturally found in fruits and vegetables, such as red apples, grapes and berries. Studies have shown that quercetin can deliver sustained energy and support improved fitness levels.


The FRS Company produces and distributes ready to drink cans, drink concentrates, soft chews and powdered drink mixes all containing a patented mix containing the highest purity quercetin available (QU995(TM)). FRS single-serving cans and select additional products are currently available through Amazon.com, at GNC, Super Target(R) and Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide, and in a wide array of grocery, specialty and bike stores. Visit FRS.com to purchase online or to locate a retailer.


(i) Davis JM, *Carlstedt CJ, *Chen S, *Carmichael MD, *Murphy EA. The dietary flavonoid quercetin increases VO2max and endurance capacity. Inter J Sports Nutr Exerc Metab, June 2009, Epub ahead of print.






SOURCE The FRS Company

Hand Washing with 4% CHG Antiseptic Kills Flu Viruses

Study shows 4% CHG antiseptic is effective against a strain of H1N1 Swine Flu


NORCROSS, Ga., June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Hand washing with a 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) antiseptic hand washing product is one effective way to stop the spread of the H1N1 Swine Flu Virus.


Hibiclens Antiseptic/Antimicrobial Skin Cleanser and Hibistat Healthcare Personnel Hand Antiseptic Towelettes have been tested and found to be effective against a variation of the A H1N1 Swine Flu Virus, when used according to package instructions. The strain tested was Swine Flu Influenza A H1N1 A/Swine/Iowa/15/3.


The time-kill study, conducted by an independent laboratory showed that Hibiclens(R), a 4% CHG product, reduced the virus by 99.94 percent after 30 second, 60 second, and three minute exposures. Hibistat(R), a 0.5% CHG and 70% isopropyl alcohol formulation, reduced the virus by 99.99 percent after 15 second, 30 second and 60 second exposures. Both Hibiclens and Hibistat were more effective than soap and water which was used as a comparator test product.


"With any type of influenza outbreak, managing the spread of virus is the biggest concern," said Carolyn Twomey, RN, Global Head of Clinical Services, Molnlycke Health Care. "Influenza viruses usually spread via sneezing and coughing and contaminating one's hand or hands, and then touching surfaces, shaking hands or other contact behaviors. With any influenza outbreak, good hand hygiene is extremely important. With the current strains of flu virus, this study shows that washing with Hibiclens or using Hibistat Hand Wipes provides additional benefit in preventing transmission."


"Use of Molnlycke Health Care's Hibiclens and Hibistat antimicrobial/antiseptic products, along with the company's line of surgical facemasks and respirators, can be an integral part of a protocol to reduce the risk of cross-contamination," Twomey said.


Hibiclens is an antimicrobial/antiseptic cleanser that kills germs on contact and bonds with the skin to keep killing microorganisms for up to six hours without leaving a residue. The same cleanser combined with alcohol is available in convenient Hibistat(R) towelettes. Both are available at drug stores and pharmacies in the first aid section. For more information about Hibiclens, Hibistat or CHG, visit www.hibigeebies.com.


About Molnlycke Health Care US, LLC

Molnlycke Health Care US, LLC, consists of two divisions - Surgical and Wound Care. Focusing on prevention of surgically-related infections for both patients and healthcare workers, the Surgical Division (formerly Regent Medical Americas, LLC) encompasses the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of powder-free surgical gloves (Biogel(R) surgical gloves); the number one supplier (by value) of skin cleanser (Hibiclens(R) and Hibistat(R) antiseptics); and BARRIER(R) protective clothing. A leader in trauma and pain management, the Wound Care Division's market dynamics are driven by an aging population, higher incidence of pressure ulcers and increased home treatment.




SOURCE Molnlycke Health Care

Intercell Supports the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Recommendations of CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices

Expanded Guidelines to include availability of IXIARO(R) vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis


- IXIARO now available in the U.S. for travelers to Asia, military personnel, others at high risk regardless of the length of visit


ATLANTA, June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Intercell AG (VSE: ICLL) today announced that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to update its previous recommendations and include IXIARO, a new Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine for travelers to countries in Asia where the disease is endemic, as well as Americans living in such high-risk areas.


