Celebrity big brother 2014: October 2008

Columbus Chamber Sees Region Gaining Awareness Among CEOs Nationwide

Chamber of Commerce emphasizes need for continued collaboration to tell Columbus story.

Columbus, OH (PRWEB) February 25, 2009

Four years ago nearly 60 percent of business executives nationwide had no image of Columbus, OH. Now, with less than 40 percent in that category, 60 percent of executives do know enough about Columbus to consider the city as a location for economic growth and development (http://www. columbus. org/economic-development/), according to a recent survey conducted by the Columbus Chamber of commerce (http://www. columbus. org/).

The survey of business executives shows progress in growing awareness of Columbus. "Our community is now on the radar of more business executives, thanks to our region's collaborative marketing efforts," said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber (http://www. columbus. org/). More than 400 local and national business executives participated in the survey of their perceptions of Columbus as a site to do business. Results were shared at the Chamber's Annual Meeting today.

Nearly 90 percent of Columbus-based executives rate Columbus positively as a place to do business. Top reasons including quality of life, accessible location, higher education, infrastructure, and a can-do attitude among community leaders.

In 2005 the Columbus Chamber launched a strategy that promotes the Central Ohio region to business decision-makers through the support of more than 20 public sector economic development partners. Since that time the Chamber and its partners have marketed the area to this targeted audience as the "Columbus region.

"In addition to the Chamber, a number of organizations are marketing Columbus. We've made progress but this is no time to slow down the momentum," warned Marsh. "These results demonstrate the strength of coordination. We have a tremendous opportunity to raise our voice, together."

An effort coordinated by Mayor Coleman's 2012 Image and Marketing committee and CompeteColumbus, brought together constituencies who represent business, visitors, the arts and higher education communities, and the city to create messages about Columbus, applicable for all organizations. Details will be shared later this year.

In addition, the Columbus Chamber encourages businesses professionals to post their story on the Chamber's blog at http://blog. columbus. org (http://blog. columbus. org) or www. columbus. org/tellyourstory (http://www. columbus. org/tellyourstory).

About the Columbus Chamber:

Led by a 35-member board of directors (http://www. columbus. org/about-the-chamber/board-of-directors. php) composed of the region's business elite, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce has more than 2,500 members. They include Fortune 500 giants Cardinal Health, Nationwide, Limited Brands, American Electric Power and Big Lots, the headquarters of Battelle (the world's largest private research institution) as well as hundreds of the region's most innovative and entrepreneurial small businesses. The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community. Learn more at www. columbus. org/ (http://www. columbus. org/).

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LearnCDHC Bridges Education Gap on Consumer Directed Healthcare : Interactive Web resource engages and educates consumers about consumer-directed healthcare

LearnCDHC, a Web-based resource designed to engage and educate viewers about consumer-directed healthcare (CDHC) options including Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), has partnered with sister company, Axcept Media, to offer enterprise level services in concert with its existing direct-to-broker and small to midsize business model.

MINNEAPOLIS (PRWEB) October 6, 2008

The number of consumers seeking health coverage through HSAs is growing at a significant pace. Coverage has grown from 438,000 lives when HSAs were introduced in 2004, to 6.1 million lives as of January 2008.

Despite these numbers, studies show that consumers don't quite understand their health insurance, much less consumer-directed healthcare options. A recent J. D. Power and Associates study revealed that health insurance plan holders rate their insurer lowest when it comes to information and communication needed to understand their plan.

"A lot of CDHC resources out there put the cart before the horse, assuming an informed healthcare consumer," says Korey Erb, CEO of LearnCDHC. "However, our conversations with insurance brokers and consumers revealed that few people fully comprehend what consumer-directed healthcare is, how it works and how it differs from traditional medical plans."

LearnCDHC was created to address these issues. The subscription-based platform, designed for insurance brokers and small to midsized companies, contains interactive presentations explaining the three types of CDHC plans, as well as a customizable backend that brokers can use to communicate with clients and their employees. For enterprise level clients using these resources, such as Bank of America, unique presentations coupled with a custom back-end can easily and affordably be implemented.

"LearnCDHC engages, educates and motivates employees about consumer-directed healthcare," said McKaela Grasmick, director of marketing and sales with LearnCDHC. "Studies show that individuals learn more and retain more information by hearing, seeing and doing, as opposed to just one of these elements, so we've taken the quality of a movie and the interactive elements of a great videogame and combined it with need-to-know information."

LearnCDHC is a valuable resource that saves time and money for brokers and employers. For brokers, it's an ideal place to store documents, files and media specific to their client's particular medical plan, as well as present a variety of information that educates clients and their employees about the benefits of consumer-directed healthcare. It is also an effective sales and marketing tool; LearnCDHC's customization features allow brokers to provide unique messages and data to current clients and send sample links to prospects.

"We believe an educated healthcare consumer is a wise healthcare consumer," says Grasmick. "Healthcare costs are skyrocketing, and whereas this resource is not advocating for greater acceptance of CDHC, it's empowering the consumer to make a wise decision about healthcare, which could ultimately lead to reduced out-of-pocket medical expenses."

For more information about LearnCDHC, please visit www. learncdhc. com, e-mail CDHCsales@learncdhc. com or call 612-435-2260.

About Axcept Media and LearnCDHC

Axcept Media, LLC, a Minneapolis-based interactive marketing and communications company, creates interactive educational tools for Fortune 500 companies, consultants, TPAs, health providers and financial institutions to educate audiences about employee benefits, healthcare and financial services. To provide cost effective consumer-directed healthcare education to the small and midsized market, as well as to the individual broker, Axcept Media created LearnCDHC, which became a sister company in 2007. Tapping into Axcept Media's experience and ownership, LearnCDHC's communication resource and interactive presentation was created. LearnCDHC offers smaller companies and individual brokers the same high level of interactive and Web communication solutions as their larger commercial counterparts, at only a fraction of the high-end commercial price. LearnCDHC exists to assist all employee group sizes and to provide marketing and communications assistance for the individual broker or broker group.

Stop Drinking Poison - How Do You take Your Water? With or Without Arsenic ? Making Safe Water Also Makes for Career Opportunity

Stop Drinking Poison - How Do You take Your Water? With or Without Arsenic? Making Safe Water Also Makes for Career Opportunity

June 13 Las Vegas event to launch sales careers and revolutionary technology: tabletop style pitcher filter that removes Arsenic and toxic heavy metals in drinking water.

