Saturday, February 27, 2010

Acquity Group Wins an Interactive Media Award for Outstanding Achievement with ZICO. com Redesign

Acquity Group Wins an Interactive Media Award for Outstanding Achievement with ZICO. com Redesign

The IMA recognizes Acquity Group's re-launch of ZICO. com with their second-highest honor.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) March 12, 2009

Acquity Group, a leading services firm that focuses on digital solutions, has been named the recipient of an Interactive Media Award (IMA) for Outstanding Achievement in the design and development of ZICO. com.

Each year the IMA's, created by the Interactive Media Council, Inc., recognizes individuals and companies for their success in web site design and development. With a total of 73 entries for the Food & Beverage category for the 2008 award year, Acquity Group's work on ZICO. com was named one of the best.

"The Outstanding Achievement award is the second highest honor bestowed by IMA and an extremely challenging award to win," said Aaron Warner, of IMA's Nominations Support Services. "The web site has excelled in all areas of our judging criteria and represents a very high standard of planning, execution and overall professionalism."

ZICO, a company that specializes in 100 percent pure coconut water, desired a powerfully branded, user-friendly web site to support its growing national exposure as a provider of a healthy, replenishing drink with natural ingredients. Acquity Group worked with ZICO to provide enhanced brand identity and improved navigation to its existing site, also incorporating social media and email to extend its communicative abilities.

Judging was based on a points system that comprehensively evaluated the design, content, feature functionality, usability, and standards compliance & cross-browser compatibility of the web site.

Recognized sites had to have a well-developed design that relayed the site purpose and message through color, space, graphics and layout. Content needed to be presented in an "appealing and engaging way and show clear relevance to their target audience," while all code, links and scripts had to function appropriately. Information had to be easy to find, with defined links and a smooth navigation. Cross-platform designs were also required, which allow for site compatibility with each type of browser.

"Our team took the time to thoroughly understand the ZICO brand's DNA, constituents, and audience," said Acquity Group CEO Chris Dalton. "The research enabled us to develop a compelling and highly branded visual design. We also incorporated a User Experience and Architecture track to help improve the web site's user functionality. I'm thrilled the IMA recognizes ZICO. com as having all the essential qualities of an exceptional web site. It further validates our expertise in the digital space."

Visit the award-winning web site at www. ZICO. com.

About the Interactive Media Awards:
The Interactive Media Awards™ recognize the highest standards of excellence in website design and development and honor individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievement.

Created by the Interactive Media Council, Inc. (IMC), a nonprofit organization of leading web designers, developers, programmers, advertisers and other web-related professionals, the competition is designed to elevate the standards of excellence on the Internet and offer winners a boost in marketing and exposure. IMC serves as the primary sponsor and governing body of the Interactive Media Awards, establishes the judging system and provides the judges for the competition. Visit http://www. interactivemediaawards. com/ (http://www. interactivemediaawards. com/) for more information.

About Acquity Group:
Acquity Group (http://www. acquitygroup. com) delivers award-winning, tailored solutions to elevate brands and businesses by maximizing the digital channel. Acquity Group's innovative strategy, marketing & design, IT planning, and commerce & content services are the cornerstone of effective digital communication for today's leading brands. Acquity Group is headquartered in Chicago and has offices in Irvine, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Overland Park, KS; Scottsdale, AZ; and Dallas, TX. To define a unique perspective for your business, contact Acquity Group at www. acquitygroup. com.

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Friday, February 26, 2010

New Hampshire Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon Discusses Silicone Breast Implants after Breast Augmentation becomes No. 1 Cosmetic Surgery Procedure

New Hampshire Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon Discusses Silicone Breast Implants after Breast Augmentation becomes No. 1 Cosmetic Surgery Procedure

Silicone breast implants went through a long period of relative dormancy after a series of lawsuits prompted their removal from the market. Now, two years after the U. S. Food and Drug Administration approved them for use in breast augmentation and breast reconstruction procedures, cosmetic plastic surgeon Richard L. Zeff, MD comments on why he feels the FDA’s decision was correct.

Stratham, NH (Vocus) April 3, 2009

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has just released a report finding that, after twelve years, breast augmentation is now the number one most-performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the U. S. Last year, more than 355,000 breast augmentations were performed, bumping liposuction to the number two spot. This trend coincides with the two-year anniversary of a decision that reshaped the field of breast surgery.

In 2006, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of silicone breast implants in breast reconstruction procedures for patients of any age, and in breast augmentation surgery for patients aged 22 and above. This significant decision came in the wake of intensive clinical trials and rigorous studies to determine the safety of silicone implants after being pulled from the market in 1991. Dr. Richard Zeff, a New Hampshire cosmetic plastic surgeon, says that since the FDA approved the implants, the public comfort level has improved dramatically. “The FDA approved gel after a 14 year moratorium during which studies compared large numbers of women who have implants with a similar group of women who do not. Because there were no significant differences in the health risks demonstrated in these extensive studies, the FDA approved the gel. I’m very comfortable with their findings.”

Dr. Zeff says he typically uses the word ‘gel’ when describing silicone breast implants to patients because saline implants, the type that were still available for use during the silicone implant moratorium, also have a silicone exterior. “That alone is often surprising to some patients. Patients are also comforted by the fact that the newer implants are ‘cohesive’ so they hold together if cut or ruptured. They might bulge, but they won’t drip or run.” The issue of implant leakage was at the heart of the silicone implant controversy. Saline implant leaks are more noticeable because the breast often takes on a deflated appearance; whereas silicone implant leaks are not as easy to detect without an MRI or an examination by the plastic surgeon. However, today’s silicone gel implants are known for their strength and durability, and Dr. Zeff says, while he always explains the intricacies of both silicone and saline implants, the controversy over silicone implants may have actually helped in making patients understand that they are indeed safe. “For some patients there is still a residual fear based on memories of the controversy rather than on the facts. I try to explain the history and the facts. I feel that the controversy was constructive because it provided the opportunity to prove scientifically that gel implants are safe.”

Dr. Zeff feels that one of the major benefits of silicone ‘gel’ implants over saline is that they have a more natural look and feel. He says that he advises each of his New Hampshire breast augmentation patients on the basis of what their ultimate goals are, and what may best suit their individual needs. “The difference between gel and saline is much more noticeable in some patients than in others. I think they look at least a little more natural than saline but still youthful or perky. They definitely feel more natural in almost all patients. I try to be as objective as possible, but with women who are very thin, I feel more strongly about the benefits of gel. In particular, the risk of visible or palpable wrinkling or rippling is less likely with gel.”

Coinciding with the new study indicating breast augmentation as the number one surgical cosmetic enhancement procedure, Dr. Zeff says he’s also seeing an uptick in the number of silicone gel procedures at his New Hampshire breast implants facility. “I have been using progressively more gel than saline implants, and I believe it’s now more than 50% gel. Part of the reason is that women have become more comfortable with gel, making it easier for me to express my preference.”

What’s more, Dr. Zeff says his patients love the results.

Dr. Richard Zeff is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the New England Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, the New Hampshire Medical Society, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. His office is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF), and is equipped with a fully operational surgical suite.

For more information on breast surgery in New Hampshire, Dr. Richard Zeff can be reached at 137 Portsmouth Avenue, Stratham, NH 03885 - (603) 684-2339, or via his website at http://www. drrichardzeff. com.

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Centauri International Introduces PharmaLaunch(TM), a Turn-key Service for Companies entering the U. S. Generic Pharmaceutical Market

Centauri International Introduces PharmaLaunch(TM), a Turn-key Service for Companies entering the U. S. Generic Pharmaceutical Market

Centauri International, a leading pharmaceutical and medical device consulting company, has recently expanded its service offerings to include PharmaLaunch™. This new service was added to provide a turn-key solution for generic pharmaceutical companies looking to establish their first commercial operation within the U. S. Market. PharmaLaunch™ is a fully customizable service offering, which incorporates all of the necessary components to build a profitable and sustainable U. S. pharmaceutical company.

Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) August 19, 2010

Centauri International, a leading pharmaceutical and medical device consulting company, has recently expanded its service offerings to include PharmaLaunch™. This new service was added to provide a turn-key solution for generic pharmaceutical companies looking to establish their first commercial operation within the U. S. Market. PharmaLaunch™ is a fully customizable service offering, which incorporates all of the necessary components to build a profitable and sustainable U. S. pharmaceutical company. Centauri International’s PharmaLaunch™ includes, but is not limited to, the following key start-up services:
Business plan creation and implementation. Obtaining all of the necessary state pharmacy licenses to conduct interstate commerce. Negotiating cost savings, outsourced functions including: customer call center, financial services, IT services, post-marketing surveillance and product warehousing and distribution to allow the company to maximize growth, while controlling expenditures. Establishment of a pharmaceutical company’s presence within all U. S. group purchasing organizations, wholesalers, distributors, managed care operations; retail, long-term care and home care programs. Performing ongoing marketing and sales functions including contracting and trade relations. Identification and monitoring of new product opportunities and market segments not previously considered. Continuous monitoring of market trends, published and non-published, to ensure validity of pricing, inventory demand-pull and tracking of potential new market entrants. Sourcing and securing potential product acquisitions through business development programs. Centauri International’s PharmaLaunch™ Program will provide the company with a turn-key approach, allowing for greatly reduced financial risk and rapid revenue creation.

About Centauri International:
Centauri International specializes in helping start-up to mid-size pharmaceutical, medical products and related companies design and implement sound business strategies. Being entrepreneurial is more than a catch phrase at Centauri. Centauri International brings seasoned consultants and innovative approaches that are at the forefront of today’s healthcare industry, and can guide an operation through the challenges that they face.

Additional information is available at Centauri International’s Website at www. centauriint. com.