ACIP made significant changes to their previous Japanese Encephalitis recommendations, last updated in 1993, noting that many more travelers are now visiting areas where the disease is endemic. In addition to recognizing the recent licensure of IXIARO, the committee's expanded recommendations urged clinicians to consider vaccinating travelers visiting endemic areas during the transmission season, even those on short-term visits, if they plan to spend a substantial amount of time outdoors. The panel also concluded that IXIARO, which is derived from a well-established cell line and does not contain stabilizers or preservatives, has a lower risk of vaccine-associated adverse events than older Japanese Encephalitis vaccines.


IXIARO received marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on March 30, 2009 on the basis of studies that showed the vaccine is highly immunogenic after only two doses. IXIARO has been shown to stimulate a long-lasting immune response and to be well tolerated. It is the only currently manufactured Japanese Encephalitis vaccine available in the United States. IXIARO was developed by Intercell AG; the rights to market and distribute the vaccine to the private sector in the United States are held by Novartis Vaccines.


"The consequences of contracting this disease can be devastating due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, making IXIARO a crucial preventive tool for those spending time in endemic areas. It is gratifying that the ACIP committee of the CDC has chosen to broaden its recommendations and to recognize the benefits of IXIARO," said Gerd Zettlmeissl, Chief Executive Officer of Intercell. "This underscores our commitment to serving the needs of the travelers' and of the military market and developing vaccines to address unmet needs."


The ACIP consists of 15 experts in fields associated with immunization who have been selected by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide advice and guidance on the control of vaccine-preventable diseases. ACIP develops written recommendations for the routine administration of vaccines to children and adults in the civilian population. The ACIP is the only entity in the federal government that makes such recommendations.


About Japanese Encephalitis


Japanese Encephalitis is a mosquito-borne infection that strikes 30,000 to 50,000 individuals a year, causing 10,000 to 15,000 deaths (both probably an underestimate due to underreporting and misdiagnosis). Up to 50 percent of survivors have persistent neurological sequelae. Japanese Encephalitis is the leading cause of viral neurological disease and disability in Asia and the most important viral encephalitis in Asia. The disease is most common in several developing countries in Asia, including India and China. As there is no specific treatment for JE, health care experts recommend vaccination as the only highly effective protection for the travelers and military personnel who live in or travel to areas where the virus circulates.


About IXIARO


Intercell's novel Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is a purified, inactivated vaccine for active immunization of adults against the Japanese Encephalitis virus. The total development time for this vaccine was more than 10 years. The vaccine was developed under a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, a biomedical research laboratory for the U.S. Department of Defense.


Intercell's Phase III trials for IXIARO found that the vaccine demonstrated immunogenicity against Japanese Encephalitis and an overall clinical safety profile similar to the control arm, combined with an excellent local tolerability profile. These data were published in The Lancet in December 2007:


The immunogenicity was comparable to that of the U.S. licensed product, JE-VAX(R).
Intercell's vaccine demonstrated an overall clinical safety profile similar to the control arm.
Further, Intercell's Japanese Encephalitis vaccine had a more favorable local tolerability profile in the head-to-head study with JE-VAX(R).




About Intercell AG


Intercell AG is an innovative biotechnology company that develops novel vaccines for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases with substantial unmet medical needs. Intercell's vaccine to prevent Japanese Encephalitis is the Company's first product on the market.


The Company's technology platforms include an antigen-discovery system, adjuvants and a novel patch-based delivery system (Vaccine Patch, Vaccine Enhancement Patch). Based on these technologies, Intercell has strategic partnerships with a number of global pharmaceutical companies, including Novartis, Merck & Co., Inc., Wyeth, and Sanofi Pasteur.


The Company's pipeline includes a Travelers' Diarrhea Vaccine Patch (Phase III in preparation), a Pseudomonas vaccine candidate (Phase II), a Vaccine Enhancement Patch to prevent Pandemic Influenza in combination with an injected vaccine (Phase II), a vaccine program for S. aureus, which is being developed with Merck & Co., Inc. (Phase II/III), as well as a vaccine candidate for Pneumococcus (Phase I). In addition, three other products focused on infectious diseases are in pre-clinical development.


Intercell is listed on the Vienna stock exchange under the symbol "ICLL" (U.S. level one ADR symbol "INRLY").


For more information, please visit: www.intercell.com


This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Intercell AG and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Intercell AG to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Intercell AG is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.