(PRWEB) June 8, 2006

Las Vegas Event to Launch Sales Careers and Revolutionary Technology: Tabletop Style Pitcher Essentially Yours Industries, Inc. will introduce Code Blue, the only known tabletop-style pitcher filter that removes arsenic and other toxic metals in drinking water during a 1.5 hour event beginning at 7p. m., June 13 at the Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel at 3400 Paradise Rd. The public and those interested in career opportunity are invited to attend.

According to the World Health Organization, arsenic in drinking water poses the greatest threat to public health. It claims that long-term exposure to arsenic via drinking water causes cancer of the skin, lungs, urinary bladder, and kidney, event in concentrations of less than 0.05 mg/L. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, at least 11 million people in the United States currently drink water contaminated with arsenic at levels of 10 parts per billion.

The Natural Resources Defense Council analyzed data compiled by the EPA on arsenic in drinking water in 25 states. Its most conservative estimates based on the data indicate that more than 34 million Americans drink tap water supplied by systems containing average levels of arsenic that pose unacceptable cancer risks. NRDC considers it likely that as many as 56 million people in those 25 states have been drinking water with arsenic at unsafe levels, and this is taking into consideration that this information is based on the 25 states that reported arsenic information to the EPA.

“Arsenic in drinking water is a serious threat to Americans’ health, which is why I have dedicated so much time finding a viable solution to eliminating it,” said Dr. K. J. Reddy, a respected University of Wyoming researcher and lecturer in water quality and the inventor of the patented ARTI-64 compound, used in the Code Blue water filtration system to reduce arsenic from water. “In addition to arsenic, we made sure the Code Blue system would remove the most toxic heavy metals known, including lead, mercury and nitrates from municipally treated drinking water.”

The system will be unveiled by EYI representatives. It will be sold through distributorships. Interested guests will have the chance to sign up for distributorships following the presentation.

“This is a ground-floor opportunity for people to sell a product that promotes safe drinking water and at the same time, make money,” said Jay Sargeant, president and CEO, Essentially Yours Industries, Inc.

Code Blue is based in Los Angeles. It is distributed by Essentially Yours Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of EYI Industries Inc. EYI is an integrated marketing nutritional supplement company that began in 1995. Today it offers more than 27 products, including 18 dietary supplements with Calorad being its most popular, seven personal care products and a water filtration system.

Other events are planned at the following dates and locations: June13, Tuesday, 7p. m. registration--Las Vegas Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel in The Five Spot Room at 3400 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 733-6533 -- Featured speaker: Jay Sargeant, president and CEO, Essentially Yours Industries, Inc.

June 15, Thursday, registration 7p. m.--Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe, 1600 South 52nd St, (480) 967-6600 -- Featured speaker: Jay Sargeant, president and CEO, Essentially Yours Industries, Inc.

June 27, Tuesday, 7p. m. registration—Marriott Perimeter Center, 246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA (770) 394-6500 -- Featured speaker: Jay Paterson, director of channel marketing, Essentially YoursIndustries, Inc.

June 29, Thursday, 7p. m. registration—Holiday Inn, I-83 & PA Turnpike Exit 242, New Cumberland, PA (717) 774-2721 – Featured speaker: Jay Paterson, director of channel marketing, Essentially Yours Industries, Inc.

September 9, Saturday, 9a. m. registration--Renaissance Waverly, 2450 Galleria Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA (770) 953-4500 – Featured speaker: Jay Sargeant, president and CEO, Essentially Yours Industries, Inc. For more information, please visit www. codebluewater. com or phone 1.866.235.7002

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Automation Technologies and Integrated Systems Fuel Growth in the Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (healthcare. frost. com), U. S. Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets, reveals that the revenues in this industry reached $1.06 billion in 2004 and expects to rise to $1.30 billion by 2011.

Palo Alto, CA (PRWEB) February 3, 2006

Instruments in the clinical laboratory analyzer market are becoming increasingly sophisticated and advanced in response to the mounting needs of diagnostic testing facilities. A number of important trends currently impact the market for clinical laboratory analyzers, particularly the movement toward increased workstation consolidation and more streamlined procedures. By presenting solutions that address some of the most critical issues facing laboratories, new analyzers have gradually been adopted in an effort to cut down on capital costs, reduce maintenance requirements, and boost productivity.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www. healthcare. frost. com (http://www. healthcare. frost. com)), U. S. Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets, reveals that the revenues in this industry reached $1.06 billion in 2004 and expects to rise to $1.30 billion by 2011.

If you are interested in a virtual brochure, which provides manufacturers, end users, and other industry participants with an overview of the latest analysis of the U. S. Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets, then send an e-mail to Melina Trevino - Corporate Communications at melina. trevino@frost. com with the following information: your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail address, city, state, and country. We will send you the information via email upon receipt of the above information.

Clinical laboratory analyzer manufacturers are focusing on generating revenue and sustaining growth by introducing systems that are easy to use, reduce overall laboratory costs, and optimize laboratory procedures. Through a strong commitment to understanding laboratory workflow and testing demands, participants in the U. S. clinical laboratory analyzer market are developing innovative solutions to address growing customer demands and provide increased value to laboratory operations.

“As clinical laboratory testing capabilities become increasingly sophisticated and healthcare institutions continue to recognize greater value in these essential technologies for the improvement of disease management and patient success rates, the rising demand for quick and accurate results will surely inflict greater pressure on clinical laboratory operations,” notes Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst, Silvia Cerqueira.

The clinical laboratory diagnostics market currently faces significant challenges, including increased lab decentralization as testing capabilities move to the point of care (POC) and the constant pressure imposed by healthcare cost containment efforts. More and more hospitals are beginning to realize many valuable added benefits in bringing diagnostic testing to the patient’s bedside, where they can conduct instant analysis, thus reducing the demand for tests performed in centralized laboratories.

“In recent years, increased competition from alternate technologies, such as advanced point of care systems and home testing devices, has begun threatening the market for clinical laboratory analyzers,” explains Cerqueira.

In addition, many healthcare organizations have begun insisting that physicians be able to prove the medical necessity of all diagnostics in an effort to reduce spending. The multitude of tests that were traditionally ordered to provide a fair assessment of a patient’s general health status are now discouraged due to increasing costs. As a result, there has been some decline in the volume of tests ordered, which has correspondingly resulted in a slightly reduced demand for clinical laboratory analyzers.

“Retaining market share in this space in the future will depend on providing solutions that address customer concerns over personnel shortages, higher testing volumes, space constraints, cost pressures, and workflow management,” notes Cerqueira. “With the clinical laboratory analyzer markets experiencing a trend toward testing consolidation, there is an increasing demand for integrated systems with expanded capabilities.”

