Afton Log Homes Joins EPA's Energy Star Program

Afton Log Homes Joins EPA's Energy Star Program



Afton Log Homes announced today that it has joined a nationwide effort to help the environment through participation in the Energy Star program.



Wintegreen, VA (PRWEB) September 13, 2006



Afton Log Homes announced today that it has joined a nationwide effort to help the environment through participation in the Energy Star program. This voluntary partnership sponsored by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) helps homebuyers, businesses, and other organizations save money and reduce air pollution by upgrading their homes to use energy more efficiently. Afton Log Homes has joined EPA and more than 2,400 builders, manufacturers, and retailers throughout the United States to help reduce pollution by building more efficient products.



Afton Log Homes offers Energy Star labeled homes throughout the east coast of the United States. Scott Steele, General Manager of the Virginia branch added that the Energy Star program was attracting many customers who were looking at minimizing their new home power costs, while adding increased value to their home.



Afton Log Homes offer an assortment of energy-efficient features including increased levels of insulation, efficient windows, high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment, and tightly sealed air ducts. Such features can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 30 percent, according to Sam Rashkin, Director of Energy Star for New Homes. This translates into substantial utility bill savings every month. Additional benefits to homebuyers are the innovations that lead to a more energy-efficient, quieter, healthier and comfortable home. Improved indoor air quality, sound-proofing, and the lack of drafts and uneven temperatures across rooms are among the advantageous results of energy-efficient construction



According to EPA estimates, 20 percent of all air pollution results from home energy usage. Introduced in 1995, Energy Star for homes currently has more than 2,400 partners nationwide. For more information about Energy Star labeled homes and other Energy Star labeled products, please call 1-888-STAR-YES, or visit Afton Log Homes website at www. aftonloghomes. com.



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KANA to Spotlight the Utility of IBM SOA Industry Frameworks at IMPACT 2009 Smart SOA Conference

KANA to Spotlight the Utility of IBM SOA Industry Frameworks at IMPACT 2009 Smart SOA Conference



KANA and IBM Progress toward Q2 2009 Launch of KANA's Next-Generation Service Experience Management Solution



Las Vegas, Nev. (PRWEB) May 4, 2009



KANA Software, Inc. (http://www. kana. com) (OTCBB: KANA. OB), a world leader in multi-channel customer service solutions (http://www. kana. com), this week at the IMPACT 2009 Smart SOA Conference will highlight IBM SOA Industry Frameworks as invaluable resources for bridging the gap between general purpose middleware and industry specific business applications to help companies solve their most challenging business issues. KANA's activities will focus on new customer service applications.



This IBM-focused event centers on the role service oriented architecture (SOA) (http://www. kana. com) plays in resolving pressing business issues, cutting costs and increasing revenue. IMPACT is being held May 3-8 at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas.



KANA endorses IBM's frameworks which blend KANA's customer service solutions with IBM's vast industry knowledge, SOA expertise and open-systems SOA and middleware solutions. KANA's customer service solutions have been validated and certified on IBM Health Integration Framework, IBM Banking Customer Care and Insight Solution, and IBM Insurance Process Acceleration Framework. Each of these IBM SOA Industry Frameworks addresses industry-specific business challenges with industry-specific, pre-built assets and an integrated ecosystem of business partners



Specifically, at IMPACT, KANA will show how the IBM Banking Customer Care and Insight Solution enhances the capabilities of its customer service management solutions. Visit KANA's pedestal in the Customer Care and Insight Solution Center at IBM IMPACT to learn more and see a product demonstration.



"Most companies still experience a significant division between their business and IT departments, which increases reaction times and decreases the quality of customer service," said Michael Fields, CEO, KANA Software, Inc. "Along with IBM, we're breaking down these silos and providing customer service executives with the multi-channel and next-generation solutions they need to radically improve their customer service. With IBM's framework approach, our joint solution reduces a customer's time to market, time to value and overall risk. We're doing this in entirely new ways designed specifically for today's demanding end customers. Especially in this economy, it's crucial to provide exemplary customer service to fuel business growth, and to have solutions that can rapidly adapt to customers' constantly changing needs."



Also at IBM IMPACT, KANA's vice president of strategic alliances, Linda Bruning, will address the conference during a panel discussion on "Working Smarter in Your Industry," along with executives from IBM, Walgreens, and CenterPoint Energy. The panelists will answer the key question, "How do organizations move their business agenda forward, reducing risk and boosting time-to-value on their IT projects?" It will include a discussion of how IBM customers across different industries are leveraging IBM SOA Industry Frameworks.



KANA and IBM, which have a longstanding global strategic cross-industry partnership, will announce general availability of KANA's next-generation Service Experience Management (SEM) (http://www. kana. com) solution later this quarter. The new solution is built upon KANA's decade of experience in the customer service market and IBM's SOA platform. It is designed for companies that must deliver superior customer service in the face of tighter resources, increased competition, and constant business change. The new KANA service experience management solution enables organizations to rapidly deliver the ideal service experience based on customer profile, business context, and cost constraints. It gives customer service executives unprecedented control over the end-to-end service experience -- helping them make customer service a strategic differentiator for their business.



The KANA service experience management solution is built on IBM's market-leading SOA and Information Management foundation. IBM's SOA solutions are used by more than 7,000 global customers and its community includes more than 120,000 architects and developers, 300 SOA-specific technology patents, 2,000 universities advancing the SOA curriculum, and 7,420 Business Partners building SOA skills, solutions, and practices.



About KANA Software, Inc.:

KANA Software, Inc. is a world leader in multi-channel customer service solutions. KANA's solutions allow companies to deliver consistent service across all channels, including email, chat, call centers, and Web self-service, giving their customers the freedom to choose the service they want, how and when they want it. KANA's clients report double-digit increases in customer satisfaction, while reducing call volumes by an average of 20%. KANA's award-winning solutions are proven in hundreds of companies worldwide, including approximately half of the Fortune 50. For more information, please visit www. kana. com or call 1-800-737-8738.



NOTE: KANA is a registered trademark of KANA Software, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.



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Award Winning Doctor Shows You How to Enlist Your Family Into Your Health Care

Award Winning Doctor Shows You How to Enlist Your Family Into Your Health Care



Relying on family is integral to the healing process. Dr. Mark Pettus, author of the new book "The Savvy Patient: The Ultimate Advocate for Quality Health Care," shows how to talk to your family about your health and how to rely on them.



(PRWEB) November 15, 2004



"'The Savvy Patient: The Ultimate Advocate for Quality Healthcare' by Mark Pettus, M. D., helps readers to understand how to navigate complicated health care systems."



Publishers Weekly



"An incredible source of information, which in the hands of an inspired patient, will help accomplish true healing."



Bernie Siegel MD author Love, Medicine, and Miracles, and Help Me to Heal



Dulles, VA — The American health care system is an overwhelming and intimidating system to navigate. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance’s State of Health Care Quality 2004, the health care system’s regular inability to give necessary care caused nearly 66.5 million avoidable sick days and more than $1.8 billion in excess medical costs. Dr. Mark Pettus tells patients and their families how to work together to get the best health care and create a support system in his new book "The Savvy Patient: The Ultimate Advocate for Quality Health Care."



"Few processes are as useful and effective as the family meeting to clarify and reconcile difficult health-care decisions," explains Dr. Pettus. "Family meetings are preplanned, organized gatherings that include several participants, like the patient, family members, the primary care provider, nurses, a case manager, a clergy member, or a pastoral care provider."



In "The Savvy Patient," Dr. Pettus provides 8 tips to having a successful family meeting:



1) Ask your primary care provider to arrange a time to meet with your family. If this is uncomfortable for you, ask your primary nurse, social worker, or case manager involved in your care to discuss this with your treating physician.



2) Consider whom you would want to attend the meeting. Possible attendees include select family members, pastoral care providers, nursing personnel, and important consultants.



3) All critical discussions regarding patient care should be centered on the patient. The patient should be included if possible.



4) Arrange a time that is convenient for all, especially the physician. It is important to be as flexible as possible in order to bring people together.



5) Write down your questions in advance. Consider your objectives and try to have them met during the meeting. Prepare specific questions by discussing them with family members beforehand. Sample questions are: What are the main medical problems we are confronting? What has your experience been in treating people with problems like this? Who will be covering for you while youÂ’re away?



6) Assign a person to represent the family. This will simplify communication and diminish confusion. The communication between your treating physicians, health-care team, and your family will be more efficient and accurate. Information will be channeled through key parties whom others can look to as sources of information.



7) Take notes. Write down anything that is important or may be forgotten. These can be overwhelming circumstances. It will not be possible to retain, remember, and understand all of the information you are receiving.



8) If something is not clear, ask for a more detailed explanation. Mutual understanding is a key objective of the family meeting.



Dr. Mark Pettus provides the information needed to understand the health care system in a caring and compassionate manner in "The Savvy Patient" Dr. Pettus helps you understand how to obtain the knowledge you need, communicate with health care workers, and negotiate and resolve conflicts as they come up. "The Savvy Patient" also provides question templates to guide you in acquiring the necessary information. If you ever wanted to just pick up the phone at any time of day or night and have a frank and caring talk with your doctor, "The Savvy Patient" is that conversation.



Dr. Mark Pettus graduated from Boston University in 1979 and the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1983. He completed his graduate medical training at Harvard Medical School training programs and his nephrology fellowship at The Massachusetts General Hospital in 1988. Dr. Pettus has written medical articles in various journals and has won several academic and community awards. He hosts a community access television program called The Berkshire Health Program. Dr. Pettus lives in Pittsfield, Masschusetts and works at the Berkshire Medical Center. He is recognized for his empathetic and compassionate quality of clinical care.



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Premiere Designers Announces - New Interior Design, Home, Shelter and Luxury Lifestyle, Digital Magazine

Premiere Designers Announces - New Interior Design, Home, Shelter and Luxury Lifestyle, Digital Magazine



PremiereDesigners. com has a new digital, luxury home, shelter & lifestyle magazine in the works. The new magazine is to debut late January of 2010 and will resemble a print magazine with features on affluent interior design, Designers, lifestyle and destinations. Since the new Premiere Designers Magazine is digital, it uses no paper and is eco-friendly. Luxury brands and advertisers can purchase interactive ads in the new online magazine. Subscribers can request a free trial to test out the virtues of the new Premiere Designers Magazine.