Media Contacts:
David Ritchie or Nick Uchyn
702/202-0546
Info(at)centauriint(dot)com

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Blue Collar Comedy’s Superstars Reunite to Celebrate Its 10th Anniversary in Two New CMT Specials

Blue Collar Comedy’s Superstars Reunite to Celebrate Its 10th Anniversary in Two New CMT Specials

“TRUE BLUE: TEN YEARS OF BLUE COLLAR COMEDY” and “BLUE COLLAR COMEDY: TEN YEARS OF FUNNY” Premiering Saturday, March 13 on CMT

Nashville, TN (Vocus) February 4, 2010

When Blue Collar Comedy, featuring Bill Engvall (http://www. cmt. com/artists/az/engvall_bill/artist. jhtml), Jeff Foxworthy (http://www. cmt. com/artists/az/foxworthy_jeff/artist. jhtml), Larry the Cable Guy (http://www. cmt. com/artists/az/guy_larry_the_cable/artist. jhtml) and Ron White, was born ten years ago, no one could have guessed that these four comedians were embarking on what would become one of the most successful franchises in entertainment history.

Now, ten years later, CMT celebrates the Blue Collar Comedy phenomenon with two all-new specials: the retrospective TRUE BLUE: TEN YEARS OF BLUE COLLAR COMEDY; and BLUE COLLAR COMEDY: TEN YEARS OF FUNNY, an original reunion special featuring Bill Engvall, Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy together onstage before a live audience, reflecting on their Blue Collar journey and experiences. Both specials will air back-to-back on Saturday, March 13, starting at 8:00 p. m. ET/PT as the finale of CMT BIG NEW COMEDY WEEK – a week filled with new comedy premieres that begins on Monday, March 8. Complete programming line-up to be announced.

The one-hour special, TRUE BLUE: TEN YEARS OF BLUE COLLAR COMEDY, chronicles the Blue Collar sensation – its origin, personalities, behind-the-scenes players, successes, set-backs, conflicts and triumphs – and reveals why Blue Collar Comedy has become so popular.

In BLUE COLLAR COMEDY: TEN YEARS OF FUNNY, hosted by Jaime Pressly (“My Name is Earl”), Foxworthy, Engvall and Larry the Cable Guy will reunite onstage in front of a live audience to tell it like it was. They will recall their favorite moments from the Blue Collar juggernaut, introduce and joke about their most memorable film clips from the historic Blue Collar tours, and recreate their signature finale where they improvise together onstage.

The Blue Collar Comedy franchise has sold more than nine and half million DVDs since its debut in 2003 with the release of “Blue Collar Comedy Tour: The Movie.” The 2004 follow-up release, “Blue Collar Comedy Tour Rides Again,” became the all-time fastest-selling stand-up comedy DVD ever with over a million units sold in its first week of release. The films also aired on Comedy Central, and became some of highest rated films in the network’s history. The comedy tour concert grossed more than 15 million dollars and not only spawned the movie franchise, but also the sketch comedy show "Blue Collar TV" which ran for several seasons on the WB. “Blue Collar Comedy Tour - One for the Road” was nominated for a 2006 Grammy award.

Bill Engvall is a multi-platinum recording artist, author and comedian. He is currently the host of the CMT series, COUNTRY FRIED HOME VIDEOS and starred in the film “Bait Shop” with Billy Ray Cyrus. He was also a star in the movie “Delta Farce” in 2007 with Larry the Cable Guy and D. J. Qualls. Prior to his big screen debut, Engvall was one of the stars of “Blue Collar TV.” Engvall's first album “Here’s Your Sign” is certified platinum, and held the No. 1 position on Billboard’s Comedy Charts for 15 weeks. As an author, the comedian has written many books including his autobiography, Bill Engvall – Just A Guy. His latest comedy special, "Aged and Confused," premiered recently on Comedy Central.

Jeff Foxworthy is one of the most respected and successful comedians in the country. He is the largest selling comedy-recording artist in history, a multiple Grammy Award-nominee and best selling author of more than 26 books. Widely known for his redneck jokes, his act goes well beyond that to explore the humor in everyday family interactions and human nature, a style that has been compared to Mark Twain’s. Foxworthy is currently hosting the hit show “Are Your Smarter Than A 5th Grader,” which airs in syndication and on CMT. Prior to that, he created, executive produced and starred in, “Foxworthy’s Big Night Out” and the television series, ”Blue Collar TV.”

With his signature catchphrase, “Git-R-Done”, Larry the Cable Guy continues to sell out theatres and arenas across the United States. Larry’s television specials have included “Tailgate Party” which will air on Comedy Central in January of 2010 with a DVD release to follow, and “The Comedy Central Roast of Larry The Cable Guy,” which garnered top ratings for the network. Larry has also starred in many films, including “Witless Protection,” “Delta Farce,” “Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector” and he was the voice of ‘Mater’ in the Golden Globe-winning animated feature film, “Cars.” He is a platinum-selling recording artist and a two-time Grammy nominee. LARRY THE CABLE GUY'S HULA-PALOOZA CHRISTMAS LUAU, his most recent special which premiered on CMT, was recently released on DVD from Jack Records/Warner Bros. Records.

A Parallel Entertainment production, BLUE COLLAR COMEDY: TEN YEARS OF FUNNY is executive produced by JP Williams, CEO and founder of Parallel Entertainment, and Alan Blomquist. Producers are Dave Higby and Jennifer Novak. Ryan Polito directs. John Hamlin and Margaret Comeaux are executive producers for CMT. Executive producers for CMT for TRUE BLUE: TEN YEARS OF BLUE COLLAR COMEDY are Lewis Bogach and John Hamlin. The special was written and produced by Shane Caldwell.

Visit CMT's press-only web site www. cmtpress. com for more information.

CMT, a unit of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA. B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and entertainment, reaching more than 88 million homes in the U. S. CMT and its website, CMT. com (http://www. cmt. com/), offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT VOD.

MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA. B), is one of the world’s leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company’s portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 400 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Nick Jr., TeenNick, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, SPIKE, TV Land, Atom, GameTrailers and Xfire.

Beverly Hills-based Parallel Entertainment, which was profiled by New Yorker Magazine in 2006, and featured in a 2006 “60 Minutes” profile, produces all Blue Collar Comedy projects, as well as develops, finances and produces a wide range of entertainment projects, including feature films, specials for network and cable, DVD premiere films, as well as television specials and series, such as “Larry the Cable Guy’s Hula Palooza Christmas Luau.”,“The Bill Engvall Show,”, Comedy Central Specials “Bill Engvall, Aged and Confused”, Larry the Cable Guy’s “Tailgate Party”, HBO special “Lisa Lampanelli, Long Live The Queen”, Parallel has also financed and produced the motion pictures WITLESS PROTECTION, starring Larry the Cable Guy, Jenny McCarthy, Ivana Milicevic, Yaphet Kotto, Peter Stormare, Joe Mantegna and Eric Roberts released by Lionsgate in 2008; DELTA FARCE, starring Larry the Cable Guy, Bill Engvall, and D J Qualls; and LARRY THE CABLE GUY: HEALTH INSPECTOR, starring Larry, also both distributed by Lionsgate.

PRESS CONTACT:
Cindy McLean
615-335-8404

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RTS Realtime Systems Group Retains Hire Golden as Recruitment Firm

RTS Realtime Systems Group Retains Hire Golden as Recruitment Firm

The national recruitment firm, Hire Golden, was recently awarded responsibility for sourcing, screening, and recommending candidates for all new hires in the United States for RTS Realtime Systems, the market leader in connection software for electronic trading systems around the world.

King of Prussia, PA (PRWEB) August 3, 2005 -

The national recruitment firm, Hire Golden, was recently awarded responsibility for placement of all new hires in the United States for RTS Realtime Systems, the market leader in electronic trading systems around the world. Hire Golden will source, screen, and recommend candidates for all positions, such as account managers, software engineers, and product managers. Hire Golden has already filled a number of positions for RTS.

As personnel selection counsel for RTS, Hire Golden (www. hiregolden. com) not only recruits top-performing candidates, but also protects RTS from the risk of employee turnover with their industry-first, Long-Term, No-Fault Hiring Insurance—an unconditional 36-month replacement guarantee. If one of their hires leaves the employer within 3 years, Hire Golden promptly replaces the employee at no charge—no matter what the reason. Hire Golden can back their hires with such a strong guarantee thanks to the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of their revolutionary recruitment process, a proprietary process that is the result of a major breakthrough in employment screening technology. It works equally well identifying great secretaries and great sales people as it does selecting great engineers and great CEOs.

According to RTS Deputy CEO, Steffen Gemünden, Hire Golden was selected because, “If I am looking to hire a new employee, it means I'm under time pressure, so every day counts. Hire Golden has found me great employees, very quickly. I don't have to review hundreds of resumes. And no other recruiter has a guarantee as good as Hire Golden's.”

John Thomas, Hire Golden's Chairman, points out that, “Even with top-quality candidates, there are still unforeseen factors beyond anyone's control that can cause a great hire to leave your company prematurely. Some of the unforeseen reasons include: marriage, trailing spouse, child or elder care, return to school, change of career, health, accident, or even death. The list of unforeseen reasons is endless. As a result, the recruitment industry has been understandably resistant to guaranteeing their hires for any more than a nominal one to three months. Our process is dramatically more efficient than traditional screening methods, allowing Hire Golden (www. hiregolden. com) to stand behind our candidates for a 3 full years.”

About RTS Realtime Systems Group -- RTS Realtime Systems Group is a dynamic, global software company specializing in the development and sales of electronic trading and front office systems. Their exclusive system enables Futures, Options, and Equity Traders to trade from a single window on over 60 global electronic exchanges such as CBOT, CME, CBOE, EUREX, LIFFE, ISE, BOX, PCX, PHLX and AMEX. Their client base ranges from the largest international banks and brokerage firms to intermediate and small market makers as well as security trading firms. With offices in Amsterdam, Chicago, Frankfurt, London, New York, Paris, Stockholm, Sydney and Athens, RTS covers all international financial centers. For more information, please see www. rtsgroup. net.

About Hire Golden, Inc. -- Hire Golden is a recruitment firm that recruits locally in over 160 markets for 34 leading industries. The company contributes to its clients' success by rapidly providing great hires backed by their pioneering No-Fault Hiring InsuranceSM—an unconditional 36-month guarantee. Hire Golden was founded in 2000 and nominated in 2004 for Fast Company magazine's “Fast 50” awards, for their innovation and quality. For more information, visit www. hiregolden. com.