As a result, manufacturers consistently strive to design smaller, fully automated, and highly sophisticated systems at the lowest possible cost. In the future, the highly anticipated introduction of new and improved instruments promises to continue fueling new product placements and generating demand in this fairly mature market.

U. S. Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets is part of the Clinical Diagnostics subscription and it provides an in-depth look into the following market segments – clinical chemistry, immunoassay, integrated, hematology, hemostasis, and blood gas analyzers. This study also discusses emerging technologies and their impact on the various market sectors. Analyst interviews are available to the press.

Frost & Sullivan, a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services, and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community by providing comprehensive industry coverage that reflects a unique global perspective and combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics. For more information, visit www. frost. com.

U. S. Clinical Laboratory Analyzer Markets

F129-52

Contact:

Melina Trevino

Corporate Communications – North America

P: 210.247.2440

F: 210.348.1003

Radhika Menon Theodore

Corporate Communications - Europe

P: +91 (044) 52044668

Donna Jeremiah

Corporate Communications – Asia Pacific

P: +603 6304 5832

F: +603 6201 7402

Surbhi Dedhia

Corporate Communications – India

P: +91 22 2832 4705 Ext: 131

Www. frost. com

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Kleer Appoints New President and CEO

Wireless Audio Leader Names Steven Humphreys President and CEO

Cupertino, CA (PRWEB) April 10, 2009

Kleer™ today announced the appointment of Steven Humphreys as President, Chief Executive Officer, and member of the Board. Mr. Humphreys succeeds Levent Gun who will continue to serve for several months in a support role to ensure a smooth and orderly business transition. A seasoned high-tech executive and renowned business builder, Steve has proven expertise at leading, growing, and expanding businesses.

"I'm excited to join Kleer," said Steven Humphreys. "The company's unique wireless audio technology is market-proven and its potential for further growth and expansion in both existing and new markets is substantial. Kleer's partners and customers are world leaders in consumer electronics and I look forward to working closely with them to contribute to their ongoing and future success."

Arati Prabhakar, General Partner, USVP noted, "In selecting Steve as Kleer's President and CEO, we were impressed at his proven ability to successfully lead and transition companies to the next level. Kleer is gaining significant traction in the industry and we are seeing strong demand for its unique wireless audio technology. With Steve, the Board believes we have the right team in place necessary for both near and long-term business opportunities."

Prior to joining Kleer, Steve served as Chairman of HeadThere, Inc, a provider of mobile video telepresence robots for assisted living in overseas markets, Chairman of Robotic Innovations International, Inc. (RIII), a developer of technologies for broad-based applications of robotics, service automation and automated monitoring devices, and serves on public and private boards, including ActivIdentity (Nasdaq: ACTI) and SCM Microsystems (Nasdaq: SCMM). Previously, he was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ActivIdentity, a provider of digital identity management software, and continues to serve on ACTI's board. He served as CEO of SCM Microsystems, Inc, from July 1996 through April 2000, Chairman of the Board from 2000-2008, and continues to serve on SCM's Board. In addition, Steve was President of Caere Corporation, an optical character recognition software and systems company, and he also spent ten years at General Electric in a variety of positions. He has served as an advisor or director of MagnaWare, Seven Mountains Software AB, Interwoven, HealthQuick, Dolores Labs and other technology companies, as well as venture firms in the U. S., Asia and Europe. He is active locally, serving as an elected trustee of the Portola Valley school board and other education-related initiatives. He holds a BS degree from Yale University and MS and MBA degrees from Stanford University.

Kleer wireless audio technology -- the KLR3012 module chip -- is a PC Magazine's 25th Annual Technical Excellence Award winner, and Kleer-based products have also earned industry recognition including the CES 2009 Innovations award and European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) 2008 award for the Sennheiser MX W1 true wireless earphones.

"The incredible wireless sound quality in the Sennheiser MX W1 earphones is delivered courtesy of Kleer, a chip designer that has done something remarkable with 2.4-GHz wireless audio transmission," said Jeremy Kaplan, Executive Editor at PC Magazine. "The MX W1 headphones use Kleer's KLR3012 module chip to eliminate any audio compression artifacts. No compression means no loss in quality; Bluetooth can't even come close. Going forward, the KLR3012's uncompressed audio could change the way audiophiles feel about wireless."

In 2009, Kleer will be announcing a broad range of wireless audio products adding to its already impressive customer portfolio.

About Kleer:

Kleer is a fabless semiconductor company that has developed the first wireless audio technology to combine high quality audio and robust ISM band coexistence with low power consumption to address portable, home and automotive audio markets. Unlike Bluetooth, Kleer's patented subsampling radio architecture was designed from the ground up to communicate lossless CD-quality digital stereo audio over a robust 2.4GHz radio link, while achieving 10 times the battery life of a comparable Bluetooth solution. Kleer's Audio LP technology is ideally suited for OEMs of portable audio players, iPod® and other player accessories, home audio/theater systems, earphones, headphones, and speakers. Kleer distributes its products via direct sales in North America, and a distribution channel in the UK, Europe, Korea, and Japan. The Company is headquartered in Cupertino, California with product development facilities in Ottawa, Ontario. For more information, contact the company at 19925 Stevens Creek Blvd. Suite 111, Cupertino, CA, 95014, Tel: 408-973-7255, Fax: 408-973-7256, Email: info (at) kleer. com, or visit the company web site at www. kleer. com

*Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh, iPod and iTunes are trademarks of Apple. All other trademarks, registered trademarks, products and/or services mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

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Livingiseasy. co. uk - Bio Pycnogenol Natural Antioxidant Bioflavanoids Pine Bark Extract

Only recently is science beginning to uncover the reasons why natureÂ’s most amazing antioxidant Pycnogenl is improving millions of lives. The benefits of Pycnogenol extend well beyond fighting free radicals. Taken daily research shows it delivers a whole spectrum of health improvements from a reduced risk of many diseases including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis to improved heart health and circulation, healthier skin and eye health, enhanced immune health, action against inflammation and menstrual disorders and economy class syndrome and facial ageing!

