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Zimmer Launches New Medical Education and BioSkills Training Program

2009-07-28T03:26:00.000-07:00

The Zimmer Institute Redefines Industry-driven Training

WARSAW, Ind., July 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZMH; SWX: ZMH) today announced the launch of the new Zimmer Institute. Over the past year, Zimmer has collaborated with teaching surgeons and subject matter experts to develop a unique model for surgeon and clinician training. Combining its Medical Education, BioSkills Training and Surgeon-to-Surgeon programs under one, consolidated service offering, the enhanced Zimmer Institute provides a highly interactive environment for surgeon and clinician education that the Company believes sets new standards for the industry.

A continuum of courses is available through the Zimmer Institute, spanning online learning modules, interactive small group discussions, intensive case study reviews, hands-on cadaver-based training and surgeon-to-surgeon training programs. Course modules have been tailored to match an individual surgeon's experience level, providing in-depth knowledge on products and procedures. Zimmer Institute courses have a high faculty-to-student ratio and incorporate new technologies, promoting greater interaction with faculty trainers and participant collaboration. Courses are offered at many regional locations worldwide, minimizing the time participants will have to spend away from their practices.

"Advanced professional training is in great demand and our ability to meet this need is vital to supporting our customers," noted Audrey Beckman, Senior Vice President, Zimmer Institute. "We recognize the importance of being at the forefront of professional education and are committed to providing medical and dental professionals with unparalleled training and course offerings that will not only teach them how to use our products safely and effectively, but will also give them the opportunity to hone and refine their surgical skill sets."

Courses conducted using the new format have been underway since 2008, and are being rolled out globally, with more than 800 events scheduled in 2009, training more than 12,000 medical professionals and more than 8,000 dental professionals. Additional information regarding the enhanced Zimmer Institute is available at zimmerinstitute.zimmer.com.

About the Company

Founded in 1927 and headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana, Zimmer designs, develops, manufactures and markets orthopaedic reconstructive, spinal and trauma devices, dental implants, and related surgical products. Zimmer has operations in more than 25 countries around the world and sells products in more than 100 countries. Zimmer's 2008 sales were approximately $4.1 billion. The Company is supported by the efforts of more than 8,000 employees worldwide.

For more information about Zimmer, visit www.zimmer.com

Zimmer Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the orthopaedics industry, management's beliefs and assumptions made by management. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as "may," "will," "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "assumes," "guides," "targets," "forecasts," and "seeks" or the negative of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, our compliance with the Corporate Integrity Agreement through 2012; the impact of our enhanced healthcare compliance global initiatives and business practices on our relationships with customers and consultants, our market share and our overall financial performance; the success of our quality initiatives; the outcome of the informal investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission into Foreign Corrupt Practices Act matters announced in October 2007; price and product competition; changes in customer demand for our products and services caused by demographic changes or other factors; dependence on new product development, technological advances and innovation; shifts in the product category or regional sales mix of our products and services; supply and prices of raw materials and products; control of costs and expenses; our ability to obtain and maintain adequate intellectual property protection; our ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses; our ability to form and implement alliances; challenges relating to changes in and compliance with governmental laws and regulations affecting our U.S. and international businesses, including regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and foreign government regulators and tax obligations and risks; the impact of temporarily suspending U.S. distribution of one of our key hip replacement products; product liability and intellectual property litigation losses; reductions in reimbursement levels from third-party payors and cost-containment efforts of healthcare purchasing organizations; our ability to retain the independent agents and distributors who market our products; changes in general industry and market conditions, including domestic and international growth rates and general domestic and international economic conditions, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the costs of defending or resolving putative class action securities litigation and lawsuits, investigations or other proceedings resulting from our September 2007 settlement with the U.S. government and other matters. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see our periodic reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be set forth in our periodic reports. Readers of this document are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, since, while we believe the assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. This cautionary statement is applicable to all forward-looking statements contained in this document.

SOURCE Zimmer Holdings, Inc.

Economy is Driving Many Osteoporotic Women to Retire Later - But Their Ability to Work May Be Undermined by Sub-Optimal Management of Their Disease

2009-07-28T03:19:00.000-07:00

National Census Data Shows Osteoporosis Rates to Increase by an Estimated 22(1) Percent Among Ohioans by 2020 -

- Special Council of Health and Women's Groups Formed to Encourage Women to Make Bone Health a Priority Before They Break a Bone -

CLEVELAND, July 28 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 340,000(2) women suffer from postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) in Ohio and more than 900,000(3) are at risk for the disease. According to a census report on the prevalence of osteoporosis, the number of women suffering from the disease is predicted to increase in Ohio by more than 22 percent by 2020. Despite this predicted increase, a national Harris Interactive survey commissioned by the Know My Bones Council showed (n=889 with PMO; n=912 without PMO) that many women suffering from osteoporosis are not optimally managing their disease despite the need and desire to work longer, putting them at greater risk for fracture. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation fracture may lead to chronic pain, disability, and even death(4).

The Council, led by the National Osteoporosis Foundation and the Society for Women's Health Research, announced results from a national survey of more than 1,800 American women, which revealed that one-out-of-five women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) are retiring later than anticipated and nearly half (48 percent) blame the current economy. Despite the need to work longer, half of the women with PMO are fearful that the disease will limit their ability to work. However, the research shows that many women are not optimally managing their osteoporosis.

"It concerns me that the number of Ohioans who will suffer from osteoporosis will only grow in the coming decade, but it is more concerning that women suffering from the disease today are not optimally managing their bone health," said Chad Deal, M.D., Head, Center for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Disease, Cleveland Clinic Foundation. "I have been practicing medicine for over 20 years and never has it been more important for women to be passionate about their bone health given their desire and need to remain active as they age. For those with postmenopausal osteoporosis, optimally managing their disease means knowing their bone density score, being vigilant about their treatment and talking to their doctor, nurse or other healthcare professional about their disease."

Women like Olmsted Falls resident Pat Lindamood know all too well the impacts of PMO. Lindamood realized she had osteoporosis when her dentist refused to work on her due to the frailty of her jaw. She quickly sought treatment from area doctor, Chad Deal, M.D. and, thanks to her active lifestyle and the benefits of medications, she is able to live a happy and functioning lifestyle.

"I really didn't think osteoporosis was a serious disease until I suffered a rib fracture while opening my classroom door. As a result, I had to take time off from work and lived the reality of the true physical, emotional and financial disruption of a broken bone in my life," said Pat Lindamood. "Women who suffer from osteoporosis like me must be proactive about how they manage their bone health before they break a bone. I encourage them to be more proactive in speaking with their doctors and seeking information from reliable sources like the Know My Bones Council."

National survey results show many women with postmenopausal osteoporosis are not optimally managing their disease:

Less than half (46 percent) of women with PMO knew their bone density score
Women with PMO were no more likely to know their bone density score than those without the disease (46 percent versus 44 percent)
More than a quarter (27 percent) of the survey respondents reported that they often do not take their osteoporosis medication
Only a little more than one-third (35 percent) of women reported initiating discussion of the disease with their doctor

The Council is unified with the goal of encouraging women living with PMO, including those in Cleveland, to prioritize their bone health and to seek information that will empower them to fight the disease. The Council, led by the National Osteoporosis Foundation and the Society for Women's Health Research, also includes the American Association of University Women, the American Business Women's Association, the National Women's Health Resource Center, and the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health with sponsorship and participation from Amgen. Dr. Deal has received funding from Amgen for activities not related to this program.

The Council encourages women to seek information and to take charge of their osteoporosis by visiting KnowMyBones.com, a Web site that will grow overtime and provide alerts and information about bone health and optimally managing osteoporosis.

About Osteoporosis

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis, often referred to as a "silent disease,"(5) is increasing in significance as the population of our nation both increases and ages.(6) The World Health Organization, the National Osteoporosis Foundation and the U.S. Surgeon General have officially declared osteoporosis a public health crisis. (7) In fact, osteoporosis and associated fractures are a significant cause of mortality and morbidity.(8)

In the US today, nearly eight million women suffer from osteoporosis(9)
Almost 34 million Americans are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis(10)
Half of women over 50 in the US will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in her lifetime(11)
The impact of breaking a bone is significant and often leads to a downward spiral for the patient
A woman who has broken a bone as a result of osteoporosis has more than an 8 out of 10 greater chance of breaking another bone(12)
One in four women who have broken a bone will fracture again within a year(13)
Half of the women who break a hip will permanently need assistance to walk(14)
Nearly one in four women who have broken a hip will die within one year(15)
By 2025, the annual direct costs of treating osteoporosis fractures in the US are estimated at $25 billion(16)

With menopause, bone loss occurs faster than new bone can form as a result of lower levels of estrogen, leading to osteoporosis.(17) In fact, women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone density in the five to seven years after menopause begins.(18) This decreased bone mineral density weakens the bone and puts women at higher risk for fractures or broken bones.(19)

About the Know My Bones Council

Guided by the belief that the path to optimal bone health can be found through educating and empowering women to more actively manage their disease, six leading women's advocacy groups have joined forces to create the Know My Bones Council. The Council, formed in 2009 with sponsorship and participation from Amgen, unified with the goal of encouraging women living with PMO to prioritize their bone health and to seek information that will empower them to fight the disease.

The Know My Bones Council includes the following groups:

National Osteoporosis Foundation: Established in 1984, the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) is the nation's leading voluntary health organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health. The NOF's mission is to prevent osteoporosis and related fractures, to promote lifelong bone health, to help improve the lives of those affected by osteoporosis and to find a cure through programs of awareness, advocacy, public and health professional education and research. More information is available at www.nof.org.

Society for Women's Health Research: The Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR) is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health of all women through advocacy, education and research. The Society encourages the study of sex differences between women and men that affect the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. More information is available at www.womenshealthresearch.org.

American Association of University Women: Since 1881, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been the nation's leading voice promoting education and equity for women and girls. The foundation's mission has been advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research. More information is available at www.aauw.org.

American Business Women's Association: Founded in 1949, the American Business Women's Association's (ABWA) mission is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership with education, networking support and national recognition. More information is available at www.abwa.org.

National Women's Health Resource Center: The not-for-profit National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC) is the leading independent consumer health information source for women. Through nationwide public education campaigns and personal assistance, NWHRC has helped women be informed health care consumers for more than 20 years. More information is available at www.HealthyWomen.org.

National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health: The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health (NPWH) was founded in 1980. NPWH represents nurse practitioners that provide care to women in the primary care setting as well as in women's health specialty practices. More information is available at www.npwh.org.

Amgen: Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science's promise by bringing safe and effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient. Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people around the world in the fight against cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other serious illnesses. With a deep and broad pipeline of potential new medicines, Amgen remains committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people's lives. To learn more about our pioneering science and our vital medicines, visit www.amgen.com.

About the Survey

The survey was conducted online between March 25 and April 1, 2009, by Harris Interactive. There were 1801 completed surveys received from respondents who met the screening criteria. The survey included 889 U.S. women with postmenopausal osteoporosis and 912 postmenopausal women who did not have osteoporosis; all women were aged 50+. The data were weighted to reflect age, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' likelihood to be online.

About the NOF Report "America's Bone Health"

America's Bone Health: The State of Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass in Our Nation is an update to the National Osteoporosis Foundation's (NOF) first prevalence report published in 1997. This report, like the 1997 version, highlights the estimated number of women and men age fifty and older in the United States who have or are at high risk for developing osteoporosis due to low bone mass. Prevalence estimates are based on 2000 Census data and are presented for the year 2002, 2010 and 2020. Prevalence percentage increases are reflective of women with osteoporosis between 2002 and 2020.

CONTACT:
Heather Rabinowitz
National Osteoporosis Foundation
(202) 721-6359

Karen Young
Society for Women's Health Research
(202) 496-5001

Leslie Bryant
Hill & Knowlton
(310) 633-9435

References
(1) National Osteoporosis Foundation. America's Bone Health: The state
of osteoporosis and low bone mass in our nation. 2002; Percent change
from 2002 - 2020. Pgs 18 and 24
(2) National Osteoporosis Foundation. America's Bone Health: The state
of osteoporosis and low bone mass in our nation. 2002; page 18
(3) National Osteoporosis Foundation. America's Bone Health: The state
of osteoporosis and low bone mass in our nation. 2002; page 18
(4) National Osteoporosis Foundation
(5) National Osteoporosis Foundation. Bone Tool Kit: Osteoporosis. It's
Beatable. It's Treatable. Available at:
http://www.nof.org/awareness2/2007/images/Bone_Tool_Kit.pdf,
accessed, 3/27/2009: Page #4, Paragraph 4
(6) Burge R, et al, Incidence and Economic Burden of Osteoporosis-Related
Fractures in the United States, 2005-2025. Journal of Bone and
Mineral Research 2007; 22: 465, Paragraph 1
(7) http://www.iofbonehealth.org/iof-
articles/articledetail.html?articleID=5, accessed 3/18/2009:
Parapgraph 3
(8) Kanis, OG et al. An Estimate of the Worldwide Prevalence and
Disability Associated with Osteoporotic Fractures. Osteoporosis
International 2006; 17:1726
(9) http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009: Main bullet #5
(10)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009: Main bullet #5
(11)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009, Main bullet #26
(12) Kanis JA, Johnell O, De Laet C, et al. (2004) A meta-analysis of
previous fracture and subsequent fracture risk. Bone 35:375.
(13) Clinical subsequent fractures cluster in time after first fractures.
T A C M van Geel, et al, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
2009;68:99-102.
(14)http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00121, accessed
3/19/2009,accessed, 3/18/2009: Bullet #1
(15)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009: Main bullet #35
(16)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009: Main bullet #28
(17)http://www.iofbonehealth.org/patients-public/about-
osteoporosis/facts-about-bones.html, accessed, 3/18/2009: Paragraph
#8
(18)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed,
3/18/2009: Main bullet #24
(19)http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm, accessed ,
3/18/2009: Paragraph #1

SOURCE National Osteoporosis Foundation

Knowing Yourself Can Improve Your Health and Happiness

2009-07-08T03:17:00.000-07:00

Anthropedia introduces DVD program designed by scientists and educators to teach viewers to understand their personality, manage stress, and build psychological resilience

NEW YORK, July 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Anthropedia Foundation, a non-profit organization based in New York and St. Louis, has introduced Know Yourself, an innovative DVD series designed for people interested in learning how to develop happier and healthier lives. The series is a step-by-step guide to improving well-being, integrating methods from various fields. Each part focuses on straightforward concepts and simple exercises that foster calmness, well-being, and mind-body health. The first three parts of the Know Yourself series are now available on Anthropedia's website and have been donated to clinics and non-profit organizations.

Know Yourself Part 1: Exploring Your Personality examines three ingredients for lasting satisfaction and fulfillment in life. The course provides viewers with the opportunity to use the online version of the TCI, an internationally renowned personality test. The resulting personality profile allows viewers to determine how their character and temperament both help and hinder their well-being.

Part 2: Understanding Thought examines the three steps of thought. Understanding these steps and potential traps in thinking helps people adapt more easily to stressful events and challenges in everyday life.

Part 3: Quieting the Mind introduces the "Silence of the Mind" meditation, a technique to calm the agitation of the mind and cope with mental tension and struggles. Parts 4 and 5 of the program are scheduled to be released this fall.

Each part of Know Yourself follows a clear sequence, including an introduction, feature discussion, brief review, and description of recommended exercises. Interspersed throughout each portion of the program are clear visual aids that help viewers retain and integrate information and important concepts. Natural imagery and an original soundtrack have been carefully arranged to promote learning and relaxation, an approach that makes the Know Yourself series a powerful and innovative tool for increasing health and happiness.

The series builds on research in the fields of psychiatry, psychology, and neuroscience, specifically on the research and clinical work of Dr. C. Robert Cloninger, Professor of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Genetics, and Director of the Center for Well-Being at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Dr. Cloninger explains that the series can be used by individuals at home and in a clinical setting, "The Know Yourself series is useful for a wide range of people and situations. Regardless of a person's level of mental and physical health, it provides helpful and enjoyable practices for living well. It uses established methods that are beneficial for personal development and as an adjunct in therapy for people with different mental and physical disorders."

ABOUT THE ANTHROPEDIA FOUNDATION

As the rates of lifestyle and stress-related illness increase worldwide, the Anthropedia Foundation advances the Science of Well-Being and offers solutions to foster health and happiness that are adapted to the 21st century.

Anthropedia is a non-profit foundation that promotes well-being through health and education initiatives. It is led by an institute of experts from the fields of medicine, psychology, art, education, and public health. Members of the Anthropedia Institute examine the most effective, scientifically proven practices from their fields and design comprehensive strategies to improve physical, mental, and social well-being. Based on the findings of the Institute, the foundation creates resources that teach people ways to cultivate healthy lifestyles, psychological resilience, character development, and self-awareness. Anthropedia's resources are simple, practical, and powerful, and can be used by individuals, professionals, and organizations seeking an effective approach to achieving and sustaining well-being.

To learn more about Anthropedia, please visit www.anthropedia.org.

SOURCE Anthropedia Foundation

A Bundle of Joy Brings a Bundle of Questions - Life123.com Delivers the Answers!

2009-07-08T03:16:00.000-07:00

BOSTON, July 8 /PRNewswire/ -- You've just waited through the longest two minutes of your life. The result is in, and the test appears to be positive. After catching your breath, you realize the only thing you're sure of is that life will never be the same again. That's because you've just learned you're pregnant! This discovery can be as overwhelming as it is thrilling. Questions flood your mind, and you know you need fast answers. That's when you turn to Life123.com, a leading source of expert advice on the Web.

You'll now need to focus on your own health and well-being. During the early stages of pregnancy, it will be important for you to eat right and get plenty of rest. (You'll need it for labor and beyond!) Along those lines, you'll also need to take the best prenatal vitamins, which include essentials such as folic acid, iron and calcium. There are also many exercises for pregnant women that will build your strength and give you the energy you need.

As your baby starts to grow, you'll want to keep track of his or her development by consulting a pregnancy timeline. That way, you'll know what to expect in terms of your baby's progress and how it will impact your body. You'll also become more aware of the first signs of twin pregnancy, which can certainly influence your planning!

Since you'll have several months to plan, you should also take this opportunity to learn more about newborn baby care, including how to change diapers (which you will be doing quite often), breastfeeding tips, techniques for soothing a crying infant, and how to deal with common ailments.

Before you know it, your due date will be around the corner. It will be vital for you to understand potential labor symptoms so you'll be well prepared to greet your family's new addition. These signs can start as early as several weeks before your baby's official debut, so be on the lookout.

This of course leads to the big day itself when your baby finally arrives. You'll likely be excited and quite tired after introducing a new life into the world. However, thanks to the experts at Life123.com, you're now ready and able to take on this exhilarating new challenge. That is of course, until you need to decide when to start potty training!

SOURCE Life123

iZumi Bio and Pierian Merge to Form iPierian to Advance Cellular Reprogramming

2009-07-08T03:05:00.001-07:00

- Dr. Corey Goodman appointed chairman of iPierian -

- MPM Capital leads new investment round of $11.5 million -

- World-renowned scientists anchor new Scientific Advisory Board -

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. and BOSTON, July 8 /PRNewswire/ -- iZumi Bio, Inc. and Pierian, Inc. today announced they have merged to form a new company, iPierian, Inc. Building on the iZumi infrastructure and vision, the company is focused on the application of cellular reprogramming to change the paradigm of drug discovery. The scientific leadership of the company will accelerate the development of new therapeutics using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells for patients with difficult-to-treat diseases.

iPierian is rapidly building upon the experienced management and scientific team of iZumi, who have deep knowledge and experience in both stem cell technology and drug discovery. The company will be led by John P. Walker, currently the chief executive officer of iZumi. Dr. Berta Strulovici will head up research efforts as the chief technical officer of iPierian and Dr. Dushyant Pathak will lead the company's business development activities. Dr. Corey Goodman, recently the president of Pfizer's Biotherapeutics and Bioinnovation, an elected member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, and a board member of iZumi, will become chairman of the Board of Directors of iPierian.

The scientific founders of Pierian, Drs. George Daley, Douglas Melton and Lee Rubin, faculty members at Harvard University, will become actively involved in decisions regarding the scientific direction and research priorities for iPierian. Dr. Daley will co-chair the new Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) of iPierian together with Dr. Deepak Srivastava, director of the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease and professor at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Dr. Corey Goodman will also sit on the company's SAB, and will be joined by a cadre of leading stem cell scientists.

"Since the inception of iZumi, we have built an organization and a platform of cellular programming as it applies to drug discovery and development. We are now furthering those efforts by bringing together the leading scientists in the field as active colleagues and members of the SAB to create a new and powerful force in the field of stem cell science," said CEO John Walker. "Drs. Daley, Melton and Rubin share our conviction that this effort represents a paradigm shift in the way drug discovery and development will be conducted in the future and maintain a clear focus on the development of new therapeutics."

"Disease-specific pluripotent stem cells are powerful new tools for drug screening and promise to revolutionize the treatment of intractable conditions," said Dr. George Daley. "We are excited to join forces with the iZumi team, and view this as an opportunity to translate our stem cell research efforts into therapeutic realities for patients. Our initial focus will be in neurodegenerative disease and longer term into metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, as well as other therapeutic areas."

iPierian has secured a $10 million investment from MPM Capital, which will augment the original $20 million investment by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Highland Capital Partners. "As the founding investor in Pierian, we are delighted to now support the formation of iPierian and a technology that we believe will change the value proposition of drug development," said Dr. Ashley Dombkowski, the managing director at MPM Capital who co-founded Pierian along with MPM managing director Robert Millman. Dr. Dombkowski will join the iPierian Board of Directors and will serve along with current iZumi members, Dr. Corey Goodman, John Walker, Dr. Beth Seidenberg of Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and Bob Higgins of Highland Capital Partners.

In addition to the investment by MPM, FinTech Capital Partners has invested an additional $1.5 million in this round of financing.

iPierian will continue the collaborations that have been established with the Gladstone Institutes and Kyoto University's Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) with Dr. Shinya Yamanaka, whose lab first succeeded in inducing iPS cells in mouse.

Newly Formed Scientific Advisory Board Members

iPierian has created a new SAB with world-renowned scientists in the field of stem cell research and in the company's current disease area priorities. They include:

Dr. George Daley is director of Stem Cell Transplantation at the Children's Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, The Samuel E. Lux IV Chair in Hematology, and associate professor of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Medicine, and Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Daley's lab was among the first to produce human induced pluripotent stem cells and disease-specific stem cells. As a clinician-scientist, Dr. Daley has extensive experience in translating promising science into novel therapeutics.
Dr. Deepak Srivastava is the director of the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, a professor of the departments of Pediatrics and Biochemistry and Biophysics and Wilma and Adeline Pirag distinguished professor in Pediatric Developmental Cardiology at UCSF. Dr. Srivastava's research focuses on understanding the causes of heart disease and on using knowledge of cardiac developmental pathways to devise novel therapeutics for human cardiac disorders.
Dr. Douglas Melton is co-director of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, and the Thomas Dudley Cabot Professor in the Natural Sciences at Harvard University. A world authority in developmental biology, pancreatic development, and metabolic disease, Dr. Melton recently published successful in-vivo reprogramming of exocrine pancreatic cells into insulin secreting cells without reversion to a pluripotent stem cell state.
Dr. Corey Goodman was a professor at Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley and is currently an adjunct professor at UCSF in the Departments of Anatomy and Biochemistry. While on the faculty at Berkeley, he was an investigator with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Evan Rauch Professor of Neuroscience, co-founder of the Wills Neuroscience Institute, and head of the division of neurobiology. Dr. Goodman also is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and was chairman of the National Research Council's board on Life Sciences, which issued in 2002 the landmark national report "Stem Cells and the Future of Regenerative Medicine.
Dr. Lee Rubin is director of Translational Medicine at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. His research has focused on identifying therapeutics for disorders such as SMA, ALS, Huntington's disease and multiple sclerosis using novel stem cell-based screens and assays.
Dr. Lennart Mucke is the director of the Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, and a professor of Neurology and Neuroscience at UCSF. His research focuses on processes that result in memory loss and other major neurological deficits, with an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.
Dr. Benoit Bruneau is an associate investigator at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease and associate professor in the department of Pediatrics at UCSF, and is an expert in cardiac differentiation. Dr. Bruneau's research focuses on the transcriptional regulation of heart development.
Dr. Kevin Eggan, assistant professor in the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University, principal investigator at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, and assistant investigator at the Stowers Medical Institute. Dr. Eggan is a world authority on somatic cell reprogramming by nuclear transfer, and the applications of iPS cells to model neurodegenerative disease.
Dr. Matthias Hebrok, Hurlbut-Johnson Distinguished Professor in Diabetes Research, is professor of Medicine and associate director for research at the Diabetes Center at UCSF. The main focus of his lab is to understand how islets of Langerhans, the endocrine component of the pancreas, are formed during organogenesis, how their function is regulated in the mature organism, and how changes in gene expression might allow islet regeneration.
Dr. Amy Wagers, assistant professor in the Section on Developmental and Stem Cell Biology at Joslin Diabetes Center and the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University, and principal faculty member of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. Dr. Wagers is a leading expert in adult stem cells of skeletal muscle and bone marrow.