Saint Helena, CA (PRWEB) December 12, 2009



PremiereDesigners. com has a new digital, luxury home, shelter & lifestyle magazine in the works. The new magazine is to debut late January of 2010 and will resemble a print magazine with features on affluent interior design, Designers, lifestyle and destinations. Since the new Premiere Designers Magazine is digital, it uses no paper and is eco-friendly. Luxury brands and advertisers can purchase interactive ads in the new online magazine. Subscribers can request a free trial to test out the virtues of the new Premiere Designers Magazine.



The new Premiere Designers digital magazine will debut in late January 2010. The new Premiere Designers Magazine has great editorial and images, and interactive, luxury brand advertisements. It is created in a format that is similar to a print magazine but eco-friendly since it uses no paper. The focus is luxury interior design and living in style in the United States and fabulous international locations.



Premiere Designers Magazine subscribers can see feature articles in a comfortable, familiar magazine format, but can take their magazines with them everywhere, email pages to friends and even print out specific pages for reference. Premiere Designers new, full digital magazine is under development and will be published on the Premiere Designers website in late January of 2010.



The focus of the magazine is great design and living. Every issue covers interior design, Designers, the newest trends and ideas in design, great antiques, architecture, wine & spirits, cuisine, destination travel, fabulous eco living & style and even an editorial on luxury products of interest to men. All covered with an eye toward great living and great design.



The new quarterly magazine is subscription based with a price of $36 per year for 4-6 issues. PremiereDesigners. com visitors can request a free 60 day trial subscription which gives trial subscribers total access during the trial period.



Be one of the first to get Premiere Designers Magazine. Contact us at premieredesigners(at)gmail(dot)com to get on the Reserve List of paid subscribers or trial subscribers.



According to Founder, Ann Shogren, "The new magazine allows us to present even more luxury products and more editorial content that our guests are interested in. By using a magazine format, adding additional content is accomplished gracefully, without creating clutter on PremiereDesigners. com."



The interactive aspect of the ads makes the advertisements engaging for guests, because they can click and immediately get extra information. Ann says that the new magazine will also be "Graphically beautiful, clean in design and have high end appeal. We are focusing on great content, large, lush graphics and text that is legible without zooming." Not having to zoom, means the graphic design and beauty of the page remains intact as the reader moves through the magazine. A zoom feature will still be available to view small details.



PremiereDesigners. com is the New Destination for Great Design & Living. Premiere Designers has very quickly garnered the attention of affluent design enthusiasts around the globe since it's launch mid August of 2009. Site guests can easily peruse millions of dollars worth of new luxury home furnishings and real, authentic antiques from top Designer brands, Dealers and Designer's own curated collections. The site is unique in that guests can even see the retail prices on the site, contact Designers to make purchases and line up top talent for their own design work.



PremiereDesigners. com (http://www. PremiereDesigners. com) presents great design and ideas the affluent lifestyle and design enthusiast wants to see. Design work and products are presented on a website that is free from the chaos and clutter found on may other affluent and luxury lifestyle sites.



Due to the emphasis on a clean site and easy navigation, the new Premiere Designers digital shelter & lifestyle magazine is the perfect way to bring in more content and allow advertisers with interesting luxury products an opportunity to showcase to the affluent market. Advertisers will be accepted if they have compelling display ads and a focus that corresponds with Premiere Designers Magazine.



Anticipated display ads cover the entire luxury living market and include such products as: home furnishings, Interior Designers, landscaping, lighting, accessories, furniture, lighting, fabrics, hardware, fixtures, real estate, luxury builders, travel, hotels, spas, destinations, jewelry, yachts, vehicles, security, staffing, charities, events, wine, spirits, cuisine, equestrian facilities and horses, fine art, recreational vehicles, fashion, private jets, eyewear, antiques, watches, sportswear and sports equipment, health and beauty, wine storage, and luxury collectibles.



Introductory advertising rates are available. Strategic Partnership ideas are welcome. Media kit, rate card and advertising queries go to: advertising. pd(at)gmail(dot)com



Some territories are still available for Ad Rep opportunities. Contact us at premieredesigners(at)gmail(dot)com attn: David (707)968-9918



Premiere Designers hires freelance Writers and also accepts product and design submission queries.

Send submissions to: submissions(dot)pd(at)gmail(dot)com



Senior Editor, Design & Lifestyle Editor - Ann Shogren

Men's Lifestyle Editor, Wine & Spirits Editor - David Shogren

Book Editor - Marilyn Gill

Cuisine Editor - Marcia Roman

Eco Editor - Jude Steele



Premiere Designers is the New Destination for Great Design and Living.

Http://www. PremiereDesigners. com (http://www. PremiereDesigners. com)



# # #

Nutrition 21 and Dong Sung Pharmaceuticals Enter into Distribution Agreement for Chromax and Diachrome

Nutrition 21 and Dong Sung Pharmaceuticals Enter into Distribution Agreement for Chromax and Diachrome



Nutrition 21 is a leading developer of nutritional products for cardiovascular health and diabetes. The market leader in nutritional chromium, Nutrition 21 currently holds 35 patents for nutrition products, 22 for chromium compounds and their uses. (Nutrition 21, Nutrition twenty-one, nutritional products, nutrition supplements, chromium picolinate, chromium, dietary supplement, weight management, cardiovascular health, diabetes, developer, manufacturer, research)



PURCHASE, NY, (PRWEB) September 16, 2005



Nutrition 21, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXXI), the leading developer and marketer of chromium-based nutritional supplements, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Dong Sung Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., a leading Seoul-based pharmaceutical company, for the sale of Chromax® and Diachrome® in the Republic of South Korea.



Under the agreement, Dong Sung is required to secure regulatory approval from the Korea Food and Drug Administration prior to selling or marketing the products. Nutrition 21 will support Dong Sung with the regulatory submission, including providing all relevant scientific data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the brands. Dong SungÂ’s marketing strategy will rely heavily on its sales force of more than 100 representatives located throughout KoreaÂ’s 10 largest metropolitan areas who will detail physicians through pharmacies, clinics and hospitals.



“We are very excited about the opportunity to work with Nutrition 21 to bring their clinically substantiated products to the Korean market, where the increasing incidence of diabetes is a major public health concern,” said Mr. Y. S. Kim, Vice Chairman of Dong Sung Pharmaceuticals. According to the World Health Organization, in the year 2000 there were approximately 1.8 million people with diabetes in South Korea, with expectations of that number reaching more than 3.3 million by the year 2030.



“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Dong Sung and are confident that we have selected a strategic partner with the experience and resources required to bring Chromax and Diachrome to the South Korean market,” said Gail Montgomery, president and CEO, Nutrition 21.



Nutrition 21Â’s primary marketing strategy is to establish demand for its consumer brands in the United States. However, the company has reported increasing interest in its products from prospective international marketing and distribution partners. Nutrition 21 is currently exploring possible strategic alliances with companies in Europe, India, Canada, Japan and other Southeast Asian countries.



About Nutrition 21



Nutrition 21 is a nutritional bioscience company and the maker of chromium-based supplements with health benefits substantiated by clinical research. The company markets Chromax® chromium picolinate, which is the most-studied form of the essential mineral chromium. The US Food and Drug Administration has recently allowed a qualified health claim for chromium picolinate that confirms that it is safe for use in people with insulin resistance and at possible risk for type 2 diabetes. The company also markets Diachrome®, a chromium picolinate and biotin supplement specifically formulated for people with diabetes. Nutrition 21 holds 36 patents for nutrition products and uses, 27 of which are for chromium compounds and their uses. More information is available at www. nutrition21.com.



About Dong Sung



Dong Sung is a publicly traded company based in Seoul, South Korea. Founded in 1957, the company develops, manufactures and sells pharmaceutical, cosmetic, nutrition and health products. More information is available at http://www. dongsung-pharm. co. kr/eng/index. html (http://www. dongsung-pharm. co. kr/eng/index. html).



# # #

Illinois Personal Injury Attorneys Launch Website for Medical Malpractice Victims

Illinois Personal Injury Attorneys Launch Website for Medical Malpractice Victims



The goal of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C.is to educate Chicago-area and Illinois residents about the causes of medical malpractice and their rights when injured by physicians and other health care professionals.



Chicago, IL (PRWEB) August 21, 2010



In an effort to educate and assist victims of medical malpractice in Illinois, the personal injury law firm of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C. has launched a resource website that explains the common types of medical mistakes and the steps that should be taken when malpractice occurs.



The website is MedicalMalpractice-Information. com (http://www. medicalmalpractice-information. com/).



“Medical malpractice can and does occur in the United States and, in fact, according to some estimates is one of the country’s leading causes of death,” said Patrick A. Salvi (http://www. salvilaw. com/attorney_bios_salvi. html), a founding partner of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C. “Our website will help those who have suffered a loss or injury get a better idea of what has happened. They'll also learn what their rights are.”



The user-friendly website provides valuable information on several injury topics and what victims can do about them:

 Medical Malpractice – The site defines the legal term “medical malpractice,” and describes the situations that can lead to it, including physician error, hospital negligence, emergency room errors and medication errors.



 Surgical Malpractice – The site educates users about several types of surgical malpractice, from pre-operative malpractice to post-operative malpractice, anesthesia malpractice, surgical complications and organ puncture or perforation.



 Birth Injuries – In addition to a specific detailed section about cerebral palsy, the site explains other common birth injuries, including Erb’s palsy, brachial plexus and shoulder dystocia. The site has several informative "frequently asked questions" about birth injury topics.



 Additional Resources – The website provides news reports about recent medical malpractice cases and their outcomes, an interactive list of links for Illinois hospitals, profiles of several Illinois communities, and links to the Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C. law offices and the firm's attorneys.



About Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C.



Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C. (http://www. salvilaw. com/) is a leading Illinois personal injury law firm with eight attorneys, more than 25 staff members and offices in Chicago and Waukegan. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard focuses on medical malpractice (http://www. medicalmalpractice-information. com/), personal injury and wrongful death cases, including birth injuries, brain injuries, car and truck accidents, airplane and train accidents, construction injuries, faulty products, unsafe properties and animal attacks. From years of experience handling medical malpractice cases, the firm has developed relationships with many of the nation’s leading medical and scientific experts. For more information, contact (http://www. medicalmalpractice-information. com/contact-us/) Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P. C. for a free, no-obligation consultation at 877-249-1227.



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Guaranteed Weight Loss Vitamin Manufacture Announces New Web Site to Better Serve Their Clients

Guaranteed Weight Loss Vitamin Manufacture Announces New Web Site to Better Serve Their Clients



Along with the new features of the new ABSNutrition. net, ABS is giving away a free sample of the Infernolean weight loss formula.



Tampa, FL (PRWEB) July 22, 2006



Weight Loss Vitamin manufacture, ABS Nutrition, launched their new web site, http://www. absnutrition. net (http://www. absnutrition. net) on Friday the 14th of 2006. The new web site gives people interested in losing weight access to the ABS Nutrition’s weight loss supplement line and a variety of useful tools and information. The new site includes special healthy recipes, and a free weight loss report.



ABS Nutrition key weight loss formulas are Infernolean and Carboshield. The ephedra free Infernolean is an all natural performance enhancer which boost the metabolism while curbing the appetite.



Carboshield, ABS Nutrition’s other advanced weight loss formula, can be safely used with Infernolean and blocks unwanted carbohydrates. ABS Nutrition has discounts on all items on ABSNutrition. net to celebrate the new web site.



As part of the celebration, ABS Nutrition is giving away a free one day supply of Infernolean. See ABSNutrition. net (http://www. absnutrition. net (http://www. absnutrition. net)) for details.



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First Annual Fighter Mom Workshop to Support Mothers (and Others) Fighting Children's Diseases

First Annual Fighter Mom Workshop to Support Mothers (and Others) Fighting Children's Diseases



A special day-long workshop for mothers fighting diseases and health challenges that face their children, sponsored by Fight SMA and the Toy Industry Foundation, will be held on Friday, May 9, 2008, from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., at the New York Palace Hotel in New York City.



New York, New York (PRWEB) April 7, 2008



A special day-long workshop for mothers fighting diseases and health challenges that face their children will be held on Friday, May 9, 2008, from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., at the New York Palace Hotel in New York City.



The "Fighter Mom(TM) Friday" workshop is presented by Fighter Mom, a program of the nonprofit group, Fight SMA (http://www. fightsma. org (http://www. fightsma. org)) and sponsored by the Toy Industry Foundation (http://www. toyindustryfoundation. org (http://www. toyindustryfoundation. org))



Guest speaker for the day will be award-winning journalist and writer Catherine Crier, who will speak on leadership, women's empowerment, and hope for life's tough battles.



The workshop will provide parents who attend with techniques and tools to be advocates on behalf of their children and to work effectively to defeat the diseases and health conditions that have targeted their children.



"The information to be shared is based on more than 17 years of the experiences of mothers fighting against one particular childhood disease -- spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)," said Martha Slay, event organizer and president of Richmond, VA-based Fight SMA. "Through the Fighter Mom program we can help any mom fighting any childhood disease be as effective a champion as possible. We also hope to help this special woman take good care of herself!"



"The Toy Industry Foundation is thrilled to sponsor an event like this with Fight SMA to provide new insights about the value of play to parents of children with special needs," said Jean Butler, executive director of the Toy Industry Foundation. "We have gathered experts from relevant fields to serve as resources to parents who want to do what's best for their child and may not know exactly what that is."



A special aspect of the day will be presentations and a discussion of the Toy Industry Foundation's publication, ''Let's Play: A Guide to Toys for Children with Special Needs.'' Toy Industry Foundation panelists will explore play and its benefits to children confined by physical and developmental barriers.



The workshop will cover such topics as developing an organizational and fundraising strategy, special events, motivating volunteers, working with scientists and doctors, lobbying Congress, and generating publicity.



Panelists for the day will include:

Steve Eichenauer, Partner, Public Strategies Washington Louise Raymond, Senior Director of Global Corporate Responsibility, McGraw-Hill Companies Alex Mackenzie, M. D., Ph. D, Director of the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute Janice Schacter, chair of the Hearing Access Program at the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Diane Goetz, Director of Patient and Professional Advocacy, PTC Therapeutics Nancy Jeffrey, Senior Editor, People magazine Ellen Metrick, Toy Specialist, National Lekotek Center Dr. Steven Kanor, Founder and President, Enabling Devices Amy Jaffe Barzach, Founder, Boundless Programs; Author, Accidental Courage, Boundless Dreams



The Fighter Mom™ manual and web site (http://www. fightermom. org (http://www. fightermom. org)) provide "real-world" information to help mothers (and others) not only care for their child, but to "go on the offensive" and work to eradicate the disease itself. The Fighter Mom program has been recognized by CNN and USA Today, among other media.



Fighter Mom is a program of Fight SMA, a nonprofit corporation based in Richmond, VA with chapters in 19 cities in the U. S. and Canada. Its mission is to strategically accelerate research for a treatment or cure for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the leading genetic cause of infant death.



The Toy Industry Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to bring joy, happiness and comfort to children in need through toys and play. While other organizations provide food, shelter and support services to children and their families, TIF sees to it that these children have toys and opportunities to play in an attempt to restore both fun and a sense of normalcy to their lives. The Foundation currently fulfills its mission through core programs including public education, The Toy Bank and PLAY HELPS. For more information, visit http://www. toyindustryfoundation. org (http://www. toyindustryfoundation. org).



# # #

FIRST FEMALE PARTNER TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

FIRST FEMALE PARTNER TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE



(PRWEB) October 31, 2000



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Contact:



Leah E. Byers



Marketing Manager



412 394 2322



Lbyers@thorpreed. com



CONTACTS:



Douglas E. Gilbert, Esq 412 394 7771



Kimberly Luff Wakim, Esq 412 394 7728



THORP REED & ARMSTRONG, LLP ELECTS FIRST FEMALE PARTNER TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE



(PITTSBURGH - September 26, 2000) --- Ms. Kimberly Luff Wakim, Partner in the Financial Institution & Services practice group and Chair of the firm's Recruitment Committee, was elected to the firm's five person Executive Committee. The Executive Committee serves as the firm governing body. Ms. Wakim is the first female partner to hold this position in the firm's 105 year history.



"I am pleased to have the support of my partners as Thorp Reed continues to be a leader in the 21st century," said Wakim. Ms. Wakim focuses her practice in the areas of bankruptcy, creditors' rights, commercial finance and transactions, commercial litigation and real estate. Ms. Wakim was graduated from West Virginia University, magna cum laude, in 1980 with a B. S.B. A., major in accounting. She received her J. D. degree in 1988 from West Virginia University School of Law, where she was a member of the Moot Court Board and was a tax-teaching assistant. Ms. Wakim is a frequent lecturer in the areas of bankruptcy and creditors' rights and related topics.



Ms. Wakim is licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of West Virginia and is a Certified Public Accountant, certified in West Virginia. Prior to joining Thorp Reed & Armstrong, LLP, Ms. Wakim served a two-year term as a law clerk to The Honorable L. Edward Friend II, United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia.



Ms. Wakim is a member of the American, Pennsylvania and Allegheny County Bar Associations, the Bankruptcy and Commercial Law Section Council of the Allegheny County Bar Association, the West Virginia State Bar, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants, the International Women's Insolvency and Restructuring Confederation and the Turnaround Management Association. She is also a director and the Vice Chair of the Ways and Means Committee for the Energy & Mineral Law Foundation and President of the Board of Directors of Dance Alloy.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Founded in 1895, Thorp Reed & Armstrong, LLP is a premier law firm headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with additional offices in Philadelphia, Princeton, NJ and Wheeling, WV. The firm is engaged in a variety of practice areas, including litigation, labor and employment relations, corporate and business law, employee benefits, environmental law, construction law, health care law, intellectual property and tax and estate issues. Thorp Reed & Armstrong, LLP serves a broad client base, including "Fortune 500" corporations, start-up ventures, charitable organizations and individuals.



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Copyright © 2000 Thorp Reed & Armstrong, LLP

ExtendSnacks™ Not Affected by FDA Peanut Butter Recall

ExtendSnacks™ Not Affected by FDA Peanut Butter Recall



ExtendSnacks™, a leading brand of foods that help control blood sugar, announced that none of their products or ingredients are affected in any way by the recent peanut butter recall put into effect by the FDA. ExtendSnacks does not buy any ingredients from Peanut Corporation of America (PCA), the source of the current salmonella outbreak.



St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) January 22, 2009



ExtendSnacks™, a leading brand of foods that help control blood sugar, announced that none of their products or ingredients are affected in any way by the recent peanut butter recall put into effect by the FDA. ExtendSnacks does not buy any ingredients from Peanut Corporation of America (PCA), the source of the current salmonella outbreak.



While various nutritional products containing peanut butter or peanut paste are being recalled, ExtendSnacks™ are not linked to this outbreak. This includes all of their product forms - ExtendBar™ Delights, ExtendBar™ Crunches, ExtendCrisps™ and ExtendShakes™. The FDA is maintaining a list of affected brands on its website at the FDA Peanut Butter Recall Web Site (http://www. accessdata. fda. gov/scripts/peanutbutterrecall/index. cfm) - you will not find any ExtendSnacks brands on this list.



"ExtendSnacks™ is committed to providing our customers with safe, wholesome, and quality food products now and for the future," said company president Vijay Chauhan.



