Medical Query

Zimmer Launches New Medical Education and BioSkills Training Program

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:26:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:19:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:17:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:16:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:05:00 +0000

- 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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:57:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:53:00 +0000

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"

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:50:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:20:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (vk) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:27:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (vk) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:53:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:09:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:06:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:03:00 +0000

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)

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:24:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:08:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:33:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:10:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:07:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:04:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:02:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:58:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:55:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:01:00 +0000

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

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SOURCE Terry Diebold

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

noreply@blogger.com (Poonam) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:57:00 +0000

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.