About iPierian

iPierian is a South San Francisco-based biopharmaceutical company focused on the industrialization of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS) technology with the mission of creating new therapeutics through cellular reprogramming and directed differentiation of patient cells. iPierian is backed by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Highland Capital Partners, MPM Capital and FinTech Global Capital. The initial focus of the company is in neurodegeneration, particularly spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's disease as well as in cardiovascular disease, where iPierian has a collaboration with The Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease and Dr. Deepak Srivastava, the institute's director. iPierian plans to enhance its partnership efforts to further expand into metabolic diseases. The company recently announced a formal collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Shinya Yamanaka of Kyoto University to develop and improve methods of deriving iPS cell lines in order to advance iPS cell technology.

Because iPS cells are believed to be able to grow indefinitely in culture and to differentiate into many cell types, iPS cells have great potential for disease research, preclinical drug testing and cell-based therapy. iPierian's approach places the patient at the forefront of the drug discovery process, thereby reducing drug development time and increasing the probability of success for drug candidates. iPierian plans to use precise human disease models to find new molecular targets and develop proprietary therapeutic small molecule or biologic drugs for its own pipeline to treat specific diseases.

SOURCE iZumi Bio, Inc.; Pierian, Inc.

Expert Explains Why Propofol Was the Wrong -- and Possibly Fatal -- Drug for Michael Jackson

2009-07-07T00:57:00.000-07:00

American Society of Anesthesiologists' response typical, timid, and tepid, says Dr. Barry Friedberg

CORONA DEL MAR, Calif., July 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Propofol, the chemical name for Diprivan, is formulated for ONLY intravenous use. It is used for general anesthesia or sedation in operating rooms, GI suites, and intensive care units.

Propofol is intended only for use under medical supervision in a medical facility with full heart and breathing monitoring. NEVER for 'at home' use.

Friedberg explains Propofol can kill people just as quickly as it can put them to sleep. Propofol can tell the brain to stop breathing.

According to Friedberg, The American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) response to Jackson's death was typical.

Like the white color of propofol, the ASA July 6th statement/press release continues to be timid by 'white-washing' the probability that deaths like Jackson's would likely be avoided by routine brain monitoring. Dr. Friedberg and other early technology adopters have provided brain monitoring for patients since 1997.

Many patients who come for cosmetic (and other) surgery do not tell their anesthesiologist about ALL the medications or drugs they have been taking.

Lack of this information increases the chances of being overdosed if anesthesia is given without a brain monitor.

"Big Pharma drug profits provide huge sponsorship money to the ASA. Profits decrease if drug sales decrease -- the likely result of the lack of widespread use of brain monitors. How, then, can the ASA claim to represent the patients' best interest by avoiding the risks of routine over medication?" asks Dr. Friedberg. "That's like asking the fox to guard the hen house."

The ASA was also tepid by avoiding mention of propofol abuse within the anesthesia profession, says Dr. Friedberg.

Barry Friedberg, MD, is a practicing, board certified anesthesiologist, author of the textbook, 'Anesthesia in Cosmetic Surgery,' a Congressional award recipient, and an Associate Professor of Anesthesia at the University of California, Irvine.

More information at: www.CosmeticSurgeryAnesthesia.com

SOURCE Barry L. Friedberg

SoundBite(TM) Hearing System by Sonitus Medical Receives First Acceptance for Publication in Otology & Neurotology Journal

2009-07-07T00:53:00.000-07:00

Article Marks the First Peer-Reviewed Publication on the Novel Removable Device Intended to Undetectably Transmit Sound Via the Teeth

SAN MATEO, Calif., July 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonitus Medical, Inc., a medical device company developing the world's first non-surgical and removable hearing device to transmit sound via the teeth, today announced the acceptance for publication of the first peer reviewed article on its SoundBite(TM) hearing system. The article, featuring a preliminary evaluation of this novel bone conduction device, will be published in an upcoming issue of the esteemed Otology & Neurotology professional journal. The new bone conduction device is intended for single sided deafness (SSD), an acquired and usually permanent condition.

Lead author of the article encompassing a preliminary evaluation of this novel device was Gerald R. Popelka, Ph.D., Professor of Otolaryngology and Chief of the Division of Audiology at the Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Popelka, who serves on the company's Scientific Advisory Board, and his co-authors, reported on key measurements of the hearing system related to oral function and oral health, calibration, auditory performance, speech intelligibility, and overall comfort.

This acceptance for publication follows the introduction of the SoundBite(TM) hearing system in a featured podium presentation by Dr. Popelka at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meeting (COSM) in Phoenix on May 30, 2009.

"We are excited to introduce our innovative SoundBite(TM) hearing system and share early research results with prominent investigators and practitioners in the Otolaryngology community," said Amir Abolfathi, CEO of Sonitus Medical. "The acceptance of this article for publication illustrates the company's commitment to generating good clinical data and engaging with thought leaders in the field as we develop our non-surgical device for patients who suffer from single sided deafness."

Sonitus Medical is developing a nearly invisible In The Mouth (ITM) hearing and communication platform that relies on the principle of bone conduction to undetectably transmit sound via the teeth to the inner ear. Its SoundBite(TM) hearing system is designed to help people who are essentially deaf in one ear to regain spatial hearing ability and rejoin the conversation of life. It is currently for investigational use only.

Following a review of existing treatment approaches for SSD, Dr. Popelka noted that "Both objective and subjective measurements from our study indicate that the new sound delivery system offers important potential benefits for a non-surgical treatment of single sided deafness. Based on the positive results and patient-perceived improvements, additional studies to investigate overall effectiveness and spatial hearing of this device are clearly warranted."

About SoundBite(TM)

SoundBite(TM) hearing system is the world's first and only non-surgical and removable hearing solution that imperceptibly transmits sound via the teeth to help people who are essentially deaf in one ear to rejoin the conversation of life. A nearly invisible digital audio device, SoundBite(TM) relies on a well-established principle called bone conduction to deliver clear, high quality sound, and is intended to restore normal hearing functions to people with either single sided deafness, conductive, or mixed hearing loss. The SoundBite(TM) system consists of an easy to insert and remove dental retainer-like device which requires no modifications to your teeth, and a small microphone unit worn behind the ear. This device is for investigational use only and is currently slated for clinical trials that are intended to support an initial filing for FDA 510(k) clearance for single sided deafness.

About Sonitus Medical

Sonitus Medical Inc. is a privately held medical device company developing the SoundBite(TM) hearing system, a non-surgical and removable hearing solution that imperceptibly transmits sound via the teeth. Relying on the principle of bone conduction, this nearly invisible in the mouth (ITM) hearing communication platform is initially intended as a simple and non-invasive treatment for hearing disorders such as single sided deafness, conductive hearing loss and tinnitus. Potential future applications include consumer and covert communications. Founded in June 2006, Sonitus Medical is headquartered in San Mateo, California. To learn more about Sonitus Medical, please visit www.sonitusmedical.com.

SOURCE Sonitus Medical, Inc.

Multimedia Release: British Men Think Talking About Impotence is "Just Not Cricket"

2009-07-07T00:50:00.001-07:00

LONDON, July 7 /PRNewswire/ --

- Former England Cricketer and Spin Ace, Phil Tufnell, and Media Doctor and GP, Dr Rob Hicks, Call on Men to Bat Away Embarrassment and Take Appropriate Action on Impotence

With the first innings of the Ashes commencing this week, celebrity TV presenter and former England cricketer and spin ace, Phil Tufnell is calling on British blokes to think about their health as well as the Ashes Test Series this summer. Concerned that many men may not be able to bowl their maiden over, Phil is encouraging blokes who may experience impotence to visit http://www.bowlyourmaidenover.com to learn about the condition and why their doctor is best placed to help. Bowl Your Maiden Over is sponsored and brought to you by Lilly UK.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/bowlyourmaidenover/39040/

Impotence is common. 40% of men over the age of 40 have experienced some degree of impotence(1) yet many do not speak to a doctor(2). The latest data suggest that almost one third of men attempt to self-treat impotence by purchasing treatments from uncontrolled sources(2)(*). In the case of medicines, a study showed 65% accessed from these sources are imitations with relatively high health risks(2). Bowl Your Maiden Over encourages men to avoid unnecessary risk and to speak to their GP about impotence and the range of different treatment options available - 95% of cases can be treated by a healthcare professional(3).

Commenting on why men fail to take appropriate action on impotence, Phil Tufnell says, "Over five and a half million fellas in the UK may be experiencing some degree of impotence,(1,4) but no one seems to talk about it. But because of all this embarrassment and silence, men don't know what to do about the condition. So I'm encouraging blokes to take action. The message is simple: lads, if you can't bowl your maiden over, go to http://www.bowlyourmaidenover.com and then, if necessary, visit your GP for help."

Research shows that most men wait for a year or longer before speaking to their GP.(5) Commenting on this, media doctor and GP Rob Hicks says, "There's really no need for embarrassment when it comes to impotence. This is a common condition that GPs see week in, week out. Given this, it's strange that men still duck for cover when the word is mentioned. There's no need - this is not an out-of-bounds condition. GPs are used to talking about it and want to help."

Supporting the call for men to take appropriate action on impotence, Rob adds, "I want men to enjoy the cricket this summer but to also think about their health. I'm urging men to tackle the issue head on and get information from qualified sources. On top of that, impotence may impact on a couple's relationship so it makes sense to speak to your GP and get things back on track(6)."

Concluding, Phil Tufnell says, "I'm looking forward to sharing some top cricket stats with blokes this summer but before the Ashes gets underway, I want to knock about some facts on impotence: you're not alone if you experience it. In fact, if a large Test ground, such as Lord's, was full of men aged 40 and over, at least 10,000 blokes would have experienced impotence(1,7). Trying to get help without speaking to a professional is a risky business, so get down to the GP and make sure your kit is in order."

As a first step, men can visit a new impotence information website at http://www.bowlyourmaidenover.com. It is provided alongside http://www.40over40.com, a website that offers information and advice about impotence and includes a simple action plan to help men prepare for a conversation with their GP. Both websites are sponsored and brought to you by Eli Lilly and Company Limited (Lilly UK).

Note to Editors

* Uncontrolled sources of impotence treatments tend to provide services without the patient requiring a medical consultation and/or prescription

Decisions about impotence treatment and men's overall health should be made by patients in consultation with a doctor. Buying treatments from internet sites, or other sources, which do not provide professional, qualified medical advice puts the patient at risk.

What is impotence?

Impotence, or erectile dysfunction, occurs when the penis does not get hard (erect) enough to allow a man to have sexual activity. This happens because not enough blood can get into, or stay, in the penis(6).

What causes impotence?

In most cases, the cause of impotence is a physical one. It can be a symptom of other illnesses including diabetes, high blood pressure or nerve problems(6,8,9,10). In many cases there will be a combination of both physical and psychological factors.

Why has http://www.bowlyourmaidenover.com been developed?

Impotence is commonly experienced by men over the age of 40,(1) many of who may be cricket fans. A cricket analogy is being used in this summer's impotence information campaign to help men engage with this health problem and discuss the topic with their GP. The Bowl Your Maiden Over disease awareness campaign is in association with http://www.40over40.com, an erectile dysfunction educational website.

Both activities/resources are sponsored and brought to you by Eli Lilly and Company Limited (Lilly UK).

Disease awareness campaigns

Guidance is provided on healthcare communications and disease awareness campaigns in the UK by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI). More information can be found at: http://www.mhra.gov.uk/ and http://www.abpi.org.uk/links/assoc/PMCPA/pmpca_code2006.pdf

References

1) Feldman HA, Goldstein I, Hatzichristou DG et al. Impotence and its medical and psychological correlates: results of the Massachusetts male aging study. Journal of Urology 1994; 151(1): 54 - 61

2) Banks I, Kirby M, Marfatia A et al. Assessment, in a general population of men, of men's interaction with the healthcare system to obtain Phospodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors. Poster presented at Joint Congress of the European and International Societies for Sexual Medicine, Belgium, 2008

3) WGBH Educational Foundation 2006, Impotence: causes and treatments, http://www.jcn.co.uk/journal.asp.?MonthNum=10&YearNum=1999&Type=backissue&Arti cleID=186 Last accessed 19.06.09

(Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy and paste this hyperlink into your Internet browser's URL address field. Remove the space if one exists.)

4) 14,052,000 men in the UK are aged 40 or over according to data from the Office for National Statistics, General Register Office for Scotland, Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency:http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Product.asp?vlnk=15106. Last accessed 23.06.09. 40% of men over the age of 40 have experienced some degree of impotence according to Feldman HA et al. (reference 1 within this document). It can therefore be calculated that 5,620,800 men in the UK may be experiencing some form of impotence

5) Haro JM, Beardsworth A, Casariego J et al. Treatment-seeking behavior of erectile dysfunction patients in Europe: results of the erectile dysfunction observational study. Journal of Sexual Medicine 2006; 3: 530 - 540

6) Miller TA. Diagnostic evaluation of erectile dysfunction. American Family Physician 2000; 61(1): 95 - 104, 109 - 110

7) BBC Sport venue guide, http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport/hi/english/static/in_depth/cricket/2001/ashes/venu es/lords.stm. Last accessed 12.06.09

(Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy and paste this hyperlink into your Internet browser's URL address field. Remove the space if one exists.)

8) Wagner G, Mulhall J. Pathophysiology and diagnosis of male erectile dysfunction. BJU International 2001; 88 (Suppl 3): 3 - 10

9) Bloomgarden ZT. American Diabetes Association annual meeting, 1999: nephropathy and neuropathy. Diabetes Care 2000; 23(4): 549 - 556

10) Dey J, Shepherd MD. Evaluation and treatment of erectile dysfunction in men with diabetes mellitus. Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2002; 77: 276 - 282

This activity is sponsored and brought to you by Eli Lilly and Company Limited (Lilly UK). Eli Lilly and Company Limited, Basingstoke, RG24 9NL.

Prepared June 2009, UKCLS00232

SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company Limited

ThromboGenics and BioInvent Start Recruitment of Second 100 Patient Cohort in Phase II DVT Prophylaxis Study With TB-402

2009-07-03T01:20:00.000-07:00

LEUVEN, Belgium and LUND, Sweden, July 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ThromboGenics NV (Euronext Brussels: THR) and co-development partner BioInvent International (OMXS: BINV) announce that they have started recruitment of a second cohort of patients for their Phase II trial of TB-402. This follows completion of recruitment of the first cohort of 100 patients ahead of schedule. TB-402 is a novel, long acting anticoagulant that is being developed for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following orthopaedic surgery. The decision to move ahead with the second cohort of this trial follows unanimous advice from the external efficacy and safety monitoring board to proceed using a higher dose of TB-402.

The Phase II trial is an active (enoxaparin)-controlled, dose-escalating, multicenter, prospective, randomised, open label trial evaluating TB-402 for the prophylaxis of DVT after knee surgery. The study is assessing three different doses of TB-402 given as a single intravenous bolus injection post knee replacement surgery, and will enrol a total of 300 patients across 36 centers, mainly in Europe. The objective of the study is to assess the safety and efficacy of the three escalating doses of TB-402.

TB-402 is a recombinant human monoclonal antibody that partially inhibits Factor VIII, a key component of the coagulation cascade. This novel mode of action is expected to reduce the risk of undesirable bleeding events, even at high doses, as well as the need for patient monitoring. These are the two main drawbacks associated with current anticoagulants. In addition, TB-402 is a long-acting agent, which means it could be given as a single dose after surgery to prevent the development of DVT. This would be an attractive option, as all current anticoagulant treatment options require daily treatment for up to several weeks.

Professor Peter Verhamme from the University of Leuven will present additional data from the earlier successful Phase I studies at the XXII Congress of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) on July 15, 2009 in Boston.

Patrik De Haes, CEO of ThromboGenics commented, "We are very happy that this important study with TB-402 is progressing rapidly. TB-402's profile, including its novel mode of action, could allow it to address the many drawbacks associated with current anticoagulant therapy. We remain confident in the large market potential for TB-402, and believe that the current Phase II study will provide additional data to further highlight the attractive differentiating properties of this novel long-acting anticoagulant."

Svein Mathisen, CEO of BioInvent, also commented, "We are pleased that there has been rapid progress in this study and that the efficacy and safety monitoring board unanimously recommended that we proceed to a higher dose of TB-402. It is testament to the strength of our partnership with ThromboGenics and the exciting potential of this product candidate."

About Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is caused when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the deep veins of the lower leg. DVT is a major public health issue and it is estimated that in the U.S. alone, more than 350,000 individuals are affected by DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE) each year. Moreover, DVT and PE together may be responsible for more than 100,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.(1)

It is estimated that by 2015, 1.4 million patients will undergo knee replacement and 600,000 patients will undergo hip replacement in the U.S. if current trends persist.(2) Patients undergoing hip replacement or knee surgery are particularly at risk of developing DVT and all patients are therefore treated with anticoagulants prophylactically in order to reduce the risks of blood clots. The annual sales of anticoagulants worldwide are over $5 billion. Nevertheless, available anticoagulants are still inconvenient and associated with an increased risk of bleeding. Improved anticoagulants are therefore required. In particular, agents that allow for improved ease of administration (without requirement for daily dosing and frequent dose adjustment) would fill a significant unmet need.

Legal disclaimer

This press release contains statements about the future, consisting of subjective assumptions and forecasts for future scenarios. Predictions for the future only apply as of the date they are made and are, by their very nature, in the same way as research and development work in the biotech segment, associated with risk and uncertainty. With this in mind, the actual outcome may deviate significantly from the scenarios described in this press release.

Notes to Editors:

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 anticoagulant, 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.

About BioInvent

BioInvent International AB, listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm (BINV), is a research-based pharmaceutical company that focuses on developing antibody drugs. The Company is currently running innovative drug projects within the areas of thrombosis, cancer and atherosclerosis. The Company has signed various strategic alliances around these product candidates and is developing them in collaboration with partners including Genentech, Roche and ThromboGenics.

These projects are based around a competitive and in substance patented antibody development platform. The scope and strength of this platform is also utilised by partners, such as ALK-Abello, Bayer HealthCare, ImmunoGen, OrbusNeich, Sanofi-Aventis, UCB and XOMA. More information is available at http://www.bioinvent.com.

(1) "The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism," September 15, 2008, p.1.

(2) "Changes in Surgical Loads and Economic Burden of Hip and Knee Replacements in the US: 1997-2004," Sunny Kim, Arthritis & Rheumatism (Arthritis Care & Research), April 15, 2008; 59:4, pp. 481-488.

ThromboGenics NV
Gaston Geenslaan 1
B-3001 Leuven
Belgium
Tel: +32(0)16-75-13-10
http://www.thrombogenics.com

BioInvent International AB (publ)
Co. reg. No. 556537-7263,
Address: Solvegatan 41
Mailing address: SE-223 70 LUND
Tel: +46(0)46-286-85-50
info@bioinvent.com
http://www.bioinvent.com

For further information, please contact:

ThromboGenics NV
Patrik De Haes, MD
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: +32(0)16-75-13-10
E-mail: patrik.dehaes@thrombogenics.com

Andy De Deene, MD
Clinical Director Europe
Tel: +32(0)16-75-13-10
E-mail: andy.dedeene@thrombogenics.com

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

BioInvent International AB
Svein Mathisen
President & CEO
Tel: +46(0)46-286-85-67
Mobile: +46(0)708-97-82-13
E-mail: svein.mathisen@bioinvent.com

Cristina Glad
Executive Vice President
Tel: +46(0)46-286-85-51
Mobile: +46(0)708-16-85-70
E-mail: cristina.glad@bioinvent.com

College Hill (media enquiries)
Holly Griffiths, Sue Charles, John McIntyre
Tel: +44(0)20-7866-7856
E-mail: bioinvent@collegehill.com

SOURCE ThromboGenics NV and BioInvent International

Ingenious Med Announces a New Coding & Compliance Tool, MasterCoder

2009-07-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

ATLANTA, July 1 /PRNewswire/ -- With the growing potential threat of Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) audits facing healthcare organizations as well as the increased legislative plans currently in process within congress to further combat fraud in the medical system, Ingenious Med releases a new tool, MasterCoder, to help its customers address these concerns.

MasterCoder for the Web, an integrated E&M coding solution, is the newest enhancement to IM Practice Manager. MasterCoder is now available to Ingenious Med customers whether they access IM Practice Manager through the web or a mobile device.

"MasterCoder has improved our practice by saving time and eliminating the fears of over and under-coding," said a user at Auburn Memorial Hospital. "It has also helped us capture appropriate higher level services by guiding us through the proper coding algorithms and documentation. Additionally, it is extremely easy to use."

Ingenious Med's MasterCoder is an educational tool, based on guidelines directly from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), that is designed to assist physicians during coding decision-making. MasterCoder works alongside IM Practice Manager to prompt and aid documentation of E&M and time-based codes at the point-of-care, without disrupting workflow. MasterCoder functionality provides comfort and confidence in the coding process by simulating what it would be like to have a coding consultant present at every patient encounter.

This solution gives practice administrators the ability to educate, prompt and record E&M decision-making for their physicians while giving physicians real-time feedback and knowledge into accurate coding.

"MasterCoder is designed to work with a physician and compliment current workflow and documentation processes," said Dr. Steve Liu, chairman and founder at Ingenious Med. "MasterCoder serves as a great educational tool to aid physicians in coding appropriately. Even extremely experienced physicians can benefit from using it."

Dr. Bob Zurcher, a physician manager at several facilities utilizing Ingenious Med, is responsible for ensuring new physicians in his groups learn how to code correctly. New physicians are required to complete the Hospitalist Curriculum from E/M University. This is a series of courses that help educate the physicians in proper coding and documentation. Zurcher states that while "IM MasterCoder has not replaced E/M University, it works beautifully as a complementary part of ongoing coding education and is extremely easy to use."

"Providing our groups with state-of-the-art, easy to use technology that aides them in providing higher quality of care to their patients is key to all that we do at Ingenious Med," said Mike Pickering, CTO at Ingenious Med. "We are confident that the addition of MasterCoder to IM Practice Manager will heighten product versatility and prove invaluable to its users. The best part is -- for current clients, this additional functionality is offered free of charge as a part of our all-inclusive software solution."

About Ingenious Med, Inc.

Founded in 1999 by a group of practicing inpatient physicians, Ingenious Med is an industry-leading inpatient practice management solution to thousands of users in more than 500 facilities across the United States.

Ingenious Med's all-inclusive product, IM Practice Manager, is an Internet-based application enabling inpatient physicians to capture charges, document, enhance coding and compliance, improve quality of care, increase revenue and communicate digitally. In addition, the program aggregates management data separately from the hospital information system, so individual physician and total department performance can be accurately evaluated. Nationwide, Ingenious Med is the leader in inpatient practice management solutions, supporting all inpatient specialties. For more detailed information on Ingenious Med, visit www.ingeniousmed.com or call 404.815.0862.