About ExtendSnacks™



ExtendSnacks™ are manufactured and marketed by Clinical Products, LLC, headquartered in St. Louis, MO. The original ExtendBar® was invented by Dr. Francine Kaufman, former president of the American Diabetes Association; current head of the Center for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles; author of Diabesity; and a distinguished professor of pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine. The continued mission of Clinical Products is to create great-tasting, convenient food products that help control blood sugar. ExtendSnacks™ are the only snacks clinically proven to help stabilize blood sugar for up to 9 hours, providing the benefits of hunger control and long-lasting energy. For more information visit http://www. ExtendBar. com (http://www. ExtendBar. com) or call 800-887-2919.



ExtendBar® is available at Walgreens stores nationwide, in Southern California at Albertson's in the Diet/Diabetic section and Ralph's in the Adult Nutrition section, in Arizona at Hi-health, in the Midwest at Hy-Vee and online at the ExtendSnacks Web Site (http://www. extendbar. com) or at 800-887-2919.



If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact Jonathan Lindberg, (314) 336-0587 x327.



Childrens Hospital Los Angeles holds patents and/or patent applications on the underlying technology of ExtendBar®, which it has licensed to Clinical Products Ltd. Francine R. Kaufman, M. D., holds stock in, and is a consultant for, Clinical Products Ltd. Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and Dr. Kaufman benefit financially from the sales of ExtendBar®.



# # #

Aastra Awarded “Best of Show” at ITEXPO West 2010

Aastra Awarded “Best of Show” at ITEXPO West 2010



Aastra IP Phones for Microsoft® Lync™ Recognized as the Best Large Enterprise Solution at the Leading B-2-B Communications and Technology Trade Show in Los Angeles



Dallas, TX (PRWEB) October 27, 2010



Aastra, a leading company at the forefront of the enterprise communication market, today announced that its Aastra IP Phones for Microsoft® Lync™ have received a “Best of Show Award” in the Large Enterprise Solution category at TMC’s ITEXPO West 2010 in Los Angeles. 



The Aastra 6721ip and 6725ip phones deliver exceptional quality and value while tightly integrating with Microsoft Lync, making them powerful unified communications (UC) devices. These phones can operate independently from a PC so can be easily and widely deployed. The Aastra 6725ip offers the additional benefits of PC connection via USB cable for a tight integration with Microsoft® Lync™ Server 2010: click-to-dial is enriched with presence status ensuring a more efficient call management for business users and team collaboration.



The Aastra 6721ip and 6725ip phones were designed with a focus on providing a superior user experience to facilitate the adoption of unified communications including:

 an intuitive interface clearly displayed on a full color 3.5" LCD screen;  easy access to the most essential calling features through navigation keys; and  wideband audio which enhances the clarity of all calls, a particular benefit for companies doing business internationally.



“We’re honored to be chosen for this award,” said Tim Whittington, Senior Vice-President and General Manager, Aastra USA Inc. “ITEXPO has been a great venue to showcase new products for Aastra over the years, and we’re pleased that the innovation, quality, and value delivered by our new phones have been recognized by TMCnet.”



“ITEXPO in LA was the largest and most successful event we’ve ever produced, and this year’s Best-of-Show winners faced an even greater challenge differentiating themselves from a large and highly competitive field,” said Rich Tehrani, CEO and group editor-in-chief of TMC. “We’re proud to honor companies like Aastra with a Best-of-Show Award, and we thank them for sharing their innovative solutions with our attendees.”



The ITEXPO Best of Show Awards recognize innovative products and solutions that were featured in the Exhibit Hall during the event. This designation serves to highlight the technological achievement and creative product features that set these winners apart from the rest of the crowd. TMC’s editorial staff evaluated the pre-show nominations, and met with vendors to inspect and review the displayed products on the first day of the Expo. A full list of the winners is posted on TMC’s Web site at http://www. tmcnet. com.



About Aastra USA

Aastra USA Inc. is the US business unit of Aastra Technologies Limited, a company at the forefront of the enterprise communication market. Headquartered in Concord, Ontario, Canada, Aastra develops and delivers innovative communications products and applications for businesses. Aastra’s operations are truly global with more than 50 million installed lines around the world and a direct and indirect presence in more than 100 countries. Aastra is entirely dedicated to enterprise communications and offers IP telephony and Unified Communications solutions individually tailored to satisfy its customers’ requirements. These range from feature-rich call managers for small and medium businesses and highly scalable ones for large enterprises, integrated mobility, call center solutions to a wide selection of terminals. With a strong focus on open standards, Aastra enables enterprises to communicate and collaborate more efficiently. For additional information on Aastra, visit our website at http://www. aastrausa. com



About TMC:

Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC) is a global, integrated media company helping clients build communities in print, in person and online. TMC publishes Customer Interaction Solutions, INTERNET TELEPHONY, Unified Communications, and NGN magazines. TMCnet, TMC's website, is the leading source of news and articles for the communications and technology industries. TMCnet is read by two million unique visitors each month on average worldwide, according to Webtrends. TMCnet has ranked within the top 3,500 in Quantcast's Top U. S. sites, placing TMCnet in the nation’s top.03% most visited websites. In addition, TMC produces ITEXPO; 4GWE Conference and M2M Evolution (in conjunction with Crossfire Media); Digium|Asterisk World (in conjunction with Digium); and Smart Grid Summit (in conjunction with Intelligent Communication Partners). TMC serves other communications market segments with the Cloud Communications Summit (in conjunction with Light and Electric); CVx ChannelVision Expo (in conjunction with Beka Publishing); and MSPWorld™ (in conjunction with the MSPAlliance).



TMC also serves technology professionals with industry-specific websites: InfoTech Spotlight, 4GWE, M2M Evolution. com, Smart-Grid. TMCnet. com, Smart Products Ecosystem, Robotics. TMCnet. com, Cable. TMCnet. com, Satellite Spotlight, Green. TMCnet. com, Healthcare. TMCnet. com, and Education. TMCnet. com.



Aastra® is a registered trademark of Aastra Technologies Limited in the United States and Canada. All other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.



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ACOM Healthcare Business Division Optimizes Chiropractic Software Functionality, Security, Interoperability, in RAPID EMR v. 5.0 Clinical Notes/Reporting Solution

ACOM Healthcare Business Division Optimizes Chiropractic Software Functionality, Security, Interoperability, in RAPID EMR v. 5.0 Clinical Notes/Reporting Solution



ACOM Healthcare Business Division has introduced RAPID EMR v. 5.0, the most comprehensive release of the industry-leading chiropractic notes and reporting solution since its inception. The new release focuses on issues of key importance to doctors, among them the ability to fully integrate with multi-discipline practices; to customize 100 percent of the text fields within the system and to add others; higher levels of security over medical records and other data; and integration of RAPID EMR Superbill charges with any medical billing software or billing company.



St. Petersburg, FL (PRWEB) May 22, 2007



Responding to requests from across the chiropractic community, the ACOM Healthcare Business Division today announced the launch of RAPID EMR v. 5.0, the most comprehensive release of the industry-leading chiropractic notes and reporting solution since its inception, according to Division Vice President Gregory T. Church. The new release is available immediately and is free to current users under their software maintenance contracts. To learn more about this powerful new version or to request a Free Trial Evaluation copy of the software, visit http://www. acomemr. com (http://www. acomemr. com).



The new release focuses on issues of key importance to doctors, among them the ability to fully integrate with multi-discipline practices; to customize fully 100 percent of the text fields within the system and to add others; to effect higher levels of security over medical records and other data; and the ability to integrate RAPID EMR Superbill charges with any medical billing software (http://www. acomemr. com/overview-epm. html) or billing company. It also increases its outcomes assessment report options from four to ten.



"This new version of RAPID EMR addresses the three defined areas that every Chiropractic Electronic Medical Record solution (http://www. acomemr. com/rapid-emr. html) must observe according to the Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology: functionality, security and interoperability," Church said. "RAPID EMR satisfies the CCHIT recommendations fully in terms of its applicability to virtually any medical specialty, and it exceeds them in some cases through the incorporation of technological innovations that are unique to the system."



New features and enhancements include:

 Medical features: a standardized Review of Systems; enhanced Prescription Pad  Grouping: accelerates file searches by organizing data populated in the system's Intelligent Fields  Kiosk: extends self-registration at any computer, where previously limited to inking-capable tablet computers.  Intelligence Anywhere: Enables users to create Intelligent Fields from their own statements  Active and Passive ROM: establishes ability to specify type(s) of ROM measurement  Extends Database character limits, now infinite vs. standard 255 characters  More outcomes assessment options: six reports added to the existing four, including the Revised Oswestry; Headache Disability Index, Upper Extremity Pain Questionnaire; Cervical Spine Bournemouth Questionnaire; Lower Back Bournemouth Questionnaire; Lower Extremity Functional Scale  Dedicated space in Daily Notes for Assessment Documentation  Extended security: Administrators can lock records against access and/or editing  Interoperability: Doctors can generate a Superbill in any time range and direct it to any billing software and/or billing company. Previously this ability was limited to exchange between RAPID EMR and the RAPID EPM practice management system.  Alerts: Administrators can set parameters and notifications for treatment actions and stages; also they can attach memoranda to patient files relating to individual problems, personality characteristics, preferences, etc.



"We are extremely grateful to our users for their input and for the continuing counsel of our team of professional advisors," Church said. "ACOM is committed to creating and maintaining the most advanced Chiropractic software available and the information we derive from these sources is critical to our ability to do so."



RAPID EMR is the electronic medical record and clinical reporting component of RAPID Complete, the integrated modular end-to-end Chiropractic Software System from the ACOM Healthcare Business Division.



About ACOM's Healthcare Business Division



Headquartered in North Florida, the ACOM Healthcare Business Division is part of ACOM Solutions, Inc. The division develops and markets diagnostic, reporting and clinical document management, office management solutions, and business management consulting services for chiropractors and other medical specialties. Its flagship products are RAPID EMR, a graphically oriented software tool that automates note-taking and report-writing customarily required by insurers for payment of claims; RAPID EPM, a multi-module enhanced practice management solution for front and back office processes; and the E3 solutions suite of consulting services for educating, empowering and equipping healthcare providers with clinical and business management knowledge.