SOURCE Intercell AG

Should All Kids Be Screened for Depression? This Expert Says Yes and Explains How It Can Save Lives

FREDERICKSBURG, Va., June 23 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new report from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, teenagers should be routinely screened by doctors for depression. The group said that all 12- to 18-year-olds should fill out screening questionnaires that can show potential risk for depression and suicidal tendencies. While there is a great deal of focus on the physical health of kids, the mental and emotional health of children does not receive nearly as much attention. Considering that 10% of kids have emotional disorders, it is important to ensure that they receive the professional treatment they need in a timely manner.


As psychotherapist and author, Terry Diebold sees all too frequently that it is common for preteen and teen depression to remain undiagnosed for a variety of reasons. Kids are going through a tremendous number of physical and emotional changes and often don't realize that what they are experiencing is depression. Undiagnosed depression can be dangerous if a tragic event, such as a suicide in the community, triggers a child's own thoughts of suicide.


While parents and teachers work together to help kids, routine screening of all kids can help professionals to recognize and treat problems more quickly. Invite Diebold to explain the challenges of this issue including the following:



Parents tend to be in denial about their own kids and often miss warning signs.
Kids are reluctant to discuss emotional problems with their parents.
Teen behavior is often dismissed as hormonal when it may be more serious.
Medication alone doesn't work, so counseling is also needed.
Testing gets parents involved and family counseling is the most effective treatment.



CREDENTIALS: Terry Diebold is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She also holds a Master's degree in Divinity and is an ordained Presbyterian minister. Diebold created a crime victims' treatment program in Kentucky and worked with at-risk children in schools. She has also worked with prison inmates and battered women. She is a successful speaker and the author of the book, THE MYTH OF SELF-ESTEEM: 50 Ways to Stop Sabotaging Yourself. Diebold is the President of the Virginia Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and has served on its board for the past six years. She has recently been quoted in The Washington Post and appeared in Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine.


AVAILABILITY: Virginia, nationwide by arrangement, and via telephone


CONTACT: Terry Diebold, (540) 455-4186 (VA); terrydiebold@gmail.com; http://www.TheMythOfSelfEsteem.com



This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.





SOURCE Terry Diebold

Promise for Treating Low Back Pain - Radiofrequency a Trusted Technique With a New Application

NeuroTherm logo. (PRNewsFoto/NeuroTherm Inc.)

WILMINGTON, MA UNITED STATES




WILMINGTON, Mass., June 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Who suffers from low back pain; my brother, my boss's brother, my neighbor, a friend on the golf course and recently the media reports Regis Philbin and Jeff Gordon suffer from low back pain.


(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090217/NE70925LOGO )


Sacroiliac Pain is caused by inflammation or abnormal function of the joint which can lead to sacral nerve damage, and is a major cause of low back pain. Low back pain is estimated to affect 6.5 million people in the world. Now Simplicity lll, a new radiofrequency electrode, offers an alternative and possibly longer lasting relief from a common affliction. Radiofrequency is a widely used and effective treatment for certain chronic pain conditions, and using RF technology NeuroTherm introduces a new treatment option to address some instances of low back pain.


"There is a new technology available to treat patients with Sacroiliac Pain," says Dr. Gregory Paine from Naples Day Surgery North (www.gregpainemd.com). Paine was one of twelve physicians nationally, and the first in Florida, initially trained on the new medical device Simplicity lll, which was designed specifically for use in treating sacroiliac peripheral nerves. "This technology represents a tremendous breakthrough in giving patients long lasting relief for one of the more common causes of low back pain," continues Paine.


Laurence Hicks, CEO of NeuroTherm the manufacturer of Simplicity lll, is a 20+ year participant in the medical device industry. "Simplicity lll is as revolutionary and promising a device as I have seen in my career, and we need to make the treatment accessible to the many suffering from this overly common problem," says Hicks.


NeuroTherm is a leading manufacturer of radio frequency generators and related consumables used in the treatment of chronic pain. The company developed the first multi-lesion generator capable of producing multiple level lesions simultaneously. NeuroTherm markets and sells RF products for use in Interventional Pain and Podiatry; Podiatrists use radiofrequency to treat pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis & Neuroma, a condition recently reported to affect Regis' counterpart, Kelly Ripa.


NeuroTherm is based in Wilmington, Massachusetts with corporate offices in London, UK and Amsterdam, NL. Additional information about NeuroTherm can be found on at www.neurotherm.com .




SOURCE NeuroTherm, Inc.