(PRWEB) November 27, 2004

The science:

Pycnogenol has been demonstrated in various studies to be one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. At the University of California Berkeley Dr Lester Packer showed that Pycnogenol is more powerful than Vitamins C & E Â– in fact so powerful that it recycles oxidised (spent) Vitamin C back to the bioactive form and protects Vitamin E from oxidation. Further Dr Benjamin La at the Loma Linda University California discovered that Pycnogenol stimulates production of antioxidant enzymes inside cells thus re-enforcing their own first defence line against free radicals. More staggering Â– research at the University of Tokyo Japan suggests the antioxidant potential of Pycnogenol to be 5 times more potent than grape seed extract, 9 times more potent than Vitamin E and 45 times more potent than CoQ10!

In everyday life our bodies generate free radicals. These chemically unbalanced particles cause damage to our cells by oxidising them in the same way that an apple goes brown when exposed to the air or metal becomes rusty when exposed to air and moisture. Free radicals are dangerous and scientists believe exposure of the body to damaging oxidation is the major cause of ageing and many degenerative diseases. As a super antioxidant Â– Pycnogenol quenches and overcomes the assault of free radicals Â– but it does so much more!

In fact this simple extract could be a major and dramatic step to improving the overall quality of health and life. It has a whole catalogue of positive health benefits Â– proven in clinical studies and as yet more research is published consumers reap the health benefits of this amazing extract by incorporating it into their daily lifestyle routines.

The benefits Â– Look, feel and live better!

Antioxidant defence: Pycnogenol is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants ever discovered. Used everyday as a food supplement it fights harmful free radicals in our bodies to defend against damage caused by cell oxidation. Behaving like Â‘hot sparksÂ’ escaping from an engine they damage everything they touch so if left unchecked can result in degenerative and age related diseases.

Reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes: Pycnogenol normalises the activity of blood platelets responsible for blood clots. It helps reduce platelet Â‘stickinessÂ’ particularly with high risk factors Â– smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and old age and helps maintain healthy platelet aggregation whilst protecting the inner lining of blood vessels. It also supports healthy blood pressure and normalises healthy cholesterol levels. In some ways Pycnogenol acts like aspirin but the great advantage of Pycnogenol is that unlike aspirin it crucially does not extend the blood clotting process during an injury or increase the possibility of ulcers or internal bleeding.

Circulatory Health:

Pycnogenol helps improve circulation be relaxing the constriction of arteries and other blood vessels caused by stress hormones adrenaline and nor adrenaline. Thus Pycnogenol has an anti stress function supporting a better blood flow during periods of stressful living. Studies have also shown that Pycnogenol improves microcirculation due to the increased diameter of micro vessels in, elderly people with better circulation in the fingertips, toes and facial extremities.

Skin Health:

Pycnogenol binds to collagen in the skin to maintain skin elasticity a characteristic associated with youth that keeps the skin firm and prevents wrinkles. Pycnogenol also improves microcirculation of the tiny skin capillaries supporting better oxygen and nutrient supply and better hydration as well as protecting against the damage of sunburn and photo ageing. The result fewer wrinkles and smoother skin with a healthy and vibrant glow and tone.

Diabetes Health:

Diabetic Retinopathy is one of the major causes of deteriorating eyesight and blindness. The disease occurs because elevated glucose levels in the blood react with the capillaries of the retina resulting in brittle and swollen walls. This leads to blood leaking into the retina, which limits oxygen and nutrients from reaching the retina and lowers sensitivity of the eye to light causing gradual vision loss and possible blindness. Pycnogenol seals leaky capillaries in the eye caused by diabetes and stops and in some cases reverses vision loss and improves sharpness of vision.

Hay Fever:

Pycnogenol according to several clinical studies inhibit the release of histamine thus preventing the immediate reaction towards a challenge with an antigen. Since this powerful antioxidant is an anti-inflammatory, it inhibits production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Pycnogenol relieves the swelling, reduces hives and helps make breathing easier.

Hyper Pigmentation (Melasma, Chloasma):

Common conditions affecting the face in particular and mainly affecting women related to hormonal balance Â– as oral contraceptives, pregnancy and recent birth coincide with melasma. Pycnogenol in clinical trials have been shown to reduce both the area and intensity of over pigmented skin.

High blood pressure:

Pycnogenol tackles high blood pressure as well. Clinical studies at the University of Arizona have found that people with mild forms of hypertension not taking any medication had significantly reduced systolic blood pressure in response to Pycnogenol supplementation. In another clinical study, patients with high blood pressure and on medication taking Pycnogenol supplements were able to cut their medication dosage in half!

PMS:

In a clinical study, Japanese scientists have found that women with either endometriosis or severe menstrual pain have found that 73% of women suffering PMS experienced significantly reduced menstrual cramping and abdominal, pain with Pycnogenol.

Oral Health:

Pycnogenol can also significantly reduce gum bleeding by sealing the fragile oral capillaries and reduces the level of plaque formation.

Enhanced endurance, stamina and energy:

Strenuous exercise although beneficial actually produces a large number of damaging free radicals. By counteracting free radical production, Pycnogenol releases constricted blood vessels, improves circulation and blood flow and improves the optimum supply of nutrients and oxygen to the body enhancing endurance and stamina by up to 21%!

Swollen legs and feet:

Many women often experience this often-painful condition, which is the result of fragile veins allowing liquid to seep into the tissue. As this process is gravity force driven primarily the lower legs ankles and feet get swollen. This is more than just a cosmetic problem because if left untreated ulceration and necrosis could result. Pycnogenol helps reduce swellings of the lower legs and the corresponding pain as well as other typical symptoms in venous disorders.

Glucose Reduction:

According to new clinical studies people with Type 11 diabetes had lower blood sugar and healthier blood vessels after supplementing with Pycnogenol.

Asthma:

Clinical studies carried out at the University of Arizona showed that after taking Pycnogenol asthmatics noted significant improvements in breathing and air flow a result of PycnogenolÂ’s capability to reduce inflammatory mediators in the blood that cause constriction of the bronchi and consequent airway obstruction.

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Provista Life Sciences Announces the Opening of Its Clinical Laboratory - Provista Diagnostics (PDx)

Provista Life Sciences LLC (PLS) announced today the opening of its clinical laboratory operations, Provista Diagnostics, LLC (PDx). PDx is a wholly owned subsidiary of PLS. The laboratory will provide the necessary analytical support to advance the clinical trials and commercialization efforts of the first three diagnostic technology companies under PLS' management umbrella: GW Medical Technologies' LymPro(R) Test for the early detection of Alzheimer' disease, Biomarker Technologies' BT Test(TM) for the early detection of breast cancer and RCP Diagnostics' RCP-Dx Test(TM) for the detection of women's estrogen associated cancers: ovarian, uterine, cervical and breast.