Now in its 24th year of business, ACOM Solutions, Inc. develops and implements advanced modular software systems for electronic document management (http://www. acom. com/document_management/), document output, document/content management, secure corporate payments, and B2B EDI/XML e-commerce applications, marketing them domestically and through overseas partners. Corporate headquarters are in Long Beach, California; System i Software Division headquarters are in Duluth, Georgia; and regional offices are located in several major U. S. cities. For information on ACOM's Chiropractic Software, phone 866-286-5315, email RAPIDinfo(at)acom. com; or visit http://www. acomemr. com (http://www. acomemr. com).



CONTACT: 

Mark Firmin

562-424-7899

Mfirmin(at)acom. com



###

Lexi-Comp Supports the Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group 2008 Best Practice Awards

Lexi-Comp Supports the Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group 2008 Best Practice Awards



Lexi-Comp sponsors awards recognizing excellence in pediatric pharmacy programs.



Hudson OH (PRWEB) September 24, 2008



Lexi-Comp, Inc., a provider of clinical information to the healthcare industry, is proud to be the title sponsor of the Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group (PPAG) 2008 Best Practice Awards. PPAG, a non-profit professional pharmacy organization representing the interest of pediatric pharmacists and their patients, presents these awards annually to pharmacy programs that advance the mission, vision, and goals of the organization. The submissions are evaluated based upon innovation, creativity, cost effectiveness, improvement in practice, and leadership.



Since 2000, PPAG has recognized over 30 outstanding individuals and pediatric institutions for projects that improve patient care and medication safety. In 2006, Lexi-Comp joined this effort by making a 5-year sponsorship commitment to the organization, strengthening their ability to recognize hospitals and practitioners who serve pediatric patients in outstanding ways.



The 2008 award recipients (http://www. ppag. org/en/art/?550) will be recognized at the 17th Annual Pediatric Pharmacy Conference and Annual Meeting (http://www. ppag. org/am08/) in Baltimore, MD on Friday, October 3, 2008. A summary presentation of their work will be shared with over 300 attendees to provide ideas for improvements in patient care. Lexi-Comp will be participating in this program and the exhibitions October 3 - 5.



Lexi-Comp shares PPAG's mission to promote safe and effective medication use in children through communication, education, and research. Lexi-Comp's Pediatric Dosage Handbook (http://webstore. lexi. com/Store/Pharmacology-Books/Pediatric-Dosage-Handbook-15th-Edition-Taketomo) is an essential tool for many of PPAG's members and supports this effort. This same Pediatric drug information is also accessible in Lexi-Comp's web-based application, Lexi-Comp® ONLINE™.



For more information on The Best Practice Awards, visit http://www. ppag. org (http://www. ppag. org). To learn more about Lexi-Comp's products and services, go to http://www. lexi. com (http://www. lexi. com).



About Lexi-Comp

Lexi-Comp, Inc. provides clinical information solutions to the healthcare industry, publishing point-of-care content utilized in both in-patient and out-patient settings. These advanced resources help improve patient outcomes, medication safety, and workflow efficiency. Pharmacotherapy knowledge areas include drug information for adult, pediatric, and geriatric populations; medication interactions; laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures; pharmacogenomics; poisoning and toxicology; dentistry; infectious diseases; and patient education. Over 500,000 clinicians worldwide access Lexi-Comp's content via the Internet, mobile devices, and through integration with health information systems. An extensive library of print titles is also available.



To learn more about Lexi-Comp's clinical information solutions, call 800.837.5394, 330.650.6506, or visit http://www. lexi. com (http://www. lexi. com).



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Therapist Reveals Method To Defeat Addiction!

Therapist Reveals Method To Defeat Addiction!



(PRWEB) November 15, 2000



Hypnotherapy expert, Edward J. Longo, announced today that his intensively researched EBOOK is now available on the Internet.



THE TWELVE PERIODS OF QUITTING SMOKING is an EBOOK site that is beginning to draw attention from smokers who are fed up with being controlled by cigarettes. It is important to note here that any exercise regimen will aid in relieving those awkward feelings of nervousness due to your new experience of "nicotine deprivation."



Over the course of these 12 PERIODS, the knawing pains and torturous nerve responses will have dissipated completely. The smoker must accept that an increase in APPETITE during the first couple of months of the "Quitting" process is only temporary. Depending upon one's condition, giving up smoking can mean the beginning of a totally healthy and youthful life, free of the bondage of smoke addiction.



As soon as smokers agree to quit smoking they are, in essence, giving themselves permission to live a longer life. Replacing the contaminated smoke by breathing healthy oxygen is the assurance of this. Finally, smokers can learn how Quitting Smoking will provide a solution to quitting 100% of the time! Just think: Quitting Smoking Permanantly!



This innovative EBOOK comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! Or your money back!



The impetus for this E-Book began with the Reader's Digest reprint,"What the Cigarette Commercials Don't Show," by Hugh J. Mooney. Since then, the author's cessation research has spanned over a period of 20 years.



Potential "Quitters" may review this FREE OUTLINE: http://ebooksites. com/quitsmoking (http://ebooksites. com/quitsmoking)



The Author is a practicing hypnotherapist with offices located in New York City.



You may contact the him directly at email: author@ebooksites. com



You may call him at 212-737-8538,



Or 917-653-6737(by cell phone)

Free Expert Advice on Caring for A Beloved Dog

Free Expert Advice on Caring for A Beloved Dog



The launch of www. special-dog. com is great news for dog lovers everywhere. The website contains valuable information and further resources on everything the caring dog lover needs to know in order to properly care for and raise their beloved pet, including the tips provided below.



Hamilton, OH (PRWEB) October 16, 2006



The launch of www. special-dog. com is great news for dog lovers everywhere. The website contains valuable information and further resources on everything the caring dog lover needs to know in order to properly care for and raise their beloved pet, including the tips provided below.



Www. special-dog. com has been developed by experienced dog breeders Janet and Larry Combs specifically for dog lovers who want to properly care for and train their dog. Larry and Janet have over 15 years of breeding, training and grooming experience. And they are now ready to share their invaluable knowledge.



“We have been breeding dogs for over 15 years and we have learned a lot about caring for and training many breeds of dogs. We have spoken with many hundreds of dog owners over the years about caring for dogs. We have also gained knowledge on nutrition and health from veterinarians and training techniques from professional dog obedience trainers. We would now like to share our knowledge with dog lovers everywhere.”



Whether it is a Shih Tzu, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Dachshund, Siberian Husky, or any breed of dog www. special-dog. com provides all the answers for everything from puppy toilet training, nutrition for puppies and older dogs to obedience training and grooming. There are also lots of links to other resources containing dog information. The website will also appeal to anyone thinking of adding a dog to their household. It provides valuable resources for choosing the right breed of dog and picking the right dog from the litter.



Here’s just one of the handy tips that dog lovers will find on www. special-dog. com



“An easy and often overlooked form of Shih Tzu training is to simply keep objects that might tempt her out of reach. Whenever she starts gnawing on a forbidden item, remove it immediately and tell her “No, no!” in your most disapproving voice. Then give her an approved chewing object (always keep a variety of safe chewing toys on hand) and praise her when she chews it. She will soon learn to prefer her approved chew toys because they lead to praise instead of scolding.”



Another tip on housebreaking a puppy includes:



“When learning how to housebreak a puppy you should encourage your puppy to use a specific area. Initial ’paper training’ will only give you an extra lesson to teach them later. They may also develop a habit of peeing on any newspaper!



“A good, healthy, regular diet means that your puppy should need to “go” at roughly the same time each day, usually just after they have eaten. Remember your puppy needs to urinate at shorter intervals. “



The website also offers suggestions on what to do with a dog that pulls on its lead when someone, or another dog, approaches.



“A dog who is highly excited needs calm, slow handling. A common mistake owners make is to move quickly, grabbing at the leash and collar.”



For anyone that has ever taken a dog for a walk, they will understand just how valuable this advice can be.



Dog lovers who visit www. special-dog. com can also sign up for a free regular newsletter and receive even more handy hints on training, health, grooming and nutrition for their dog.



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Global Clinical Chemistry Analyzers and Reagents Market to Reach $5.7 Billion by 2012, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts

Global Clinical Chemistry Analyzers and Reagents Market to Reach $5.7 Billion by 2012, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts



Socio-economic improvements and demographic shifts resulting from aging population are expected to lead to a surge in diagnostic testing. Driven by technological improvements and increasing emphasis on improving efficiency aided by envisaged investments in laboratory scientific equipment, global market for clinical chemistry analyzers and reagents is forecast to reach $5.7 billion by 2012.



San Jose, CA (PRWEB) November 5, 2008



Developments in clinical diagnostics market have historically been technology driven, powered by innovations in detection technologies, introduction of computerized systems and unearthing of new biochemical markers that have enabled laboratories to produce high-volume test results. Clinical chemistry analyzers market continues to focus on technological enhancements to combat the pressure for simplifying workflow, enhancing quality and accuracy through introduction of automated and user-friendly systems. Automated analyzers are gaining ground in the market for clinical chemistry analyzers. Europe and United States account for more than 71% of the global Clinical Chemistry Analyzers and Reagents market (http://www. strategyr. com/Clinical_Chemistry_Analyzers_and_Reagents_Market_Report. asp), as stated by the recent report published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. Asia-Pacific is projected to register the fastest CAGR of 3.6% for the period 2011-2015. There is a growing demand for equipments facilitating on the spot assessment of various tests being conducted. Sophisticated and higher capacity analyzers, which can combat workload pressures due to increased testing volumes will score the maximum gains in the marketplace.