CONTACT:

Joe Vitale

Hire Golden, Inc.

610-287-3558

FAX 801-749-5112

E-mail: jvitale@hiregolden. com

Www. hiregolden. com

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Thursday, February 25, 2010

Vent to College Students about Your Misery

Vent to College Students about Your Misery

Students Levi Blackman and Brandon Brady, residents of Denton, TX, have decided to take a bite out of the stress of others by starting their own stress relief service. For years these two friends have listened to others vent about how horrible their life is, and now they have decided to turn it into an occupation. In order to connect to everyone who needs it, they had decided to use the phone as their medium. With a listing through the website www. keen. com and 1-800-ASK-KEEN, Blackman and Brandon plan to sit around on the phone all day while playing video games, studying college text books, and changing peopleÂ’s lives, one at a time.

(PRWEB) September 28, 2004

Students Levi Blackman and Brandon Brady, residents of Denton, TX, have decided to take a bite out of the stress of others by starting their own stress relief service. For years these two friends have listened to others vent about how horrible their life is, and now they have decided to turn it into an occupation. In order to connect to everyone who needs it, they had decided to use the phone as their medium. With a listing through the website www. keen. com and 1-800-ASK-KEEN, Blackman and Brandon plan to sit around on the phone all day while playing video games, studying college text books, and changing peopleÂ’s lives, one at a time.

By signing up for an account with Keen, either through the website or over the phone, you can be connected to one of many different college students ready to hear your woes. You can call from almost any phone in the world and for a fee of $1.50 per minute vent to college students about your misery. Once on the phone you can just talk to the person who picked up, or ask for your personal favorite.

About the College Students

Levi Blackman - 19 year old studying News and Editorial Journalism at the University of North Texas. Likes computers, drums, girls, video games, stock market analysis, and food.

“I like to hang out with my friends in my small little apartment and talk about how our day was. I enjoy playing the drums, and I have started to learn the guitar. I dream of being a investigative journalist one day so that I can travel the world. I love music from bands like Modest Mouse, Radiohead, The Rapture, Sublime and many others. I like to write short stories, essays and columns, and run a web site called cricketsoda. com where I publish many of the things I write. I’m also interested in snow boarding, movies, computer science, and many more. Call me to know more!” - Blackman (09/09/2004)

Brandon Brady - 20 year old studying english and herbal research. Likes music, THC, TLC, TV, Acronyms, Chuck Palahniuk, House of Leaves, sex, and selling things for more than they are worth.

“I’m not actually studying English, and I do absolutely no kind of herbal research. Since however I live with college students, I lie to our peers so as to fit into the appropriate social standard. Despite my bohemian lifestyle, I am in all honesty much more intelligent, cocky, and charismatic than any of my friends listed around me. Music is good, and I plan towrite a book some day. Probably about people like you.”- Brady (09/14/2004)

Crissy Blah - 19 year old studying Film at the University of North Texas. Interests are music, movies, Brownsville, the border patrol, the beach, surfing, getting high and watching the sunset, and talking on the phone to really rad people. All my friends say I am super sexy. I am shy and can't wait to talk to you.

Michelle Mashburn – 20 year old studying Public Relations at the University of North Texas

Kayla Olson – 19 year old studying Theater at the University of North Texas

Vicky Riddle – 20 year old studying English at the University of North Texas

About Keen. com

For most of us, every day is filled with small moments when we need advice or information: "How can I prepare my taxes?" "How do I upgrade the memory on my computer?" "Is this relationship right for me?" Until now, getting the advice we needed was often a time-consuming challenge - when we could get it at all. But now there's Keen, offering live, immediate advice for everyday life by connecting customers and advisors. The Internet is a valuable research tool, but there's nothing more satisfying than getting information live from another person in a private one-on-one conversation.

That's where Keen comes in. Blackman and Brady for example, are prepared to give people their time on the phone, and help them work through their personal problems by letting them yell (vent).

"For years, friends and neighbors have been coming to use to vent their frustrations about life.” Blackman said. “It felt good to help people, so I decided I wanted to bring my help to the entire nation, and hopefully earn a little for my efforts.”

How Keen Works

Launched in November 1999, Keen has helped over 10 million members get advice easily through a website, www. keen. com, or by telephone, 1-800-ASK-KEEN. Once connected to Keen, members select the advisor who's right for them by browsing a directory of listings -- from dieting and relationship advice to computing and Internet help or counseling on life's everyday problems. Listings include the type of advice the advisor wishes to provide, his or her per-minute fee, and how Keen members have rated their calls with this advisor in the past.

Once they've chosen an advisor, members can simply click that person's "Call Now" icon and Keen will automatically connect the two parties for a live, anonymous phone call. People accessing Keen through 1-800-ASK-KEEN simply follow spoken prompts to choose an appropriate advisor. Advisors can also provide recorded or email advice to their customers; these other options also protect both the advisor's and the customer's anonymity. Keen offers a full money-back guarantee if customers aren't completely satisfied with their experience.

Keen Lets Consumers Build Businesses Online

Keen makes it easy to build your business as an advisor by creating a listing or listings that describe the knowledge you wish to share and giving advice to customers for a per-minute fee on topics ranging from personal advice to computers to taxes. Some of Keen's top advisors are now making over $2,000 per week!

There are three ways to make money on Keen:

•Live Advice - You can list yourself in as many areas as you like and set a per-minute fee for giving advice over the telephone. You keep 70% of the revenue from every call you take.

•Recorded Advice - You can record a message for regularly updated information such as ski conditions or horoscopes, as well as "evergreen" information such as health, fitness or tax advice.

•Paid Keen Mail - You can set a fee for written advice such as reports, financials or detailed instructions.

Keen is Private and "Customer Approved"

Keen maintains privacy and quality in two unique ways. Because Keen initiates the call to both parties, the privacy of both customers and advisors is completely protected, since no one's name, phone number, email address or any other personal information are ever revealed - not even on Caller I. D. devices. Keen employs a consumer-based rating system which lets customers rate advisors on the quality of the advice and information they provide. Advisors can also have their credentials verified by a third party, in order to assure potential customers that their academic degrees, professional licenses or employment history are valid.

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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Global Spa Summit Announces Travel and Tourism Industry Visionary, Philippe Bourguignon, as a 2010 Keynote Speaker

Global Spa Summit Announces Travel and Tourism Industry Visionary, Philippe Bourguignon, as a 2010 Keynote Speaker

The Global Spa Summit (GSS), the premier annual event for spa and wellness industry executives, today announced that prominent ‘futurist’ and analyzer of macro consumer trends, Philippe Bourguignon, will address delegates as a keynote speaker.

New York, NY (PRWEB) February 10, 2010

The Global Spa Summit (GSS), the premier annual event for spa and wellness industry executives, today announced that prominent ‘futurist’ and analyzer of macro consumer trends, Philippe Bourguignon, will address delegates as a keynote speaker. The Summit is being held this May 17-19 in Istanbul, Turkey.

Bourguignon will share his vast, global expertise in the travel, tourism, and real estate industries, as current CEO of Miraval (the world-class resort spa in Tucson, Arizona), and Vice Chairman of Revolution Places, a company dedicated to developing new tourism models/companies that promote unique, authentic experiences and healthy lifestyles.

His extraordinary resume also includes stints as Co-CEO of the Davos-based World Economic Forum; Executive VP of Disney Europe and Chairman and CEO of Euro Disney; CEO/Chairman of Club Med; and President of Accor Group, Asia-Pacific. He currently sits on the Board of companies and institutions ranging from eBay, to the Centre for Contemporary Art in Paris, to Informed Judgment, a Geneva-based think tank. He’s been named Chevalier of the Legion of Honor and Officer in the Ordre National du Mérite, and serves on the Executive Committee of the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Bourguignon is renowned for his out-of-the-box approach, which helps entrepreneurs develop creative new models that can capitalize on future cultural and market realities. His Summit keynote, ‘2025: What’s Next?’ will bring his unique ‘future-focused’ vision to bear on the spa, travel, and wellness industries.

“By 2025 we will be on the threshold of a whole new civilization, and one that will be marked by unique paradoxes and developments. Older generations are already moving away from an age of excessive passion to excessive reason, and younger generations are embracing intuition and new freedoms,” said Bourguignon. “I’m looking forward to discussing topics that help our industry ‘free their minds,’ while exploring our shared future together.”

The GSS has played host to a wide range of prestigious speakers, industry panels, and collaborative meetings. Past speakers include Adolf Ogi, former president of Switzerland; Steve Case, CEO, Revolution Health; Dr. Richard Carmona, 17th US Surgeon General; Ian Schrager, famed American hotelier and real estate developer; and Reto Wittwer, CEO of Kempinski - among others.

Bourguignon will join a slate of 2010 Summit keynote presenters that will be announced in upcoming weeks. GSS’s Board of Directors anticipates a sold-out event this year, reporting a record number of invitees registered this month.

For media information contact: Beth McGroaty, beth(at)rbicom(dot)com, +1 213 300 0107 or +44 (0) 870 121 6066.

For registration/sponsorship information contact: info(at)globalspasummit(dot)org, or visit: www. globalspasummit. org

About Global Spa Summit: The award-winning Global Spa Summit is an annual event that attracts top-level executives and leaders from around the world with interest in the spa and wellness industries. Delegates from diverse sectors including hospitality, investment, finance, real estate, medicine, manufacturing, technology, consulting, product, tourism and other related industries attend this intimate, high-level gathering focused on advancing the spa and wellness sectors. With increasing attendance by more countries each year, the Global Spa Summit delegation represented 32 different countries from all continents in 2009.

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Monday, February 22, 2010

Ecomii™ Launches 'A Better Way' for Conscious Consumers to Live Greener at <a href="http://www. ecomii. com " onclick="linkClick(this. href)">www. ecomii. com </a>: ecomii. com, a premiere 'green' lifestyle destination, provides a credible resource for answers on green living and a social network for consumers in pursuit of a better, more sustainable life

ecomii™ Launches 'A Better Way' for Conscious Consumers to Live Greener at www. ecomii. com : ecomii. com, a premiere 'green' lifestyle destination, provides a credible resource for answers on green living and a social network for consumers in pursuit of a better, more sustainable life

The ecomii™ (pronounced ee-KOH-me) website, www. ecomii. com, introduces the first comprehensive resource designed to demystify green living and help consumers make informed socially-conscious lifestyle choices.