Swine Flu Pandemic Causes Public Concerns About Hand Sanitizers

BOISE, Idaho, June 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that hand washing with soap and water when available or sanitizing with an effective hand sanitizer is critical to minimize the spread of germs during illness outbreaks, such as the H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu), MRSA, VRE & C.diff.


Fresh Protect Natural Skin Sanitizers (Fresh Protect) kill 99.99% of germs without the use of alcohol. They are designed for hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes, law enforcement & food service personnel.


Health care workers are subjected to a vast amount of chemicals that are not natural. Fresh Protect Natural Skin Sanitizers will be a welcome relief. Fresh Protect is available as a foam or spray at 99.9% natural and a lotion at 96.9% natural.


Fresh Protect does not burn and children cannot become intoxicated with Fresh Protect.


According to the CDC Guideline for Hand Hygiene in Health Care Settings Oct. 25, 2002, "Alcohols... have no appreciable persistent (residual) activity... quaternary ammonium compounds (the active ingredient in Fresh Protect)... results in persistent activity."


While no hand sanitizer is indicated to prevent H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the ways you can help protect yourself from H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) is by practicing good hand hygiene. Specific CDC recommendations include keeping your hands clean by washing with soap and water, or using an effective hand sanitizer when soap and water may not be available, such as when you're on the go.


Hand sanitation affects everyone - especially those who do not have access to sanitation facilities. Omega Tech Labs would like to donate Fresh Protect Natural Skin Sanitizing products to charitable organizations that help those in need. Just contact us.


The hands are generally the most often transmission routes for many types of infections as they come into direct contact with known points of entry for pathogens (mouth, nose or eyes). Some infections can spread through the air, you should cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.


Fresh Protect Natural Skin Sanitizers are made and sold in the USA by:

Omega Tech Labs
www.freshprotect.com
1-208-375-5054
fax 1-208-375-7875
email doug@omegatechlabs.com







SOURCE Omega Tech Labs

CEM Wins Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award for the Sprint Rapid Protein Analyzer

The CEM Sprint(TM) Rapid Protein Analyzer accurately measures protein, not nitrogen, in minutes without hazardous chemicals. (PRNewsFoto/CEM Corporation)

MATTHEWS, NC UNITED STATES
CEM Corporation logo. (PRNewsFoto/CEM Corporation)

MATTHEWS, NC UNITED STATES




MATTHEWS, N.C., June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- CEM Corporation has won a 2009 Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award in the Greener Reaction Conditions category for its Sprint(TM) Rapid Protein Analyzer. The company will accept the award this evening during a ceremony at the Carnegie Institute for Science (CIS) in Washington, DC.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090622/CL35336-a )


(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090622/CL35336LOGO-b )


The award, presented by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, recognizes outstanding technological and chemical design innovations that incorporate green chemistry principles and can be effectively utilized in industry for pollution prevention. Awards are presented in five categories with the winners chosen by an independent panel of experts from the American Chemical Society.


"It is truly an honor to receive this award and we would like to thank the EPA and the judges for their consideration," said Michael J. Collins, president and CEO of CEM Corporation. "The betterment of our world through chemistry and innovative technology is a goal we have worked toward since CEM was established thirty years ago. It is our hope that Sprint and the other scientific instruments we design will enable scientists and industry to improve their chemical processes and tests in an economical and environmentally-friendly manner that will continue to be beneficial for generations to come."


The Sprint Rapid Protein Analyzer is a revolutionary technology that will replace the Kjeldahl test, which utilizes large volumes of hazardous chemicals, as the primary method for protein determination. Sprint uses CEM's iTAG(TM) Technology to directly "tag" the protein with an environmentally-benign solution, yielding accurate results in minutes. The adaptation of the Sprint System for protein determination in foods will eliminate the estimated 2.5 million kilograms of hazardous waste used in Kjeldahl tests every year in the US. Sprint's method is approved by AOAC International and the American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC).



CEM Corporation is a private company based in Matthews, North Carolina and the leading global provider of microwave laboratory instrumentation for bioscience, chemical synthesis, analytical, and compositional testing applications, which in many instances have helped reduce or eliminate the amount of chemicals utilized in these applications. CEM's products are used in the pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical, environmental, and food processing industries, as well as in academic research.