Global sales of clinical chemistry analyzers and reagents remain heavily skewed towards clinical chemistry reagents (http://www. strategyr. com/Clinical_Chemistry_Analyzers_and_Reagents_Market_Report. asp), which account for nearly two-thirds of the market's overall value estimated in 2008. The market is expected to benefit from the educated patient group, who proactively request tests, especially high-end tests for early diagnosis and better disease management. Although the market for clinical chemistry analyzers in developed nations is highly mature, growth mainly stems from low volume clinical chemistry analyzers that are mostly addressed to alternate site. In the United States, clinical chemistry analyzers market (http://www. strategyr. com/Clinical_Chemistry_Analyzers_and_Reagents_Market_Report. asp) is expected to reach US$700 million by 2012. In Europe, Germany and France account for 38% of the total clinical chemistry analyzers and reagents market.



Market for clinical laboratory instruments confronts challenges such as measuring up to latest technological developments, the commodity status of commonly ordered tests, and reimbursement limitations. To remain competitive and cost-effective many clinical laboratories tie up with diagnostic manufacturers over reagent rental contracts.

Key players profiled in the study include Abbott Laboratories, Alfa Wassermann Inc., Beckman Coulter Inc, Cholestech Corporation, Hemagen Diagnostics Inc., Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Olympus America, Roche Diagnostics, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc, Sigma-Aldrich, and Sysmex Corporation, among others. Dominant players in the clinical laboratory analyzer market in the United States include Abbott Diagnostics, Roche Diagnostics, and Beckman Coulter.



The report, titled "Clinical Chemistry Analyzers and Reagents: A Global Strategic Business Report" published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., covers major market dynamics, trends, issues, and competition pertaining to the market. The report traces key trends in the industry including increasing lab automation and development of integrated systems. Product segments covered include: Analyzers (Large Volume Clinical Chemistry, Medium Sized Clinical Chemistry, and Small Sized Clinical Chemistry), and Reagents (Metabolite Chemistry Reagents, Enzyme Chemistry Reagents, Electrolyte Chemistry Reagents, and Other Chemistry Reagents) The report enumerates recent product launches, developments, mergers, acquisitions and other strategic industry activities. Analysis is presented for established and emerging markets including United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.



For more details of this research report please visit http://www. strategyr. com/Clinical_Chemistry_Analyzers_and_Reagents_Market_Report. asp (http://www. strategyr. com/Clinical_Chemistry_Analyzers_and_Reagents_Market_Report. asp)



About Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (GIA) (http://www. StrategyR. com/) is a reputed publisher of off-the-shelf market research. Founded in 1987, the company is globally recognized as one of the world's largest market research publishers. The company employs over 700 people worldwide and publishes more than 880 full-scale research reports each year. Additionally, the company also offers a range of over 60,000 smaller research products including company reports, market trend reports, and industry reports encompassing all major industries worldwide.



Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Telephone 408-528-9966

Fax 408-528-9977

Email press @ StrategyR. com

Web Site http://www. StrategyR. com/ (http://www. StrategyR. com/)



###

Aspen Dental Opens New Office in Germantown

Aspen Dental Opens New Office in Germantown



New Location to Provide Affordable, Full-Service Denture and Dental Care



Syracuse, NY (PRWEB) February 18, 2010



Aspen Dental (www. aspendent. com), a leading provider of denture and dental services, will celebrate the grand opening of its Germantown, Wisconsin office on Thursday, March 4. The office, located at W. 183 N. 9609 Appleton Avenue, will provide patients with high-quality denture and dental care and offer a wide range of affordable payment plan options. The opening marks Aspen Dental’s 11th practice in Wisconsin.



Poor oral health has been linked to overall health issues including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Yet patients very often assume that their oral health is in good standing as long as they’re pain-free, so they don’t see twice-yearly dental exams as a priority. Aspen Dental focuses on providing comprehensive care, which means not only addressing any immediate problems that may be causing pain, but also recommending treatment for long-lasting good health.



Patients can learn more about what to expect during their first visit to Aspen Dental at www. aspendent. com/appointment. first. visit. html (http://www. aspendent. com/appointment. first. visit. html).



Overview of Services Provided at Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental will provide patients with a full range of denture and dental services, including hygiene, oral surgery, fillings, whitening and crown and bridge work. Aspen Dental is the only authorized provider of eight styles of full and partial hand-crafted ComfiDents® brand dentures. As an added convenience to denture patients, the Germantown office will have its own on-site denture laboratory, which ensures same-day turnaround for select new dentures, denture repairs, relines or adjustments.



The office, which will employ about eight to 10 staff members, will feature state-of-the-art Kodak Dental Systems digital radiography products to better diagnose, serve and treat patients. The new office will also provide patients with Vizilite Plus®, the most advanced technology in oral cancer screening. Vizilite Plus® uses a blue-light, “glowstick” technology that detects oral cancer at its earliest stage.



Aspen Dental offers free new-patient exams, special pricing on x-rays for new patients without insurance, special pricing on dental and denture services for all patients, and senior discounts.



The office will be open extended hours, including select Saturdays, and will work with all insurance providers. Walk-in patients and emergencies are welcome.



To make an appointment, call 262-677-3700. As an added convenience, patients can visit www. aspendent. com and click "Make an Appointment" to schedule online.



About Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental, one of the largest and fastest-growing providers of denture and dental care services in the U. S., is committed to providing patients with affordable, high-quality care.



Aspen Dental has grown from 13 offices and three states in 1998 to more than 225 locations in 19 states. More than 350 licensed dentists and 200 dental hygienists work with Aspen Dental throughout Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.



In 2009, Aspen Dental recorded more than 1.5 million patient visits, including visits from more than 340,000 new patients.



Aspen Dental meets the demand for high-quality, yet affordable denture and dental services by offering convenient locations, extended hours, affordable fees and a wide range of payment plan options. The company works with all insurance plans.



For more information about Aspen Dental and the services it provides, please visit www. aspendent. com.



# # #

FrogPad shows The Best Wearable Keyboard at MacWorld

FrogPad shows The Best Wearable Keyboard at MacWorld



IDG Predicts that the Military will purchase 1.4 Million Wearable Computers in 2008. FrogPad is one of the best solutions for Wearable Keyboards. FrogPad, an innovator in data entry methods for mobile computing, is capturing the hearts, minds and digits of the growing corporate technology market with the introduction of fthe wearable keyboard Announced just this week at MacWorld, FrogPad's latest entry in the mobile data entry market is a Bluetooth enabled, wearable keyboard.



San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) January 17, 2008



With customers in countries around the world including Japan, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia, U. K., Canada, the United States, and the most recent new distributor in Turkey, IntraTurkNetwork. com; FrogPad is quickly becoming the wearable interface choice for keyboarders around the world. Today there are four form factors of the patented-FrogPad data entry interface: the FrogPad standard keyboard, the Bluetooth-enabled iFrog, all which can be wearable.



FrogPad products can be purchased online at www. frogpad. com or through its new international distribution partner Scan. co. uk which manages all of its direct web-based distribution. FrogPad is well positioned to be the data interface of choice for the projected market of $19 billion portable wireless Internet devices predicted in the next four years.



Founder and FrogPad President Linda Marroquin likens the introduction of the FrogPad to the market changing launches of the Laptop or the PDA, "The standard QWERTY keyboard in use today was designed for a different time when mobile computing devices were only a glimmer in the eyes of their developers; and the continual evolution and miniaturization of mobile technology devices are driving the need for a new kind of data entry device. We believe the patented FrogPad product platform is the solution."



FrogPad is positioned to bound into the expanding technology gaming market with the introduction of the XFrog for gaming devices. The 2008 FrogPad product roadmap also includes new versions of the wearable FrogPad for the military market along with various educational applications.



Current applications for the wearable Frog include industries with needs for easy data entry from a field application such as shipping logistics, healthcare patient care, and remote field operations such as on-site drilling for the Oil & Gas industry. FrogPad is an innovator in one-handed data entry methods for mobile computing devices. The wearable Frog is the latest addition to the FrogPad product line which includes the iFrog BlueTooth™ FrogPad, the original FrogPad with two versions for left and right-handed users, and the slimmer white FrogPad.



To schedule an appointment with the FrogPad team at MacWorld, contact Linda Marroquin at 713-377 2107. FrogPad will be in the West hall at MacWorld, W 4454 For more information, visit www. frogpad. com.



Global Availability

FrogPad products are available for distribution through its offices and global partners in the US, Canada, the UK and all of Western Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Availability in Singapore will soon follow. To order from anywhere in the world, go to www. frogpad. com or call (US) 713-529-4474.



About FrogPad:

Houston-based FrogPad is a private company delivering its products through global partners. The wearable Frog is a fabric one-handed keyboard that is 1/5th the size of traditional keyboards yet easier to use, as it offers a logical key layout and design that encourages correct ergonomic posture. For more information, see: www. frogpad. com.



# # #

Cash in on a Winning Smile in Coast Dental’s Photo Contest.$4400 in Prizes to be Awarded October 1 in Celebration of World Smile Day

Cash in on a Winning Smile in Coast Dental’s Photo Contest.$4400 in Prizes to be Awarded October 1 in Celebration of World Smile Day



Coast Dental will award $4400 in prizes in the Winning Smile photo contest launched last week on Facebook. Fans can submit a photo of their smile at http://bit. ly/aqVXRj for the chance to win the grand prize, a $1000 American Express gift card. An additional 24 prizes will be awarded, including American Express gift cards and InteliSonic® power toothbrushes from DentistRx. The contest runs through September 29. Winners will be announced on Facebook on World Smile Day®, October 1.



Tampa, FL (Vocus) September 13, 2010 —



Coast Dental will award $4400 in prizes in the Winning Smile photo contest launced last week on Facebook. Fans can submit a photo of their smile at http://bit. ly/aqVXRj for the chance to win the grand prize, a $1000 American Express gift card. An additional 24 prizes will be awarded, including American Express gift cards and InteliSonic® power toothbrushes from DentistRx®. The contest runs through September 29. Winners will be announced on Facebook on World Smile Day®, October 1.



World Smile Day is an annual event that encourages everyone to do an act of kindness and make a person smile, Coast Dental wants to make people smile by sponsoring $4400 in prizes and encouraging contestants to showcase beautiful and healthy smiles. To enter your smile, visit http://bit. ly/aqVXRj and upload a photo. Finalists will be selected by popular vote on the Coast Dental Facebook fan page through September 29. The winning smiles will be chosen by a panel of Coast Dental dentists and unveiled on World Smile Day, October 1.