SOURCE Ingenious Med, Inc.

New Report Finds Obesity Epidemic Increases, Mississippi Weighs in as Heaviest State

2009-07-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Experts Recommend Addressing Obesity through Health Reform, National Strategy

WASHINGTON, July 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Adult obesity rates increased in 23 states and did not decrease in a single state in the past year, according to F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America 2009, a report released today by the Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). In addition, the percentage of obese or overweight children is at or above 30 percent in 30 states.

"Our health care costs have grown along with our waist lines," said Jeff Levi, Ph.D., executive director of TFAH. "The obesity epidemic is a big contributor to the skyrocketing health care costs in the United States. How are we going to compete with the rest of the world if our economy and workforce are weighed down by bad health?"

Mississippi had the highest rate of adult obesity at 32.5 percent, making it the fifth year in a row that the state topped the list. Four states now have rates above 30 percent, including Mississippi, West Virginia (31.2 percent), Alabama (31.1 percent) and Tennessee (30.2 percent). Eight of the 10 states with the highest percentage of obese adults are in the South. Colorado continued to have the lowest percentage of obese adults at 18.9 percent.

Adult obesity rates now exceed 25 percent in 31 states and exceed 20 percent in 49 states and Washington, D.C. Two-thirds of American adults are either obese or overweight. In 1991, no state had an obesity rate above 20 percent. In 1980, the national average for adult obesity was 15 percent. Sixteen states experienced an increase for the second year in a row, and 11 states experienced an increase for the third straight year.

Mississippi also had the highest rate of obese and overweight children (ages 10 to 17) at 44.4 percent. Minnesota and Utah had the lowest rate at 23.1 percent. Eight of the 10 states with the highest rates of obese and overweight children are in the South. Childhood obesity rates have more than tripled since 1980.

"Reversing the childhood obesity epidemic is a critical ingredient for delivering a healthier population and making health reform work," said Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D., M.B.A., RWJF president and CEO. "If we can prevent the current generation of young people from developing the serious and costly chronic conditions related to obesity, we can not only improve health and quality of life, but we can also save billions of dollars and make our health care systems more efficient and sustainable."

The F as in Fat report contains rankings of state obesity rates and a review of federal and state government policies aimed at reducing or preventing obesity. Some additional key findings from F as in Fat 2009 include:

The current economic crisis could exacerbate the obesity epidemic. Food prices, particularly for more nutritious foods, are expected to rise, making it more difficult for families to eat healthy foods. At the same time, safety-net programs and services are becoming increasingly overextended as the numbers of unemployed, uninsured and underinsured continue to grow. In addition, due to the strain of the recession, rates of depression, anxiety and stress, which are linked to obesity for many individuals, also are increasing.
Nineteen states now have nutritional standards for school lunches, breakfasts and snacks that are stricter than current USDA requirements. Five years ago, only four states had legislation requiring stricter standards.
Twenty-seven states have nutritional standards for competitive foods sold a la carte, in vending machines, in school stores or in school bake sales. Five years ago, only six states had nutritional standards for competitive foods.
Twenty states have passed requirements for body mass index (BMI) screenings of children and adolescents or have passed legislation requiring other forms of weight-related assessments in schools. Five years ago, only four states had passed screening requirements.
A recent analysis commissioned by TFAH found that the Baby Boomer generation has a higher rate of obesity compared with previous generations. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, obesity-related costs to Medicare and Medicaid are likely to grow significantly because of the large number of people in this population and its high rate of obesity. And, as Baby Boomers become Medicare-eligible, the percentage of obese adults age 65 and older could increase significantly. Estimates of the increase in percentage of obese adults range from 5.2 percent in New York to 16.3 percent in Alabama.

Key report recommendations for addressing obesity within health reform include:

Ensuring every adult and child has access to coverage for preventive medical services, including nutrition and obesity counseling and screening for obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes;
Increasing the number of programs available in communities, schools, and childcare settings that help make nutritious foods more affordable and accessible and provide safe and healthy places for people to engage in physical activity; and
Reducing Medicare expenditures by promoting proven programs that improve nutrition and increase physical activity among adults ages 55 to 64.

The report also calls for a National Strategy to Combat Obesity that would define roles and responsibilities for federal, state and local governments and promote collaboration among businesses, communities, schools and families. It would seek to advance policies that

Provide healthy foods and beverages to students at schools;
Increase the availability of affordable healthy foods in all communities;
Increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of physical activity at school;
Improve access to safe and healthy places to live, work, learn, and play;
Limit screen time; and
Encourage employers to provide workplace wellness programs.

The full report with state rankings in all categories is available on TFAH's Web site at www.healthyamericans.org and RWJF's Web site at www.rwjf.org. The report was supported by a grant from RWJF.

State-by-State Adult Obesity Rankings

Note: 1 = Highest rate of adult obesity, 51 = lowest rate of adult obesity. Rankings are based on combining three years of data (2006-2008) from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to "stabilize" data for comparison purposes. This methodology, recommended by the CDC, compensates for any potential anomalies or usual changes due to the specific sample in any given year in any given state. States with a statistically significant (p<0.05) increase for one year are noted with an asterisk (*), states with statistically significant increases for two years in a row are noted with two asterisks (**), states with statistically significant increases for three years in a row are noted with three asterisks (***). Additional information about methodologies and confidence interval is available in the report. Adults with a body mass index, a calculation based on weight and height ratios, of 30 or higher are considered obese.

1. Mississippi*** (32.5%); 2. Alabama* (31.2%); 3. West Virginia (31.1%); 4. Tennessee*** (30.2%); 5. South Carolina (29.7%); 6. Oklahoma*** (29.5%); 7. Kentucky (29.0%); 8. Louisiana (28.9%); 9. Michigan*** (28.8%) 10. (tie) Arkansas (28.6%) and Ohio* (28.6%); 12. North Carolina*** (28.3%); 13. Missouri (28.1%); 14. (tie) Georgia (27.9%) and Texas (27.9%); 16. Indiana (27.4%); 17. Delaware*** (27.3%); 18. (tie) Alaska (27.2%) and Kansas*** (27.2%) 20. (tie) Nebraska (26.9%) and South Dakota*** (26.9%); 22. (tie) Iowa (26.7%) and North Dakota* (26.7%) and Pennsylvania** 26.7%; 25. (tie) Maryland*** (26.0%) and Wisconsin (26.0%); 27. Illinois 25.9%; 28. (tie) Oregon (25.4%) and Virginia (25.4) and Washington*** (25.4%); 31. Minnesota (25.3%); 32. Nevada* 25.1%; 33. (tie) Arizona** (24.8%) and Idaho (24.8%); 35. Maine* (24.7%); 36. New Mexico*** (24.6%); 37. New York** (24.5%) 38. Wyoming (24.3%); 39. (tie) Florida* (24.1%) and New Hampshire (24.1%); 41. California (23.6%); 42. New Jersey (23.4%); 43. Montana** (22.7%); 44. Utah (22.5%); 45. District of Columbia (22.3%); 46. Vermont** (22.1%); 47. Hawaii* (21.8%); 48. Rhode Island (21.7%); 49. Connecticut (21.3%); 50. Massachusetts (21.2%); 51. Colorado (18.9%)

State-by-State Obese and Overweight Children Ages 10-17 Rankings

Note: 1 = Highest rate of childhood overweight, 51 = lowest. Rankings are based on the National Survey of Children's Health, a phone survey of parents with children ages 10-17 conducted in 2007 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Additional information about methodologies and confidence intervals is available in the report. Children with a body mass index, a calculation based on weight and height ratios, at or above the 95th percentile for their age are considered obese and children at or above the 85th percentile are considered overweight. States with statistically significant (p<0.05) increases in combined obesity and overweight since the NSCH was last issued in 2003 are noted with an asterisk (*).

1. Mississippi* (44.4%); 2. Arkansas (37.5%); 3. Georgia (37.3%); 4. Kentucky (37.1%) 5. Tennessee (36.5%) 6. Alabama (36.1%); 7. Louisiana (35.9%); 8. West Virginia (35.5%); 9. District of Columbia (35.4%); 10. Illinois (34.9%); 11. Nevada* (34.2%); 12. Alaska (33.9%); 13. South Carolina (33.7%); 14. North Carolina (33.5%); 15. Ohio (33.3%); 16. Delaware (33.2%); 17. Florida (33.1%); 18. New York (32.9%); 19. New Mexico (32.7%) 20. Texas (32.2%) 21. Nebraska (31.5%); 22. Kansas (31.1%); 23. (tie) Missouri (31.0%) and New Jersey (31.0%) and Virginia (31.0%); 26. (tie) Arizona (30.6%) and Michigan (30.6%); 28. California (30.5%); 29. Rhode Island (30.1%); 30. Massachusetts (30.0%) 31. Indiana (29.9%) 32. Pennsylvania (29.7%); 33. (tie) Oklahoma (29.5%) and Washington (29.5%); 35. New Hampshire (29.4%); 36. Maryland (28.8%); 37. Hawaii (28.5%); 38. South Dakota (28.4%); 39. Maine (28.2%); 40. Wisconsin (27.9%); 41. Idaho (27.5%); 42. Colorado (27.2%); 43. Vermont (26.7%); 44. Iowa (26.5%); 45. (tie) Connecticut (25.7%) and North Dakota (25.7%) and Wyoming (25.7%); 48. Montana (25.6%); 49. Oregon (24.3%); 50. (tie) Minnesota (23.1%) and Utah (23.1%)

Trust for America's Health is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to saving lives by protecting the health of every community and working to make disease prevention a national priority. www.healthyamericans.org

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation focuses on the pressing health and health care issues facing our country. As the nation's largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care of all Americans, the Foundation works with a diverse group of organizations and individuals to identify solutions and achieve comprehensive, meaningful and timely change. For more than 35 years the Foundation has brought experience, commitment, and a rigorous, balanced approach to the problems that affect the health and health care of those it serves. Helping Americans lead healthier lives and get the care they need--the Foundation expects to make a difference in our lifetime. For more information, visit www.rwjf.org.

SOURCE Trust for America's Health

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

2009-06-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-30T06:06:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

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)

2009-06-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-26T05:08:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-26T04:33:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T05:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T05:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T04:58:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-23T10:57:00.001-07:00

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

2009-06-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-22T10:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-22T10:53:00.001-07:00

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

2009-06-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-19T10:18:00.000-07:00

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

After Major Ruling on Unsafe Lead Levels in Paint, Experts Reveal How You Can Ensure Your Kids Are Safe

2009-06-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

ANAHEIM, Calif., June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Mattel, Inc. and its subsidiary, Fisher-Price, have been fined $2.3 million for importing and selling toys containing high levels of lead. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the toymaker violated a federal ban on lead paint in toys. The companies deny having intentionally violated the ban. The fine is a result of a number of recalls by Mattel and Fisher-Price in 2007, when the companies recalled toys including Elmo, Barbie, Big Bird, and Dora because of excessive levels of lead.
In 2007, over 6 million toys imported from China were recalled for high levels of lead. Could you already have these unsafe toys in your home? Are your children playing with them right now?
Healthy home experts Lisa and Ron Beres specialize in how people can make their homes and offices safer, healthier, and greener. Invite this green team to reveal:
How parents can test their children's toys for lead paint in less than 5 minutes.
Why 38 million homes have lead in them and where you can find it.
Why asthma rates have doubled since the 1980s and increased 160% in children under the age of 5.
Why children in the U.S. are born with an average of 200 chemicals already in their blood.
How you can have a healthier and greener home in half the time for half the cost.
CREDENTIALS: Husband-and-wife team Lisa and Ron Beres are the founders of GreenNest.com, eco-experts, authors, and speakers within the green movement. They recently spoke at Maria Shriver's Women's Conference in October 2008 where they joined Warren Buffet, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jennifer Lopez, and Bono. The Bereses actively champion the cause of all-natural products that nourish the body while reducing their carbon footprint. Through their Healthy Home Consultations, they helped Trista and Ryan, from ABC's Bachelorette, to create a healthy nursery for baby Max. They are the authors of Learn to Create a Healthy Home! and The 9 to 5 Greened: 10 Steps to a Healthy Office. Lisa is the author of the children's book My Body My House, and most recently Your Home Through Green Colored Glasses with Sally Jessy Raphael. Lisa has been a guest on Martha Stewart Living Radio and is a regular correspondent for the Sally Jessy Raphael Radio Show. The Bereses have appeared on The Doctors, Fox and Friends, The Today Show with Matt Lauer, Chelsea Lately on E!, Discovery's Greenovate, and Living Well with Montel Williams.
AVAILABILITY: California, nationwide by arrangement, and via telephone
CONTACT: Lisa and Ron Beres, (949) 387-3804 (CA); SOURCE GreenNest.com

American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine Leader Suggests Health Care Reforms to Cut Costs, Ensure Quality Care for People with Serious Illn

2009-06-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

GLENVIEW, Ill., June 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Congress can help diminish barriers to quality care for people with serious illness, according to Howard Tuch, MD, MS, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM). AAHPM was one of three groups that presented information today at a Capitol Hill briefing coordinated by the offices of US Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Charles Boustany, MD, sponsors of legislation (HR 1898) that would provide Medicare coverage for "end of life" care consultations.
Tuch, a geriatrician in practice at The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast, the largest community-based, not-for-profit hospice provider in the country, said many of the problems in the current system -- uneven quality, over-utilization, lack of coordination and preventable transitions between health care institutions -- become particularly evident in the last years of life: "Chronically and seriously ill patients constitute only 5%-10% of patients yet account for more than 50% of health care costs. More than 25% of Medicare costs are incurred in the last year of life. Improving health care in the last stages of life will be necessary to create a sustainable health care system."
Tuch pointed to recent studies that demonstrate significant cost savings of hospice and palliative care over usual care and suggested that both will be necessary to achieve the kind of patient-centered, high quality and efficient health care system lawmakers are seeking to design. Tuch is a former Robert Wood Johnson Health Policy Fellow and worked as a policy advisor on the Senate Finance Committee and the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Tuch suggested Congress enact reforms that would grow the hospice and palliative care workforce through support for faculty and by lifting restrictions in graduate medication education funding. He also encouraged federal funding to support needed research that could provide the evidence base to guide clinical care and care delivery.
Palliative medicine is the interdisciplinary specialty that focuses on improving quality of life for patients with advanced illness and for their families through relieving pain and other distressing symptoms, care coordination and informed decision making. Palliative care is provided alongside all other appropriate disease-directed treatments.
Hospice offers comprehensive and ongoing interdisciplinary care for patients facing life-threatening or serious conditions, as well as their families. To be eligible for hospice, patients must have a life expectancy of 6 months or less and must choose to forgo efforts at curative treatment for their terminal illness. Hospice care is most often provided in a patient's home.
The AAHPM has developed a detailed outline of recommendations for health care reform that suggests several targeted steps to strengthen workforce, research and care delivery, including for the growing population of Medicare beneficiaries. The group represents more than 3,600 physicians and providers caring for patients with life-threatening or serious conditions and their families. Hospice and palliative medicine is a newly recognized medical subspecialty that focuses on relieving pain and suffering, improving communication with patients and families and informed decision-making regardless of prognosis or eligibility for hospice care.
Luncheon Briefing Time and Location: Friday, June 19, 2009, from 12 PM to 1:30 PM (ET), in Cannon House Office Building room 304
Editor's Note: AAHPM's recommendations for health care reform are available by contacting Mary Louise Carr at

First World Congress on Positive Psychology Kicks Off Today With Talks by Two of the World's Most Renowned Psychologists, Martin Seligman and Philip Z

2009-06-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Sponsored by the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA)
PHILADELPHIA, June 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The First World Congress on Positive Psychology, an international conference sponsored by the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA), kicks off in Philadelphia today with talks by two of the world's most renowned psychologists.
Martin Seligman University of Pennsylvania Fox Leadership Professor of Psychology & Founding Director of the Positive Psychology Center
Philip Zimbardo, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Stanford University
Seligman and Zimbardo will present groundbreaking research on how the science of positive psychology is changing the way we live our lives on an individual, societal, and global level.
They will present new answers in the age-old quest for the good life, sharing their latest research and ideas for increasing happiness in the contemporary world.
Additionally, an international audience of researchers, practitioners, and professionals from every continent will share latest findings, insights, and information. Symposia, poster sessions, workshops, and informal round table discussions will emphasize leading-edge research, as well as applications of the fascinating science in a variety of fields -- from business to education to medicine.
The inaugural international conference takes place June 18th - June 21st, 2009 at the Sheraton Philadelphia City Center.
Founded in 1998 by Dr. Martin Seligman, the burgeoning field of positive psychology focuses on the study and practice of what is right in the world -- the positive emotions, strengths, and virtues that make individuals, institutions, and institutions thrive.
Featured Speakers and Schedule Highlights
David Cooperrider -- Discovery and Design of Positive Institutions
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi -- Positive Psychology & Self-Image of What it is to Be Human
Antonella Delle Fave (Italy) -- Do We Really Pursue Happiness?
Ed Diener -- New Findings on Happiness
Shelly Gable -- Let the Good Times Role : Positive Interactions in Close Relationships
Giovanni Fava (Italy) -- Well-Being Therapy
Raymond Fowler -- Positive Health : How to Die Young as Late as Possible
Barbara Fredrickson -- The Path to Flourishing
Alexandra Freund (Switzerland) -- Successful Aging
Michael Frese (Germany) -- Proactive Behavior at Work
Anthony Grant (Australia) -- Evidence-Based Coaching
Hans Henrik Knoop (Denmark) -- Applied Positive Psychology on Prime Time TV
Richard Layard (UK) -- Happiness and Public Policy
Yong-Lin Moon (Korea) -- The Contribution of Positive Psychology to Korean Society
Christopher Peterson -- Character Strengths
Shane Lopez -- Courage in Sport
George Vaillant -- The Future of Positive Psychology
Robert Vallerand (Canada) -- The Psychology of Passion
Carmelo Vazquez (Spain)--- Positive Side of Trauma
Ruut Veenhoven (The Netherlands) -- Happiness Research Findings
Joar Vitterso (Norway) -- A Functional Approach to Human Growth and Well-Being
Matthew White (Australia) -- Positive Education
The international diverse audience will have the opportunity to discuss latest research, insights, and best practices and interact with like-minded people who focus on studying what is best in life and how to create more of it.
"The World Congress objectives are threefold," remarked Dr. Christopher Peterson, IPPA Program Chair and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan. "After attending the First World Congress on Positive Psychology, participants should be better able to understand, discuss, and critique theoretical perspectives in positive psychology; integrate findings from the latest basic research in positive psychology into their own ongoing or anticipated program of research or practice; and use positive interventions effectively in personal and professional settings," he remarked.
An estimated 1,500 attendees - including researchers, clinicians, educators, students, business owners, coaches, and consultants - are expected at IPPA's inaugural World Congress.
"In just its first year of existence, IPPA has grown to thousands of members from 80 countries, attesting to the increasing global interest in the burgeoning field of positive psychology," observed James Pawelski, Executive Director of IPPA, and the Director of Education in the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania, where he directs the Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) Program (the world's first degree program in positive psychology).
Since its inception in 1998, the field of positive psychology has seen an investment of tens of millions of dollars in research, the founding of several scientific journals, and the development of masters and Ph.D. programs in leading universities.
The International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA) was created to promote the science and practice of positive psychology and to facilitate communication and collaboration among researchers and practitioners around the world who are interested in positive psychology.
For more information, please visit http://www.ippanetwork.org.
SOURCE International Positive Psychology Association

GeoVax Signs HIV/AIDS Vaccine Proposal With Health and Hospital System of Cook County, Illinois

2009-06-18T11:47:00.000-07:00

ATLANTA, June 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GeoVax Labs, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: GOVX), an Atlanta-based biopharmaceutical company developing human vaccines for diseases caused by the HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), and other infectious agents, announced today that it signed a proposal to discuss a cooperative arrangement with Cook County Board President Todd H. Stroger and the Commissioner's of Cook County; the Cook County Health and Hospitals Systems Board ("Health System"); and the Ruth M. Rothstein's CORE Center's Foundation, ("Foundation"), that was founded by Cook County, Illinois and Rush University Medical Center.
Robert T. McNally, President of GeoVax noted, "The proposed arrangement with Cook County through the Health System and its CORE Foundation has the potential to advance the fight against HIV/AIDS by accelerating the clinical trials of the DNA/MVA and MVA/MVA vaccines developed by GeoVax scientists, in collaboration with scientists at Emory University; the Center for Disease Control; and the U.S. National Institutes of Health ("the Vaccines")."
Cook County Board President Todd H. Stroger said, "We hope this ground-breaking proposal, which is dedicated to addressing the need to help eradicate the HIV/AIDS virus, will extend the opportunity for the residents of Cook County and the surrounding region to participate in clinical trials of vaccines with the potential to protect against HIV/AIDS disease." President Stroger added, "This partnership carries out the mission set forth by our Health and Hospitals Systems in providing state-of-the-art quality urgent healthcare to people. It will also assist in accelerating GeoVax's vaccine program for treatment of patients infected with the HIV virus. We must always be prepared to adapt to the ever changing needs of society while continuing to contribute to the overall health and wellness of our world."
The proposal calls for the CEO of Health Systems to consult with the Director of Health Systems Institutional Review Board and GeoVax to determine whether to present GeoVax's proposal to the Health Systems Board of Directors for the purpose of obtaining authorization to negotiate an agreement with GeoVax regarding its proposal. If agreements adopt the proposal in its present form, the initial effort of the cooperative program would be focused on accelerating GeoVax's therapeutic vaccine program for treatment of individuals already infected with the HIV virus with the Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center conducting some of the clinical trials in Cook County. The participation proposed would contain provisions for seeking and managing funds from private non-profit or government sources to pay for the clinical trial program. GeoVax would bear responsibility for production of the vaccine supply, establishment, management and oversight of the clinical trials process, and regulatory compliance, which includes interaction with government authorities. There can, however, be no assurance that agreements will result from the proposal.
HIV/AIDS Background
HIV affects the entire globe and comes in a variety of subtypes. Clade B is the predominant subtype in North America where there are roughly 60,000 new infections each year. Globally, there are about 2.5 million AIDS infections per year, most involving subtypes AG, B, and C. In 2007, UNAIDS reported 1.3 million people living with AIDS in North America and 33.2 million people living with AIDS worldwide. Presently, there is little to prevent HIV transmission other than education, circumcision, and condoms. It is obvious from the spread of the disease that these methods are not adequate. Existing treatments for individuals infected with HIV include anti-retroviral therapies that are effective but have serious medical side effects and are very expensive (upwards of $1,500/month). This cost is borne by the individual, third party insurance, local healthcare, federal or world health organizations. Development and distribution of an effective HIV/AIDS vaccine holds great promise. The GeoVax Vaccine would cost a fraction of the cost of current treatments and, to date, has not elicited serious adverse side effects. Like commonly used vaccines for polio and measles, if the population was vaccinated with an effective vaccine, over time, the disease could be expected to decrease in prevalence to a point where it might essentially disappear.
About GeoVax Labs, Inc.
GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a biotechnology company, established to develop, manufacture, license and commercialize human vaccines for diseases caused by HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and other infectious agents. GeoVax's AIDS vaccine technology is the subject of 20 issued or filed patent applications. GeoVax AIDS vaccines are designed for use in uninfected people to prevent Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease (AIDS), caused by the virus known as HIV-1, should the person ever become infected. GeoVax AIDS vaccines also may be effective as therapeutics (treatment of people already infected with AIDS virus).
GeoVax's core AIDS vaccine technologies were developed by Dr. Harriet Robinson, Senior V.P. of Research and Development, through a collaboration of colleagues at Emory University's Vaccine Center, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and GeoVax.
GeoVax's AIDS vaccines have moved forward in human clinical trials conducted by the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) based in Seattle, Washington. The HVTN, funded through a cooperative agreement with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the largest worldwide clinical trials program dedicated to the development and testing of AIDS vaccines. Preclinical work enabling evaluation of GeoVax DNA and MVA vaccines was funded and supported by NIAID, which provided additional support to GeoVax AIDS vaccine development program with a $15 million IPCAVD grant awarded in late 2007.
Safe Harbor Statement
All statements in this news release, not statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on expectations and assumptions on the date of this press release and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, whether (i) the Director of the CEO of Health System (after consultation with the Director of Health System's Institutional Review Board) determines whether to present the GeoVax proposal to the Health System's Board, (ii) that the Health System Board will authorize Health Systems to negotiate an agreement regarding GeoVax's proposals, (iii) an agreement can be reached, (iv) Health System will request that the President of the CORE Foundation Board of Directors present the proposal to its Board in order to seek authorization to negotiate an agreement, (v) if an agreement is reached with CORE, whether needed funds can be raised, (vi) the proposed clinical trials will prove helpful to GeoVax's efforts, (vii) GeoVax can develop and manufacture these vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, (viii) GeoVax's vaccines will be safe for human use, (ix) GeoVax's vaccines will effectively prevent AIDS in humans, (x) vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, (xi) GeoVax raises required capital to complete vaccine development, (xii) there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax's products, and (xiii) other factors over which GeoVax has no control. GeoVax assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, and does not intend to do so. Certain matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements involving certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, risks detailed in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports.
SOURCE GeoVax Labs, Inc.