NEW YORK (PRWEB) September 24, 2008

"Currently, over 38 million conscious consumers are willing to alter their behavior to make a positive impact on their personal health and the well-being of our planet. However, they often encounter a disparate amount of unreliable or misleading information which creates more questions than answers," said Todd O'Donald, ecomii co-founder and managing director. "It is with this in mind that we created ecomii as the single definitive destination for objective and credible information on conscious consumerism and green living. ecomii is a trusted resource to help consumers establish a more socially-minded environmentally-conscious lifestyle. No other site matches ecomii's level of accuracy, objectivity and transparency."

Recognizing that consumers need the facts in order to act, ecomii partnered with many of the most authoritative organizations and respected experts to offer practical, how-to guidance for pursuing a socially-conscious lifestyle. These partners include: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New Society Publishers, and the Union of Concerned Scientists, among others.

ecomii will debut with lifestyle centers dedicated to Parenting (www. ecomii. com/parenting (http://www. ecomii. com/parenting)) and Smart Food (www. ecomii. com/food (http://www. ecomii. com/food)). These go-to centers will help consumers make smart choices from diapers to organic vegetables. ecomii lifestyle centers will be anchored by ecomii's Guides and Tips.

    ecomii Guides (www. ecomii. com/guides (http://www. ecomii. com/guides)) provide in-depth, easy-to-digest how-to information on topics ranging from pregnancy and parenting to green building methods, landscaping and everything in between.

  ecomii Tips (www. ecomii. com/tips (http://www. ecomii. com/tips)) feature an easy-to-follow rating system that demonstrates the environmental benefit, health benefit, financial impact and complexity to visitors, addressing differing motivations and concerns about the cost or degree of difficulty in 'going green.'

One of the most exciting areas will be ecomii Action (www. ecomii. com/action (http://www. ecomii. com/action)), which fosters a socially-minded community around simple actions for pursuing a more socially-conscious lifestyle. "By joining ecomii Action, visitors will become part of a collective voice calling for a better way for our families, our country and our planet," added O'Donald.

"From the first time recycler to the eco-enthusiast, ecomii aims to inform, influence and inspire people to take action for our planet's future and to advance the idea that we can all make a difference – one action at a time," said Colton Dirksen, ecomii co-founder and environmental director. "ecomii is designed for differing motivations, whether you are propelled by global warming, the health of your family or high gas and food prices; we believe you deserve the straight story."

"ecomii will help visitors take simple steps to reduce their impact on the planet and enlist their friends and family in the pursuit of a better way," Dirksen concluded.

About ecomii

ecomii is the premiere 'green' lifestyle destination for consumers, serving as both a credible resource for answers on green living and a social network for people in pursuit of a better more sustainable future. As the first comprehensive 'green' resource, ecomii was designed to provide straight answers to challenging questions, demonstrate how small changes will have a major impact and provide a social platform to engage family and friends in the pursuit of a better sustainable way.

To start on a better way or for more information, visit www. ecomii. com.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

TransforMED and Cielo MedSolutions Collaborate on Patient-Centered Medical Homes

TransforMED and Cielo MedSolutions Collaborate on Patient-Centered Medical Homes

Cielo Clinic seen as a key element for participants in the TransforMED Medical Home model

Ann Arbor, MI (PRWEB) October 6, 2008

Cielo MedSolutions, a provider of healthcare software and web applications, today announced a Preferred Business Affiliate agreement with TransforMED LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Through this relationship, Cielo MedSolutions' customers will have access to TransforMED's practice transformation services. In addition, TransforMED will encourage medical practices implementing a Patient-Centered Medical Home to use Cielo Clinic's integrated patient registry (http://www. cielomedsolutions. com/products. asp), clinical decision support and population management tools.

"As Patient-Centered Medical Homes, primary care practices serve as the focal point of patient care coordination across all specialties," said Terry McGeeney, M. D., MBA, president and CEO of TransforMED. "Our goal is to identify technologies that can assist practices to improve diagnostic capabilities and to enhance treatment and outcomes. We are confident that this relationship will have a positive impact on both patients and physicians."

TransforMED provides practical support and consulting services to primary care physicians and health systems that want to transform their medical practices into Patient-Centered Medical Homes (http://www. cielomedsolutions. com/products-applications-medical. asp). The TransforMED Medical Home model combines the relationship-centered values of primary care with new technologies to improve quality of care and efficiency, as well as patient and physician satisfaction. The organization made the decision to join with Cielo MedSolutions because of its proven track record for improving the coordination of care.

"We at Cielo share TransforMED's firm conviction in the Patient-Centered Medical Home," noted Dave Morin, president and CEO of Cielo MedSolutions. "Fundamental to a successful Medical Home implementation is the robust functionality of Cielo Clinic and a trained and engaged practice team, which TransforMED can help build. The combination of TransforMED's services and our Cielo Clinic technology will allow practices to achieve a successful and transformative Medical Home."

Cielo Clinic's patient registry (http://www. cielomedsolutions. com/resources-newsletter-musthave-apr08.asp), clinical decision support, and population management functionality let providers and practices proactively manage the care needs of their patients. Supporting elements of the patient-centered medical home, pay-for-performance, and clinical scorecarding, Cielo Clinic is the tool of choice for primary care providers. Cielo Clinic accommodates either paper - or electronic-based medical practices and integrates with electronic medical record systems. The web-based product requires a minimal implementation effort and is priced on a low annual subscription fee, which makes it affordable and practical for practices of any size.

About TransforMED
TransforMED is focused on practice redesign and affiliated with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). TransforMED is studying and implementing transformed models of high performance practices that meet the needs of both patients and practices. In June 2006, TransforMED launched a 24-month National Demonstration Project (NDP), serving as a "learning lab" to generate new knowledge about the process of practice transformation and to systematically evaluate and compare the effect of two practice transformation approaches on practice and patient outcomes. As results and insights emerge, TransforMED professional staff are using the lessons learned from the NDP to develop services, collaboration tools and learning opportunities that empower physicians and primary care practices across the country as they implement the TransforMED Medical Home. TransforMED also coordinates a residency demonstration initiative known as P4 - P to the fourth power - which stands for Preparing the Personal Physician for Practice. The P4 residency demonstration initiative evaluates and supports innovations in family medicine residencies. To learn more about TransforMED and the TransforMED Medical Home, visit www. transformed. com.

About Cielo MedSolutions
Cielo MedSolutions (pronounced "see EL oh," Spanish for sky or heaven - www. cielomedsolutions. com) is a rapidly-growing provider of healthcare software and Web applications. Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Cielo is pioneering a new category of healthcare IT known as clinical quality management systems (CQMS). The company's web-based Cielo Clinic™ software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering helps ambulatory care providers proactively improve, document and report on clinical care and supports initiatives such as patient-centered medical homes, pay-for-performance programs, clinical integration, quality improvement and clinical scorecarding.

Media Contact
Christine Slocumb
(734) 864-4094 x1
Chris @ clarityqst. com

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Saturday, February 20, 2010

PR Salaries Up Slightly - Corporate PR Bonuses Continue to Rise - PR Firm Hourly Rates Decline

PR Salaries Up Slightly - Corporate PR Bonuses Continue to Rise - PR Firm Hourly Rates Decline

New figures just published in "The Official PR Salary & Bonus Report" - 2005 Edition.

New York, NY (PRWEB) May 11, 2005

Spring Associates, Inc., http://www. springassociates. com (http://www. springassociates. com), a leading New York public relations executive search and consulting firm, has just released the results of their ninth annual public relations and corporate communications study called The Official PR Salary & Bonus Report - 2005 Edition. The data is compiled from Spring Associates' proprietary database containing job information on 15,000 credentialed PR and communications professionals nationwide.

Salaries

Even though PR job creation improved dramatically in the fourth quarter of last year, overall, corporate PR salaries only increased a modest 5.3 percent, and PR agency salaries improved only 3.6 percent overall. It appears as if salaries have some catching up to do this year. However, a review of salaries offered in January, February, March and April point to an upward trend so far in 2005.

As always, the overall salary picture always looks different than the micro view - specifically, title, geographic region, specialty category and so on. Some snapshots --

Corporate Communications:

Midwest: business-to-business +4.8%

Northeast: investor relations +6.4%

Southeast: public affairs +5.5%

Chicago: corporate/financial +7.2%

Atlanta: health/medical/pharmaceutical +4.8%

Washington, DC: internal/editorial communications +9.3%

Dallas: consumer products +7.6%

Boston: hi-tech +6.6%

PR Agency:

Midwest: health/medical/pharmaceutical +3.5%

West: public affairs +6.4%

Atlanta: hi-tech +3.7%

Chicago: business-to-business +4.1%

Washington, DC: corporate/financial +4.9%

Bonuses

For two years in a row, almost all PR agency bonuses were either down or non-existent. However, the only real gainers in agency bonuses were the more junior levels, account executive and senior account executive. Each level was up a healthy 19.3% and 12.1% respectively. The account supervisor through executive vice president levels posted a combined decline of 9.3%.

However, in-house corporate communications professionals once again managed to increase employee bonuses across all levels. Two years ago corporate bonuses jumped 37.3% compared to last year's average of +17.5%. Once again, corporate PR professionals continue to fare much better in the bonus category than their PR agency counterparts.

PR Agency Hourly Billing Rates

Last year's Report showed that PR agency hourly billing rates were increased substantially to keep pace with a marked decline in new business revenue. This year, the numbers tell a different story.

Overall, in the Ad Agency Owned, Top 100 Independents and Other Independents categories - across four regions of the country - agency hourly rates came down 9.2%, 10.3% and 8.3% respectively. As compared to increases for the same agencies of 18.8%, 17.2% and 12.9% respectively.

It's possible that PR agencies are now returning to more equitable hourly rates due to increased competition for the new business that has finally arrived. This was especially evident in the fourth quarter of 2004.