The $1000 grand prize will be awarded as an American Express gift card. Additional winners will receive American Express gift cards valued from $100 - $750 and InteliSonic® power toothbrushes from DentistRx. Complete contest rules and details are available on Facebook.



According to Coast Dental’s Vice President of Marketing Lauren Key, “World Smile Day gives Coast Dental an opportunity to reward people who have a great smile and remind everyone how important it is to protect their smile with regular dental checkups.”



About Coast Dental

Coast Dental is the Southeast’s leading provider of quality dental care with 120 affiliated dental practices in Florida and Georgia. The dentists and hygienists are employees or independent contractors of Coast Dental, P. A., Coast Florida, P. A., or Coast Dental of Georgia, P. C. Coast Dental Services Inc. is a management company that provides comprehensive, non-clinical business and administrative services to its affiliated dental practices. For more information, visit http://www. CoastDental. com.



About World Smile Day

World Smile Day® was launched in Worcester, Massachusetts by Harvey Ball, the individual credited with creating the iconic smiley face in 1963. Since its inception in 1999, World Smile Day has been celebrated on the first Friday of October. The basis of the celebration is simple, “Do an act of kindness. Make one person smile!” Following Ball’s death in 2001, the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation was created to honor his memory. The Foundation continues as the official sponsor of World Smile Day. For more information visit http://www. worldsmileday. com.



World Smile Day is a registered trademark of the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation. InteliSonic is a registered trademark of DentistRx.



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Foundation to Receive MLK Leadership Award for Service

Foundation to Receive MLK Leadership Award for Service



The Chauncey H. Robinson will receive award for community service.



Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) January 16, 2006



The Rollins School of Public Health and the Goizuetta School of Business at Emory University will present the 2006 Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award to the Chauncey H. Robinson Youth Foundation on Thursday, January 19, 2006. For over ten years, the Rollins School of Public has honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Awards Program.



This year's program, as in past years is sponsored by the Rollins School of Public Health and the Goizueta Business School at Emory University and our theme is "Illuminating Vulnerabilities in the Midst of the Storm: Social Justice Issues and Service Opportunities Arising out of Natural Disasters." The event will take place on Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 4:00 p. m. in the auditorium of the Goizueta Business School with a reception and an art sale immediately following the program.



This year's program is dedicated to Mrs. Rosa Parks. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Robert Michael Franklin Jr., Presidential Distinguished Professor of Social Ethics, Candler School of Theology, Emory University.



The Chauncey H. Robinson Youth Foundation is a philanthropic and program oriented organization whose mission is to fund and further the development of present programs that serve inner city youth in the areas of health, education, and the arts. The foundation is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 c-3, non-profit organization.



For more information visit the Chauncey H. Robinson Youth Foundation at www. chryf. org.



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Healthy Immune Systems: Understanding How the Immune System Works

Healthy Immune Systems: Understanding How the Immune System Works



Vision. org health article outlines how to build a healthy immune system (even when pandemic threats cease)



Pasadena, CA (PRWEB) September 21, 2010



Although current health news articles report that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the end of the H1N1 swine flu pandemic in August 2010, health experts warn that we must not become complacent. Nor should we unnecessarily fear all viruses if we have healthy immune systems, says Regina Meyer in “The Immune System: Nothing to Sneeze At,” (http://www. vision. org/visionmedia/life-and-health/healthy-immune-system/21825.aspx) one of the current health news articles available at www. Vision. org.



The latest death toll for the H1N1 pandemic is pegged at just under 19,000, which falls dramatically short of the millions of deaths predicted. The head of WHO attributed this to a result of good preparation and good fortune as the swine flu virus did not mutate.



Meyers asserts that maintaining a healthy immune system is a key to maintaining good health. “Bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are a fact of life. They are not to be feared as long as they stay in check. It is when an unbalance occurs that humans are affected in a negative way.”



While health articles often tell us we need to rebuild immune systems, they fall short of telling us how the immune system works, much less how to build immune systems that will reduce “the odds of being affected negatively by cold and flu germs, and build a strong defense against chronic diseases,” writes Meyer at Vision. org.



Meyer describes how the immune system works and outlines four ways to build a healthy system. “The key to a healthy immune system lies in making wise choices,” say Meyer. If we fail to build immune systems that are healthy, “the end result will be a compromised immune system that cannot come to our rescue when a germ takes hold.”



This valuable information comes at a good time to build immune systems that can withstand viruses like swine and bird flu. “The Immune System: Nothing to Sneeze At,” a guide to how the immune system works and how to build a healthy immune system, can be found at http://www. vision. org/visionmedia/life-and-health/healthy-immune-system/21825.aspx (http://www. vision. org/visionmedia/life-and-health/healthy-immune-system/21825.aspx)



For more current health news articles (http://www. vision. org/visionmedia/overview. aspx? id=98) visit http://www. vision. org (http://www. vision. org)



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Tina Allen and her Liddle Kidz™ Foundation's North American "Touch Tour" are Proving that What Our Kids Need Most is Touch

Tina Allen and her Liddle Kidz™ Foundation's North American "Touch Tour" are Proving that What Our Kids Need Most is Touch



After travelling more than 3,500 miles and visiting fifteen different cities throughout the Pacific Seaboard, the Rocky Mountain West, the Midwestern region and Western Canada, the Liddle Kidz Foundation will be arriving in Delaware at the half point of their innovative and certainly most auspicious 2008-2009 Liddle Kidz Educational North American "Touch Tour" - the first infant and pediatric massage tour in the nation. In a continued effort to make the 2008 Liddle Kidz "Touch Tour" the most inclusive and engaging in history, Liddle Kidz Founder Tina Allen, and Delaware's very own Patty Draper, Founder of September Mornings, have rolled out a series of official events open to parents and professionals in the Wilmington, Delaware area.



Wilmington, DE (PRWEB) July 18, 2008



After travelling more than 3,500 miles and visiting fifteen different cities throughout the Pacific Seaboard, the Rocky Mountain West, the Midwestern region and Western Canada, the Liddle Kidz Foundation will be arriving in Delaware at the half point of their innovative and certainly most auspicious 2008-2009 Liddle Kidz Educational North American "Touch Tour" - the first infant and pediatric massage tour in the nation. In a continued effort to make the 2008 Liddle Kidz "Touch Tour" the most inclusive and engaging in history, Liddle Kidz Founder Tina Allen, and Delaware's very own Patty Draper, Founder of September Mornings, have rolled out a series of official events open to parents and professionals in the Wilmington, Delaware area.



From the beginning, Tina Allen with her Liddle Kidz Foundation (LKF) has been a woman on a mission. With each infant and Pediatric Massage (http://www. liddlekidz. com/pediatric-massage. html) educational offering the petit visionary has endeavored to create an experience of lasting worth and substance for her students. At various points in her career, she has not only worked with and treated those of all ages from the adult non-ambulatory to the terminally ill and the frail elderly, but also hospitalized infants and children. Allen has chosen children around the world, arguably the most important to focus her work on - although success in her own mind is purely conditional on the caliber of the Foundations work. "We have no interest in being the largest educational training organization of our kind if we aren't the best. That's the only way being the biggest would mean anything", says Allen.



Ultimately, what's set LKF apart is the visionary passion of the Founder and the organization's contemporary and modern brand of educational trainings, which mixes the latest information based on up to date research and tried and true methods based on Allen's own experience within hospital and healthcare settings, or working directly with parents themselves. These educational sessions also offer a comprehensive and information packed segment on modern marketing which will enable students to succeed in their new ventures.



LKF is managing to become a world wide educational phenomenon without sacrificing credibility.



"In an industry where you're trying to create a new mold, you have to adopt a do-it-yourself work ethos if you want to succeed", says Allen. "Travelling around the globe teaching isn't for everyone, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I guess I like to romanticize the impact of education and the benefits that my students can have on those around the world. Although, I am a realist and I know I can't do it on my own - it does take a village of caring people doing their part to make a difference."



Details on each special activity and event in the Delaware area are provided below. While these events are open to the public, registration for the educational trainings is required. Additional information is posted on the Liddle Kidz Foundation (http://www. liddlekidz. com) website.



Event Information:



August 15 - 17, 2008

Certified Infant Massage Teacher Training

Venue: Exceptional Care for Children | Wilmington, DE

Times: 10am - 6pm each day



August 20, 2008

Special Presentations on Pediatric Massage Therapy by Liddle Kidz Foundation's Tina Allen

Venue: Delaware's Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS)

Times: 2 special sessions | Healthcare Professional Session 10 am - 12:30 pm &

Parent Session 6 pm - 8 pm



August 23 - 24, 2008

Certified Infant Massage Teacher Training (http://www. liddlekidz. com/infant-massage-certification. html)

Venue: The Mary Campbell Center | Wilmington, DE

Times: 10 am - 6pm each day



About Tina Allen (http://www. liddlekidz. com/about-tina-allen)

With over a decade of service to children and families, Tina Allen, founder of leading children's health and nurturing touch organization Liddle Kidz Foundation, has become an internationally respected educator and expert in the field of Infant Massage (http://www. liddlekidz. com/infant-massage-instruction. html) and children's massage therapy. She is a Certified Pediatric Massage Master Teacher, Developmental Baby Massage Teacher and a Licensed Massage Therapist with specialized training in providing massage therapy for children with special healthcare needs. Tina's innovative approach to children's health has allowed her the unique opportunity to educate families and professionals in the many benefits of nurturing and compassionate touch.



About Liddle Kidz

Since its inception, the goal of the Liddle Kidz Foundation has been to empower families and professionals to provide nurturing touch: building stronger, more loving bonds with children. Liddle Kidz provides training, education and support for families and professionals, giving them the tools necessary to ensure the safe, professional practice of nurturing touch and developmental movement with infants and children. At Liddle Kidz it is our true it is our true belief that children are our greatest gift and should be treated with extraordinary care!