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Earns Highest Combined US News Score in 10 Specialties Ranked by U.S. News & World Report

2009-06-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

PHILADELPHIA, June 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has been ranked first in Cancer, Diabetes and Endocrine Disorders, Neonatal Care, Respiratory Disorders and Urology in U.S. News Media Group's edition of America's Best Children's Hospitals, published online at www.usnews.com/childrenshospitals and featured in the August issue of U.S. News & World Report, available on newsstands starting July 21.
Rather than issuing an overall general pediatrics ranking this year, U.S. News & World Report issued a "US News score" for each of 10 specialties ranked based on methodology weighing a three-part blend of reputation, outcome, and care-related measures such as nursing care, advanced technology, credentialing, and other factors.
CHOP's combined US News score across the 10 specialties ranked is the highest, with a combined score of 944.
CHOP was ranked number one in more specialties than any other hospital and is the only hospital that scored in the top three of all 10 specialties.
CHOP ranked #1: Cancer, Diabetes and Endocrine Disorders, Neonatal Care, Respiratory Disorders, Urology
CHOP ranked #2: Digestive Disorders, Heart and Heart Surgery, Kidney Disorders, Neurology and Neurosurgery
CHOP ranked #3 in: Orthopedics
Additionally, CHOP was the only pediatric hospital in the Tri-state area named to U.S. News & World Report's Honor Roll.
"While we are honored by this recognition, we understand there is still much more to do to constantly seek to improve the ideal patient experience for patients, families, and employees," said Steven M. Altschuler, M.D., president and chief executive officer, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "We are humbled by this ranking and recommit ourselves daily to every child affected by our work."
About The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country, ranking second in National Institutes of Health funding. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 430-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu.
Contact: Peggy Flynn
Phone: (267) 426.6080
flynnp@email.chop.edu
SOURCE The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

'7 Proven Steps: How to Defeat Stress Without Going Through the Embarrassment of Counseling': Proven Ways to Defeat Stress

2009-06-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

BLOOMINGTON, Ind., June 17 /PRNewswire/ -- As job loss, bankruptcy, and divorce skyrocket with the global recession, the people facing these troubling financial hardships are struggling to cope. The burden of these concerns can be agonizing, affecting both mental and physical health. Dr. Joe Theu's book "7 Proven Steps: How to Defeat Stress Without Going Through the Embarrassment of Counseling" offers ways to deal with the many different kinds of stress life can throw your way. Dr. Theu explains how to deal with the stress associated with things such as job loss, divorce, and bankruptcy through seven simple steps.
The "7 Proven Steps: How to Defeat Stress Without Going Through the Embarrassment of Counseling" emphasizes to readers that they shouldn't become "stressed over minor things and that all stressors are minor." Dr. Theu encourages readers to do two things: (1) To never give up and (2) To remember that it is never too late.
According to Dr. Theu, stress is something that can be dealt with in a specific order of steps. With our country's current financial status, many people are falling victim to issues similar to the ones explained in his book. Readers will learn the right, simple and practical ways to deal with stress.
The simplified scientific steps are mainly based on human psychology and can be referred to on a daily basis as one encounters a crisis; this makes them practical enough as a daily companion for readers and allows the reader to require very little expert support. Dr. Theu clearly points out the warning signs that should alert readers to seek consultation from psychologists and other stress management experts:
"So, exactly what is stress? You need to determine if you are under stress before you start to handle it. Simply put, stress is the physical and psychological reaction to the adjustment to stressors, which may be daily hassles or uplifts."
Hardcover, soft cover 6x9
Approximately 196 pages
ISBN: 9781438904344
$16.95 retail price
Available at http://www.amazon.com and http://www.barnesandnoble.com and major bookstores
About the Author:
Joe Theu is an international consultant and talk-show guest who answers questions from people with different challenging situations. He is the author of "7 Proven Steps: How to Defeat Stress Without Going Through the Embarrassment of Counseling," part of the Concise Interactive Series, and the forthcoming "How to Profit from Your Illness." He also publishes the Stress Management Today Newsletter. These have earned him the respect from colleagues, clients, and readers, making him the person he is today.
AuthorHouse is the premier book publisher for emerging, self-published authors. For more information, please visit http://www.authorhouse.com.
EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:
Nick McMurray
Tel: 317.926.1727
Fax: 317.926.1728
Email: nmcmurray@authorsolutions.com
(When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.)
This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.
SOURCE AuthorHouse

Brain Fitness Makes Boomers Age Younger

2009-06-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

Posit Science Study Shows Ten Year Improvements in Memory and Attention
SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Baby Boomers will age differently, according to experts gathered at the Sixth Annual Boomer Venture Summit at Santa Clara University. And, it's not just that they will act younger - their brains will actually operate like brains, and look like brains, a decade younger.
Jeff Zimman, Chairman of Posit Science, the leading provider of brain fitness software, addressed that gathering of venture capitalist and entrepreneurs who are focused on the coming wave of older consumers. Zimman spoke about "go to market" strategies and said that his company was building the new field of brain fitness by establishing a large body of scientific evidence that an old brain can learn new tricks.
"In April, researchers at the Mayo Clinic and USC published a breakthrough study of our technology," Zimman said. "They compared Posit Science software to the more typical mental stimulation of taking a class in the humanities or sciences, and found that our training programs, designed by brain scientists, were significantly more effective in improving mental abilities than what we typically think of as mental stimulation."
In the randomized controlled trial of 486 older adults, researchers found that those who trained with the Posit Science Brain Fitness Program more than doubled their processing speed, improved their memory and attention by approximately 10 years, and noticed significant improvement in their everyday cognitive activities.
The study was published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, a journal for doctors who are board certified in Geriatrics. It confirms earlier studies showing similar effects and imaging research showing enhanced brain activity.
Posit Science
Posit Science is the leading provider of scientifically proven brain fitness programs. The company works with more than 50 scientists from prestigious universities to design and test its computer-based programs. More than 30 leading science and medical journals show that in randomized controlled trials the company's patented technologies significantly increase processing speed, improve memory and attention, and enhance quality of life. Posit Science has received grants from the National Institutes of Health and numerous awards and accolades. The company's products, scientists and science are currently featured in the PBS documentaries "The Brain Fitness Program" and "Brain Fitness 2." For more information, visit www.PositScience.com or call 1-800-599-6463.
SOURCE Posit Science Corporation

The Consumer's Role in Medication Safety -- An Interactive Discussion with a Pharmacist on Live T

2009-06-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO, June 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Continuing its efforts to educate, inform, and empower the people of Chicago, SAVE THE PATIENT, a not-for-profit patient-focused organization, is hosting its 25-minute live call-in show, "Community Health," on Chicago Access Network Television (CAN-TV) on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 6:00 PM on Channel 21.
Monday's program will feature a frank discussion with Deborah Harper Brown, Clinical Pharmacist, who will inform viewers on ways to prevent medication mistakes, how to use medications effectively and stay adherent. She will offer tips on how to save money on medication and empower viewers to ask questions and take control of their health care.
The goal of the series is to give everyday people the confidence to enact their patient rights, so that they can effectively manage their families' health encounters.
All the efforts of SAVE THE PATIENT promote positive and productive interactions between patients and medical professionals by encouraging individuals to know and implement their rights to ask questions, receive understandable answers, and explore medical options. "SAVE THE PATIENT's mission is to assist the public in becoming better health care consumers," noted President and Founder Lenore Janecek.
Viewers who wish to join discussions can call-in to pose questions or share concerns. "This new televised platform gives Chicago's diverse population a voice in matters affecting their use of health care," explained Janecek. "The open discussion format is designed to help mend the disparity between the wealth of health care resources available and people who are actually aware of them." Ms. Janecek, a nationally known health care expert and author, is the host of this groundbreaking program.
Check your local cable television listings for scheduled air times. For additional information call: CAN-TV at 312-738-1400, www.savethepatient.org, or e-mail

Data Presented at Society of Nuclear Medicine 2009 Annual Meeting Supports Potential of Peregrine's Cotara(R) for the Treatment of Brain Cancer

2009-06-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

- Dosimetry Study Results Show Greater Than 300-Fold More Radiation Delivered to Tumor as Compared to Other Normal Organs -
- All Patients in the First Two Cohorts Have Met or Exceeded the Expected Median Survival Time for Recurrent GBM Patients -
TORONTO and TUSTIN, Calif., June 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: PPHM) today reported that researchers will present data at the SNM 2009 Annual Meeting showing that its brain cancer agent Cotara(R) specifically localizes to brain tumors at high concentrations with minimal radiation exposure to other organs. Cotara is a targeted monoclonal antibody linked to a radioisotope being developed as a potential new treatment for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly form of brain cancer. The results reported today from an ongoing dosimetry study at U.S. brain cancer centers show that in patients dosed in the first two cohorts of the study, the concentration of Cotara in brain tumors was on average more than 300-fold higher than in other normal organs. In addition, these patients have all either met or exceeded the expected median survival time of six months for recurrent GBM patients. Cotara is currently being tested in this Phase I dose response and dosimetry trial and in a Phase II clinical trial in recurrent GBM patients.
Cotara specifically targets cells at the center of brain tumors, so its radioactive payload is able to kill cancer cells while leaving healthy tissue largely unaffected. In this study, lead author Sui Shen, Ph.D., associate professor of radiation oncology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and his colleagues assessed the concentration of Cotara in GBM patients' tumors and in their healthy brain tissue, as well as in their thyroid, stomach, heart and bone marrow. He found that Cotara was concentrated in the brain tumor with minimal exposure to the contralateral healthy brain. The thyroid, which can have active uptake of radioiodine, showed only minimal uptake of Cotara. Similarly, uptake of Cotara was very low in the stomach, heart and bone marrow, important potential sites for radiation toxicity. On average, the tumor received more than 300 times the dose of radiation compared to these normal organs.
"These findings confirming Cotara's potential to target its radioactive payload to brain tumors while minimizing radiation exposure to healthy organs, including the thyroid, are very encouraging," said Dr. Shen. "With a mean dose ratio showing 300-fold greater delivery of radiation to the tumor as compared to other organs, Cotara represents a potentially valuable new therapy for GBM patients."
The main objectives of the open label dosing and dosimetry study are to confirm the maximum tolerated dose of Cotara, to determine radiation dosimetry and to assess overall patient survival, progression free survival and the proportion of patients alive at six months following Cotara administration. In this study and in the ongoing Phase II trial, Cotara is delivered using convection-enhanced delivery (CED), a method developed by the U.S. National Institutes of Health that targets the specific tumor site in the brain. The final planned patient in the dosimetry study is currently being enrolled.
"These positive data analyzed by a leading dosimetry expert validate a key principle underlying the Cotara program, confirming its ability to specifically concentrate in and deliver a high radiation dose to brain tumors," said Joseph Shan, vice president of clinical and regulatory affairs at Peregrine. "In this trial and in our other Cotara clinical trials, Cotara has been well tolerated, and we continue to see longer- term survivors among the treated patients. We are very pleased to have the opportunity to share this promising data from our current U.S.
Cotara clinical trial with experts at this prestigious conference, and we look forward to reporting further data from this study and from our Phase II trial in patients with recurrent GBM."
More than 65 patients with recurrent GBM have received Cotara in the current and previous clinical studies. Localization and accumulation of the drug to the tumor have been excellent and longer-term survivors (greater than one year from the time of Cotara treatment) have been observed in all of the trials, with some GBM patients from early clinical studies now alive more than 8.5 years after treatment with Cotara. Expected survival for patients with GBM is approximately six months from the time of disease recurrence.
The Cotara data will be presented today at the 2009 Society for Nuclear Medicine (SNM) Annual Meeting in Toronto, Canada, in a session scheduled from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM EDT in Room 701B.
Abstract No: 150240; Publication No: 445: S. Shen(1), R. Lustig(2), K. Judy(2), W. Shapiro(3), K. Spicer(4), S. Patel(4), J. Fiveash(1), J. Lai(5), J. Shan(5), "Dosimetry of phase I interstitial 131I-chTNT-1/B MAb (Cotara) for the treatment of recurrent glioma."
(1)U Alabama, Birmingham, AL; (2)U Penn, Philadelphia, PA; (3)BNI St. Joseph's MedCtr, Phoenix, AR; (4)Med U S Carolina, Charleston, SC; (5)Peregrine Pharma Inc, Tustin, CA
About Cotara(R)
Cotara is an experimental treatment for brain cancer that links a radioactive isotope to a targeted monoclonal antibody designed to bind to the DNA histone complex that is exposed by dead and dying cells found at the center of solid tumors. Cotara's targeting mechanism enables it to bind to the dying tumor cells, delivering its radioactive payload to the adjacent living tumor cells and essentially destroying the tumor from the inside out, with minimal radiation exposure to healthy tissue. In a previous clinical study, a subset of patients with recurrent glioblastoma treated with Cotara achieved a median survival of 38 weeks, a 58% increase over the historical median survival time of 24 weeks for patients treated with standard of care therapy. In this study, 25% of 28 recurrent patients survived for more than a year post-treatment and 10% of patients survived for more than three years. These data are considered a promising development in this deadly disease. Cotara has been granted orphan drug status and fast track designation for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. A Phase I dosimetry trial in GBM patients in the U.S. is in the final stages of patient enrollment and a Phase II safety and efficacy trial in GBM patients in India is ongoing. For more information on the trials, visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.
About Peregrine Pharmaceuticals
Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company with a portfolio of innovative monoclonal antibodies in clinical trials for the treatment of cancer and serious viral infections. The company is pursuing three separate clinical programs in cancer and hepatitis C virus infection with its lead product candidates bavituximab and Cotara(R). Peregrine also has in-house manufacturing capabilities through its wholly owned subsidiary Avid Bioservices, Inc. (www.avidbio.com), which provides development and biomanufacturing services for both Peregrine and outside customers. Additional information about Peregrine can be found at www.peregrineinc.com.
Safe Harbor Statement: Statements in this press release which are not purely historical, including statements regarding Peregrine Pharmaceuticals' intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations, representations, projections, plans or predictions of the future are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risk that dose-limiting toxicities may be experienced in future stages of the trial that will use higher doses of Cotara or the risk that results from larger trials may not be consistent with the results of earlier stage trials. It is important to note that the company's actual results could differ materially from those in any such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, uncertainties associated with completing preclinical and clinical trials for our technologies; the early stage of product development; the significant costs to develop our products as all of our products are currently in development, preclinical studies or clinical trials; obtaining additional financing to support our operations and the development of our products; obtaining regulatory approval for our technologies; anticipated timing of regulatory filings and the potential success in gaining regulatory approval and complying with governmental regulations applicable to our business. Our business could be affected by a number of other factors, including the risk factors listed from time to time in the company's SEC reports including, but not limited to, the annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2008 and the quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2009. The company cautions investors not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. disclaims any obligation, and does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this press release.
Contacts:
GendeLLindheim BioCom Partners
Investors Media
info@peregrineinc.com Barbara Lindheim
(800) 987-8256 (212) 918-4650
SOURCE Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Scientific Study Makes it Possible to Measure Connection Between People

2009-06-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

UTRECHT, The Netherlands, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The largest global study on connection, performed in 14 countries among 10,000 respondents, shows that strongly connected people have more enjoyment in their lives and in their work. They are not only happier, but more successful. Strongly connected people have a better idea of what they want in life and how they can achieve it. The study, carried out by &intoconnection, proves that connection has a tremendous positive influence on people's lives. Therefore, on June 21st, &intoconnection will be starting a global campaign to inspire people to connect with others.
U.S. in the sub top of connection
&intoconnection performed a study on what it means for people to be strongly or weakly connected. Due to the international nature of the study, it is not only possible to measure connection by country, but it is also possible to compare connection between countries. The 14 countries studied were China, Japan, the U.S., Russia, Germany, Great Britain, France, Spain, South Africa, Argentina, Israel, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The U.S. scored just above average, thereby making it a sub top performer. The Japanese scored the lowest on connection. The best connected are the Argentinians and the South Africans.
Connection starts with yourself, but is dependent on others
The most important insight that the study provided is that every relationship of connection can be strengthened by investing in 'connecting with yourself', meaning that you have a clear idea of what you want and what you can do. The greater your self-knowledge, the stronger you are connected with others, with the organization where you work and with society. The theory of connection indicates that people can only improve their self-knowledge in relation to others. People therefore need each other. Connection with others is characterized by openness, genuine interest and the courage to criticize.
U.S. study results
The study shows that Americans are somewhat more connected than average. They are better connected with themselves and with the organization where they work than people from other countries. They have a better idea of what their social life will be like in five years' time and they enjoy more out of life than the average countries studied. They are relatively strongly connected with the organization where they work. They believe that they fit in well in the organization where they work and that their employer is aware of their qualities.
Degree of connection has economic consequences
If people do not invest in developing connection with themselves (knowing what they want and what they can do) it not only has negative repercussions for social cohesion, but economic consequences as well. Strongly connected people experience greater enjoyment in their work, perform better and are more successful within the organization where they work.
Spreading the word on connection
With the slogan, 'Inspire to connect', &intoconnection is starting a campaign to raise people's awareness of the power of connection. 'Together we'll build a brighter future', says initiator Salem Samhoud, 'We need a better future, and connection between people is the starting point for this. I would advise anyone who thinks this sounds vague to read the study results at http://www.intoconnection.com. It has been proven that connected people are happier and more successful.'
The theory of connection is described in detail in the book that will be launched in 14 major cities on June 21st, with the campaign, '&intoconnection Goes Glo-Ball', with illustrations based on the results of the study on connection. People will become aware of the power of connection through the distribution of 14,000 'blue balls of connection'. The cities of Beijing, Berlin, Brussels, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Istanbul, Jerusalem, London, Madrid, Moscow, New York, Paris, Tokyo and Utrecht will be visited during the campaign.
&intoconnection presents Wintoconnection
&intoconnection still has three tickets available for the visit to the 14 major cities on June 21, 2009. Entrants who submit the best case for the city they want to visit in terms of its power of connection will be invited to join the campaign there. More information on the campaign can be found at http://www.intoconnection.com.
SOURCE &intoconnection

Monsoon Season will Bring Japanese Encephalitis

2009-06-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

BALTIMORE, June 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2009 monsoon season will soon arrive in the Asian territories and culicine mosquito populations are expected to increase. "These mosquitoes may carry the virus that causes Japanese Encephalitis (JE), which kills 10-15,000 people each year," warned Fran Lessans, CEO of Passport Health, the largest provider of travel medical services in the U.S. A new vaccine called Ixiaro(R) has been approved by the FDA, and is ready for distribution in the United States. Some Passport Health's offices will have both JE-VAX(R) and Ixiaro(R) until JE-VAX(R) is phased out. "The new vaccine is good for adults over 18 so we still have to use JE-VAX(R) for the younger population," concluded Lessans. Both vaccines protect against JE.
Monsoons flood areas with fresh rain water and this attracts culicine mosquitoes which may carry the virus that causes Japanese Encephalitis. 30,000-50,000 people are infected each year. An educational video is available here ( http://www.passporthealthusa.com/vaccines/home.Japanese-Encephalitis.html#jevideo ).
China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand have seen epidemics of Japanese Encephalitis. The CDC explains that the disease is controlled primarily by vaccination in these areas. "Vaccination is the best prevention for this potentially deadly disease," cautioned Lessans, whose clients' number one travel destination is India, followed by China. "JE is endemic in northeastern India and we see outbreaks in China as well."
The new JE vaccine is given in a 2-shot series, 28 days apart, while JE-VAX(R) requires 3 doses. The FDA has approved the new vaccine and it is already available at some Passport Health offices.
Japanese Encephalitis is a serious infection which occurs in certain rural parts of Asia and it's transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. It causes the brain to swell and symptoms of severe infections include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, abnormal movements, occasional convulsions (especially in infants), coma, and paralysis. About 1 in 4 of such cases results in death.
"In addition to being vaccinated travelers need to know how to use the correct type of mosquito repellent and other precautionary measures," cautioned Lessans. She went on to offer some tips for travelers:
Remain in well-screened areas whenever possible
Wear clothes that cover most of the body
Use an insect repellent containing 20%-30% DEET on skin.
Spray Permethrin on clothes, bedding and mosquito nets
For more information visit www.passporthealthusa.com or call 888-499-(PASS)
Jorge Castillo
410-727-0556
Jorge.castillo@passporthealthusa.com
SOURCE Passport Health

Neutral Factfinder Rules That Fresno County Home Care Wage Cuts Should Be Stopped

2009-06-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

FRESNO, Calif., June 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- An independent factfinder jointly hired by Fresno County and SEIU UHW to resolve the on-going dispute over the County's plan to cut the wages and benefits of 10,000 home care workers in the Fresno area, ruled against the County today and ordered that the cuts be halted. The Fresno Board of Supervisors is expected to vote whether to accept the findings on Tuesday.

SEIU UHW invoked their right to arbitration after the Board of Supervisors voted to reduce the wages and benefits of homecare workers. This is the second factfinding that has ruled against the County's planned cuts.

According to the factfinder there is "no necessity for a reduction in wage/benefit levels and therefore there should be no change in such levels." He ordered the County to adopt the report immediately.

The factfinder ruled that Fresno County will receive enough additional money through the economic stimulus to offset any reductions in revenue the County is currently experiencing. According to the factfinder "the County will benefit substantially by the retroactive increase of federal funding to October, 2008." ARRA has already made available close to $2 billion of the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) promised to California. The funding provides much needed financial assistance for counties struggling with huge budget deficits.

SEIU has also filed for an emergency injunction to stop the cuts from going into effect on July 1st. The lawsuit, which was brought on behalf of individual consumers and SEIU, argues that the planned cuts put seniors and people with disabilities at risk and violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and federal Medicaid Law.

California's In-Home Supportive Services program provides vital services to many of California's most vulnerable citizens. The services provided by home care workers allow the elderly and people with disabilities to remain safely in their homes, reducing the need for more restrictive and costly institutional care - resulting in more than $1 billion in annual savings to the State of California.