PHOENIX (PRWEB) April 24, 2007

"Provista Life Sciences is a biotechnology commercialization organization that identifies and acquires the rights to promising medical diagnostics technologies. We then unify their respective operational and business development activities under our management company," says PLS CEO William Gartner. "Provista Diagnostics will provide a complementary and critical addition to our diagnostic development strategy supporting the further development of our existing women's oncology and Alzheimer's diagnostics. It will also serve as our conduit for early market introduction of these Tests."

PDx has the exclusive U. S. rights to these tests and plans to introduce these diagnostic services to the public under a direct-to-consumer and health care provider access plan. The test services will provide consumers and their respective health care providers with a means to make earlier and better informed decisions regarding their personal health care needs related to their respective cancer or Alzheimer's disease.

"We are advancing the development and commercialization of diagnostic technologies that have the potential for early disease state recognition as well as therapeutic drug development and efficacy monitoring," says Donald Weber, Vice President of Strategic Alliances for PLS. Weber stated that PDx expects to commercially introduce the BT and RCP-Dx Test Services this summer followed by the LymPro Test Service in early 2008.

"These are extremely important blood diagnostics," says Weber. "Early detection has been recognized as a key component, if not the most important to cancer survival, and to the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Our goal is to make sure these test services are available to the public as soon as feasibly possible."

About Provista Diagnostic LLC

Provista Diagnostics was established in 2007 and is a CLIA registered laboratory focused on the development and commercialization of three breakthrough blood diagnostic for the detection of Breast Cancer, Women's Estrogen Related Cancers (Ovarian, Uterine, Cervical, and Breast) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). All three diagnostics will be initially released as adjunctive tests to be used in conjunction with or separate from existing diagnostic procedures such as imaging techniques, PET Scans, etc. Each such diagnostic is intended to assist the individual's physician or health care provider to better diagnose the respective disease covered by these tests and provide a more accurate and earlier detection of these devastating diseases. For more information, visit the company's web site at www. ProvistaDx. com or call 602-840-8333.

Provista Life Sciences' Background

Provista Life Sciences was established in 2006 as a biotechnology mezzanine development organization that provides the scientific and operating management resources to rapidly advance the development and introduction of novel diagnostics technologies into the domestic and global marketplace. For more information, visit the company's web site at www. provistals. com or call 602-224-5500.

Design/Post House Perception Teams With AMC For Movies That Shook The World Show Open

Pervades the show open for Movies That Shook The World, a new AMC series examining the creation and influence of nine seminal American films created by Broadcast design/post house Perception, New York, created the show open and packaging for AMC's new show Movies That Shook The World, which looks back on some of the most culturally signiificant films ever made.

NEW YORK, NY (PRWEB) September 22, 2005

A palpable sense of menace pervades the show open for Movies That Shook The World, a new AMC series examining the creation and influence of nine seminal American films created by design/post house Perception (www. perceptv. com). For the show, Perception also created the complete show packaging including transitions, lower-third IDs and even the digital imagery seen as backdrops during celebrity interviews.

Â“We were aiming for a mysterious, Russian Constructivist look,Â” says Perception Design Director Jeremy Lasky. Â“This was a challenging project due to the fact that even though the show is about movies we couldn't use any movie footage. In addition, AMC felt that any literal interpretation of the movies, such as cameras, slates or filmstrips was too clichÃ©. That left us with the question: How do you do a show open about movies without showing any movies or movie imagery?

Luckily, the design team led by Lasky and Art Director Curt Neumann rose to the challenge by creating the ominous mood that reflects the impact the films made on pop culture. The open features a fast-paced montage of intense flashing lights, utilitarian graphics and a circulating biohazard symbol and assorted admonitions: Caution!, Danger!, Warning! At its climax, an all-seeing eye blinks before transforming into a translucent blue globe that accompanies the series' title.

Beginning with James Bridges' classic The China Syndrome (1979), Movies That Shook The World comprises nine 30-minute episodes detailing the origins, making of and earth-shaking influence of nine films, including D. W. Griffith's The Birth of a Nation (1915), Mike Nichol's The Graduate (1967), Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968), George Lucas' American Graffiti (1973), William Friedkin's The Exorcist (1973), Adrian Lyne's Fatal Attraction (1987), Martin Scorsese's The Last Temptation of Christ (1988) and Spike Lee's Do The Right Thing (1989). Through clips and conversations with the people involved, each episode seeks to explain each movie's particular significance.

Â“From the beginning, we were after a feeling of ambiguity and strangeness mixed with a sense of earth-shaking significance,Â” says Perception Art Director Curt Neumann. Â“Achieving that blend is not easy. We shot a lot of unusual elements, including all kinds of film effects on acetate with black ink and left holes for our graphics. We then shone a flashlight through the element, just aiming our camera at the light. We also shot an eye, a hand going up to an ear, shattering glass, all to use in the final composities.Â”

For the penultimate shot that brings the open to a close, Neumann and his team used an odd item - a burnt-out light bulb they found in the office - to depict the translucent globe. Â“It just had an interesting pattern and texture inside the glass,Â” says Neumann. Â“We hooked it up to an electric screwdriver and rotated it while we shot it. It provided a terrific effect.Â”

About Perception:

Founded in 2002 by former R/GA creatives Jeremy Lasky (Design Director); Brendan Werner (Editorial Director); and Daniel Gonzalez (Effects Director), Perception's (www. perceptv. com) mission is to create world-class commercial visual art that challenges and changes the industry's idea of what can be accomplished on desktop machines. Collectively, Perception team has worked on over 700 broadcast projects, garnering numerous top creative awards.

Specializes in high-end motion graphics and visual effects for top advertising agencies, broadcast networks and film studios Perception's work includes commercials, network on-air design/promos, show opens/packaging, film title sequences, trailers, music video, corporate video and web design. Since its launch the company has completed assignments for ABC Sports, HBO, Cinemax, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN Classic, AMC, Voom HD, Bravo!, Miramax, McDonald's, Sony Music, TV Land/Nickelodeon, FUSE Channel, Ogilvy and Mather, Time Warner Cable, Dish Network, VOOM, Playboy Entertainment, Purina, Avrett Free Ginsberg, Showtime, Grey Healthcare, and The Constitution Center, Philadelphia, PA.