"It looks as if the PR business has finally turned the corner", said Mr. Spring, president of Spring Associates. "More RFPs, modest overall salary increases, coupled with higher bonuses and lower PR firm hourly rates, all point to a promising 2005 - we'll be watching closely."

The Official PR Salary & Bonus Report is compiled from Spring Associates' proprietary database of 15,000 credentialed corporate communications and public relations professionals nationwide. The database is updated daily by the firm's recruiters, researchers and consultants to reflect the latest available information. The salary and bonus numbers are divided into multiple job-information fields, including six title and eight industry categories. Salary numbers are also listed for four nationwide regions and eight "key" metro cities. Public relations agency hourly billing rates are segmented into three categories and cross-referenced with eleven billable titles and four regions of the country. Years of experience ranges and comparable titles are also included.

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Monday, February 15, 2010

WageWatch Launches Washington Health Care Survey

WageWatch Launches Washington Health Care Survey

WageWatch, Inc.,(www. WageWatch. com ) the leading online compensation and benefits survey company, announced today that it is expanding its presence in the hospital and healthcare market with the launch of a new Hospital and Healthcare Compensation and Benefits Survey in the State of Washington.

Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) June 5, 2006

WageWatch, Inc.,(www. WageWatch. com ) the leading online compensation and benefits survey company, announced today that it is expanding its presence in the hospital and healthcare market with the launch of a new Hospital and Healthcare Compensation and Benefits Survey in the State of Washington.

The company already publishes two highly successful wage, salary, and benefits surveys in Oregon and Arizona, in which more than 90% of the state hospitals and many other non-hospital healthcare providers participate. The demands for staff and the subsequent need for up-to-date, reliable compensation data are strong in healthcare, where competition for staff often crosses state lines.

According to Jo Bell, Director Legislative Support Services for the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, “The benefits of the WageWatch survey for our members are the accessibility and flexibility. Its Web-based format is easy to access, and the ability to run custom reports makes it very adaptable to the needs of the individual hospitals.”

WageWatch's on-line technology enables survey subscribers to update their pay data as it changes and obtain the most current results for the competitors they choose to compare against. Because the survey reports aggregated data from subscribers’ customized set of competitors, it eliminates any concerns about data exchange that could conflict with Department of Justice guidelines.

Washington participants will be able to generate on-line customized reports based on a variety of data elements including zip code, number of beds, operating revenue and type of facility. The survey covers over 200 job titles unique to the hospital and healthcare industry.

The first ten participants in the Washington survey will receive a complementary subscription to the 2006 survey.

Participants will also be submitting data on a comprehensive benefits survey that covers medical and dental plans and the employee share of premium costs, paid time off, and retirement plans.

For additional information, contact Jim Crews, 480-657-6504.

ABOUT WAGE WATCH:

WageWatch (www. WageWatch. com),the leading Web-based source for compensation and benefits data, provides instantly accessible industry wage, salary and benefits data, delivered to any Internet-enabled device. Using a patent-pending technology, WageWatch surveys industries and provides companies with the data they need to make their compensation and benefits decisions. As a pure information provider, WageWatch gives its customers the ability to see what their competitors are paying and position themselves in their markets.

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Saturday, February 13, 2010

Broad Health Coalition Elects New Chairman - Sets Agenda for 2007

Broad Health Coalition Elects New Chairman - Sets Agenda for 2007

The Health Coalition on Liability and Access (HCLA) held its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, setting its agenda for the year and electing the 2007 executive board.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) March 8, 2007

The Health Coalition on Liability and Access (HCLA) held its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, setting its agenda for the year and electing the 2007 executive board. Members of the coalition unanimously voted in Shawn Martin, Director of Government Relations for the American Osteopathic Association, as chairman for 2007. Mr. Martin succeeds Christian Shalgian, Manager of Legislative Affairs with the American College of Surgeons, who has been heading up the HCLA since 2004.

“I am excited to be leading the HCLA in our continued efforts to fix our broken medical liability system and help solve the access to care crisis in our nation. I look forward to working with the members of the coalition and the 110th Congress and hope to build on all of the good work that has been done under Christian Shalgian’s tireless leadership,” Mr. Martin stated.

The HCLA also voted in vice-chairman Katie Orrico, Director of the Washington office of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons/Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and re-elected treasurer Mike Stinson, who heads Government Relations for the Physician Insurers Association of America. George Cox of the American Medical Association and Christian Shalgian were also elected to serve on the coalition’s executive committee.

Mr. Martin added, “The HCLA is well-positioned to lead the charge to advance medical liability reform in 2007, and we will continue to work until federal legislation is passed to solve the medical liability crisis, once and for all.”

The HCLA is a national advocacy coalition comprised of organizations and individuals representing physicians, hospitals, health care insurers, businesses and health care consumers, united in the strong belief that federal health liability laws are needed to bring greater fairness, timeliness and cost-effectiveness to our system of civil justice. The coalition also believes that legal reform is the best way to protect medical progress and to ensure that affordable health care is accessible to all Americans.

Media Contact:

Courtney Sanders

202.380.0616

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Friday, February 12, 2010

MedShare's Advanced BlackBerry Solution Helps Therapy Partners Inc. Revolutionize Home Care Delivery

MedShare's Advanced BlackBerry Solution Helps Therapy Partners Inc. Revolutionize Home Care Delivery

Research in Motion (RIM), MedShare and Therapy Partners Inc. team up to put BlackBerry's in the hands of home care workers to ease burden on health care system. Home care is the fastest growing sector in the health care system, and human resource shortages limit the availability of care getting to the growing elderly population. The MedShare for BlackBerry project has improved communication and time management of the home care workers allowing them to increase the number of patients they are able to visit, reducing the backlog of home care clients.

(PRWEB) September 22, 2008

Home Health Care workers have enthusiastically received MedShare's advanced mobile health information application for the BlackBerry. Following a successful 6 month pilot project sponsored by Research In Motion, Therapy Partners was able to reduce the administrative burden on their office staff and therapists while improving coordination of care. Christine Reno, Business Director at Therapy Partner's says, "The Therapists love it. They can send secure emails to get more information before a patient visit instead of playing telephone tag. They get faster answers from our office or from other therapists on email and that helps them do their jobs better."

Home care workers spend up to 31% of their time performing administrative tasks either at their own home or in the office. These tasks include hand writing notes, filling in charts, and faxing this information back to the office. Hours spent by the home care worker are matched equally by the administration staff at the agency. MedShare for BlackBerry provides immediate access to scheduling and client records and includes remote data capture automatically updating central databases and reducing duplication of effort.

The MedShare for BlackBerry project has improved communication and time management of the home care workers allowing them to increase the number of patients they are able to visit, reducing the backlog of home care clients in Ontario. Ontario currently has 30,000 home care staff visiting over 560,000 service orders and the back log of clients is growing. The partnership that Therapy Partners, MedShare, and RIM have forged will help those patients in Southern Ontario that depend on home care workers for important services. It will also help overworked home care workers lessen the burden of after-hours paperwork and spend more time doing the job they love, taking care of their clients.

Ms. Reno states, "I'm very open to technology like the BlackBerry solution because it benefits our company's ability to make more patient visits and improve the quality of life for our therapists and the patients they care for."

About MedShare Inc.
MedShare is an award-winning developer of mobile health information and communication technologies with a focus on home health care, the fastest growing segment of the sector. MedShare's suite of software is built on a patent pending platform for management of electronic health records and is available on BlackBerry and Windows tablet devices to meet the clinical and administrative needs of mobile health care workers.
MedShare Inc. (http://www. medshare. com)

About Therapy Partners Inc.
Therapy Partners, based in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, is a provider of client-centred, community based services:
•Occupational Therapy
•Physiotherapy
•Speech and Language Therapy
•Social Work
•Nutrition Counselling
Therapy Partners services address a wide range of physical, emotional, developmental and neurological disorders. They recognize the importance of preventive health care. The Therapy Partners team keeps up to date on the most recent and relevant discipline-specific knowledge to ensure they can help clients reach their health-related goals.
Therapy Partners Inc. (http://www. therapypartners. on. ca)

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Recent Survey Demonstrates Arthritis Foundation Program Improves Communication Between Doctors and Patients

Recent Survey Demonstrates Arthritis Foundation Program Improves Communication Between Doctors and Patients

The Arthritis Foundation today announced a continuation of its Let's Talk RA® program, sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb, based on success demonstrated through a recent survey of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Participants in the program reported improved communication with their rheumatologists and satisfaction with changes in their treatment.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 16, 2008

The Arthritis Foundation today announced a continuation of its Let's Talk RA® program, sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb, based on success demonstrated through a recent survey of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Participants in the program reported improved communication with their rheumatologists and satisfaction with changes in their treatment. In addition to providing a communication guide for patients to use with their physicians, the program offers town hall forums for RA patients and their caregivers to speak with experts.

A few key survey findings from RA patients who received the Let's Talk RA Communication Guide include:
Nearly 75% feel comfortable discussing their physical limitations caused by RA 72% say they are aware of treatment options 72% report that they are comfortable discussing treatment side effects 51% discussed treatment modifications with their doctor during their last appointment. Of those, 60% indicated that they were highly satisfied with resulting changes to their treatment plan

"Through Let's Talk RA, we have shown that we can improve communication between patients and rheumatologists, thereby leading to improved results for people with rheumatoid arthritis," said John H. Klippel, M. D., president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation. "It's important that we build on this successful program and continue to help people living with RA work with their physicians to get the best possible treatment outcomes."

The Arthritis Foundation selected 11 cities across the nation to host Let's Talk RA town hall forums throughout April and May and featuring rheumatologists. The forums allow attendees to learn and discuss the importance of improved physician-patient communication, disease management and making better lifestyle choices. Medical experts will answer questions during the Q&A portion of the meetings.

Let's Talk RA Communication Guide
The Let's Talk RA communication guide was designed by the Arthritis Foundation with input from rheumatologists to help those with RA prepare for each doctor visit. The guide offers practical tips, including what information to take notes on and types of questions to ask the doctor. Tips to facilitate the dialogue on treatment plan options and modifiable lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise also are included. The free communication guide is available from the Arthritis Foundation's Web site at http://www. arthritis. org/LetsTalkRA (http://www. arthritis. org/LetsTalkRA) or by calling 1-800-283-7800.

About Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the lining of the joints (or synovium), causing joint damage with chronic pain, stiffness and swelling. RA affects more than 1.3 million people in the United States and is more common in women, who account for 75 percent of patients diagnosed with RA.6

About the Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation's number one cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has 43 chapters and 150 community service points located throughout the country. The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948.

The foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-283-7800 or www. arthritis. org.

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The 50Plus Group and Decima Research Build Leadership in Canada's Largest, Most Affluent Consumer Segment

The 50Plus Group and Decima Research Build Leadership in Canada's Largest, Most Affluent Consumer Segment

Fifty-Plus. net International Inc. (TSX/V:FPN), which owns a portfolio of Internet media operating as The 50Plus Group, and Decima Research, Canada’s fastest-growing full service marketing research company, today announced an exclusive partnership to develop market research insights and services for marketers interested in the largest and most affluent segment of the Canadian consumer marketplace.

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) February 3, 2006

Fifty-Plus. net International Inc. (TSX/V:FPN), which owns a portfolio of Internet media operating as The 50Plus Group, and Decima Research, Canada’s fastest-growing full service marketing research company, today announced an exclusive partnership to develop market research insights and services for marketers interested in the largest and most affluent segment of the Canadian consumer marketplace.

Under the terms of the multi-year agreement:

The 50Plus Group’s entire audience will be invited to join Decima’s market-leading EVOX on-line survey research panel, and complete surveys on a wide variety of subjects, in exchange for rewards of varying types. (In recent months, Decima announced a partnership with Aeroplan, under which one of the incentives available for survey completion is Aeroplan Miles.) This online audience includes visitors to The 50Plus Group’s flagship site, www.50plus. com, as well as the www. carp. ca, the official web site of CARP, Canada’s Association for the Fifty-Plus ( managed by The 50Plus Group), and www. theskillsmatch. ca, the first employment web site in Canada specializing in the 50-plus market, as well as opt-in subscribers to five e-newsletters.

Decima is establishing a 50 Plus Specialty Practice, led by company Partner Dan Kirkland, to direct the development of these syndicated products and offer custom research studies to current and future Decima clients. Mr. Kirkland is one of Canada’s most experienced and successful research executives. Decima will, as a result of this partnership, have the ability to do highly targeted studies in this market in an extremely cost-efficient manner, using on-line, telephone, or focus group methodologies as appropriate.

. Decima and The 50Plus Group will collaborate on the design of a series of syndicated studies of consumer behavior and attitudes in this vital segment. These studies will be targeted in a number of areas, including:

-- lifestyle and lifestyles 

-- home entertainment/electronics

-- investment products and services 

-- automotive

-- insurance products and services 

-- books, music, TV and film

-- travel and leisure 

-- gaming

-- health and fitness 

-- real estate

-- health products and services 

-- government programs

-- pharma and nutraceutical products 

-- philanthropy and volunteerism

-- telecommunications services 

-- information services/Internet use

The 50Plus Group will offer its clients preferred access to Decima Research data and consulting services, and will offer turnkey research and marketing solutions in partnership with Decima.

50Plus Group President Eric Vengroff noted, “Demand for marketing and public affairs insights into the 50-plus segment is exploding, as is demand for marketing solutions. This partnership with one of Canada’s most dynamic and respected research houses puts us in a position to provide unrivalled expertise when it comes to the design and delivery of marketing solutions for leading brands and institutions across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.”

Decima CEO Bruce Anderson noted, “The future of research lies in building large panels of people who are willing to share information about their values, preferences, and behaviors, being able to reach them in a targeted, time and cost efficient manner, and to develop compelling and practical insights for clients. As a result of this partnership, Decima will enjoy a pioneering position in the Canadian marketplace, when it comes to this most vital consumer segment. We are delighted to be partnering with Canada’s leader in marketing services for the 50-plus segment.”

Decima Partner Dan Kirkland added, “For years our clients have been hoping that tools would be developed that allow for cost effective insights into how consumers evolve after reaching the age of 50. There’s no doubt that they are not and will not simply replicate what previous generations did -- they are awash in information, improved in health, and in many cases, flush with financial resources. We’re inspired to be the company that will learn the most about this phenomenon and offer that learning to our clients.”

For more information:

DECIMA RESEARCH  THE FIFTY PLUS GROUP

Bruce Anderson, CEO  Eric Vengroff, President

(613) 230-2200  (416) 363-8748, ext 237

Dan Kirkland, Partner  David Cravit, Sr. VP, Marketing 

(416) 962-2013  (647) 280-8163

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Wednesday, February 10, 2010

FDA Advisory Panel Unanimously Recommends Approval of Ortec's Tissue Engineered Prodcut, OrCel for Treatment of Donor Site Wounds in Burn Victims

FDA Advisory Panel Unanimously Recommends Approval of Ortec's Tissue Engineered Prodcut, OrCel for Treatment of Donor Site Wounds in Burn Victims

If approved, OrCel™ will be the second product of this kind to market, after Organogenesis' Apligraf product. Ortec believes OrCel™ has three major advantages over Apligraf. First is distribution, Ortec is the only company in its field with the ability to cryopreserve its products. This will increase Ortec's ability to penetrate the market, reduce overhead and manufacturing costs for the company and competitively compete price wise. Ortec's product is much easier to use, without complicated preparation and application procedures. Thirdly, Ortec's technology demonstrated superior clinical results in reports submitted to the FDA earlier this year.

(PRWEB) July 26, 2001

New York, NY - (BUSINESSWIRE) - July 17th, 2001 - Ortec International, Inc. (NASDAQ: ORTC) announced today that The General and Plastic Surgery Devices Advisory Panel of the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unanimously recommended approval of Ortec’s substitute engineered skin, OrCelÔ, for use in treatment of donor site wounds in burn victims. The panel recommended further histology characterizations and label clarifications for specific use with in certain patient populations.

In March of this year, Ortec filed a Pre-Market Approval (PMA) application with the FDA requesting permission to market its product for the treatment of donor site wounds in burn patients. On April 4th, 2001, the FDA notified Ortec that its PMA application was accepted. On May 14th, 2001, the FDA notified Ortec that its product was placed on the agenda for review by the General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel.

Commenting on the panel's recommendation, Steven Katz, Ph. D. Chairman and CEO said, "This is clearly an achievement of a significant milestone for Ortec. We are obviously pleased by the panel's favorable recommendation and look forward to working with the FDA towards obtaining a final marketing approval and making our product commercially available for this significant medical need."

John Griswald, M. D., F. A.C. S., Peter Canizarrow Professor of Surgery, Medical Director Burn Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, one of the clinical investigators who participated in the donor site trial, presented to the panel the clinical need for new technologies to treatment donors site wounds and his experience with OrCelÔ. Commenting on his experience Griswald said, OrCelÔ, represents a significant advance in the treatment of donor site wounds in burn patients, and I am looking forward to the FDA approval of OrCelÔ and its availability for use on burn victims.

Over 1.25 million people are treated annually for burns at medical facilities across the U. S. Donor site wounds, a market estimated to be in excess of $1 million, are wounds created where skin is taken from an uninjured part of the body to cover a burned area on another part of the body.

In addition to the donor site indication, Ortec is pursuing the application of its product to other medical indications estimated to be in excess of $1 billion. Ortec recently received FDA approval under a Humanitarian Device Exemption for hand reconstruction and donor sites created in this procedure for victims of Epidermolysis Bullosa. In addition, Ortec is pursuing FDA approvals for venous and diabetic skin ulcers and is in the midst of clinical trials for those indications.

About Ortec International, Inc.

Ortec International, Inc. is a tissue-engineering company involved in the commercialization of a proprietary and patented technology to stimulate the repair and regeneration of human tissue. OrtecÂ’s current focus is the application of its Composite Cultured Skin (CCS) product to heal chronic and acute wounds. Ortec believes that its platform technology may extend to the development of other human tissue, such as tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, muscle and blood vessels. Ortec recently received FDA approval under a Humanitarian Device Exemption for hand reconstruction and donor sites created in this procedure for victims of Epidermolysis Bullosa. Ortec is also pursuing FDA approvals for venous and diabetic skin ulcers and is in the midst of clinical trials for those indications.

Certain statements made in this news release that express the belief, potential anticipation or expectation, as well as other statements which are not historical fact, and statements relating to the clinical trials and their results, design, FDA product approvals or other marketing approvals, features, functionality and performance insofar as they may apply prospectively, are "forward looking" statements within the meaning and pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve risks and uncertainties. The CompanyÂ’s actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in this news release or in other "forward looking" statements presented by management. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, development by the CompanyÂ’s competitors of new technologies or products that are more effective than the CompanyÂ’s, risks of failure of clinical trials, dependence on and retention of key personnel, protection of proprietary technology, compliance with U. S. Food and Drug Administration regulations, continued availability of raw material for the CompanyÂ’s products, availability of product liability insurance in the event of commercialization of the CompanyÂ’s products, ability to effect transition from pilot-scale manufacturing to large-scale commercial production of products, uncertainty as to the availability of additional capital on acceptable terms, if at all, and the demand for the CompanyÂ’s products, if and when commercially available.

  FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Ron Lipstein, CFO At Ortec International, Inc. (212) 740-6999, ext. 204

Www. ortecinternational. com

ThreeLac - Effective in the fight against Candida

ThreeLac - Effective in the fight against Candida

ThreeLac Candida Treatment is a revolutionary Candida Treatment that originates from Japan where it has been amazingly successful.

(PRWEB) October 24, 2004

ThreeLac Candida Treatment is a revolutionary Candida Treatment that originates from Japan where it has been amazingly successful - in 2001 over $50 million of Threelac was sold which does indicate that it works. The manufacturers are therefore not shy in describing ThreeLac as "the most effective candida treatment product in the marketplace".

Threelac has a proprietary formula that is teeming with live bacteria. These start to work immediately to help rid the body of resilient candida organisms. You can expect results starting from day one!