SOURCE CEM Corporation

Exosome Diagnostics and DxS Diagnostic Innovations Collaborate to Develop Blood-Based Tests for Key Cancer Mutations

NEW YORK, June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Exosome Diagnostics, Inc. ("ExosomeDX") and DxS Ltd. ("DxS") today announced that they will collaborate on the development of blood-based companion diagnostics for key cancer gene mutations, such as KRAS, BRAF and EGFR. The collaboration will use DxS' industry leading Scorpions(R) real-time PCR Mutation Test Kits in conjunction with ExosomeDX's xOS(TM) technology which harvests high-quality nucleic acids from blood exosomes.


The collaboration will initially focus on developing blood-based measurement of KRAS, BRAF, EGFR and other key mutations for predicting patient response to targeted therapies. Blood-based mutation measurement is particularly valuable in circumstances where tissue bioavailability is limited such as in lung, pancreatic and ovarian cancers.


Exosomes are small microvesicles precipitously shed by all solid tumors into blood. They contain virtually the entire cancer tumor transcriptome. In studies, ExosomeDX has identified most mRNA and miRNA in circulating tumor derived exosomes, all protected in the exosome lipid bi-layer from any blood-based RNase. Initial findings were published in the December 2008 issue of Nature Cell Biology.


"There are over 180 companies investigating over 370 different molecular targeted cancer therapies, many of which will require high-quality, molecular companion diagnostics," said James McCullough, Chief Executive Officer Exosome Diagnostics. "Teaming with the world leader in this space is a critical step in providing a solution for pharmaceutical companies, researchers and clinicians to measure the key mutations DxS Scorpion probes target directly from blood."


"Combining the ability to pull high-quality mutations from a simple blood draw with the unparalleled sensitivity and specificity of our Scorpion assays will provide our pharmaceutical and research customers with an ideal solution in personalized medicine," said Dr. Stephen Little, Chief Executive Officer of DxS.


About DxS


DxS is a personalised medicine company providing molecular diagnostics to aid doctors and drug companies in selecting therapies for patients. DxS offers products, technology and services to the healthcare industry to enable the delivery of safe and effective medicines. Working predominantly in the field of cancer, DxS has a range of companion diagnostic and research kits that detect mutations in oncogenes. For more information, visit www.dxsdiagnostics.com.



About Exosome Diagnostics


Exosome Diagnostics is a developer of proprietary non-invasive, molecular diagnostic tests. The company's core technology is based on discoveries by Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital researchers that circulating nanovesicles in blood and urine called exosomes contain unique genetic markers that can be reliably harvested for personalized medicine cancer diagnostics. For more information, visit www.exosomedx.com.





SOURCE Exosome Diagnostics, Inc.; DxS Diagnostic Innovations

MapHIV.org Shows 18% of Georgia's Counties are Seriously Impacted by HIV

National Minority Quality Forum Launches First U.S. HIV/AIDS Atlas


WASHINGTON, June 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Minority Quality Forum today launched a groundbreaking HIV/AIDS Atlas (http://www.MapHIV.org) that highlights the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in communities across the United States. The Atlas makes information on HIV/AIDS prevalence rates available in a single location for the first time, painting a comprehensive picture of the varying intensity of the epidemic across the country.


Georgia has 20 counties with AIDS prevalence rates of 0.248 percent or greater, according to the Atlas, and 25 counties with HIV (non-AIDS) prevalence rates of 0.38 percent or greater. These counties are placed in the red or dark red zones depicted on the Atlas, indicating they are among the counties with the highest prevalence rates in the United States.


The HIV/AIDS Atlas is being released in advance of National HIV Testing Day (June 27), to highlight the growing need for increased HIV screening efforts in communities that are suffering disproportionately from the disease. Currently, 20 percent of HIV-positive Americans -- approximately 220,000 individuals -- are unaware of their infection. People with undiagnosed HIV infection are not receiving life-saving therapies, and it is estimated that they may unknowingly transmit up to 70 percent of new infections in the United States.


"We began this project with a desire to fill a fundamental gap in public access to HIV/AIDS information," said Gary Puckrein, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Minority Quality Forum. "Mapping the disease made visible health disparity zones around the country. It is an important step in increasing awareness and stemming the tide of the epidemic. Now that we can see more clearly where the problem is, we can improve data collection and analysis, prevention initiatives, early diagnosis and routine testing efforts in the hardest hit communities."