Toolkit:

Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop Apple Final Cut Pro

Creative Credits:

Client: AMC

Project: Movies That Shook The World show open/packaging

Airdate: September 2005

Production/Design/Post: Perception, New York, NY

Design Director: Jeremy Lasky

Visual Effects Director: Danny Gonzalez

Editorial Director: Brendan Werner

Art Director: Curt Neumann

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Property Frontiers -- International Real Estate Investment Opportunities in 2006

Real estate markets are much like any other market; they operate in cycles experiencing growth, stagnation and even decline. In the case of property, these cycles tend to be slower than in other types of market, but timing is still the key. With this in mind, the question on every potential international property investor’s mind is; which countries will provide the best property investment opportunities in 2006?

(PRWEB) December 17, 2005

The full answer to this question would involve a very long list of countries; many of which would be familiar to anyone with a passing interest in international property. Places such as Dubai (http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/dubai (http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/dubai)) have been hotspots for sometime and we expect this to continue next year due to the looming finalisation of the Freehold law and the early realisations of some of the Emirate’s commercial and leisure mega-projects. Similarly we expect the Bulgarian market (http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/bulgaria (http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/bulgaria)) to continue providing good investment opportunities. However, our advice to investors would be to concentrate on the ski resorts rather than the coasts.

Other parts of Eastern Europe are rightly attracting attention too. Certain areas of Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Romania and even the Ukraine will be worth considering in 2006. One of the most exciting opportunities within Europe is Montenegro which despite its many attractions and low prices is yet to enter in to the investment destination mainstream.

Beyond these more familiar markets, 2006 will see the rise of more far flung destinations, particularly in Asia which is experiencing high levels of growth. Possibly the biggest investment opportunity next year will be China. China has already attracted significant investment from UK buyers hoping to prosper from the effects of the rapidly growing economy and the expected revaluation of the Chinese currency. However, China remains a relatively untapped market and investors still have the opportunity to get into the market at an early stage.

Chinese economic growth is also impacting real estate markets in other Asian countries. China’s strong trade links with Thailand and Malaysia are driving economic growth which in turn is pushing up property prices and increasing rental demand.

In Malaysia the main opportunity is in Kuala Lumpur where prices are currently low by international standards. During 2006 we will continue to see price rises there, fuelled by general economic growth and increased housing demand from expatriates. In Thailand, the biggest tip is Chang Mai which is both developing as a tourist destination whilst also becoming a key trade centre on the back of a new highway connecting the city to China.

The emerging markets of South and Central America also present exciting opportunities. The two most notable from our perspective are Brazil and Grenada in the Caribbean. Both markets are experiencing massive growth in tourism and have a shortage of high quality residential and hotel properties to fulfil the demand. In these locations property on managed resorts will be a good buy.

Beyond the opportunities outlined here, there are of course many others. The world is ever shrinking and this has a very rapid and obvious impact on international property markets. The choices available to investors are expansive but care must be taken to fully understand the true investment opportunity as well as the risks. When considering market potential, it is also worth remembering that the internationalisation of property investment is removing the isolation factor that historically typified real estate markets. Today, the growth cycle of one property market can be significantly affected by the economic health of another country in which many of the active buyers are resident. Consider the impact of a UK recession on the French property market for example.

Despite the complexities and considerations that must be taken into account when investing abroad, the number of opportunities continue to increase. And if investment is all about timing, then this greater choice means that 2006 will offer many opportunities to get your timing just right.

Visit http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/ (http://www. propertyfrontiers. com/) for more information.

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2009 Venison Culinary Competition hosted by the Cervid Livestock Foundation (CLF) of the North American Deer Farmers Association (NADeFA)

The 2009 Venison Culinary Competition allows for each team to have three hours to plan and prepare two courses incorporating venison as the primary protein source. Ryan Laudenschlager and De'Andre Taley won First Place with their Venison Sausage and Arugula Salad in Parmesan Crisp, followed by Venison Chops with Madeira Sauce and Broccolini with Wild Mushrooms and Asiago Risotto on the side. Cash awards were given by the Cervid Livestock Foundation (CLF) at the North American Deer Farmers Association's (NADeFA) annual convention held in Lexington, Kentucky.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) April 30, 2009

The excitement of the students was an obvious observation at the recent venison culinary competition as the students competed for cash prizes totaling over $2,000. Students from the Sullivan University Arts Program recently tested their cooking skills in the second annual venison culinary competition hosted by the Cervid Livestock Foundation (http://www. nadefa. org/index. php? option=com_content&view=article&id=67&Itemid=70)(CLF), the research and educational foundation of the North American Deer Farmers Association (http://www. nadefa. org/) (NADeFA). This event was scheduled in conjunction with the NADeFA's annual convention held in Lexington, Kentucky.

The competition was limited to six teams comprised of two or three students, each having three hours to plan and prepare two courses, one appetizer and one entree incorporating venison as the primary protein source in the entree. Cash awards were given to the top teams on Friday evening at the NADeFA conference.

Dr. Brad Thurston, a board member of the CLF and NADeFA, said the competition is held each year to promote the use of venison as a heart-healthy food; low in fat and cholesterol. Dr. Thurston was also privileged to serve as one of the judges for the competition.

A goal of the CLF is to educate future chefs about the nutritional and dietary benefits of venison. By sponsoring these events, future chefs are introduced to the venison industry and will take with them a unique experience of cooking with venison when entering into the restaurant profession.

The winners of the competition are as follows:

1st place - Ryan Laudenschlager and De'Andre Taley

2nd place - Todd Jackson, Matt Starling and Buddy Hasting

3rd place - Marty Harper, Jane Thompson and Brian Stephens

Click here to print out the top three venison recipes (http://www. texashuntfish. com/app/view/Post/24068/Winning-Recipes-in-the-2009-Venison-Culinary-Competition).

The CLF gives special thanks to Chef John Foster, instructor at the Sullivan University, and Sue Michael, Director of Admissions at the Sullivan University, for a job well done coordinating the cooking event.

Sponsors for this cooking event include the Exotic Wildlife Association (http://www. exoticwildlifeassociation. com/) and Broken Arrow Ranch (http://www. brokenarrowranch. com/), both from the state of Texas, for providing the venison used in the competition, and the following individuals who sponsored the cash awards for the winners of the competition:

1st place - Dr. Brad and Susan Thurston of Luke's Run, Indiana;

2nd place - anonymous donor;

3rd place - John Behrmann of Highbourne Deer Farm, Pennsylvania;

4th - 6th place - Brian Cahill of Dream Chaser Farm, Pennsylvania; Dr. Sam Vainisi of Eaton Highland Farm, Wisconsin; Joel Espe of Hawks Hill Elk Farm, Wisconsin.