The secret behind the effectiveness of ThreeLac is the micro-encapsulation process that gets the candida fighting live bacteria safely past the acidic environment in the stomach.

These oxygen-friendly bacteria go to work "dining" on anaerobic problem organisms that your body does not need. An added benefit is that it helps to balance the bodyÂ’s pH. When you use this groundbreaking product to fight candida, there will be no need to adhere to impossible dietary restrictions. For general health reasons, use common sense and avoid processed sweets. Eat your sweets "raw" and enjoy a good diet rich in nutritious foods.

ThreeLac restores the pH levels of the body to a favourable level and this is instrumental in the management of candidiasis. This ultimatly brings relief from typical candida symptoms, which may include depression, anxiety, recurring irritability, heartburn, indigestion, lethargy, extreme food and environmental allergies, acne, dry, flaky, itchy skin, jock itch, migraine headaches, recurring cystitis/vaginal infections, premenstrual tension, and menstrual problems.

You can try this simple test to see if you have candida: First thing in the morning, before you put ANYTHING in your mouth, get a clear glass and fill with water.

Now work up a bit of saliva, then spit it into the glass of water. Check the water every 15 minutes or so for up to one hour. If you have a problem that ThreeLac can help with, you will see strings (like legs) travelling down into the water from the saliva floating on the top, or "cloudy" saliva will sink to the bottom of the glass, or cloudy specks will seem to be suspended in the water. If there are no strings and the saliva is still floating after at least one hour, you probably have candida under control. ThreeLac would then be used to maintain good bowel flora and proper pH.

Tel: 08701 644822

Email: info@bodykind. com

Web: www. bodykind. com

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Kentucky Equality Federation Urges the U. S. Senate to Deny the Confirmation of Dr. James Holsinger as U. S. Surgeon General

Kentucky Equality Federation Urges the U. S. Senate to Deny the Confirmation of Dr. James Holsinger as U. S. Surgeon General

Kentucky Equality Federation condemns the nomination of Kentucky's Dr. James Holsinger as U. S. Surgeon General and urges the U. S. Senate not to confirm him.

Lexington, KY (PRWEB) June 11, 2007

Kentucky Equality Federation today condemned the nomination of Dr. James W. Holsinger Jr. as U. S. Surgeon General.

Federation management had previously decided to remain largely quiet on the issue since the Office of U. S. Surgeon General is not a particularly powerful one, and has little direct impact on policy-making.

Earlier this week however Truth Wins Out, a group that debunks the religious right, reported that Dr. James Holsinger helped found a church in Lexington, Kentucky that operates an "ex-gay" ministry, a practice strongly opposed by Kentucky Equality Federation.

In 2006 the American Psychiatric Association, backed by numerous other mainstream medical organizations, issued a warning which stated: "There is simply no sufficiently scientifically sound evidence that sexual orientation can be changed." The statement went on to say that positions supported by ex-gay organizations "are not supported by the science" and that they "create an environment in which prejudice and discrimination can flourish." The medical and scientific consensus is that reparative therapy is not effective and is potentially harmful.

"After reading some of the information and reports currently being circulated in the gay community it is clear that Dr. Holsinger has homophobic issues and isn't worthy to be a physician, much less U. S. Surgeon General," stated Jordan Palmer, Kentucky Equality Federation President. "If Holsinger is confirmed it will alienate the gay community from the U. S. Public Health Service."

Kentucky Equality Federation will be sending its certified condemnation of Dr. James Holsinger as U. S. Surgeon General to U. S. Senator Ted Kennedy, the chairman of the U. S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

"I think the committee needs to hear from Holsinger's home state," stated Palmer. "It is alarming that someone with a record such a Holsinger's, a record of allowing his personal religious opinion to influence his medical judgment, could be confirmed as our leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the U. S. government."

Kentucky Equality Federation will be asking its 6,841 registered members, as well as its 3,891 friends on the social networking website MySpace. com to sign a petition urging the Senate to reject Holsinger's nomination.

For additional information, visit http://www. commonwealth-equality. org (http://www. commonwealth-equality. org)

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Rev. Michel Faulkner Seeks to Retire Charlie Rangel from New York's 15th Congressional Seat

Rev. Michel Faulkner Seeks to Retire Charlie Rangel from New York's 15th Congressional Seat

This November, voters in NY-15 can put an end to decades of unethical and disinterested leadership in Northern Manhattan by supporting Rev. Michel Faulkner, a former NFL player and community leader, for Congress.

New York, NY (PRWEB) March 11, 2010

After decades of serving the men and women of New York City through church leadership and nonprofit service, Rev. Michel Faulkner has announced that he wants to return democracy and ethical representation to the people of the Northern Manhattan. “The people of my community have been robbed of the American Dream because of unethical and ineffective leadership of Charlie Rangel and it is time for a change,” Rev. Faulkner said.

“I have always believed that my highest calling is to serve the powerless and speak for the voiceless,” explained Rev. Faulkner. “I will bring that same energy and drive as a representative of my community in Washington, D. C.”

As the Congressman representing New York’s 15th district, which includes Washington Heights, Harlem and parts of the Upper West Side, Rev. Faulkner will:
 Support small business initiatives to foster job creation  Support charter school expansion to improve education  Support community-based health and wellness initiatives  Reduce wasteful federal government spending and taxes

Rev. Faulkner’s experience and drive to serve make him the best person to represent the people of Northern Manhattan with honesty and integrity. Today, more than ever, the citizens of Harlem and Washington Heights need a trusted voice in Washington.

Rev. Faulkner will provide leadership with integrity, honesty and civility to the citizens of the 15th Congressional district, leadership which sets an example for the community, leadership which helps the community rise above the need for government dependency and bailouts, leadership which enables the citizens to realize their God-given potential.

About Michel Faulkner
Serving the city of New York for more than 20 years, Michel Faulkner got his start by playing in the NFL for the New York Jets in 1981 after graduating from Virginia Tech as an All-American. The next year, he returned to school to earn graduate degrees in education and career counseling.

Michel founded New Horizon Church of New York in Harlem in 2006. He previously served on Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s Task Force on Police Community Relations, and co-chaired the New York City Board of Education’s HIV/AIDS Task Force, was the Commissioner of the City Charter Review initiative and served as the Vice President for Community Government Relations at King’s College.

In addition to numerous radio and TV appearances, including Live with Regis and Kelly, Michel ran the Richmond Marathon in 2009 to raise money for the Run for Change Diabetes Awareness Campaign. He and his wife have been married for nearly 30 years and have three children.

About RaiseDigital

RaiseDigital (http://raisedigital. com (http://raisedigital. com)) is a new media consulting firm for non-profit and political entities. RaiseDigital is a leader in creating online brand awareness and establishing successful fundraising campaigns through various tools, including email and social networking.

For more information about Rev. Michel Faulkner, visit http://www. retirerangel. com (http://www. retirerangel. com).

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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Long-Term Experience With The DuraHeart™ Left-Ventricular Assist System Continues To Grow As Another Patient Surpasses Four Years Of Support On Device

Long-Term Experience With The DuraHeart™ Left-Ventricular Assist System Continues To Grow As Another Patient Surpasses Four Years Of Support On Device

Terumo Heart, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Terumo Corporation, today announced that another patient implanted with the DuraHeart™ Left Ventricular Assist System (LVAS) has surpassed four years after receiving the mechanical circulatory support device. Helga Gieseke, 66, who lives in the south of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany is now one of the longest-living heart failure recipients of this device designed to aid the pumping action of the heart in order to circulate blood throughout her body.

Ann Arbor, MI (PRWEB) August 11, 2010

Terumo Heart, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Terumo Corporation, today announced that another patient implanted with the DuraHeart™ Left Ventricular Assist System (LVAS) has surpassed four years after receiving the mechanical circulatory support device. Helga Gieseke, 66, who lives in the south of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany is now one of the longest-living heart failure recipients of this device designed to aid the pumping action of the heart in order to circulate blood throughout her body.

Mrs. Gieseke received the DuraHeart LVAS as an investigational device in May of 2006 after suffering from heart failure for many years. She was treated by the Physicians at The Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB, German Heart Institute Berlin) as part of the DuraHeart LVAS clinical study that ultimately lead to CE Mark and commercialization in Europe.

“I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to continue doing many of the things I enjoy,” said Mrs. Gieseke. “I am thankful to all of the people involved in my care; it gives me the opportunity to spend more time with my family and see my grandchildren grow up. I’ve grown accustomed to having the device with me as it truly has become an important part of who I am; a patient living with chronic heart disease.”

Mrs. Gieseke has had a long history of heart problems; her first heart surgery was performed in 1994. Since then, Mrs. Gieseke had undergone several procedures including implantation of stents, pacemakers and implantable defibrillators in an attempt to manage her condition. Despite all these treatments, Mrs Gieseke’s condition continued to deteriorate until she found herself unable to walk or carry out simple activities around the house without getting chest pain. It was after admission to the local hospital in April of 2006 that Mrs. Gieseke was told by her cardiologist, also a school friend, that she required additional treatment. It was then that she was referred to The Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB, German Heart Institute Berlin).

“When Mrs. Gieseke was admitted in our Institution, she was in an advanced stage of chronic heart failure. Only an immediate heart transplant would have solved the problem, but a suitable donor heart was not available,” said Professor Roland Hetzer, Director of The Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB, German Heart Institute Berlin) stated. “Instead, we explained that she would need a mechanical heart assist device and proposed that she participate in the DuraHeart LVAS clinical trial. She has done extremely well living with the DuraHeart LVAS, which has proven to be quite durable and capable of providing the critical long-term support required by our heart failure patients.”

The DuraHeart LVAS can be used as a bridge to heart transplant in patients with end stage heart failure. Due to the scarcity of donor organs, patients can sometimes be on the waiting list for many months until a suitable donor becomes available. During that time, a patient’s condition can deteriorate dramatically until no other alternative is available to them. The left ventricular assist systems offer the patient a second chance while waiting for a suitable donor

“Mrs. Gieseke is yet another excellent example of the important work that leading Physicians around the world can accomplish in treating end stage heart failure, supported by the people at Terumo Heart,” said William Pinon, President and CEO, Terumo Heart. “It is truly gratifying to see the impact of our DuraHeart LVAS in bringing long-term quality of life back to patients who otherwise would have few options for treatment in the absence of a heart transplant.”