Highlights from the Atlas include the following:



The HIV/AIDS epidemic is concentrated in approximately 20 percent of American counties (556 counties of the 3,027 counties for which data were provided to the National Minority Quality Forum).
The HIV/AIDS epidemic is widespread among two-thirds of the predominantly minority counties (comprising African Americans, Hispanics, Asians and Pacific Islanders) for which data were provided to National Minority Quality Forum.



Using cutting-edge technology, the National Minority Quality Forum developed the HIV/AIDS Atlas from data provided by HIV/AIDS surveillance branches within state and territorial departments of health in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and New York City. The Atlas presents county-level prevalence rates based on the reported numbers of people living with HIV (non-AIDS) and AIDS in 2006. Users of the Atlas can map available data in multiple ways, including by age, gender and race/ethnicity. They can also view their congressional and state legislative districts overlaid on the county-level HIV/AIDS prevalence maps.


This is the first edition of what the National Minority Quality Forum plans to be an evolving tool. Upcoming versions of the HIV/AIDS Atlas may include: revised HIV/AIDS information from national, state and local HIV/AIDS surveillance departments; a greater representation of county- and zip code-level data; and information about the locations of HIV-testing centers, by zip code and county, among other features.


The HIV/AIDS Atlas is a project of the National Minority Quality Forum, with support from Gilead Sciences, Inc.


About HIV/AIDS in the United States

HIV/AIDS is a serious public health threat in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 1.1 million people are living with HIV in the U.S., and data released last year show that the annual number of new HIV infections is approximately 40 percent higher than previously estimated, with more than 56,000 infections occurring each year. In an effort to prevent new HIV cases and allow for timely initiation of therapy among those living with the disease, CDC issued new guidelines for HIV screening in 2006, which recommend that HIV tests be a routine part of medical care for all persons ages 13 to 64. Earlier this year, the White House and CDC launched a landmark five-year HIV/AIDS public-awareness campaign, "Act Against AIDS," which will provide information about testing and prevention. It is the first campaign of its kind in more than a decade.


About the National Minority Quality Forum

The National Minority Quality Forum (http://www.nmqf.org) was founded in 1998 as a nonprofit organization. Its mission is to strengthen national and local efforts to eliminate the disproportionate burden of premature death and preventable illness in racial and ethnic minorities and other special populations through the use of evidence-based, data-driven initiatives, including a series of health atlases like the HIV/AIDS Atlas (http://www.MapHIV.org).


Media Contact: 800-319-3934
Media@MapHIV.org








SOURCE National Minority Quality Forum

Solon Manufacturing Company Acquires PurFybr Brands; Adds Influenza Virus Diagnostic Swabs to Product Line

NORTH HAVEN, Conn., June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Solon Manufacturing Co., a leading maker of single use disposable products for the medical, industrial and diagnostic fields, today announced its acquisition of certain assets of PurFybr Inc. The purchase, which specifically includes PurFybr brand rights and trademarks, technology, equipment and inventory, was concluded today.


"We are very excited to add the PurFybr lineup of products to our family of brands," said Ken Shaw, vice president, Solon Manufacturing. "PurFybr has an outstanding reputation for high-quality specialty diagnostic swabs." PurFybr products are the standard worldwide for DNA and influenza virus testing, including H1N1 (swine flu) virus.


PurFybr, which operates manufacturing facilities in Munster, Ind., was one of the first companies to spin polyester, rayon, and calcium alginate onto thin wires. Its products are designed to minimize the risk of irritation and contamination during the collection of specimens for a range of diagnostic testing, including rapid viral tests. Among its products, the company's ultra micro fine wires have been shown to be highly effective in testing for and collecting specimens for sexually transmitted diseases.


Solon fully expects to meet all current and future PurFybr orders and has scheduled the transfer of equipment and inventory during the two-week period PurFybr typically shuts down each year. The PurFybr production facility will close today. Following the move to its state-of-the-art ISO 13485: 2003 FDA-registered facility in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Solon will perform machine, product and quality process validations prior to resuming production of PurFybr products on July 5th.


"Current PurFybr customers will benefit by having at their disposal the full resources and capabilities of a much larger company," said Shaw. "We look forward to serving them with the same level of quality, choice and value for which Solon is known."


Duane Ehlers, president and owner of privately held PurFybr, will join Solon as a consultant.