The North American Deer Farmer's Association (http://www. nadefa. org/) is an association representing an industry that has an annual economic impact on this nation's economy of $3 billion. NADeFA is a political voice for approximately 15,000 deer breeders, ranchers and farmers across the nation. They represent the deer industry by working closely with state and federal legislators and regulatory agencies to develop rules and regulations that govern the deer industry. NADeFA is dedicated to the promotion of deer farming and ranching as an agricultural pursuit and serves its members through its educational programs, publications and by providing leadership in setting and maintaining quality standards.

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VITA-MYR Mouthwash....Don't give up hope on your teeth or gums! Read my Story

VITA-MYR Mouthwash....Don't give up hope on your teeth or gums! Read my Story.....

(PRWEB) January 8, 2000

VITA-MYR Mouthwash....Don't give up hope on your teeth or gums! Read my Story.....

I have had gum problems since I was thirty years old. I am forty eight now. By 1993 I was seeing my dentist and periodontist several times yearly, to clean my teeth and shave my gums, and I was paying a lot of money in an attempt to save my teeth and control periodontal disease. By 1994, despite these efforts, my teeth were so loose in the gums that I could move them. I could not eat anything but soft foods by this time, I could not chew gum, I was not even able to eat an ordinary potato chip.

In October of 1995, I had visited my periodontist, and they make an appointment to do another operation to shave my gums to stop the receding, and they were going to do a tetracycline implant. I was told that this would be a temporary measure, and that next thing that they would have to do, would be to remove my teeth. To my unending questions to my doctor, asking if there was anything else that could be done, the answer was as usual, "No, if there was, don't you think we would use it."

When I returned form the doctor's office my wife saw my hopeless situation, and decided that we had nothing to lose, we would try to find a remedy ourselves. We went to the library and read everything available on all kinds of natural medicine and books on healing. We searched the oldest reference materials we could find, and the very latest. Our research resulted in the vitamin mineral and Herb combination that could be used in a mouthwash. We did the mixing and experimenting to discover the most effective amounts and procedures to produce a remedy. I didn't keep the appointment for the implant or to slice the gums at the gum line to prevent future receding because by November of 1999, I had no sores in my mouth, no bleeding, no bad order and my teeth had tightened up in my gums so strong that I could eat everything, chew gum, bite into an apple and enjoy a delicious steak.

I am writing this in June of 1997, I have never been back to the periodontist. Many of my friends, relatives and customers of my business have tried our mouthwash and have kept asking for more. The benefits of our VITA-MYR mouthwash are incredible and the demand was so great that we had to find a commercial lab that would make our mouthwash with our formula and exact procedure.

We are trying to help everyone to have healthy gums, fresh breath and strong teeth. There are many mouthwashes on the market, but my friends and I and anyone who had tried our mouthwash strongly believe that our mouthwash is the best by far.

Robert Takhtalian

President & C. E.O.

VITA-MYR Mouthwash

Www. vitamyr. com

National Bestselling Authors to Speak at MannaFest 2008: Presentations by Authors Bob Burg and Robert Kiyosaki, Appearances by International Team Mannatech Athletes and Performance by Happy Hill Farm Choir

National Bestselling Authors to Speak at MannaFest 2008: Presentations by Authors Bob Burg and Robert Kiyosaki, Appearances by International Team Mannatech Athletes and Performance by Happy Hill Farm Choir

Mannatech, Incorporated (NASDAQ:MTEX), a leading developer and provider of dietary supplements and skin care solutions, announced today its speaker line-up and events for MannaFest 2008. Keynote speakers include Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver, and Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad. The event will be held at the Dallas Convention Center from Thursday, March 27, through Sunday, March 30.

COPPELL, Texas (PRWEB) March 25, 2008

Approximately 5,000 Associates and Members from the 10 countries where Mannatech does business are expected at this year's MannaFest. Mannatech executives Terry Persinger, president and CEO; Sam Caster, founder and chairman; Al Bala, senior VP of global business development; and Rob Sinnott, MNS, Ph. D., chief science officer and senior VP, will also be speaking at the convention on various topics, including updates on new products and skin care, research and development and corporate initiatives such as sales promotions and training materials.

"We are excited to drive momentum for the company with the kick-off of MannaFest this month," said Terry Persinger, Mannatech's president and CEO. "The annual convention provides an important opportunity for our employees, independent Associates and Members from around the world to celebrate success and learn about new company initiatives."

Team Mannatech athletes from around the world will also be in attendance signing autographs and speaking. Approximately 30 international athletes will participate including Former Dallas Cowboys Billy Joe Dupree and Butch Johnson, 12-year-old BMX champ Lain Van Ogle, master martial arts team Chip and Glyn Ann Townsend, former WNBA star Nancy Lieberman and rodeo champ Shay Good.

As a special performance, the Happy Hill Farm choir will sing the national anthem during the opening session on Thursday, March 27 at 4 p. m. Mannatech is an ongoing supporter of Happy Hill Farm, a Dallas-based school that provides specialized help to at-risk children who need another chance in life.

About Mannatech

Mannatech, Incorporated, is a global wellness solutions provider of innovative, high-quality, proprietary nutritional supplements, topical and skin care products, and weight management products sold through independent associates and members located in the United States and the international markets of Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Denmark, and Germany.

About Team Mannatech

Team Mannatech is a group of world-class athletes who serve as authentic role models for today's wellness generation. These celebrated sports figures and athletes have chosen to achieve and maintain optimal health through the utilization of cutting-edge training techniques and proper nutrition. For more information on Team Mannatech as well as bios on the athletes, please visit www. teammannatech. com.

Please Note: This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by use of phrases or terminology such as "intend" or other similar words or the negative of such terminology. Similarly, descriptions of Mannatech's objectives, strategies, plans, goals or targets contained herein are also considered forward-looking statements. Mannatech believes this release should be read in conjunction with all of its filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and cautions its readers that these forward-looking statements are subject to certain events, risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Some of these factors include, among others, Mannatech's inability to attract and retain associates and members, increases in competition, litigation, regulatory changes, and its planned growth into new international markets. Although Mannatech believes that the expectations, statements, and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cautions readers to always consider all of the risk factors and any other cautionary statements carefully in evaluating each forward-looking statement in this release, as well as those set forth in its latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and other filings filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including its current reports on Form 8-K. All of the forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date of this release.