The DuraHeart LVAS is the latest-generation rotary blood pump designed for long-term patient support. The system incorporates a centrifugal flow rotary pump with the magnetically levitated impeller. The pump features three position sensors and electromagnetic coils that suspend the impeller inside the pump chamber without a single contact point. The impeller’s active magnetic levitation is designed to eliminate friction by allowing a wide gap between blood contacting surfaces, enabling blood to flow through the pump unimpeded in a smooth, non-turbulent fashion.

The DuraHeart LVAS is currently being studied in the DuraHeart Pivotal U. S. Trial for Bridge-to-Transplant (BTT), a multi-center, prospective, non-randomized study, involving 140 patients. The study, which was
Granted unconditional approval in early 2010 by the U. S Food & Drug Administration (FDA), will evaluate the safety and efficacy of the device in helping to sustain patients awaiting heart transplant who are at risk of death due to end-stage heart failure. The DuraHeart LVAS carries a CE Mark and is currently available for sale in European countries. The company has completed clinical trial enrollment for this device in Japan. Additionally, Terumo Heart has submitted its Destination Therapy Investigational Device Exemption to the FDA, which is a first step in the process of obtaining approval to begin its DuraHeart DT Clinical Trial in the U. S. 

For more detailed information about the DuraHeart BTT Trial, visit www. clinicaltrials. gov, and for more information about the DuraHeart LVAS, visit www. terumoheart. com.

About Heart Failure
More than 22 million people suffer from heart failure worldwide with approximately one million new patients diagnosed annually. In the setting of an aging global population, heart failure is the number one reason for hospitalization. The most severely ill patients need heart transplants in order to recover. More than 8,000 people worldwide are on the list of eligible candidates for heart transplants annually, but less than 3,000 receive a transplant each year. A large number of people who suffer from severe heart failure do not qualify for transplantation due to other health issues. An alternative for these patients is access to artificial mechanical assist.

About Terumo Heart, Inc.
Terumo Heart, Inc. is a U. S. subsidiary of Terumo Corporation with headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The company’s focus is the innovation and introduction of products to improve the quality of healthcare for heart failure patients. Terumo Corporation, located in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading developer, manufacturer and global marketer of a wide array of medical products. DuraHeart is limited to investigational use only in the United States, and is CE marked in Europe. For more information visit www. terumoheart. com

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Monday, February 8, 2010

Six Tips for Environmentally Friendly Air Conditioner Storage

Six Tips for Environmentally Friendly Air Conditioner Storage

There are several important benefits to be gained from properly storing an air conditioner and implementing preventive maintenance. Not only will the air conditioner’s life be extended but owners will also see lower energy bills and they’ll be helping the environment by reducing CO2 emissions.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) October 21, 2006

Beating the heat during the dog days of summer can be an expensive business. While there is no real end in sight to rising energy costs, steps can be taken to ensure that related comfort expenses stay at a minimum for people and their families. Authorities agree that regular maintenance and proper storage of portable air conditioners will prolong their efficiency and life, reducing the frequency with which it will have to be replaced.

There are several important benefits to be gained from properly storing an air conditioner and implementing preventive maintenance. Not only will the conditioner's life be extended but energy bills will also see lower and you'll be helping the environment by reducing CO2 emissions. Combined, these six tips will help promote longevity, efficiency and family safety.

1. Store the AC unit well before the first frost. Trapped water could freeze and damage the air conditioner's internal components.

2. Remove and clean, or replace the air filter. If the filter is the permanent type, it can be washed with a mild detergent and reused.

3. Check the drain opening for blockage and drain any excess water in the portable air conditioner. Sometimes, mold or minerals build up and block the drain reducing the unit's effectiveness.

4. Check and clean the motor fan and compressor by blowing out the dust with an air hose. Check the compressor fittings for leaks using liquid soap or refrigerant leak detector.

5. Lubricate the fan and motor with standard off the shelf motor oil.

6. Store AC unit in a dry basement or attic, not on a garage floor, where it could come into contact with corrosive de-icing salts that can drip off of a car's tires. You can store the portable air conditioner in a closet or storage room – just make sure the prior steps are followed before doing so.

Two-thirds of all homes in the United States have air conditioners which use about 5% of all the electricity produced in the country - more than $11 billion dollars each year. In most cases, fossil fuels must be burned in order to produce electricity and when fossil fuels are burned, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. Air conditioners release roughly 100 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year—an average of about two tons for each home with an air conditioner. This number can vary based on the health of an air conditioner. Units that are well maintained and stored properly will run more efficiently. This will ultimately lower electricity bills and CO2 emissions.

Shoppers can see reviews and other testimonials before purchasing their next AC. Air Conditioners America carries a wide selection of energy-saving portable room and window air conditioner units. They also make it easy for people to purchase air conditioners via their world-class e-commerce Web site. Their shopping consultants can help customers make the best decisions for their home and their needs. For easy to find products, detailed product information and a simple checkout process, visit: http://www. air-conditioners-america. com (http://www. air-conditioners-america. com)

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Saturday, February 6, 2010

MEXICOÂ’S FIRST LADY SENORA MARTA SAHAGUN DE FOX TO SPEAK AT THE 19TH NATIONAL HISPANIC WOMENÂ’S CONFERENCE IN PHOENIX ON October 14-15, 2004

MEXICOÂ’S FIRST LADY SENORA MARTA SAHAGUN DE FOX TO SPEAK AT THE 19TH NATIONAL HISPANIC WOMENÂ’S CONFERENCE IN PHOENIX ON October 14-15, 2004

The Hispanic WomenÂ’s Corporation (HWC) is hosting the 19th National Hispanic WomenÂ’s Conference in Phoenix, Ariz. on Oct. 15-16, 2004 at the Phoenix Civic Plaza featuring MexicoÂ’s First Lady Senora Marta Sahagun de Fox. The two-day conference is the largest gathering of Latinas in the country and will provide leadership and professional development to over 2,000 participants while raising money for college scholarships to benefit young Latinas. There is also a Youth Leadership component to the conference.

PHOENIX, AZ (PRWEB) September 28, 2004

Over 2,000 Latinas are expected to celebrate Latina Power at Phoenix Civic Plaza. Youth Leadership Conference will kick off two-day celebration-

The Hispanic WomenÂ’s Corporation (HWC) is hosting the 19th National Hispanic WomenÂ’s Conference in Phoenix, Ariz. on Oct. 15-16, 2004 at the Phoenix Civic Plaza featuring MexicoÂ’s First Lady Senora Marta Sahagun de Fox.  The two-day conference is the largest gathering of Latinas in the country and will provide leadership and professional development to over 2,000 participants while raising money for college scholarships to benefit young Latinas. There is also a Youth Leadership component to the conference.

“Latinas have a powerful voice in today’s society and we want our message to be heard,” says Sonja Mazon-Rubalcava, chairwoman of this year’s conference. “Latina Power” is this year’s theme with an emphasis on empowerment in taking charge of your life, says Rubalcava. The conference will highlight influential Latinas who will share their stories of success, an exhibitor pavilion to promote products and services. There will also be a series of workshops and presenters on education, financial planning, parenting, voter outreach, careers, literature and more.

MexicoÂ’s First Lady Senora Marta Sahagun de Fox has been invited to speak at the corporate luncheon on Friday, October 15, the second day of the conference. During this luncheon, Janet Murguia, executive director and COO of the National Council of La Raza will also be presented a special recognition award.

The conference kicks off with a Youth Leadership Conference targeting about 300 area school students. Letters were distributed statewide to select high schools with an invitation for Latina students to attend the conference. According to Rebeca Ronstadt, youth conference coordinator, “we have received an incredible response this year and we are looking forward to providing our young Latinas with the tools and resources they need to learn about college scholarship opportunities, financial planning and career outlook.

Linda Mazon Gutierrez, president of the Hispanic WomenÂ’s Corporation is one of the co-founders of the conference and has seen it grown into one of the nationÂ’s largest Latina gathering. “We are thrilled that his conference has received national exposure, because Latinas live in virtually every major city in this country and we are a major contributor to the economy. We are politicians, professionals, laborers, wives, mothers, daughters, in short we are CEOÂ’s of our households and major corporations and we know how to get things done.” This yearÂ’s conference celebrates the huge steps we have made as Latinas. “WeÂ’ve come a long way, baby,” says Mazon Gutierrez “and we still have a ways to go.”

In addition to serving a career development opportunity, the conference also raises money for scholarships to benefit young Latinas This year, over twenty scholarships will be awarded to students ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 to attend Arizona state universities. Freshmen who apply for the scholarships must have a 3.0 grade point average. Sophomores, juniors and seniors or transferring students also must have a cumulative 3.0 average. This yearÂ’s scholarship winners will focus on health and sciences and will be recognized during FridayÂ’s corporate luncheon.

The conference will also host creative Latina authors in a round table discussion called Latina Voices in Literature. Other workshops include: financial management, education, political empowerment, business and leadership skills, goal setting, entrepreneurial opportunities, parenting, and time management. There is even a salsa workshop!

The Hispanic WomenÂ’s Conference attracts over 2,000 attendees from around the country. Key sponsors for the conference include: Allstate, Arvizu Advertising & Promotion, Arizona Department of Health Services, APS, General Motors, Maricopa Community Colleges, Qwest, SRP, State Farm Insurance Co., and Wells Fargo.

A press briefing will be held on Thursday, Oct. 15 at the Phoenix Civic Plaza at 10:15 a. m. and will feature Linda Mazon Gutierrez, president of HWC and Sonja Mazon-Rubalcava, chair of 2004 Conference.

The Hispanic Women’s Corporation was founded in 1981 and is a model organization, recognized as a 501 © (3) non-profit corporation know for being a proactive leader in the development of Hispanic women. HWC empowers women through its commitment to the culture by promoting higher education, community involvement, professional advancement and leadership development for the improvement of Latinas’ cultural quality of life. For more information on HWC or to register for the conference, please visit www. hispanicwomen. org.

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