About the Touch Tour series:

The North American Touch Tour is a traveling infant and pediatric massage series of presentations, workshops and educational opportunities for families and professionals sponsored by the Liddle Kidz Foundation. The Tour Series launched in Los Angeles in March and has scheduled appearances in San Francisco, Vancouver, Seattle, Boise, Boulder, Omaha, Des Moines, Madison, Milwaukee, Delaware, New York, Manchester, Ottawa, Toronto, Grand Rapids and Calgary, continues through the Midwest and West Coast, before taking a tour break to provide educational workshops in Thailand and Turkey.



About September Mornings

September mornings are very special times in a child's life -- No matter what circumstances or challenges lay in front of a child, we provide a safe and comforting environment so each child may feel valued and is given the opportunity to reconnect with themselves, as well as with those around them ~ all nurtured by people who touch their lives. September Mornings provides a unique blend of massage therapy services for children who are living with special needs or may be battling the challenges that accompany chronic illness. Services include individualized massage therapy programs developed by licensed practitioners who are specialized in training to work with your child's special needs, as well as providing educational support for families, caregivers and healthcare providers alike. September Mornings also provides relaxation and therapeutic massage services to those individuals who wish to support our Mission in touching the lives of those children who we deeply and passionately serve.



Media Contacts:

Liddle Kidz Foundation

Kristina Leone, Program Coordinator

Asst2tinaallen @ liddlekidz. com

818-209-1918



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The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Discovers the Role of Progesterone and Pre-Term Labor

The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Discovers the Role of Progesterone and Pre-Term Labor



Progesterone has been used successfully to push back labor and scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have new evidence that the hormone may indeed modulate the fetal inflammatory response that is implicated in pre-term labor.



Manhasset, NY (Vocus) August 28, 2009



Each year, about 12 percent of pregnant women in the United States give birth before they complete their 37th week of gestation. Prematurity can result in health risks for both the newborn and the mother. Scientists have been trying to figure out what causes pre-term labor and identify ways to prevent it. Progesterone has been used successfully to push back labor and scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have new evidence that the hormone may indeed modulate the fetal inflammatory response that is implicated in pre-term labor.



Working with Christine Metz, PhD, Head of the Laboratory of Medicinal Biochemistry, Nadav Schwartz, MD, decided to test whether progesterone directly suppressed pre-term labor and if so, how. It has long been known that infections can trigger pre-term labor, and it is the hypothesis that wayward inflammatory responses to bacterial infections provoke an early delivery. Maybe, they thought, progesterone suppresses the fetal inflammatory response.



While it is impossible to separate the fetal compartment from the maternal environment, the Feinstein researchers turned to fresh cord blood donated by mothers following the birth of their babies at North Shore Hospital. The hospital participates in the National Cord Blood Program but cord blood specimens that are too small are immediately slated for research. The Tissue Donation Program is part of the North Shore-LIJ Health System that collects cord blood samples following delivery.



In the latest study, they cull fetal cells from the cord blood and stimulate the cells with an infectious agent called LPS. This is a bacterial product used commonly in research to stimulate an inflammatory response. To test the power of progesterone in regulating this inflammatory response, they pre-treated the fetal cells with progesterone and measured whether there was a reduction in cytokine production. Cytokines are inflammatory factors released by the immune system. They measured two common cytokines, TNF (tumor necrosis factor) and IL-6 (Interleukin-6) implicated in pre-term labor. Progesterone reduced the inflammatory cytokines by 40 to 60 percent.



If this is taking place in the fetal environment, it could mean that progesterone treatment suppresses inflammation and prevents pre-term labor. The study was published recently in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.



They also figured out how progesterone works to protect the fetal environment and stave off an early birth. The process seems to be mediated by a reduction of cyclic AMP production, and progesterone actually increases cyclic AMP. These findings support the use of anti-inflammatory therapies that protect the breakdown of cyclic AMP to prevent pre-term labor induced by infections.



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Dr. Alan Gettis, author of "Seven Times Down Eight Times Up" Joins the Staff of WeightLossBuddy. com

Dr. Alan Gettis, author of "Seven Times Down Eight Times Up" Joins the Staff of WeightLossBuddy. com



Dr. Alan Gettis, of River Edge NJ who holds degrees in both Nutrition, and Psychology adds his formidable skills to the Weightlossbuddy. com Team of Experts



(PRWEB) September 15, 2004



Dr. Alan Gettis, author of the popular book “Seven Times Down, Eight Times Up,” has joined the online panel of nutrition, fitness and health experts of WeightLossBuddy. com, a new dieting/exercise site that not only helps people lose weight but also helps them keep it off for good.



Dr. Alan Gettis is a nutritionist and clinical psychologist. He holds degrees from four different universities, including a Ph. D. in clinical psychology and an M. S. from The Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.



For the past 30 years he has maintained a private practice in northern New Jersey



“WeightLossBuddy. com is not a diet program,” says Gettis, one of a dozen WeightLossBuddy. com experts available for consultation. “It’s not an exercise program. It’s a support system that does what no other program does: It pairs you with another Weight Loss Buddy, either online or in real life, who provides you with emotional support 24/7. You drop weight, and you learn to drop that chocolate chip cookie before you even think about taking that first bite.”



“Studies have shown that people who exercise together and diet together are much more successful at losing weight than those who go it alone,” Gettis says. “That’s why WeightLossBuddy. com works.”



Gettis’ “Seven Times Down, Eight Times Up”” ($17.95 paperback) which is available through WeightLossBuddy. com, teaches through the art of story, the indefatigable nature of human spirit.



By logging onto WeightLossBuddy. com, Gettis says, “people learn to change their bad habits, and everyone wins because everyone loses.”



In addition to pairing people with weight-loss/exercise partners, WeightLossBuddy. com, which was established in 2004, offers information on nutrition, health, self-esteem, stress reduction as well as motivational newsletters, healthy, appetizing recipes and success stories from members. And itÂ’s all free. All visitors have to do is sign up on WeightLossBuddy. com.



Visitors also have access to free excerpts on activities designed to make permanent lifestyle changes easier from “The Weight Loss Buddy® 12-Week Challenge Activity Book,” as well as excerpts of ideas from another WeightLossBuddy. com exclusive paperback book, “50 Weight Loss Tips and Tricks.” They are available only through WeightLossBuddy. com.



WeightLossBuddy. com also offers a 12-week Challenge program of exercise, nutrition and behavior modification that is geared toward groups of people who want to change their lives by using the Weight Loss Buddy system.



For more information on the Weight Loss Buddy program, go to WeightLossBuddy. com.



Press Contact:



Joey Dweck



(877) BUDDYUP (283-3987)



Http://www. weightlossbuddy. com (http://www. weightlossbuddy. com)

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Surgeon Suspended by General Medical Council After Breast Operations Leave Patients With ‘Horrific’ Wounds

Surgeon Suspended by General Medical Council After Breast Operations Leave Patients With ‘Horrific’ Wounds



A breast surgeon, who committed a series of operating blunders, leaving his patients with horrific wounds and permanent scars, has been suspended by the General Medical Council. (GMC)



(PRWEB) November 24, 2005



A breast surgeon, who committed a series of operating blunders, leaving his patients with horrific wounds and permanent scars, has been suspended by the General Medical Council (GMC).



Mr Brian Gwynn, who carried out surgery at Rowley Hall Hospital and Staffordshire General Hospital, both in Stafford, was ordered to appear before the GMC’s Interim Orders Panel (IOP), which has now imposed an 18-month ban on him carrying out breast surgery in any NHS or private practise.



Mr Gwynn’s blunders first came to light when Tracy Todd, a 39 year-old supermarket assistant and mother of three from Cannock, Staffordshire, sued the surgeon after her breast reduction operation left her with ‘horrific’ wounds, putting her health at risk with infections, and leaving her with misshapen breasts of different sizes.



Mrs Todd paid £3,000 to have a breast reduction on 25 September 2002 at Rowley Hall Hospital in Stafford. Over the following weeks, Mrs Todd’s wounds became more painful and she started to leak large amounts of blood. After two weeks several holes opened up on one breast. Mrs Todd was advised that this was not unusual and that she should simply take painkillers and dress the wounds.



Mrs Todd said: “The blood was pouring out of me so that when I walked along the street I looked as though I had been stabbed. At one point I was in so much pain I could have cut my left breast off.”



Mrs Todd had been left so badly injured that she was referred to an NHS plastic surgeon. She was diagnosed with staphylococcus aureus and beta haemolytic streptococcus group B, a flesh eating disorder.



On 8 November 2002, a plastic surgeon at the North Staffordshire Hospital in Stoke on Trent planned a 10-minute operation to clean up the infected breast but the wounds were discovered to be so badly infected that the operation actually took three hours and Mrs Todd remained in hospital for 11 days.



She subsequently underwent further corrective surgery to restore symmetry and reduce the scarring on 28 March 2003. Mrs Todd sued Mr Gwynn for clinical negligence and the case was settled for a substantial undisclosed sum in April 2005.



Mrs Todd’s solicitor, Ally Taft, from the Birmingham office of national law firm Irwin Mitchell, explains: “As a direct result of the initial publicity surrounding Tracy’s case back in March 2003, I was contacted by a further five women, all of whom had suffered very poor outcomes following operations performed by Mr Gwynn.



“Such was the extent of their injuries - and my concern that these five women were only the tip of the iceberg - that I took the decision to report Mr Gwynn’s practices to the GMC’s Fitness to Practice Directorate. Its investigations are ongoing and there has been no finding against Mr Gwynn as yet, but the seriousness of these cases has prompted the GMC to impose the Interim Order, effectively banning Mr Gwynn from performing any breast surgery.



“This is good news as it means that while the GMC is deliberating the future of Mr Gwynn’s fitness to practice surgery, members of the public are currently protected from him.”



She added: ”All of my clients have suffered terribly but Tracy’s case was particularly horrendous. Tracy has worked hard to bring her concerns regarding Mr Gwynn’s practices to the public’s attention and she has finally achieved what she set out to do, which was to protect other people from going through what she endured.”



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