About Solon Manufacturing Company

Since 1936 Solon Manufacturing Company has been dedicated to the single use disposable market. We manufacture products for the Medical, Industrial and Diagnostic fields in our state-of-the-art ISO13485: 2003 FDA-registered facility in the United States or from one of our manufacturing partners in Asia. Solon has branded, private label and OEM business worldwide. Solon is a division of privately held Mossberg Corporation and is based in North Haven, Conn.





SOURCE Solon Manufacturing Co.

Something (More) to Smile About

Kool Smiles to Offer Comprehensive Dental Health Care to Parents


ATLANTA, June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Kool Smiles, a leading provider of affordable and accessible children's dental health care, has opened its offices to adults, primarily the parents of the children who are patients. Since 2002, Kool Smiles has recognized the need for all children to have access to comprehensive, affordable dental health care. Now, Kool Smiles has identified the same need among the parents of its patient population in traditionally underserved communities.


Kool Smiles research - supported by several studies, including a July 2008 report from the Kaiser Family Foundation - found that the parents of children in underserved communities often suffer from poor dental care and neglect of their general oral health. They often do not have access to dentists or have concerns about the cost.


Leading dental research reports also have found that many adults, like children, experience feelings of nervousness and fear associated with the dentist. At Kool Smiles, the bright, welcoming look of the offices provides a level of comfort and calms all patients, regardless of age. Adults who do not have children who are Kool Smiles patients also may visit a dental office for treatment.


"Kool Smiles recognizes there is a need not only among children, but also among parents in underserved communities for quality dental health care," said Dr. David Strange, Kool Smiles Chief Dental Officer. "Parents who have strong oral health habits are role models for their kids."


Strange continued, "We know that comfort and familiarity are important when families are seeking medical and dental health care. Kool Smiles doctors and staff always have welcomed parents to join their children in the treatment rooms; now we even treat the parents themselves. At Kool Smiles, the whole family can receive their dental care from the same trusted dentists and staff, in the same friendly place with plenty of convenient payment options."


About Kool Smiles

Founded in 2002, Kool Smiles is a network of local dental offices dedicated to expanding access to quality dental care for children and families in underserved communities. Kool Smiles provides preventative care, diagnostic imaging and a full range of restorative care supported with electronic health records. Kool Smiles offices, many of which are newly constructed, are designed to facilitate communications between our patients and doctors in a relaxed atmosphere. In addition to accepting most insurance plans, Kool Smiles is proud to offer services to families covered by Medicaid and State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP). Kool Smiles also provides oral health education programs through partnerships with community schools and organizations. To find a local Kool Smiles dentist, please visit www.koolsmilespc.com.





SOURCE Kool Smiles

Governor Rendell Discusses Impact of Budget on Services for Families of Children With Autism

BRYN MAWR, Pa., June 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today met with families in southeastern Pennsylvania to discuss what is at stake in the proposed state budget as it relates to autism services. An estimated 25,000 Pennsylvania children and adults live with an autism spectrum disorder.


"Pennsylvania has worked hard and made great progress for families who rely on services that their children need," said Governor Rendell during an event at Bryn Mawr College. "Funding for these services is now being threatened. The budget proposed by Senate Republicans would cut funding for autism by nearly $8 million, which means cutting services and support to nearly 250 families."


Governor Rendell recognized there is no sustainable, fiscally responsible solution to Pennsylvania's budget challenge without new revenue. He rebuffed demands by the Senate to pass a budget riddled with draconian cuts that would do further damage to Pennsylvania's programs that protect the health and well-being of vulnerable families.


Governor Rendell recently proposed a temporary increase in Pennsylvania's personal income tax - currently the second lowest in the nation - and a temporary delay in the phase-out of the Capital Stock & Franchise Tax. Coupled with hundreds of budget reductions Governor Rendell has already implemented, these steps are critical in addressing a projected $3.2 billion budget shortfall. The Governor went on to warn that without additional revenue, Pennsylvania's overall economy could worsen.


"Families of children with autism understand the severity of the budget situation we're facing. There is no need to convince them that the Senate's proposed cuts are a bad idea," said the Governor. "Spending is not just about dollars but about programs that affect the lives of real people. We cannot allow decisions to be made that gut programs and shortchange the future of our children and their families."


"If we want to ensure that these essential programs and services are available to our children as they grow up, the drastic cuts proposed in the Senate Republican budget are not the answer," the Governor said. "We must fix this problem now, while preserving the vital services that protect the commonwealth in the present and that are crucial to setting the stage for our future."