SEIU UHW represents more than 150,000 healthcare workers across California and our members provide first-rate care to millions of Californians. We are a proud affiliate of the 2 million+ member Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Learn more at www.seiu-uhw.org

SOURCE SEIU UHW

Guy J. Quigley Resigns as Chairman and CEO of The Quigley Corporation: Quigley Leaves Company He Founded 20 Years Ago

2009-06-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

DOYLESTOWN, Pa., June 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Quigley Corporation, (Nasdaq: QGLY), www.quigleyco.com, today announced the resignation of Guy J. Quigley as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The resignation is effective immediately, following a proxy contest which culminated on May 20 at the Company's annual meeting which favored dissident shareholder Ted Karkus and his proposed slate of directors. The Company has accepted the resignation of Charles A. Phillips, COO of The Quigley Corporation and Wendy D. Quigley, Accounting Operations Manager. Mr. Phillips and Ms. Quigley have been with the Company since its inception in 1989.

Guy J. Quigley founded The Quigley Corporation at his dining room table, self funding the company for its first six years without a salary. Mr. Quigley took the Company public in 1991 and established the COLD-EEZE(R) brand in 1992.

Under his leadership, COLD-EEZE has become the number three selling cough cold lozenge and the number one pharmacist recommended zinc cold treatment.

In 2001, he established Quigley Pharma Inc., with a focus on the research and development of naturally-derived compounds. As part of his strategic plan to develop the pharma operation, he oversaw its self-funding with the revenue generated by COLD-EEZE. Under his leadership, $28 million has been self-funded in Quigley Pharma since inception, without any dilution to shareholders.

Since that time, Quigley Pharma has brought two drug development programs to the position where they can begin to offer stockholders value. Findings of significantly improved nerve conduction in patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy demonstrate that the QR-333 compound has potential to generate value for stockholders. Conversations with four potential veterinary drug development partners regarding the QR-448 antiviral development program are ongoing and demonstrate another source of potential value for stockholders

Guy J. Quigley, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer stated, "Despite everything that has been said and done during the course of this proxy contest, my goal has been and continues to build stockholder value. I am very proud of our work over the past 20 years. COLD-EEZE is a highly-respected product and well-established household name and Quigley Pharma has several compounds which have reached a point of value inflection."

"The new Board is now tasked with the responsibility of rewarding stockholders who have patiently held their shares over the years, and refrain from rewarding only those who they bring to the table at the 11th hour to profit from the years of work and patience on behalf of the resigning Board, and the stockholders of The Quigley Corporation. We remain hopeful that the newly elected Board will convert value from the table that has been set for them. To ensure the Company continues to function in the wake of the new Board's unknown plans, I have asked our CFO, Gerard Gleeson to remain in charge until further announcements by the new Board of Directors."

About The Quigley Corporation

The Quigley Corporation (NASDAQ: QGLY, http://www.Quigleyco.com) is a diversified natural health medical science company. Its Cold Remedy segment is a leading marketer and manufacturer of the COLD-EEZE(R) family of lozenges, gums and sugar free tablets clinically proven to cut the common cold nearly in half. COLD-EEZE customers include leading national wholesalers and distributors, as well as independent and chain food, drug and mass merchandise stores and pharmacies. The Quigley Corporation has wholly owned subsidiaries; Quigley Manufacturing Inc. consists of two FDA approved facilities to manufacture COLD- EEZE(R) lozenges as well as fulfilling other contract manufacturing opportunities and Quigley Pharma Inc. (http://www.QuigleyPharma.com), which conducts research in order to develop and commercialize a pipeline of patented botanical and naturally derived potential prescription drugs.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve known and unknown risk, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement. Factors that impact such forward-looking statements include, among others, changes in worldwide general economic conditions, changes in interest rates, government regulations, and worldwide competition.

CONTACT: Media
Karen Pineman
G.S. Schwartz & Co.
212.725.4500
kpineman@schwartz.com

Investor Relations
Carl Hymans
G.S. Schwartz & Co.
212.725.4500
carlh@schwartz.com

SOURCE Quigley Corporation

LA Eye Surgeon Performs 8 Corneal Transplants in Syria

2009-06-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, June 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Jonathan C. Song, director of the Cornea Institute in the Vision Center at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and an eye surgeon specializing in corneal diseases and transplantation, has just returned from a medical mission in which he worked with Syrian and Iraqi eye surgeons at the Syrian city of Dier Ezzor. During the medical mission, May 18-22, Dr. Song saw 50 patients and performed eight corneal transplants and five cataract surgeries. In addition to holding training sessions with Syrian ophthalmologists, he also lectured to 25 Syrian and Iraqi medical professionals about advanced eye surgery techniques.

Dr. Song is one of the few eye surgeons in the world who performs 20-25 corneal transplants in young children each year. He was traveling with a team of six ophthalmic medical volunteers from ORBIS International and its flagship Flying Eye Hospital, a unique surgical and training center located within a DC-10 aircraft. Dr. Song trained physicians and healthcare professionals in several advanced corneal surgery techniques inside the aircraft's operating room.

In one of the most challenging surgeries, a 12-year-old Syrian girl suffering from very poor vision had her sight restored in one eye with a corneal transplant.

During the initial days of the training session, the ORBIS volunteer doctor leads the surgery; by the end of the week the local physicians are generally conducting the surgery, assisted by the ORBIS volunteer.

The ORBIS team was invited to Syria by the government of President Bashar al-Assad, who is a trained ophthalmologist. While he does not currently practice medicine, President al-Assad remains very interested in ophthalmic medicine and is active in improving eye care for children and adults in Syria. On a 2008 visit by the ORBIS team, he came on board the aircraft to view the OR and meet the surgeons.

Dr. Song's specialty, corneal surgery in young children, is rarely done outside of the industrialized nations because it requires highly advanced training and complex surgical tools.

This is just the latest mission of compassion for Dr. Song, who has also visited Ecuador, Nicaragua and the Fiji Islands in recent years to perform eye surgery for children.

About the Vision Center
The Vision Center at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles is an international referral center known for its family friendly environment of children afflicted with all forms of eye disease and provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient services. It is the largest pediatric ophthalmology program in the nation with multiple subspecialty programs that are considered to be among today's finest resources for diagnosis, treatment and research.

Childrens Hospital Los Angeles is one of America's premier teaching hospitals, affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California since 1932. It is a national leader in pediatric research.

About ORBIS International

ORBIS International is a nonprofit global development organization dedicated to saving sight worldwide. Since 1982, ORBIS programs have benefited people in 87 countries, enhancing the skills of more than 234,000 health care personnel and providing eye care treatment for more than 10 million people. To learn more about ORBIS, please see the ORBIS website at www.orbis.org.

Note: Additional photos are available at The Vision Center's website, www.thevisioncenteratchla.org.

A video clip about the ORBIS medical mission to Syria is on YouTube under the heading "Dr. Song in Syria."

Provided by Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com

Media Contacts:
James Harris
Jtharris5@ca.rr.com
310-398-5565

Amanda Hedlund
ahedlund@chla.usc.edu
323-361-7691

SOURCE Childrens Hospital Los Angeles

Salient Mobility Launches the 'Text For a Cause(TM)' Campaign in Raising Awareness Through Wireless Health Tips

2009-06-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

ATLANTA, June 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Salient Mobility LLC, a leading provider of mobile content, today announced the launch of the 2009 "Text For a Cause(TM)" campaign, which will enable wireless participants to receive health related tips from organizations such as the Georgia Cancer Foundation.

The "Text For a Cause(TM)" campaign begins August 24th, and culminates with the issuance of $100 Gift Certificates awarded to select participants on September 14th. To participate, users are encouraged to text the keyword "health" to 83930.

The goal is to reach, and empower as many participants as possible through incentives such as the offering of $100 Gift Certificates to participants. The mobile is suitable for the campaign because it provides the ideal medium to combine all efforts in a direct impulsive and permission-based wireless initiative.

"By collaborating with the Georgia Cancer Foundation, the campaign sets up a pathway that increases awareness of early detection, treatment, education, and support services," said Jeannie Collins, Managing Member Salient Mobility.

Viral effectiveness will also serve in raising awareness amongst the mobile community, as participants are expected to relay messages to friends, family and co-workers.

"Text For a Cause(TM)" participants can expect to receive mobile messages such as "Every year nearly 6,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Georgia," and other statistical data from the Georgia Cancer Foundation.

During the campaign, Salient Mobility will provide its product offering www.ecotextsmart.com in supporting the cause.

The system has been provisioned and approved by major wireless carriers i.e. AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, SPRINT, Alltel, Boost, and Virgin Mobile, and is accessible nationwide.

About Salient Mobility

Salient Mobility is a wireless technology firm that provides full service mobile text messaging platforms, utilizing SMS (Short Message Service), and WAP (Wireless Application Protocol).

Salient Mobility develops customized advertising campaigns that engage customers in one-to-many interactive wireless experiences. As a result of Salient Mobility's success in delivering mobile content, more and more people are requesting the platforms.

We have developed strong partnerships with many major industry leaders to ensure our solutions are compatible, well-connected and secure. Salient Mobility is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.

For more information, visit www.salientmobility.com/cause.htm (800) 206-0499

SOURCE Salient Mobility LLC

National Quality Forum Welcomes Dr. Thomas Valuck, SVP of Strategic Partnerships

2009-06-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, June 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Quality Forum (NQF) has tapped Thomas B. Valuck, M.D., J.D., as its new Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. Dr. Valuck comes to NQF from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), where he was both Medical Officer and Senior Adviser in the Center for Medicare Management.

NQF is a unique, multi-stakeholder, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of American healthcare by setting national priorities and goals for performance improvement, endorsing national consensus standards for measuring and publicly reporting on performance, and promoting the attainment of national goals through education and outreach programs.

"The efforts of many groups are advancing the nation toward true reform, and we all recognize that we achieve more in harmony than we do in discord," said Janet Corrigan, NQF president and CEO. "As Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Dr. Valuck, a well-respected administrator and leader, will bring a wealth of knowledge crossing all sectors to building consensus among disparate groups."

Dr. Valuck will oversee NQF's multi-stakeholder efforts that provide guidance to public and private sector leadership, such as setting national priorities for healthcare through the NQF-convened National Priorities Partnership; convening industry leaders to develop an agenda for measure development; and identifying and recommending measures and composites for use in various payment and public reporting programs.

Dr. Valuck has degrees in biological science and medicine from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; a master's in health services administration from the University of Kansas; and a law degree from the Georgetown University Law School.

He comes to NQF after four years at CMS, where he advised senior agency and Department of Health and Human Services leadership regarding Medicare payment and quality of care, particularly pay for performance. In his time at CMS, Dr. Valuck received the 2007 Administrator's Achievement Award for leadership in advancing Medicare's pay-for-performance initiatives.

Prior to getting his law degree, Dr. Valuck worked at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where he managed quality improvement, utilization review, risk management, and physician relations as part of his duties as Vice President of Medical Affairs before becoming the Vice President of External Affairs, where, among other responsibilities, he advocated for delivery system, financing, and public health reforms before the U.S. Congress and the Kansas Legislature.

Dr. Valuck was named a Robert Wood Johnson Health Policy Fellow in 1998, taking leave from the University of Kansas to research and analyze healthcare quality and provider issues for the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. He returned to Washington, D.C., a few years later to get his law degree at the Georgetown University Law Center, where he worked for the White House Council of Economic Advisers researching and analyzing public and private healthcare financing issues. Dr. Valuck also worked as an associate at Latham & Watkins, where he practiced regulatory health law.

"The National Quality Forum is uniquely positioned to achieve consensus around some of the thorniest issues facing America's healthcare system," said Dr. Valuck. "I look forward to the collective action NQF members and partners can take to transform healthcare especially during this exciting opportunity for healthcare reform."

The mission of the National Quality Forum is to improve the quality of American healthcare by setting national priorities and goals for performance improvement, endorsing national consensus standards for measuring and publicly reporting on performance, and promoting the attainment of national goals through education and outreach programs. NQF, a non-profit organization (qualityforum.org) with diverse stakeholders across the public and private health sectors, was established in 1999 and is based in Washington, D.C.

SOURCE National Quality Forum

Medifast, Inc. to Expand Investment in Corporate Medifast Weight Control Centers

2009-06-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

OWINGS MILLS, Md., June 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Medifast, Inc. (NYSE: MED) today announced that it plans to increase the build out of new corporate-owned Medifast Weight Control Centers. Earlier in the year, the Company stated it would be more conservative in the build out, and analyze the success of the model throughout the year. As a result of strong success, the Company will be expanding its investment in this area.

Despite the economic environment, Medifast, Inc. has seen tremendous growth of in-store revenues and average store sales and has experienced a strong opening in its recent expansion into the Austin, Texas market. Due to this success, Medifast, Inc., plans to open 10 new corporate centers in Texas and Florida which will expand the presence in the markets where the Company currently has centers. The Company intends to continue to monitor the success of this model and anticipates continued expansion into new markets throughout 2010.

"The Medifast Weight Control Center model continues to prove itself and exceed expectations," said Michael S. McDevitt, Chief Executive Officer, Medifast, Inc. "We believe this is due to the fact that consumers, in tough times, demand value and superior service. Medifast Weight Control Centers provide a tremendous value in a location-based setting for the consumer looking for a proven weight-control program with initial medical evaluation and accountability."

Medifast, Inc. also intends to expand the Medifast Weight Control Center franchise-owned model. This model has already sold rights to 19 franchise-owned Medifast Weight Control Centers, including 10 which are currently open and operating in San Diego, Phoenix, Baltimore and San Ramon Calif., and two additional franchise-owned centers opening in 2009 in Tracey, Calif., and Chandler, Ariz. Medifast, Inc. recently sold the rights to a new franchisee in Tucson, Ariz., who has the right to open three centers over the next five years.

The heart and soul of the Medifast Weight Control Center program is the behavior lifestyle change approach and accountability, along with a weight-loss services guarantee. The Center helps each client design a personal program based on their lifestyle. Together the Center and client determine an achievable weight-loss program based on a personal profile analysis and an in-body scan that shows exactly where the fat is and how much weight the patient needs to lose, so there is no guessing.

Medifast Weight Control Centers offer the Medifast Program, which has been recommended by more than 15,000 doctors since 1980, along with a weight-loss services guarantee. Medifast Weight Control Centers offer a proven, safe, and effective option for clients who need personal support during their weight loss.

MED-G

About Medifast, Inc.:

Medifast (NYSE: MED) is the leading easy-to-use, clinically proven, portion-controlled weight-loss program. Medifast has been recommended by over 15,000 doctors since 1980 and used by over one million customers. It is committed to enriching lives by providing innovative choices for lasting health. Medifast programs have been proven effective through studies by major university teaching hospitals. The company sells its products and programs via four unique distribution channels: 1) the web and national call centers, 2) the Take Shape For Life direct-selling division, 3) national network of physicians, and 4) Medifast Weight Control Centers. Medifast was founded in 1980 and is located in Owings Mills, Maryland. For more information, log onto http://www.choosemedifast.com.

SOURCE Medifast, Inc.

Industry Partners Step Up To Help Blood Cancer Patients

2009-06-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., June 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Responding to an appeal for help, two companies, Celgene Corporation and Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company, have stepped up to help blood cancer patients in their time of need with significant leadership gifts for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Patient Financial Aid program.

The program provides funds to help patients access care. Today, more than ever, patients need financial assistance and LLS's program was facing a shortfall. The gifts from Celgene and Millennium will go a long way toward helping LLS continue to provide assistance to these patients for such expenses as travel and other costs related to medical treatment. The program helps remove barriers to patients wishing to participate in clinical trials by helping cover routine care costs. LLS projects that it will have more than 21,000 patients enrolled in the financial aid program this year.

"LLS is extremely grateful to Celgene and Millennium for their generosity," said LLS President and CEO John Walter. "Both companies have been steadfast supporters of LLS's patient services and education programs throughout the years, and both are continuing to demonstrate their commitment to addressing the financial burden faced by blood cancer patients, particularly during the current economic crisis."

To learn how your company can help, please contact Andi Ciminello at (914) 821-8869, or andi.ciminello@lls.org.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (R) (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services.

Founded in 1949 and headquartered in White Plains, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org or contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. www.lls.org.

Contact: Andrea Greif
(914) 821-8958/andrea.greif@lls.org

SOURCE The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

New Stayhealthy Body Composition Technology Announced at Microsoft's Connected Health Conference

2009-06-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

BELLEVUE, Wash., June 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a two-year clinical study at the University of Southern California, Stayhealthy introduced their next generation body composition analysis technology at Microsoft's Connected Health Conference. The technology accurately measures body composition, comes in various forms depending on the need - from a home use individual device, to a commercial grade device for physicians, fitness and nutrition professionals, to a comprehensive freestanding, self-service health assessment kiosk - and is capable of uploading data directly into Microsoft HealthVault.

Body composition, the measurement of actual body fat and lean mass has long been recognized as the most effective means of managing health, fitness and risk factors. Generally people look at absolute weight in setting diet or exercise goals, which ultimately leads to the loss of both fat and lean mass. Unfortunately, the majority of people who do lose weight tend to regain the lost weight in the form of fat. This starts a spiral where the efficiency of their body and ability to burn calories effectively is reduced and therefore it becomes increasingly difficult to manage weight and by extension health.

"At a time when our nation faces a healthcare crisis driven by excess weight and obesity, we are excited to introduce the Stayhealthy Body Composition Analysis technology," said John Collins, CEO of Stayhealthy. "By providing this technology we hope to help millions of people track their body compositions and make positive adjustments as necessary."

Stayhealthy's Body Composition Analysis technology incorporates two key elements - a physical data collection device that utilizes bio-impedance technology, and a proprietary server-based algorithm that analyzes the data collected at the device and provides a precise body composition reading via the internet back to the user's computer.

To date, the measurement tools available to measure body composition have been prohibitively expensive and therefore, very limited in availability. For example, DEXA scanners require a minimum investment of about $100,000 and are further limited in use due to radiation exposure. Hydrostatic weighing requires access to a specially configured immersion pool. Conversely, the consumer version of the Stayhealthy Body Composition Analyzer will be available at a base price of less than $100. The availability of a low cost measurement device could fundamentally change the way individual health and fitness levels are measured and enable healthcare providers to more accurately manage and monitor patient health and fitness levels.

"Stayhealthy's body composition analysis is an example of inexpensive and innovative technology that connects with HealthVault to really make a difference in improving healthcare," said David Cerino, general manager of the Consumer Health Solutions Group at Microsoft. "Through our cooperative efforts, we are creating technology that brings together the power of the web, server-based processing and medical grade devices to deliver a revolutionary means of helping people better understand and measure their weight-related health risks."

The two-year USC clinical study compared Stayhealthy technology to the gold standards of DEXA scanning for adults and hydrostatic weighing for children. The study allowed Stayhealthy to refine their proprietary algorithms for measuring body composition and achieve an unparalleled level of accuracy in the industry. The conclusion of the research found that there was no appreciable difference in body composition measurements between Stayhealthy's technology and DEXA or hydrostatic weighing.

Former Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson commented on the announcement stating, "In 2001 as Secretary of Health, I issued a call to action to prevent and decrease excess weight and obesity. Since that time, the epidemic of obesity has become even more prevalent. We all have to worry about this problem of obesity. While body weight is important, having the ability to accurately and cost effectively measure individual body composition represents a sea change in how people can address weight-related health risks by allowing people to target only the portion of their weight that is most critically associated with health risk - body fat."

About Stayhealthy, Inc.

Stayhealthy, Inc. is a privately owned health services company focused on bringing solutions to individuals wishing to "take control" of their health and fitness. Stayhealthy has created the first fully integrated health and fitness solution and seeks to make "health" a lifestyle choice -- a way of life. www.stayhealthy.com

SOURCE Stayhealthy, Inc.

Unprecedented Scale-Up of Voluntary Male Circumcision Begins in Swaziland and Zambia

2009-06-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

The Male Circumcision Partnership expands access to proven HIV prevention intervention

WASHINGTON, June 11 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a significant move from research on male circumcision to full-scale implementation, the Male Circumcision Partnership is launching a massive scale-up of voluntary male circumcision services in Swaziland and Zambia. The Partnership is supported by a five-year, $50 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to Population Services International (PSI). PSI and partners Marie Stopes International, Jhpiego, The Population Council and the governments of Swaziland and Zambia estimate that the project will provide voluntary male circumcision services to nearly 650,000 men.

The Male Circumcision Partnership program in Swaziland and Zambia also builds upon the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) supported medical male circumcision activities in each country. This partnership is evidence of a strong and growing coordination among the Gates Foundation, PEPFAR and other partners under the leadership of host country governments to support evidence-based medical male circumcision for the purpose of HIV prevention.

Cited by both the World Health Organization and UNAIDS as an "important intervention," male circumcision reduces HIV infections among men by 60%, according to scientific research -- more effective than any vaccine currently in development.

"Safe male circumcision in combination with other prevention programs has a critical role to play in the global effort to fight HIV/AIDS," said Regina Rabinovich, Director of Infectious Disease Development in the Gates Foundation Global Health Program. "Studies confirm that safe, voluntary male circumcision has been shown to reduce HIV transmission rates and help save lives."

In order to ensure quality scale-up and to meet the current demand for voluntary male circumcision, the Partnership is establishing a network of nearly 250 providers across the public, private and NGO sectors to deliver quality male circumcision services. This collaboration with the Swaziland and Zambia governments supports their national HIV prevention strategies by greatly expanding access to this important prevention intervention.

The Partnership will also launch a series of innovative behavior change communication campaigns focused on post-circumcision issues, such as the need for ongoing safe sex practices and continued condom use.

About PSI

A leading global health organization, PSI programs target malaria, child survival, HIV and reproductive health. Through partnerships and local markets, PSI empowers vulnerable communities to lead healthier lives. www.psi.org

SOURCE Population Services International

Legislation Will Expand Access to Life-Saving Laboratory Tests

2009-06-10T13:01:00.000-07:00

Bills in U.S. Senate & House will help eliminate barriers that discourage doctors from ordering life-saving tests

WASHINGTON, June 10 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Late yesterday U.S. Senators Arlen Specter (PA) and Ron Wyden (OR) introduced legislation that will improve access to life-saving diagnostic tests for patients who might otherwise be denied. The Patient Access to Critical Lab Tests Act (S. 1220) will eliminate the complicated Medicare billing regulations which discourage hospitals from ordering revolutionary laboratory tests needed to clarify complicated diagnoses and identify uniquely effective methods of treatment. This bill serves as a companion to HR 1699, introduced by U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) and co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Tim Murphy (PA-18), Mike Doyle (PA-14), Anna Eshoo (CA-14), and Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34).

The Patient Access to Critical Lab Tests Act dramatically improves patients' access to potentially life-saving lab tests by allowing independent laboratories to directly bill Medicare for the specialized tests they perform. By streamlining the reimbursement process, Doctors will no longer be discouraged to utilize their judgment and order the necessary tests capable of improving the quality of treatment for their patients.

Current Medicare regulations thwart access to these important tests and discourage innovation by requiring hospitals to act as middlemen in the billing process. Laboratories are required to bill hospitals, and hospitals are required to bill Medicare. The Patient Access to Critical Lab Tests Act would permit independent laboratories that develop and perform certain qualifying genetic, genomic or proteomic tests and cancer chemosensitivity assays to bill Medicare directly.

The Coalition for 21st Century Medicine applauds Senators Wyden and Specter for their leadership and looks forward to working with the entire Congress to pass this vital legislation.

The Coalition for 21st Century Medicine represents some of the world's most innovative diagnostic technology companies, clinical laboratories, researchers, physicians, venture capitalists and patient advocacy groups - all linked by a common mission to develop advanced diagnostics that improve the quality of healthcare for patients. For more information about the Coalition for 21st Century Medicine please visit http://www.twentyfirstcenturymedicine.org.

SOURCE The Coalition for 21st Century Medicine

Patients Say Costs Determining Factor in Their Treatment Decisions

2009-06-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, June 10 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Seventy-three percent of insured patients receiving assistance from Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation reported that health care costs are influencing their medication and treatment decisions more this year than last. Nearly half of these said that cost is having a "very big" or "big" impact on whether they seek treatment or fill prescriptions.

The results were part of a 2009 patient survey to determine the effects of the economy, the impact of PAN assistance on patients' lives and their satisfaction with PAN services. PAN helps insured individuals make copayments for medications for 21 specific diseases, including certain cancers and a number of chronic illnesses.