The Rendell administration is committed to creating a first-rate public education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out more about Governor Rendell's initiatives and to sign up for his newsletter, visit www.governor.state.pa.us.

CONTACT: Chuck Ardo
717-783-1116

Stacey Witalec
717-215-5948 (cell)






SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor

RSA Designated as the Leader in One-Time Password Market by Frost & Sullivan

EMC's Security Division Recognized as Only 'Market Leader' in One-Time Passwords for Highest Ability to Execute and Market Penetration
BEDFORD, Mass., June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- RSA, The Security Division of EMC (NYSE: EMC) announced that the Frost & Sullivan white paper entitled, An Overview and Competitive Analysis for the One Time Password Market*, designates RSA as the sole market leader in one-time password (OTP) technology for strong authentication based upon the highest ability to execute and deep market penetration. Frost & Sullivan forecasts the global OTP market will reach $690.4 million in 2015.
According to Frost & Sullivan, "Authentication remains a priority for RSA, where it maintains leadership in OTP and risk-based authentication. RSA continues to expand and innovate the RSA SecurID OTP portfolio to include mobile software tokens, SMS authentication, hybrid authenticators and virtual credentials as well as biometric and USB Flash solutions, allowing organizations to choose the solution that best meets their user, risk and security requirements."
The white paper also noted, "RSA continues to invest in the RSA(R) Authentication Manager server for robust administration, credential lifecycle management and end user self-service as tools for organizations to manage support costs. The combination of RSA SecurID, risk-based and knowledge-based authentication provides companies with the tools they need to create the most appropriate layered solution for their organization."
"The RSA SecurID two-factor authentication system is used by over 40,000,000 people and is supported by thousands of technology and channel partners worldwide. As a result, RSA is well positioned to continue leading the way in helping organizations protect identities, infrastructures and information against outside attacks," said Tom Corn, Vice President of Product Marketing at RSA. "We are achieving this by providing a broad choice of innovative strong authentication methods that allow our customers to determine the proper balance of risk, cost and user convenience to best meet their unique needs."
According to Frost & Sullivan, as attackers become more daring and manipulative, information systems that rely on static passwords for security are a major risk factor and are often the key reason that those systems are breached, leaving the organization and its end users open to identity and financial fraud attempts. Thieves target personal information such as static passwords and social security numbers held in organization servers, personal email and accounts to deny, steal, and/or alter proprietary or private information. As the potential financial gain from these thefts continues to increase, the more criminals are focusing on these areas.
An executive summary of the Frost & Sullivan white paper An Overview and Competitive Analysis for the One Time Password Market is available on the RSA SecurID website (http://www.rsa.com/node.aspx?id=1156) under Related Materials.
About RSA SecurID
RSA SecurID(R) is the market-leading two-factor authentication system used by more than 40 million people across more than 30,000 organizations worldwide and is engineered to prevent unauthorized access to corporate applications and resources. RSA SecurID technology is comprised of a broad range of hardware and software authenticators that provide end users with a one time password that is designed to change every 60 seconds, as well as its software engine -- RSA(R) Authentication Manager -- which scales to support millions of users and integrates with more than 350 products. RSA SecurID authenticators include hardware tokens, hybrid authenticator with smart chip; On-Demand SMS token, software tokens for smart phones including BlackBerry(R) handhelds, software tokens for Microsoft(R) Windows(R) and Mac OS desktops and an Internet browser token.
About RSA
RSA, The Security Division of EMC, is the premier provider of security solutions for business acceleration, helping the world's leading organizations succeed by solving their most complex and sensitive security challenges. RSA's information-centric approach to security guards the integrity and confidentiality of information throughout its lifecycle -- no matter where it moves, who accesses it or how it is used.
RSA offers industry-leading solutions in identity assurance & access control, data loss prevention, encryption & key management, compliance & security information management and fraud protection. These solutions bring trust to millions of user identities, the transactions that they perform, and the data that is generated. For more information, please visit www.RSA.com and www.EMC.com.
* Frost & Sullivan, An Overview and Competitive Analysis for the One Time Password Market, April 2009
RSA and SecurID are either registered trademarks or trademarks of RSA Security, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation. BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trade names and trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
SOURCE EMC Corporation