"Our patients do have health insurance; many have Medicare, and yet they still can't meet all the out-of-pocket costs required for life-sustaining medications," said Lyn Boocock-Taylor, chair of the PAN Board of Directors. "The needs of our patients and of the estimated 25 million underinsured people nationwide simply must be considered in the current health care reform debate."

For a number of patients struggling to meet medical costs, timely PAN help sometimes means the difference between life and death, as a cutaneous T-cell lymphoma patient from Colorado wrote: "I was dying because I did not have the means to fight my cancer...thanks, thanks, thanks."

For others, like a rheumatoid arthritis patient from Texas, PAN's assistance eliminated their need to make tough financial choices, saying that: "[With PAN help] I do not have to choose my treatment over other bills that need to be paid."

Patients receiving PAN assistance also reported a striking 28 percent increase (from 71 to 99 percent) in their ability to comply with physicians' medication orders, because of their copayment assistance for vital medications and infusions. Failure to take prescriptions as prescribed often disrupts the medication's helpful effects and can lead to negative consequences such as hospitalization.

Patients said that the copayment assistance reduced family financial and emotional strain, improved their overall health and ability to take medications as prescribed and sometimes sufficiently improved their health allowing their return to work or education.

"We know patients are struggling, but these survey results confirm that we are truly reaching those who need help and making a difference in their lives," said Julie Reynes, President of PAN.

Additionally, PAN enjoys a patient satisfaction rate of 97%. Patients say that PAN's professional case managers staffing the call center are compassionate and helpful.

A summary and more information are on the PAN Web site: www.patientaccessnetwork.org and a webcast featuring the survey is available at: https://patientaccessnetwork.webex.com/patientaccessnetwork/lsr.php?AT=pb&SP=EC&rID=1341952&rKey=59830011FFBA7F58.

PAN is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to providing copayment assistance to insured patients who otherwise lack the means to meet out-of-pocket medication costs for specific diseases. Since 2004, PAN has helped more than 60,000 patients across the United States and U.S. territories. It can be reached through the Web or toll-free at 866-316-7263, with Spanish available.

SOURCE Patient Access Network Foundation

AEterna Zentaris Opens Extended Study for Cetrorelix in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

2009-06-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

QUEBEC CITY, June 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - AEterna Zentaris Inc. (NASDAQ: AEZS; TSX: AEZ), a global biopharmaceutical company focused on endocrine therapy and oncology, today announced the opening of an extended study in the Phase 3 program with cetrorelix pamoate for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a benign enlargement of the prostate, affecting more than 20 million men in the U.S. alone. Sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC entered into a previously announced agreement with AEterna Zentaris for the development, registration and marketing of cetrorelix in BPH for the U.S. market.

As a result of this collaboration between sanofi-aventis U.S. and AEterna Zentaris, patients completing two years of therapy in the North American trial of cetrorelix, NCT00449150, will be eligible to continue with cetrorelix treatment, according to treatment regimen of the ongoing Phase 3 study, until the end of 2011. Patients entering this extension study will be followed-up for safety, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life during the extended treatment, providing follow-up data on cetrorelix for up to 5 years.

Juergen Engel, Ph.D., President and CEO of AEterna Zentaris commented, "We have been pleased with the decision of patients and their physicians to continue into this extended period of open-label treatment follow-up, sponsored by our partner sanofi-aventis U.S. We are confident that patients and their physicians will continue into this extension, as the continuation rate of patients into the open-label part of the study remains at over 90% of those eligible to continue at week 52 and compares favorably with those reported by others.(1) We look forward to presenting the data from the double-blind portion of the study in the next quarter."

About the Phase 3 Program with Cetrorelix in BPH

Cetrorelix pamoate is currently in three Phase 3 trials involving more than 1,600 patients with symptomatic BPH in Canada, the United States and Europe.

The first multi-center efficacy study for which patient recruitment was completed in April 2008, is currently being conducted primarily in the United States and Canada, with additional sites in Europe and involves 667 patients under the supervision of lead investigator, Herbert Lepor, MD, Professor at NYU School of Medicine, New York. Patients enter a 4-week run-in no-treatment observation period to confirm severity and stability of voiding symptoms based on the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Patients are then randomly allocated to cetrorelix or placebo in a double-blind fashion. Patients are administered cetrorelix by intra-muscular (IM) injection at Week 0, 2, 26 and 28 and are followed up to Week 52. Then, in an open-label extension, patients receive cetrorelix by IM injection at Week 52, 54, 78 and 80 and are followed up to Week 90.

The second multi-center Phase 3 efficacy study for which patient recruitment was completed in October 2008, involves 420 patients, mainly in Europe. Patients in this randomized placebo-controlled study with open-label extension conducted under the supervision of lead investigator, Prof. Frans M.J. Debruyne, MD, of the Andros Mannenkliniek, Arnhem, The Netherlands, receive cetrorelix according to similar dosing regimens used in the first study.

The primary endpoint for both North American and European efficacy studies is absolute change in IPSS between baseline and Week 52. Other efficacy endpoints include additional measures of BPH symptom progression and the need for BPH-related surgery. Safety endpoints include changes in sexual function. Other important endpoints include plasma changes in levels of testosterone, and assessment of other adverse events.

The third study in the Phase 3 program, a multi-center safety study, for which patient recruitment was completed in December 2008, is an ongoing open-label, single-armed study involving 528 patients in North America. The lead investigator is Joel Kaufman, M.D., Associate Clinical Professor in Urology at University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver, Colorado and at Urology Research Options in Aurora, Colorado.

First efficacy results are expected during the third quarter of 2009 with an NDA filing targeted in 2010.

About Cetrorelix

Cetrorelix pamoate is an investigational agent that has shown in Phase 2 studies to provide fast and long lasting relief of BPH symptoms and was well tolerated, with a low incidence of sexual side effects. Cetrorelix is part of AEterna Zentaris' luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) antagonist therapeutic approach. This peptide-based active substance was developed by the Company in cooperation with Nobel Prize winner Prof. Andrew Schally, currently of the U.S. Veterans Administration in Miami.

Cetrorelix acetate is marketed under the brand name Cetrotide(R), the first LHRH antagonist approved for therapeutic use as part of in vitro fertilization programs (controlled ovulation stimulation/assisted reproductive technologies) in Europe, the USA and Japan. It was launched on the market through Serono (now Merck Serono) in the U.S., Europe and in several other countries, as well as in Japan through Shionogi.

About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common diseases of aging men - affecting more than 20 million men in the United States - but its etiology is far from being completely understood. Data from ongoing research suggest BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are more complex conditions than once thought. While previous research on BPH etiology tended to focus on testosterone and other hormones, more recent research suggests other factors - including inflammation, various growth factors, and adrenoreceptors - actually may play a greater role in the development of BPH and LUTS.

BPH is associated with LUTS, including: frequent urination, a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, waking at night to urinate (nocturia), difficulty starting a urine stream (hesitancy and straining), decreased strength of the urine stream (weak flow), feeling that the bladder is not completely empty, an urge to urinate again soon after urinating and pain during urination (dysuria). Currently available therapies may improve symptoms to some degree, but often come with sexual and other side effects.

About AEterna Zentaris Inc.

AEterna Zentaris Inc. is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on endocrine therapy and oncology, with proven expertise in drug discovery, development and commercialization. News releases and additional information are available at www.aezsinc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the availability of funds and resources to pursue R&D projects, the successful and timely completion of clinical studies, the ability of the Company to take advantage of business opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, uncertainties related to the regulatory process and general changes in economic conditions. Investors should consult the Company's quarterly and annual filings with the Canadian and U.S. securities commissions for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements. We disclaim any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments except if we are requested by a governmental authority or applicable law.

(1) Reference: Verhamme KMC et al, Eur Urol 2003;44:539 and Nichol MB et
al, J Urol 2009;181:2214.

SOURCE AETERNA ZENTARIS INC.

Kidney Community Launches Health Care Campaign to Improve Survival Rates of First-Year Dialysis Patients in Iowa

2009-06-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

- "PEAK" Campaign: "Performance Excellence and Accountability in Kidney Care" to reduce mortality by 20 percent, extend 10,000 lives by the end of 2012 -

WASHINGTON, June 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Kidney Care Partners announced the launch of a voluntary quality improvement campaign pledging to reduce mortality among first-year dialysis patients -- those at the greatest risk -- in Iowa and across the country by 20 percent by the end of 2012.

The "Performance Excellence and Accountability in Kidney Care" or PEAK Campaign (www.kidneycarequality.org) to reduce mortality in the first year will focus on patient education and key clinical care activities to achieve its goal.

Led by Kidney Care Partners, with support from research partners at Brown University and Quality Partners of Rhode Island as well as experts in the kidney community, the PEAK Campaign will:

Equip health care providers with tools to help first-year dialysis patients better transition;
Improve the health and survival of first-year dialysis patients;
Result in reduced hospitalizations, thus resulting in Medicare savings.

Kidney disease affects more than 26 million people nationwide. Approximately 400,000 Americans suffer from kidney failure and require dialysis or kidney transplantation to survive. Transplants are limited due to the shortage of donor organs, so most patients undergo dialysis for three to four hours, three times a week. The number of Americans with kidney disease is rising steadily due to risk factors including diabetes, hypertension, obesity and high blood pressure.

African Americans, Hispanics and other minority groups are most at-risk for developing kidney failure. And while African Americans make up just 12 percent of the general population, they account for 30 percent of people with kidney failure.

In Iowa alone, there were more than 700 new dialysis patients in 2007 and more than 2,200 patients in total on dialysis in 2007, a more than 10 percent increase since 2003, according to the Heartland Kidney Network.

All too often, the onset of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is gradual and undetected, leaving patients especially vulnerable when the disease is recognized. Helping patients to understand their disease and to manage it appropriately is an essential ingredient to high quality care for newly diagnosed patients and a central component of the PEAK Campaign.

"The kidney care community has achieved considerable and measurable quality improvements in the last decade. The goal of the PEAK Campaign is to help us achieve comparable results in the next decade," said Kent Thiry, KCP Chair. "Our Campaign focuses on patients who are new to dialysis, because these patients are particularly vulnerable. One challenge is to help these patients understand and effectively manage their disease. We also will start a systematic community-wide process of identifying and sharing 'breakthrough' practices that will improve survival rates."

While the survival rate of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients has improved, mortality in the first year of dialysis has remained stable during the last decade. The kidney care community has recognized the need to improve the first-year mortality rate as compared to other industrialized nations.

The PEAK campaign has garnered support not only from a broad cross-section of the kidney community but also from policymakers.

With recommendations from our research partners, KCP will encourage providers to further improve outcomes for first-year dialysis patients in an effort to extend, even save 10,000 lives.

"Dialysis providers already have robust quality improvement programs in place to ensure consistent delivery of high quality care. The kidney care community looks forward to undertaking this voluntary effort to take quality improvement to the next level," KCP's Thiry added.

SOURCE Kidney Care Partners

Elder Care Expert Doctor Marion Receives Accolades from Lehman College, Mature Market Resource Center in Same Week

2009-06-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK, June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Nationally-recognized elder care expert Doctor Marion(R) (www.doctormarion.com), author of "Elder Care Made Easier," has received two different accolades in one week, reinforcing her dedication to providing resources and support to millions of people caring for aging parents and loved ones. On May 28, Doctor Marion received the 2009 Lehman College Alumni Achievement Award, presented at the college's 41st commencement ceremonies in Manhattan. Days later, her self-syndicated "Ask Doctor Marion" column series -- published monthly in regional newspapers nationwide -- won a Merit Award from the 18th Annual National Mature Market Media Awards Program.

A 1980 graduate of Lehman College with a Master's in Recreational Therapy, Doctor Marion received the achievement award from Lehman President Ricardo R. Fernandez for her work in the field of elder care. The award signifies her career as a source of pride to the college, and an inspiration to future graduates.

The National Mature Market Media Awards, presented by the Mature Market Resource Center and sponsored by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and American Custom Publishing Corporation(R), annually recognize the best materials produced for those 50 and older. Doctor Marion self-syndicated her "Ask Doctor Marion" column in a determined effort to bring useful content directly to those who need it most -- reaching nearly seven million readers every month through dozens of senior-focused publications across the country.

"These two honors truly represent the intersection of my wonderful education with my continued life's work," said Doctor Marion. "As a caregiver, I meet hundreds of families searching for help. I hope these awards will reinforce the critical need to reach these people and provide them with the support they so desperately seek."

For more information, or to receive Doctor Marion's free, award-winning column series for your publication, contact Lauren Zumpano at 609-279-0050 x103 or lauren@resoundmarketing.com.

About Doctor Marion

An experienced, nationally recognized geriatric care manager with over three decades of experience, Marion Somers, Ph.D., (Doctor Marion) has provided care for more than 2,000 elderly clients while owning and operating a thriving Geriatric Care Management practice. She has also written a book, "Elder Care Made Easier," and her website, www.doctormarion.com, provides a wealth of information, including free access to tips, videos, interactive message boards, and more.

SOURCE Doctor Marion

Life Beyond Cancer Women's Retreat Calls for Applications

2009-06-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

HOUSTON, June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Life Beyond Cancer (LBC), an advocacy program of the US Oncology Foundation, is calling for applications from cancer survivors, oncology nurses, social workers, oncologists, primary care physicians, and LBC alumni. The retreat, held Dec. 10 - 13 at the Miraval luxury resort in Catalina, Ariz., is offered at an extremely affordable cost thanks to many sponsors including Platinum Sponsor Eisai, Gold Sponsors Abraxis Oncology and Miraval luxury resort, Silver Sponsor James Lasker, MD, and contributor BAG IT, but space is extremely limited. Deadline for applications is Sept. 15 (Aug. 15 for LBC alumni).

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Life Beyond Cancer is a 4-day women's retreat for cancer survivors and the oncology professionals who help them throughout their battle with cancer. The retreat focuses on advocacy and wellness during and after the cancer experience. In addition to a meaningful personal experience, participants learn through a variety of workshops, lectures and group activities to challenge and enable them to bring new advocacy programs to their communities upon returning home, or to support existing services and advocacy programs.

"Life Beyond Cancer is a life-altering experience that motivates women to get back out there in life, to challenge themselves to bring fruitful and promising new programs back to their communities in hopes of making someone else's journey through cancer that much easier," says Susie Leigh, cancer survivor and co-founder of Life Beyond Cancer.

"This special retreat offers women a chance to repair their souls, while inspiring them to improve the world around them," says Ann Wolford, executive director of the US Oncology Foundation. "It's also a chance for nurses, social workers and physicians to connect with the needs of patients on a new level, and come back to their jobs rested, inspired and full of fresh ideas on how to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families."

To apply for a space at the Life Beyond Cancer retreat, visit www.usoncologyfoundation.org/lbc. Submission of an application does not guarantee an assigned slot. Selection to attend LBC is highly competitive as there are many more applicants than spaces available.

Life Beyond Cancer is made possible through the generosity of its sponsors. To sponsor the 2009 Life Beyond Cancer 10 year anniversary retreat, fill out the sponsorship form located on the US Oncology Foundation Web site.

For more information, contact Ann Wolford at 800-381-2637 or email usoncology.foundation@usoncology.com.

About Life Beyond Cancer

Founded in 1999 by oncologist Dr. Robert Brooks, oncology nurse PJ Haylock and cancer survivor Susie Leigh, Life Beyond Cancer is a 4-day retreat designed to help women who have battled cancer, and those who help women battle cancer, get back into their healthy minds to return to their communities to give back to others battling cancer. The advocacy efforts of Life Beyond Cancer have brought a multitude of programs and services to local communities across the nation to enhance and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. For more information, visit www.usoncologyfoundation.org/lbc.

About US Oncology Foundation

Founded in September 2008, the US Oncology Foundation advances cancer care in local communities by removing barriers to prevention, education, early detection, treatment and survivorship. By working with other foundations and community organizations, the US Oncology Foundation can maximize emergency financial assistance dollars offered to patients for living expenses such as utilities, transportation, food and mortgage payments, and assists with cancer prevention programs to reduce incidence and mortality. For more information, visit www.usoncologyfoundation.org.

SOURCE US Oncology Foundation

HealthCore Invites Community-based Practitioners to Participate in 'Real-world' Research Network

2009-06-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

IRN(sm) responds to demand for post-approval, observational research initiatives, patient registries and comparative effectiveness studies

WILMINGTON, Del., June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Physicians will get the opportunity to influence comparative effectiveness research and broad medical practice through participation in the Integrated Research Network, a collaborative research community, which HealthCore, Inc. is launching this summer.

Physicians may now register for the Integrated Research Network at https://irn.healthcore.com/irn/application/application.php.

HealthCore, the outcomes research subsidiary of WellPoint, Inc., has developed the Integrated Research Network partly in preparation for prospective effectiveness research studies and potential comparative effectiveness grants from the $1.1 billion grant program administered by the National Institutes of Health, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

HealthCore will also work with the IRN(sm) to produce registries and studies focusing on product safety, observational and prospective effectiveness research.

The IRN(sm) is currently registering practicing physicians in internal medicine, family practice, general practice, rheumatology, cardiology, endocrinology, psychiatry, oncology and gastroenterology. Specifically, HealthCore is exploring several opportunities in the areas of heart failure, antibiotic resistance, autism, Type 2 diabetes and breast cancer.

"As a practicing cardiologist for more than a decade, I anticipate that the IRN will help practicing physicians determine disparities in care, deliver better quality of care and provide safety data beyond clinical trials," said Dr. Javed Butler, director of heart failure research for the cardiology division of Emory University School of Medicine and a member of the IRN(sm) advisory board. "In my field, we can improve significantly on prevention aspects of cardiovascular disease and control of risk factors, which will help decrease the risk not only for heart failure but strokes and heart attacks."

"The IRN(sm) is designed to help me and others obtain patient clinical and lifestyle information to better treat our patients," Butler said. "In addition, the IRN(sm) can also help us prepare for outpatient quality measures that will eventually tie payment to quality of care."

The IRN(sm), a collaborative research community, brings together physicians, hospital leaders, clinical researchers, pharmacists and other health care providers to identify clinical issues for study, provide clinical data for ongoing studies, respond to health surveys, and recruit and enroll patients in comparative effectiveness studies in real-world settings. The IRN(sm) can also provide practice diversification and additional income to physicians who choose to participate in specific studies.

"Not only will the IRN(sm) serve as the conduit for collecting information, but it will allow physicians to take a more hands-on role in shaping the studies," said Dr. Louise Short, IRN(sm) medical director for HealthCore. "Ultimately, the information the IRN(sm) produces will help health care providers personalize medicine for the individual patient and deliver safer, more efficient and higher quality health care."

Registered physicians who agree to be involved in a particular study can work with the IRN(sm) on an ongoing basis as subject matter experts advising on the type of data to be collected, recording clinical information and participating in prospective and comparative effectiveness studies. Physicians will be compensated for their involvement in research studies.

When data collection for a study is complete, this information can be combined with HealthCore's administrative claims information, including medical and pharmacy utilization, eligibility and benefit level information, and laboratory results on millions of patients. HealthCore's staff includes many high-level health service researchers who analyze data and produce study results that can be applied in real-word medical practice at the point of care.

"It's rare for research to combine administrative claims data with clinical data," said Short. "Yet, when we can integrate both types of data and draw on the clinical practice experience of hundreds of physicians in the IRN(sm) to make the data analyses more relevant, it helps us answer challenging medical questions in a way that is more relevant to everyday clinical practice."

One example of this is HealthCore's work on a two-year, multi-center prospective, observational study for patients with Type 2 diabetes on a specific therapy. The study is following outcomes and assessing the clinical effectiveness in a real-world setting.

HealthCore has worked with academia, government, pharmaceutical companies and health plans for more than 15 years and published hundreds of posters and manuscripts, with research appearing in publications such as the American Heart Journal, Health Affairs, Archives of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinical Proceedings, Clinical Therapy and Managed Care Pharmacy.

About HealthCore

HealthCore, based in Wilmington, Del., is the clinical outcomes research subsidiary of WellPoint. HealthCore has a team of highly experienced researchers including physicians, biostatisticians, pharmacists, epidemiologists, health economists and other scientists who study the "real world" safety and effectiveness of drugs, medical devices and care management interventions. HealthCore offers insight on how to best use this data and communicates these findings to health care decision-makers to support evidence-based medicine, product development decisions, safety monitoring, coverage decisions, process improvement and overall cost-effective health care. For more information, go to www.healthcore.com.

SOURCE HealthCore and WellPoint, Inc.

Joint Statement on Atypical Antipsychotic Use in Children

2009-06-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, June 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The below listed groups issued the following statement regarding the upcoming FDA Psychopharmacologic Drugs Advisory Committee Meeting on June 9-10:

As advocates for people living with mental illnesses, we strongly urge the FDA to carefully consider the importance of viable treatment options for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in pediatric and adolescent populations. Access to safe and effective treatments, including more information about all treatment options, is crucial to treating these serious and complex conditions in children and adolescents.

Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are very real, life-threatening diseases which can appear in childhood and adolescence. For example, federally funded research (STEP-BD) found that, of 3,658 adult patients studied, 68% reported bipolar disease onset in childhood or adolescence. Patients with child onset had, on average, fewer days of euthymia (or neutral mood), greater impairment in functioning and poorer quality of life. Those with adolescent onset have better outcomes than those with child onset, but were still worse off than those who did not suffer from bipolar disorder until adulthood. These alarming statistics highlight the need for early recognition and treatment, which offers children and adolescents their best chance to achieve and maintain wellness.

We encourage an open and transparent scientific discourse about all pharmacologic treatments that come before the Advisory Committee and urge the Committee to carefully weigh the available evidence regarding safety and efficacy. No one treatment option works for all children. In order for physicians and families to make informed treatment decisions they need access to a full range of medications and treatment options and to the research regarding the risks and benefits of these treatments. More long-term clinical research in children and adolescents is also needed to better understand the risks and benefits of these medications when used over an extended period.

As we know, these medications can also have serious side effects, which is why it is crucial that parents and physicians have as much information as possible in order to make informed decisions and weigh the risk of side effects and adverse reactions against the risk of not treating these very serious diseases. Other treatments for grave childhood illnesses such as cancer can cause hair loss, nausea, compromised immune systems and even death. However, few people question the necessity of these aggressive forms of treatment. Like cancer, aggressive treatment may be needed for some patients with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, diseases with a higher risk of death than some forms of cancer.

The best way to protect the health of our nation's children and adolescents is to increase access to treatment options and communicate accurate, scientific information that helps parents and physicians cope with and properly treat these devastating illnesses.

Our non-profit national mental health advocacy and medical professional organizations represent consumers, physicians, researchers and the top experts in the field of mental health and neuroscience. For more information about mental illness and treatment, we recommend that you talk to your health care provider or visit our organization websites.

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - www.aacap.org

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - www.afsp.org

American Psychiatric Association - www.psych.org

Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation - www.bpkids.org

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder - www.chadd.org

Families for Depression Awareness - www.familyaware.org

Mental Health America - www.mentalhealthamerica.net

National Alliance on Mental Illness - www.nami.org

National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare - http://www.thenationalcouncil.org/

SOURCE Mental Health America

Rights, Access to Healthcare Providers of Choice at Risk

2009-06-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

Coalition Works to Ensure Access, Quality Healthcare for All Americans

WASHINGTON, June 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today the Coalition for Patients' Rights(TM) announced that it has sent a letter to President Obama urging him to support the utilization of a broad spectrum of health professions as the Administration works to reform the nation's healthcare system. In its correspondence to the White House, the Coalition reiterated its position that healthcare professionals - who are not doctors of medicine or osteopathy (i.e., MDs or DOs) - are critical stakeholders in healthcare reform.

Additionally, the Coalition - which is comprised of more than 35 member organizations - has launched a national public education initiative to help people better understand the broad spectrum of healthcare providers available to them and to reinforce the importance of maintaining their right to access the providers and care of their choice. Healthcare providers other than MDs or DOs are well-prepared to provide a diverse array of safe, high-quality and cost-effective services to meet the growing healthcare needs of Americans. In fact, many of these professions evolved to fill gaps in healthcare services and to provide other benefits not offered by MDs or DOs, including a higher degree of personalized care, specialty services, greater accessibility and increased affordability.

"We want to remind patients that they have a choice of healthcare providers and that medical doctors should not always be the default provider for healthcare," said Maureen Shekleton, PhD, RN, FAAN, a spokesperson for the Coalition for Patients' Rights. "Right now, patients can choose to see the provider of their choice, whether that provider is a nurse, a psychologist, a therapist or a naturopathic physician. But given the present environment, this may not always be the case."

Currently, there is a divisive movement to restrict the valuable services provided by some healthcare professionals, which will limit patient access to safe, high-quality and cost-effective healthcare. As indispensable caregivers to millions of Americans, the healthcare professionals represented by the Coalition are continually defending their right to offer services that they are both licensed/certified and qualified to provide.

"Access to healthcare should be based on patient safety, efficacy and positive outcomes, not provider policies and compensation battles. It's not fair for patients to be stuck in the middle of a turf battle," continued Shekleton. "Patients are best served when they have access to a team of healthcare professionals who work together to ensure overall health and wellness."

The Coalition advocates for the legally authorized practice rights of its members to ensure continued services for the patients who rely on them. Limiting the ability of healthcare professionals to practice and provide appropriate care places an enormous and unnecessary burden on the American healthcare system. Without the contributions of these professionals, many patients would lack essential healthcare services and options, especially those in rural and medically underserved areas.

The Coalition urges consumers to learn more about the expertise and qualifications of its membership and to consider the role these professionals play in America's healthcare system. To learn more, visit www.patientsrightscoalition.org.

About the Coalition for Patients' Rights

A national coalition of more than 35 organizations, the Coalition for Patients' Rights represents more than three million licensed and certified healthcare professionals committed to ensuring comprehensive healthcare choices for all patients. It was formed in 2006 in response to divisive efforts by The Scope of Practice Partnership (SOPP), a coalition of medical and osteopathic physician organizations established by the American Medical Association (AMA) and other medical groups, which aims to limit other healthcare professionals' scopes of practice.

The Coalition is comprised of a diverse array of healthcare professionals, including optometrists, chiropractors, psychologists, registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses (including certified registered nurse anesthetists, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and certified nurse midwives), therapists, naturopathic physicians, practitioners of Oriental medicine and many other licensed and certified professionals. For more information about the Coalition for Patients' Rights, visit www.patientsrightscoalition.org.

SOURCE Coalition for Patients' Rights(TM)

Cox Business Addresses Complex Voice Needs of Health Care Organization

2009-06-08T10:42:00.000-07:00

Cox Business VoiceManager Provides Additional Capabilities, More Efficient Operation for Gateway Healthcare

PROVIDENCE, R.I., June 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Business announced today that it is addressing the complex communications needs of Gateway Healthcare with the unique, next generation voice product, Cox Business VoiceManager. The non-profit behavioral health care organization recently moved its telecommunications services from a competitive provider to Cox Business due to the new capabilities and efficiencies offered by the company.

"Cox Business accurately assessed our communications challenges and designed a solution that met our needs. As a result, we've gained additional capabilities and reduced our operational costs by 15 percent," said Scott DiChristofero, chief financial officer, Gateway Healthcare. "Cox Business has relieved us of the responsibility of being telecommunications experts, allowing us to focus on our primary mission of assisting people in their recovery from mental health, substance abuse and behavioral and emotional disorders."

With a staff of nearly 800 and 40 locations in Rhode Island, Gateway Healthcare provides comprehensive behavioral health care services to approximately 14,000 adults and children each year.

"The savings we've experienced with Cox are a welcome benefit, especially for a nonprofit in the current economic climate," said DiChristofero.

As part of Cox Business' solution, Gateway can now send bulk voicemail and e-mail messages to large groups of employees, a critical tool during patient emergencies, winter storms or other natural disasters. Gateway employees also can conveniently make internal calls using four-digit dialing. The company can easily track phone usage data, such as long-distance calling from its facilities.

With the launch of Cox Business VoiceManager in the fourth quarter of 2007, Cox became the first cable provider in North America to deploy a fully-owned and managed IP telephony service that addresses the needs of the broad business market. The innovative product provides a feature-rich telephony platform that integrates the desktop phone, PC and wireless devices to provide customers with enhanced communications control, flexibility and functionality that drive operational efficiency. Cox Business VoiceManager's feature-rich platform can scale to deliver productivity, mobility, business continuity and unified messaging solutions to small businesses and large enterprises.

"Call routing to preferred devices, business continuity planning that can be altered on the fly and unified voice and data messaging - these are tools that allow businesses to operate and compete more effectively in today's marketplace," said Mark Scott, vice president, Cox Business New England. "Traditional phone solutions are a thing of the past; advanced IP feature platforms such as Cox Business VoiceManager are becoming table stakes for business-class communications."

Cox Business maintains and manages Cox Business VoiceManager over its fully-redundant and secure hosted network, affording businesses the time and resources to enhance their productivity while protecting vital communications. Because Cox Business VoiceManager is compatible with most existing phone systems, businesses also save the capital and operating expense of purchasing and maintaining new equipment.

To listen to related Cox executive interviews on the BlogTalkRadio show "Cox Business Report," click below:

"Cox Brings Next Generation Voice Service to Virginia"

"Cox Connects with Health Care"

Cox Business provides voice, data and video services for nearly 250,000 small and regional businesses, including health care providers, K-12 and higher education, financial institutions and federal, state and local government organizations. Cox Business leads all providers of small and midsize business data solutions in customer satisfaction, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Major Provider Business Telecommunications Study(SM). Cox is currently the seventh largest voice service provider in the U.S. and supports nearly 650,000 business phone lines. For more information about Cox Business, Click Here or call 1-800-396-1609.

About Cox Communications

Cox Communications is a multi-service broadband communications and entertainment company with 6.2 million total residential and commercial customers. The third-largest cable television company in the United States, Cox offers an array of advanced digital video, high-speed Internet and telephony services over its own nationwide IP network. Cox Business is a full-service, facilities-based provider of communications solutions for commercial customers, providing high-speed Internet, voice and long distance services, as well as data and video transport services for small to large-sized businesses. Cox Media offers national and local cable advertising in traditional spot and new media formats, along with promotional opportunities and production services. Cox Communications wholly owns and operates the Travel Channel. More information about the services of Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com, www.coxbusiness.com, and www.coxmedia.com.

SOURCE Cox Communications

Research: Popular Diabetes Medications Associated with Increase in Bone Fractures

2009-06-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J., June 8, /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Research presented at the American Diabetes Association's 69th Scientific Sessions points to increased risk for people with diabetes associated with two widely used drug classes; while another study shed new light on a different class of drugs that faced increased scrutiny from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Researchers from Medco Health Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: MHS) today released the results of a number of studies that will help advance the body of evidence informing the clinical care of diabetes patients.

"Diabetes is one of the greatest clinical challenges impacting the health of our nation," said Dr. Robert S. Epstein, Medco chief medical officer. "Knowing which drugs work for which individuals with diabetes will provide a more personalized approach which can help improve care for people with diabetes and significantly impact the health of Americans, as well as the cost of care for these patients."

Thiazolidinediones Increase Risk of Fracture

A study by researchers from Medco and the University of Texas Health Sciences Center found that patients with type 2 diabetes taking a thiazolidinedione (TZD) to help control their blood sugar experienced a 43 percent higher incidence of bone fracture than type 2 diabetes patients not taking TZDs. TZDs -- a class of drugs used to control blood sugar -- are used by as many as 4 million Americans.

The study examined the effects of pioglitazone (Actos(R)) and rosiglitazone (Avandia(R)), the two drugs that make up the TZD class, and found that both medications equally increase the risk of bone fracture. In addition, the study showed that men, as well as women, are at a higher risk of fracture when taking these drugs. These findings support previous research showing increased fracture risks related to TZDs.

"This is a serious issue for diabetes patients since they are already at higher risk for a bone fracture given the nature of their disease and further increasing their odds of a fracture with these medications can be very problematic," said Merri Pendergrass, MD, PhD, national practice leader of the Medco Therapeutic Resource Center(R) for diabetes and one of the study researchers. "Based on these results, as well as the findings of prior studies, physicians should consider the increased risk of fractures with these agents when weighing treatment options for their patients."

The study analyzed pharmacy and medical claims between January 2006 and July 2008 of 144,399 patients age 43-63 with type 2 diabetes. The study sample consisted of 69,047 patients who were taking TZD, and 75,352 who were not taking a TZD. Among patients taking TZD, there were a total of 3,346 fractures, a 43 percent higher rate than identified in patients not taking TZD. When analyzed by gender, women on a TZD were 55 percent more likely to experience a bone fracture than women not on a TZD; men on a TZD had a 26 percent higher likelihood of suffering a fracture.

The findings support previous assertions that TZDs increase the risk of fractures. In 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a warning for one particular TZD due to risk of fracture. The alert was based upon data from A Diabetes Outcome Progression Trial (ADOPT). Since then, additional studies -- including a recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal -- also found an increased risk in fractures in women taking the drugs.

Researchers posit that TZDs may increase fat in bone marrow, reduce the development of bone cells, and negatively impact estrogen production. The risk of fracture adds to a growing body of evidence on potential risks for the drug class, which has also been associated with cardiovascular issues. Troglitazone, the third of three major drugs in the TZD class, was withdrawn from the market due to increased risk of drug-induced liver failure.

New Findings Contradict Pancreatitis Risk from Incretin Mimetics

New research suggests that the medications known as incretin mimetics -- which include exenatide and sitagliptin -- do not increase the risk of pancreatitis in patients with diabetes, contradicting previous case reports concerning the drug class that led to strong FDA warnings.

Researchers from Medco reviewed the pharmacy and medical claims of 123,621 patients with diabetes between the ages of 18 and 63 who were non-insulin users. Among the 9,260 patients taking exenatide, less than one-half of 1 percent (0.44 percent) experienced an episode of acute pancreatitis. Among the 2,143 patients taking sitagliptin, a drug with a mechanism of action related to that of exenatide, acute pancreatitis was identify in only 6 patients (0.28 percent). The rates of pancreatitis were comparable in the study's control group, which saw a 0.39 percent incidence.

While the study was descriptive, authors state it suggests that there was no increased risk of pancreatitis among patients taking either of the two drugs over patients not taking the drugs.

Diabetes Patients on Clopidogrel and Proton Pump Inhibitors at Greater Risk for Cardiovascular Events

New research from the Clopidogrel Medco Outcomes Study (CMOS) has revealed an increased risk for major cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes who take clopidogrel (the active ingredient in Plavix(R)) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) together. A growing body of evidence highlights the risk of taking the two drugs together; however, this latest study is particularly important due to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes.

According to researchers, patients with diabetes who took a PPI and clopidogrel together experienced a 44 percent higher relative risk for a cardiovascular event than patients taking clopidogrel alone. Of those who took the medications together, nearly 27 percent experienced a major cardiovascular event within the first 12 months of taking the drugs together, compared to only 19.7 percent of patients on clopidogrel alone.

Communications with Doctors Increase Use of Key Medications in Diabetes

Ace Inhibitors (ACE-I) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), two major categories of antihypertensives, appear to have unique clinical benefits compared to other antihypertensive therapies. New Medco research points to a simple fax communication as an important vehicle for increasing the use of these medications among people with diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association recommends ACE-I or ARB in diabetic patients with certain clinical conditions such as nephropathy or hypertension. Unfortunately, these agents are not frequently prescribed to many patients for whom treatment is indicated. In the Medco study, a fax from the pharmacy to the physician doubled the percent of patients who were prescribed one of these medications.

Patients with diabetes that were not receiving one of these medications were divided into two groups. Physicians from one group received a fax from the pharmacy that outlined clinical guidelines from the American Diabetes Association and provided a list of available medications available in the category and a prescription form pre-populated with the patient's information. Twenty-one percent of patients whose physicians received faxes were started on an ACE-I or ARB, vs. only 10 percent of control patients. Researchers concluded that the findings support the value of the pharmacies engaging with physicians when they find patients who are lacking important therapies.

About Medco

Medco Health Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: MHS) is a leading health care company, serving the needs of more than 60 million people. Medco, the world's most advanced pharmacy(R), provides clinically driven pharmacy services designed to improve the quality of care and lower total health care costs for private and public employers, health plans, labor unions and government agencies of all sizes, and for individuals served by Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans. Through its unique Medco Therapeutic Resource Centers(R) and the Accredo Health Group, Medco's Specialty Pharmacy, the company is creating innovative models for the care of patients with chronic and complex conditions. Medco is a leader in the emerging field of personalized medicine and in applying evidence-based protocols to elevate the practice of pharmacy -- a key element in reforming America's health care system. Medco is ranked number 45 on the Fortune 500 list, with 2008 revenues of more than $51 billion. For more information about Medco, go to http://www.medcohealth.com.

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the statements. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the risks and uncertainties that affect our business, particularly those mentioned in the Risk Factors section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE Medco Health Solutions, Inc.

2009 Catholic Health Assembly to Focus on Hope in a Time of Hardship and Adapting for the Future in a Time of Health Reform

2009-06-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

News Media Invited to Attend

NEW ORLEANS, June 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Catholic health ministry leaders will gather June 7-9 in New Orleans for the 2009 Catholic Health Assembly, "In Our Hands: Changing Ourselves, Our Communities, Our Nation."

The assembly, hosted by the Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA), is the largest annual gathering of Catholic health care leaders from across the nation. They come together to share their wisdom, celebrate heroes and prepare for the possibility that the ministry's decades-long commitment to bring about a just health care system could be realized through reform that assures access and coverage for everyone.

The assembly's roster of general session speakers includes:

Nancy Brinker, founder, Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R), World Health Organization (WHO) Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control, former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, former U.S. Chief of Protocol and one of TIME's "100 Most Influential People" in 2008. (Sunday, June 7, 1:30 p.m. CDT)

Daniel P. Sulmasy, OFM, MD, Ph.D., a Franciscan Friar, holds the Sisters of Charity Chair in Ethics at St. Vincent's Hospital, Manhattan, and serves as professor of medicine and director of the Bioethics Institute of New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. (Sunday, June 7, 3:00 p.m. CDT)

Stan Brock, founder, Remote Area Medical(R) (RAM) Volunteer Corps, a non-profit, volunteer, airborne relief corps dedicated to providing free health care, dental care, eye care, veterinary services, and technical and educational assistance to people in remote areas of the United States and the world. (Monday, June 8, 9:00 a.m. CDT)

Bob Schieffer, Chief Washington Correspondent, CBS News, anchor and moderator of Face The Nation, CBS News' Sunday public affairs broadcast, and author of Bob Schieffer's America. (Monday, June 8, Noon CDT)

In addition, there will be an interactive general session to address the dilemmas faced in providing charity care, as well as Innovation Forum sessions providing insight on issues ranging from community benefit, palliative care, environmental responsibilities and senior care. Complete assembly program information is available online at www.chausa.org/assembly.

The assembly will contribute to the rebuilding of New Orleans. Through Catholic Charities' Operation Helping Hands, volunteers will participate in a rehabilitation project on Saturday, June 6. On Tuesday, June 9, some attendees will take a bus tour to view areas devastated by Katrina and the rebuilding projects underway.

CHA is reducing the environmental impact of the assembly. Efforts focus on: reduced paper waste, increased recycling opportunities, not serving bottled water and attendees will receive tote bags made from 100 percent postconsumer recycled materials (discarded water bottles and food containers).

The assembly headquarters hotel is the Sheraton New Orleans, 500 Canal St., New Orleans. Representatives of news organizations interested in attending are asked to contact Fred Caesar at (504) 681-5451 or (202) 256-2952 or fcaesar@chausa.org.

The Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA), founded in 1915, supports the Catholic health ministry's pursuit of the strategic directions of mission, ethics, and advocacy. As the nation's largest group of not-for-profit sponsors, systems, and facilities, the ministry is committed to improving the health status of communities and creating quality and compassionate health care that works for everyone. For more information, visit the CHA website at www.chausa.org .

SOURCE Catholic Health Association of the United States

Lilly Announces Positive Phase II Data on Investigational Medicine for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

2009-06-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

NEW ORLEANS, June 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) announced today new, positive Phase II study results of LY2189265, its investigational glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analog administered subcutaneously once-weekly for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. These data will be presented as part of the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) 69th Annual Scientific Sessions.

In the Phase II study, known as GBCJ, LY2189265 was significantly superior to placebo in reducing key measures of glycemic control, including fasting serum glucose and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C). In this study, LY2189265 showed an insulinotropic (stimulating the secretion of insulin) effect, suggesting it produced the desired outcome in participants. In Study GBCJ, LY2189265 was generally well-tolerated.

"We are excited about these data and the hope they could provide to the millions of diabetes patients who are struggling to maintain tight control of their blood glucose," said Pawel Fludzinski, Ph.D., global development leader for the GLP-1Fc team. "Evaluating the results of this study is an important step forward towards potentially bringing this innovative treatment to patients."

About Study GBCJ

In a 16-week, Phase II study of LY2189265, 262 patients with type 2 diabetes who were suboptimally controlled on at least two oral diabetes medicines were randomized to one of four arms: 1.0 mg of LY2189265 for 16 weeks; 0.5 mg of LY2189265 for four weeks followed by 1.0 mg for 12 weeks; and 1.0 mg of LY2189265 for four weeks followed by 2.0 mg for 12 weeks or placebo. The primary endpoint was glycemic control, as measured by change from baseline in HbA1C; additional endpoints evaluated included changes in fasting serum glucose, solid mixed meal glucose excursion and body weight.

For all doses in this study, statistically significant reductions in all metabolic measures were observed. Both 1 mg and 2 mg doses of LY2189265 were significantly different from placebo, but no significant differences between the doses were seen. LY2189265 was generally well-tolerated. The incidence of hypoglycemic episodes was not significantly different between the placebo and the treatment groups. The most frequently observed treatment-related adverse events were nausea, diarrhea and abdominal distension. One patient was diagnosed with clinical pancreatitis, following the eleventh dose of LY2189265. The patient remained in the study for observation and has fully recovered.

"Given our more than 80 years of experience in pioneering diabetes treatments, we are encouraged by these data," noted Steve Paul, M.D., executive vice president, science and technology, and president of Lilly Research Laboratories. "In this study, LY2189265 was administered once weekly and demonstrated significant glucose-lowering activity and reduced body weight, supporting its potential to become a new treatment option for the millions of people with type 2 diabetes."

About LY2189265

LY2189265, a once-weekly injection, is a novel-engineered fusion protein, consisting of a dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DDP-IV) protected GLP-1 analog linked to a fragment of immunoglobulin G4 that is believed to increase the duration of its pharmacological effect. Based on this study presented at this year's ADA meeting, LY2189265 is believed to reduce blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the pancreas.

Diabetes: A Global Epidemic

Researchers say new diabetes treatments are needed because the disease is growing globally at epidemic proportions. Currently, about 24 million Americans have diabetes(1), with 90-95 percent of those suffering from type 2 diabetes(2). It is estimated that nearly 60 percent of the people with diabetes are not achieving treatment goals for controlling blood sugar(3), putting them at serious risk for debilitating or potentially fatal complications including heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, lower limb amputation, vision loss and kidney disease(4).

About Lilly

Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs.

This press release contains forward-looking statements about the potential of the investigational compound LY2189265 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and reflects Lilly's current beliefs. However, as with any pharmaceutical product under development, there are substantial risks and uncertainties in the process of development and regulatory review. There is no guarantee that the product will receive regulatory approval, or that the regulatory approval will be for the indication(s) anticipated by the company. There is also no guarantee that the product will prove to be commercially successful. For further discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, see Lilly's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Lilly undertakes no duty to update forward-looking statements.

C-LLY

(1) American Diabetes Association. "Diabetes Statistics." Available at: http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-statistics.jsp Accessed May 13, 2009.

(2) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "National Diabetes Fact Sheet 2007." Available at http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2007.pdf Accessed May 13, 2009

(3) Saydah SH, Fradkin J and Cowie CC. "Poor control of risk factors for vascular disease among adults with previously diagnosed diabetes." JAMA: 291(3), January 21, 2004

(4) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "National Diabetes Fact Sheet 2007." Available at http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2007.pdf Accessed May 13, 2009

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031219/LLYLOGO )

SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company

Orexigen(R) Therapeutics Presents Additional NB-302 Contrave(R) Data at American Diabetes Association (ADA) 69th Scientific Sessions

2009-06-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

SAN DIEGO, June 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Orexigen(R) Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: OREX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the treatment of obesity, today announced positive secondary findings from the first of four Phase 3 trials of its lead investigational product Contrave(R) (naltrexone sustained release (SR)/bupropion SR). These data were presented in one oral and two poster presentations at the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) 69th Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The oral presentation highlighted the significant improvements in eating control experienced by patients treated with Contrave versus placebo (p< 0.01), as well as previously reported results on the primary weight loss endpoints and measures of cardiometabolic risk. "NB-302 results show that Contrave initiates and sustains weight loss and can improve predictive markers for heart disease such as waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol and hsCRP," said Eduardo Dunayevich, Chief Medical Officer, Orexigen Therapeutics. "Furthermore, due to its unique effects on brain reward centers, Contrave may allow patients to better control their eating habits, potentially providing an important advantage to millions of Americans who struggle with obesity."

The mood and weight-related quality of life findings observed in the Contrave group were discussed in the oral presentation and reviewed in greater detail in the poster presentations. Contrave was not associated with suicidality or worsening of mood or depressive symptoms, and in fact was associated with a decreased incidence of treatment-emergent depression compared to placebo. In addition, Contrave patients achieved significant improvements in overall quality of life (p< 0.01) and reported that benefits, such as improved physical function and self-esteem, occurred early in treatment and were maintained over one year.

Results from the three other Phase 3 trials (NB-301, NB-303, NB-304) are expected to be announced in the third quarter of 2009. Pending positive results, the Company is on track to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) with the FDA in the first half of 2010.

About NB-302

NB-302 was a 56-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, conducted in 793 patients at nine U.S. centers. The trial evaluated the additional weight loss of Contrave (32mg naltrexone SR/360mg bupropion SR) when added to an intensive behavior modification program consisting of counseling, diet and exercise. The co-primary endpoints were percent change in total body weight from baseline and proportion of patients who lost at least 5% of their baseline body weight.

Based on pre-specified intent-to-treat and completer analyses, obese patients treated with Contrave lost an average of 20.3 pounds to 25.0 pounds, or 9.3% to 11.5% of their baseline body weight, versus 11.0 pounds to 16.0 pounds, or 5.1% to 7.3% of baseline body weight, for patients treated with placebo. In addition, in the categorical weight reduction analysis, the percentage of patients who lost greater than or equal to 10% of their body weight was 41.5% in the Contrave group, compared to 20.2% in the placebo group. Furthermore, 29.1% of patients lost greater than or equal to 15% of their body weight in the Contrave group; compared to 10.9% in the placebo group. All of these findings were highly statistically significant (p< 0.001).

"NB-302 demonstrates that Contrave delivers greater weight loss to patients when added to a rigorous behavioral intervention program compared to the intervention program alone, underscoring the important role of pharmacotherapy as part of a weight management program," said Michael Narachi, President and Chief Executive Officer, Orexigen Therapeutics. "These data, which we believe meet the FDA efficacy guidance at the more stringent 10% threshold, also provide further support of Contrave's potential as a weight loss treatment for clinicians and their obese patients."

The overall discontinuation rate due to adverse events in NB-302 was 25.9% for patients taking Contrave versus 13.0% for those taking placebo. The most frequently observed adverse events leading to discontinuation for patients on study drug were nausea, urticaria (hives) and anxiety.

Contrave was generally well tolerated, with an overall safety profile consistent with its individual components, naltrexone and bupropion, two drugs that have been used separately for over 20 years. The discontinuation rate due to nausea was 4.6%. This rate is lower than what was seen in the Phase 2 trial (NB-201), which utilized the immediate release formulation of naltrexone as opposed to the proprietary SR formulation used in this trial. The most frequently observed treatment-emergent adverse events for patients on study drug were nausea, headache, constipation and dizziness.

About Contrave(R)

Contrave is an investigational oral weight loss medication with a unique mechanism of action that works at two levels within the central nervous system: one associated with controlling the balance of food intake and metabolism and another involved in controlling food preference, reward and cravings. We believe that Contrave may be the first treatment for obesity to target these reward centers in the central nervous system. Based on clinical trials completed to date, Contrave is believed to initiate and sustain significant weight loss over one year of treatment by reducing appetite, increasing metabolism and allowing the body to continue losing weight by offsetting its natural tendency to fight back and slow down the weight loss process.

About Orexigen(R) Therapeutics

Orexigen Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the treatment of obesity. The Company's lead combination product candidates targeted for obesity are Contrave(R), which is in Phase 3 clinical trials, and Empatic(TM), which is in the later stages of Phase 2 clinical development. Each product candidate is designed to act on a specific group of neurons in the central nervous system with the goal of achieving appetite suppression and sustained weight loss. Further information about the Company can be found at http://www.orexigen.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Orexigen cautions you that statements included in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Words such as "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "indicates," "will," "intends," "potential," "suggests," "assuming," "designed" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the Company's current beliefs and expectations. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding the efficacy and safety of Contrave, the enrollment, timing, execution and completion of clinical trials of the Company's product candidates, the potential for, and timing of, an NDA submission for Contrave, and the potential to obtain regulatory approval for, and effectively treat obesity with, Contrave and Empatic. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by Orexigen that any of its plans will be achieved. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in the Orexigen business, including, without limitation: the final analyses of data from the NB-302 trial and other clinical trials of Contrave may produce negative or inconclusive results, or may be inconsistent with previously conducted clinical trials, and the FDA may not agree with Orexigen's interpretation of efficacy and safety results; earlier clinical trials may not be predictive of future results; Contrave or Empatic may not receive regulatory approval on a timely basis or at all, and the FDA may require Orexigen to complete additional clinical, non-clinical or other requirements prior to the submission or the approval of NDAs for either product candidate; the potential for adverse safety findings relating to Contrave or Empatic to delay or prevent regulatory approval or commercialization, or result in product liability claims; the third parties on whom Orexigen relies to assist with the development programs for Contrave or Empatic, including clinical investigators, contract laboratories, clinical research organizations and manufacturing organizations, may not successfully carry out their contractual duties or obligations or meet expected deadlines, and the quality or accuracy of the data or materials generated by such third parties may be of insufficient quality to include in the Company's regulatory submissions; the ability of Orexigen and its licensors to obtain, maintain and successfully enforce adequate patent and other intellectual property protection of its product candidates; and other risks described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and Orexigen undertakes no obligation to revise or update this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This caution is made under the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

SOURCE Orexigen Therapeutics, Inc.

Pharmacyclics to Present at the 8th Annual Needham and Company Life Sciences Conference

2009-06-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pharmacyclics, Inc. (Nasdaq: PCYC), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing innovative small molecule drugs for the treatment of immune mediated disease and cancer, today announced that Glenn Rice, President and COO will present on Wednesday, June 10, at 11:30 a.m. ET at the 8th Annual Needham Life Sciences Conference taking place at the New York Palace Hotel.

There will be a live webcast of the presentation, which will be accessible through a link posted on the home page and investor relations section of the PCYC website. The webcast will be available for replay through June 26, 2009.

About Pharmacyclics

Pharmacyclics(R) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing innovative small-molecule drugs for the treatment of immune mediated disease and cancer. The purpose of the company is to create a profitable business by generating income from products it develops, licenses and commercializes, either with one or several potential partners or alone as may best forward the economic interest of its stakeholders. The company endeavors to create novel, patentable, differentiated products that have the potential to significantly improve the standard of care in the markets it serves. Presently, Pharmacyclics has four product candidates in clinical development and two product candidates in pre-clinical development. It is Pharmacyclics' business strategy to establish collaborations with large pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies for the purpose of generating present and future income in exchange for adding to their product pipelines. Pharmacyclics strives to generate collaborations that allow it to retain valuable territorial rights and simultaneously fast forward the clinical development and commercialization of its products. The Company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California and is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol PCYC. To learn more about how Pharmacyclics advances science to improve human healthcare visit us at http://www.pharmacyclics.com.

Contact:
Ramses Erdtmann
VP Finance
408-215-3325

SOURCE Pharmacyclics, Inc.

Minority Medical Students Receive Support to Pursue Hematology Research

2009-06-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, June 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Society of Hematology (ASH) announces the selection of 15 participants for its 2009 Minority Medical Student Award Program (MMSAP), which encourages minority medical students to pursue an interest in hematology research. Under the program, each award recipient will receive the support of a research mentor and a career development mentor, travel stipends to attend the ASH annual meeting, and a subscription to the scientific journal Blood, the official journal of ASH.

"This award was initiated in 2004 and aims to benefit both the recipients and the field of hematology as a whole," said ASH President Nancy Berliner, MD, of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA. "The MMSAP program is designed to encourage the best students from traditionally underrepresented groups to pursue careers in hematology research."

For an eight- to 12-week period, MMSAP participants will work closely with their mentors on a hematology-related research project. The subjects investigated by this year's students include lymphoma, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, hemophilia, and multiple myeloma. The awardees will also have the opportunity to present the results of their research at ASH's annual meeting in December, one of the largest medical meetings in the country with more than 20,000 attendees.

The 2009 MMSAP winners are:

Nnenaya Agochukwu, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Shreveport

Mohamad Alghothani, University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana College of Medicine

Imo Akpan, University of Illinois - Chicago, College of Medicine

Jamie Brewer, University of Illinois - Chicago

May Cho, Meharry Medical College

Hector R. Flores-Bermudez, Universidad Central del Caribe - School of Medicine

Ashanti Franklin, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine

Michael Garcia, Harvard Medical School

William J. Gostic II, Harvard Medical School

Tiffany D. Jackson, Mercer University School of Medicine

Courtney Nicole Johnson, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine

Steven Ovu, Texas A&M Health Science Center - College of Medicine

Vanessa Pineros, University of Pennsylvania

Nneamaka Ugbode, Jefferson Medical College

Elizabeth Yeboah, University of Toronto

The program is offered to medical students from the United States and Canada in the early years of their DO, MD, or MD/PhD programs. For more information about the MMSAP, visit www.hematology.org/education/awards/mmsap.cfm.

To arrange an interview with an MMSAP awardee, please contact Patrick C. Irelan at 202-776-0544 or pirelan@hematology.org.

Genentech BioOncology has generously supported this program with a grant through 2009.

The American Society of Hematology (www.hematology.org) is the world's largest professional society concerned with the causes and treatment of blood disorders. Its mission is to further the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting blood, bone marrow, and the immunologic, hemostatic, and vascular systems, by promoting research, clinical care, education, training, and advocacy in hematology. In September 2008, ASH launched Blood: The Vital Connection (www.bloodthevitalconnection.org), a credible online resource addressing bleeding and clotting disorders, anemia, and cancer. It provides hematologist-approved information about these common blood conditions including risk factors, preventive measures, and treatment options.

SOURCE American Society of Hematology

Johnson & Johnson Begins Tender Offer to Acquire Cougar Biotechnology

2009-06-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J., June 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), through a new wholly-owned subsidiary, Kite Merger Sub, Inc., today will commence a cash tender offer to purchase all outstanding shares of common stock of Cougar Biotechnology, Inc. (Nasdaq: CGRB). Johnson & Johnson reported on May 21, 2009, its intent to acquire Cougar Biotechnology.

Upon the successful closing of the tender offer, shareholders of Cougar Biotechnology will receive $43.00 in cash for each share of Cougar Biotechnology common stock tendered in the offer, without interest and less any required withholding taxes. As a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, following the purchase of shares in the tender offer Cougar Biotechnology will work with Ortho Biotech Oncology Research & Development, a unit of Centocor Research & Development, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company.

Today, Johnson & Johnson will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) a tender offer statement on Schedule TO that provides the terms of the tender offer. Cougar Biotechnology will file with the SEC a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 that includes the recommendation of Cougar Biotechnology's board of directors that Cougar Biotechnology shareholders accept the tender offer and tender their shares to Johnson & Johnson. As previously disclosed, Cougar Biotechnology's board of directors has unanimously approved the transaction.

The tender offer will expire at midnight on July 2, 2009, unless extended in accordance with the merger agreement and the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC. The closing of the tender offer is conditioned on the tender of a majority of the outstanding shares of Cougar Biotechnology's common stock on a fully diluted basis. The closing is also conditioned on clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions.

About Johnson & Johnson

Caring for the world, one person at a time...inspires and unites the people of Johnson & Johnson. We embrace research and science - bringing innovative ideas, products and services to advance the health and well-being of people. Our 119,000 employees at more than 250 Johnson & Johnson companies work with partners in health care to touch the lives of over a billion people every day, throughout the world.

Additional Information

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 Johnson & Johnson's expectations and projections. Risks and uncertainties include the satisfaction of closing conditions for the acquisition, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act; the tender of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock of Cougar Biotechnology; the possibility that the transaction will not be completed, or if completed, not completed on a timely basis; general industry conditions and competition; business and 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 these filings, as well as subsequent filings, are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events or developments.)

This press release is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell shares of Cougar Biotechnology, Inc. Johnson & Johnson has filed a tender offer statement with the SEC, and will mail an offer to purchase, forms of letter of transmittal and related documents to Cougar Biotechnology shareholders. Cougar Biotechnology will file with the SEC, and will mail to Cougar Biotechnology shareholders, a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9. These documents contain important information about the tender offer and shareholders of Cougar Biotechnology are urged to read them carefully when they become available.

These documents will be available at no charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. The tender offer statement and the related materials may be obtained for free by directing a request by mail to Georgeson Inc., 199 Water Street, 26th Floor, New York, New York 10038 or by calling toll-free (877) 278-9667. In addition, a copy of the offer to purchase, letter of transmittal and certain other related tender offer documents (once they become available) may be obtained free of charge by directing a request to Johnson & Johnson at www.jnj.com, or Johnson & Johnson, One Johnson & Johnson Plaza, New Brunswick, NJ 08933, Attn: Corporate Secretary.

SOURCE Johnson & Johnson

Patrick Johnston Named President and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans

2009-06-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

20-Year Veteran of State Legislature Brings Wealth of Experience and Reputation for Collaboration

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 4 /PRNewswire/ -- The California Association of Health Plans (CAHP) today announced that former legislator Patrick Johnston has been selected to serve as the organization's president and chief executive officer. Mr. Johnston, who served in the California Legislature for two decades, will begin his new role on July 1, 2009.

"Patrick brings a wealth of experience working within the state Capitol and valuable expertise on some of the most critical and complex public policy issues facing Californians," said Howard Kahn, chair of the CAHP Board of Directors and CEO of L.A. Care Health Plan, the nation's largest public health plan. "With health care reform in Washington and our own state budget crisis, it was important for the board to find a CEO who is well-respected in Sacramento and able to build effective partnerships."

Mr. Johnston's background prepares him well for his new position. For 20 years, Mr. Johnston served in the state Legislature, where he was frequently involved with important health care and insurance issues. Mr. Johnston was a member of the Assembly for 10 years and served in the Senate for an additional 10 years. For six years during his tenure in the Senate, Mr. Johnston chaired the Appropriations Committee.

Beyond his years in the legislature, Mr. Johnston has served in a number of important capacities. He was the first legislator in residence at the University of California, Berkeley Institute of Government. He has also served as vice chairman of the California Bay-Delta Authority, which oversees the implementation of the CALFED Bay-Delta Program.

Mr. Johnston is a graduate of St. Patrick's College and holds a Master's Degree from California State University, Sacramento in political representation.

"Ensuring Californians have access to high-quality and affordable health care is of the utmost importance," said Mr. Johnston. "There are complex and important decisions facing California's health care industry, and I look forward to working with the administration, the legislature and all stakeholders to address these issues in a collaborative and productive manner."

In addition, CAHP announced Charles Bacchi was promoted to the position of CAHP executive vice president. He had previously served as CAHP's vice president of legislative affairs.

CAHP is a statewide trade association representing 39 full-service health plans. Through legislative advocacy, education and collaboration with other member organizations, CAHP works to sustain a strong environment in which our member plans can provide access to products that offer choice and flexibility to the more than 24 million members they serve. For more information, please visit www.calhealthplans.org or call (916) 552-2910.

SOURCE California Association of Health Plans

Novavax and the NIH Agree to Evaluate a Virus-like Particle (VLP) Vaccine Candidate Against the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Virus

2009-06-04T12:13:00.000-07:00

Company completes initial steps towards producing Influenza A (H1N1) VLP vaccine for animal and human testing

ROCKVILLE, Md., June 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Novavax, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVAX) and the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (DMID) of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH) have signed an agreement to cooperate in the evaluation of a virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine candidate against the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. Novavax has produced influenza A (H1N1) VLP vaccine against the strain recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Novavax scientists produced the first batch of H1N1 VLPs within the company's laboratories in May, just three weeks after the CDC announced the genetic sequence of a novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. This strain of influenza was isolated from an infected person located in California. These VLPs contain the hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA) and matrix 1 (M1) proteins found in the newly emerged H1N1 influenza strain. The size and structure of the VLPs are nearly identical to those of the novel H1N1 virus but the VLPs are not infectious as they lack the genes necessary for replication. Novavax has made purified influenza A (H1N1) VLPs, which are being sent to scientists at the CDC and DMID for studies in animal models.

"The Company has committed necessary resources to respond as rapidly as possible to construct and manufacture VLP vaccine against this new H1N1 influenza virus," said Rahul Singhvi, President and CEO of Novavax. "Our proprietary recombinant cell culture technology has enabled production of custom VLPs against this strain of influenza within weeks. This ability to respond rapidly is an important factor in the evaluation of alternative investigational vaccines against this emerging threat to public health."

The influenza A (H1N1) virus was first detected in April 2009, in Mexico, the United States and Canada and has subsequently spread rapidly to over sixty countries worldwide. Although illnesses to date have been of a similar severity as that of typical seasonal influenza, it is unclear if the strain will evolve to become more deadly over the course of the next several months. Therefore, technology that can lead to rapid production of vaccines is important to reduce the spread of the virus and to potentially prevent a pandemic from occurring. Novavax believes that its influenza VLP vaccine technology could be part of the solution for influenza pandemics as will be demonstrated in this instance by release of a vaccine lot produced under cGMP against the novel influenza A H1N1 strain within approximately 12 weeks or less of the CDC announcement of the new strain.

Novavax has completed genetic engineering and manufacture of the master seed stock necessary to produce larger quantities of the investigational influenza A (H1N1) VLP vaccine under cGMP conditions in its manufacturing facility in Rockville, MD. More details on the progress in making influenza A (H1N1) VLP vaccine may be found at the Novavax web site: www.novavax.com.

About Novavax

Novavax, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company, creating novel vaccines to address a broad range of infectious diseases worldwide using advanced proprietary virus like particle (VLP) technology. The Company produces these VLP based, potent, recombinant vaccines utilizing new, and efficient manufacturing approaches. Additional information about Novavax is available at www.novavax.com and in the Company's various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Forward Looking Statement

Statements herein relating to future development results and performance, conditions or strategies and other matters, including expectations regarding product and clinical developments, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. Novavax cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or historical experience include risks relating to the early stage of Novavax's product candidates under development; current results may not be predictive of future pandemic results, results of our seasonal influenza vaccine or any other vaccine that we may develop; further testing is required before regulatory approval can be applied for and the FDA may not approve a vaccine even if further trial results are similar to those disclosed previously by the company; uncertainties relating to clinical trials; dependence on the efforts of third parties; competition for clinical resources and patient enrollment from drug candidates in development by other companies with greater resources and visibility; and risks that we may lack the financial resources and access to capital to fund our operations including further clinical trials. Further information on the factors and risks that could affect Novavax's business, financial conditions and results of operations, is contained in Novavax's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at http://www.sec.gov. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and Novavax assumes no duty to update forward-looking statements.

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Tricia J. Richardson

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SOURCE Novavax, Inc.

Veiovis Launches Medical Travel Web Portal

2009-06-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

SEATTLE, June 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Veiovis, a global leader in overseas health care facilitation, launches its online presence with a medical travel web portal.

The exclusive website is custom-built for existing and potential Veiovis partners: patients, employers and health insurers from around the world seeking accessible and affordable first-rate health care solutions.

"Harnessing the Internet to make medical travel more reachable and viable for consumers underlies the intuitive design of www.veiovis.com," says Gina Ramos, Director of Business Development for Veiovis. "The crisis of affordability and access in American health care, coupled with the crisis in the global economy, continue to push in on American households. These pressures are radically changing the way Americans spend their money, cultivating a new consumerism and appetite for high quality, cost-efficient medical solutions beyond our shores, ushering a new age of 'globalization' in health care that is best fostered on the Web."

Veiovis charts its territory as a health care management expert. Its inherited legacy - TakeCare Insurance Company 35-year experience in health insurance, clinic operations and overseas patient care facilitation - safeguards prime medical resources and services and assures positive results for all partners.

As a global network administrator and travel supervisor, Veiovis connects patients to advanced medical facilities in Asia, Hawaii, the continental United States and the Pacific Northwest. The website is an intuitive exploration into 'Veiovis Territory'. It illustrates the reach of the Veiovis global network and the key areas of strength and expertise of each internationally accredited provider.

Visitors to the site will be pleased to discover a host of services and medical treatments offered at state-of-the-art facilities abroad, each employing highly credentialed physicians and specialists. Centers of Excellence boast modern equipment and strong research foundations, some with professional affiliations to Harvard and Stanford Medical in the United States. International offices with English-speaking staff and language translators assure ease of communication, while Veiovis Personal Case Managers manage the entire medical travel process from a local and global perspective.

Veiovis' brand of seamless, integrated care provides superior value to patients, employers and health insurers. It facilitates safe, convenient and guaranteed travel for overseas medical care.

For more information on the Veiovis Advantage and its benefits, visit the Veiovis web portal at www.veiovis.com.

About Veiovis

Veiovis is a global healthcare partner for the medical traveler who seeks an uncomplicated, pleasurable experience in customized, coordinated healthcare between domestic and overseas doctors and hospitals. The evolutionary result of TakeCare Insurance's 20-year experience in overseas patient care, Veiovis brings a proven track record in delivering significant cost-savings to patients and businesses while also providing them access to excellent international medical providers and delivering high patient satisfaction. Veiovis facilitates medical travel that is strongly anchored in expert global healthcare management, meeting and exceeding the international community's and the U.S.'s highest standards of excellence. Veiovis has offices in Seattle, Washington and Manila, Philippines, and is organized as a limited liability company with operations on the U.S. Territory of Guam in the Western Pacific, thus enabling efficient synchronization with all major Asian medical destinations. To learn more, visit www.veiovis.com.

SOURCE Veiovis

Haemacure and Angiotech Enter License, Distribution and Supply Agreements for Haemacure's All-Human Fibrin Sealant and Thrombin Products

2009-06-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

HAE:TSX

Haemacure Completes US$2.5 Million Bridge Financing from Angiotech

MONTREAL, June 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Haemacure Corporation (TSX:HAE), a Montreal-based specialty bio-therapeutics company, announces that Haemacure and Angiotech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: ANPI, TSX:ANP) have today closed a senior secured bridge loan from Angiotech to Haemacure in a minimum amount of US$2.5 million. The loan was described in detail in Haemacure's press release of May 22, 2009. In addition, Haemacure and Angiotech have executed definitive agreements for a strategic collaboration which will provide Angiotech with certain license, distribution and supply rights related to Haemacure's all-human fibrin sealant and thrombin products, both of which are currently in development.

"We believe this bridge financing and strategic collaboration with Angiotech provides an important validation of our company and its products. This will also position us for a larger, subsequent capital raise in order to complete the development and launch of our fibrin sealant and thrombin products on the market", said Joseph Galli, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Haemacure. "By collaborating with Angiotech, a company with a successful track record of innovation in drug delivery, we are expanding the number of product candidates that can be developed and leveraging our technology in new markets with significant unmet needs" concluded Mr. Galli.

The strategic collaboration consists of the following three agreements:

- Fibrin Sealant Distribution Agreement. Haemacure and Angiotech have
entered into a distribution agreement under which Angiotech has been
granted non-exclusive, world-wide distribution rights to Haemacure's
hemostasis formulation of its proprietary fibrin sealant product in
selected surgical indications. The distribution agreement has a term of
ten years from the date on which Haemacure receives approval for its
fibrin sealant from the United States Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) or similar regulatory approval in other countries. Angiotech has
an option to renew the agreement for an additional five years, subject
to certain performance adjustments.
- Drug-Loaded Fibrin Sealant License and Development Agreement. Haemacure
and Angiotech have entered into a license and development agreement
under which they have agreed to jointly develop and commercialize a
next-generation, drug-loaded fibrin sealant product candidate.
Angiotech and Haemacure will collaborate to create novel fibrin sealant
technologies that, in addition to fibrin sealant's inherent hemostatic
properties, may target the prevention of infection, reduce pain, or
deliver stem cells using Haemacure's fibrin sealant as a carrier of
such therapies. Haemacure and Angiotech will conduct research, with
each contributing key personnel, technology and intellectual property.
Collaboration costs and eventual profits will be shared on a pro rata
basis, based on each company's contribution to collaboration costs.
This term of the agreement will expire on a collaboration product-by-
collaboration product basis upon the later of 15 years after the first
commercial sale of such collaboration product, and the last-to-expire
valid patent claim applicable to such collaboration product.
- Thrombin License and Supply Agreement. Haemacure and Angiotech have
entered into an exclusive license and supply agreement under which
Haemacure will supply its proprietary human thrombin to Angiotech for
the development of a certain Angiotech preclinical product candidate.
The agreement has a term of ten years from the first commercial sale of
an approved Angiotech product containing thrombin procured from
Haemacure. Angiotech has an option to renew the agreement for an
additional five years.

About Haemacure

Haemacure Corporation is a specialty biotherapeutics company developing high-value human plasma-derived protein products for commercialization. Haemacure's research and development effort is driven by its proprietary plasma protein extraction technology to develop next-generation products, including surgical haemostats. Haemacure's proprietary, lead product candidate is a fibrin sealant in late-stage clinical trials. Haemacure's proprietary, second product candidate is thrombin, a component of its fibrin sealant, now in preclinical stage. Follow-on development will focus on the use of fibrin sealant in aesthetics, adhesion prevention, combination with biomaterials, drug delivery, regenerative medecine, skin graft fixation for burn injuries, and wound healing.

About Angiotech

Angiotech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a global specialty pharmaceutical and medical device company with over 1,500 dedicated employees. Angiotech discovers, develops and markets innovative treatment solutions for diseases or complications associated with medical device implants, surgical interventions and acute injury. To find out more about Angiotech (NASDAQ: ANPI, TSX: ANP), please visit its website at www.angiotech.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain of the statements contained in this news release are forward-looking statements. Such statements, based as they are on the current expectations of management, inherently involve numerous risks and uncertainties, known and unknown. Some examples of known risks are: the impact of general economic conditions, general conditions in the biotech industry, changes in the regulatory environment in the jurisdictions in which Haemacure does business, stock market volatility, fluctuations in costs, and changes to the competitive environment due to consolidation or otherwise. Consequently, actual future results may differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in the forward-looking statements. Haemacure disclaims any intention or obligation to update these statements.

SOURCE HAEMACURE CORPORATION