In The Rooms Partners with MDinfo. com

Leading Recovery Social Network to Answer Addiction and Recovery Questions

New York (PRWEB) April 27, 2010

Today In The Rooms (http://www. intherooms. com) partnered with MDinfo. com to answer visitor’s questions on addiction and recovery. MDinfo. com is a health information resource that empowers visitors to post questions and receive responses from Health Experts in a variety of specialties. Those who visit MDinfo. com and have questions on addiction and recovery, will receive expertise from In The Rooms, the number one social network for those seeking help for addiction, are in recovery and/or for family, friends and allies.

“As more and more people go online for answers to health related questions, MDinfo. com is proud to provide In The Rooms’ expertise on addiction and recovery,” said Paige Pilkington, director of partner relations at MDinfo. com. “We know that important medical breakthroughs can more likely occur, if we bring together relevant individuals whose paths would not ordinarily cross. In The Rooms is another expert that we are happy to bring into the MDinfo. com family to help our visitors.”

In The Rooms is the number one website for those seeking help for addiction, are in recovery and/or for family, friends and allies. The social network is actively used by 80,000 plus members in 50 countries, and has over 1.2 million messages, over 440,000 status updates and over 2.4 million comments. In The Rooms provides information and resources to serve as an invaluable "lifeline" for anyone seeking to better understand addiction, recovery and share their experiences, strength and hope.

“In The Rooms is honored to be part of the MDinfo. com’s family of experts. With access to treatment centers and counselors across the world, In The Rooms is the go-to resource on addiction and recovery,” said Ron Tannebaum, co-founder of In The Rooms. “In The Rooms looks forward to providing answers to help more people and provide more answers regarding addiction and recovery.”

About In The Rooms

In The Rooms (www. intherooms. com) is a free online global recovery community. It allows members to immediately feel safe and secure with their anonymity and privacy. In The Rooms transcends the boundaries of all 12 step fellowships socially while maintaining the integrity of each by having a separate group, meeting lists and speaker tape library for each 12 step fellowship. In The Rooms allows people to reach out to one another across the globe 24-7 to share their experiences, strength and hope. Follow In The Rooms on Twitter @intherooms or become a fan on Facebook at http://www. facebook. com/intherooms (http://www. facebook. com/intherooms).

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Send a Card, Save a Life

Health-By-Design. net offers unique health empowerment tools to save time, money and maybe even a life.

Columbia, MD (PRWEB) October 22, 2006

Health-By-Design. net (http://health-by-design. net (http://health-by-design. net)) is an exciting new health empowerment web site created by an experienced physician. According to its founder, A. M. Hester, M. D., author and board-certified internist, “the idea is simple; good health doesn’t just happen, we have to help it along.”

What makes Health-By-Design. net unique is that the focus is on empowering everyone, not just ourselves, but our loved ones as well. It features health-promoting greeting cards, free physician-led health empowerment teleseminars and medical record keeping guides. “There are not enough doctors and nurses in America to help the many thousands of people who suffer and die each year from diseases that are preventable, treatable or even curable. The public must get involved. If the predictions are true, America may be facing a physician shortage of up to 200,000 doctors by 2020. This will be devastating to countless Americans, regardless of how good one’s health insurance may be. If there are too few doctors, wait times for appointments will skyrocket and unnecessary suffering and death will abound. Everyone can do something. Even something as simple of creating a personal copy of vital medical records can be life-saving in an emergency situation,” says Dr. Hester.

Health-by-design greeting cards encourage people to take action. For instance, one card may showcase a funny cartoon of a man who is out of shape and contain an encouraging message to start exercising, while another card may have a photograph of a beautiful rose and contain a message suggesting that the recipient cherish life by getting a mammogram. There are over 30 designs to choose from. Each design has a different message to prompt the recipient to make positive steps toward getting or staying healthy. Distributorships are also available for those who would like to sell the cards themselves.

The free 30-minute teleseminars are led by a physician and focus on ways to take charge of your health. The medical record-keeping guide is a step-by-step guide that not only explains how to develop a personal copy of vital medical records, it provides great insight into how to prepare for an upcoming doctor’s visit to optimize the time spent with the physician and minimize costs.

Contact:

A. M.Hester, M. D.

877-835-6107

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PDFTron Unveils a Silverlight Document Toolkit for PDF and XPS

PDFTron unveils its new development component for viewing PDF, XPS, MS Office and other document formats in Silverlight.

Vancouver, Canada (PRWEB) September 30, 2010

PDFTron Systems Incorporated, a global provider of industry-leading, high-performance electronic document format technology, today unleashed SilverDox SDK, a feature-rich and highly customizable Silverlight document viewer component that enables Silverlight applications with flawless and efficient viewing of PDF, XPS, MS Office, and other document formats.

SilverDox SDK is a universal document viewer and publishing platform for Silverlight that lets developers add PDF, XPS, and universal document viewing capabilities to their Silverlight applications.

SilverDox SDK consists of a Silverlight document viewing control and a document publisher component that directly supports PDF, XPS, MS Office, as well as other document formats.

"We are excited to launch SilverDox," comments Catherine Andersz, Director of Business Development at PDFTron. "SilverDox is paving the way for the next-generation of RIAs by enabling developers to leverage the power of Silverlight for high quality document and ebook viewing. It is also currently the only solution that offers reliable, production-quality conversion from PDF and other formats to standard compliant Silverlight XPS."

The lightweight and highly customizable viewer can be freely distributed along with the documents on any web site. Among many advanced features the viewer includes support for resolution independent vector graphics, text search and highlighting, hyperlinking, printing, and fast incremental download. SilverDox viewer does not require any server side technology to work. Users can upload their Silverlight documents to any web site and can send links to their documents without any programming.

Also, because SilverDox documents are a standards-compliant and web-optimized subset of the XPS format, the files can be viewed, printed, and manipulated using WPF, .NET, or any other XPS technology.

"In today's competitive and crowded market, developers must have access to the latest innovations and technologies allowing them to deliver added value to their customers," adds Catherine Andersz. "PDFTron is firmly dedicated to supporting the developer community by incorporating the newest, best technology advancements into PDFTron's product offering and making sure that they are kept up-to-date with regular releases."

SilverDox product information, evaluation downloads and sample code showcasing the toolkit's features are available at: http://www. pdftron. com/silverdox/index. html (http://www. pdftron. com/silverdox/index. html).

About PDFTron Systems Inc.

PDFTron Systems Inc. (http://www. pdftron. com (http://www. pdftron. com)) is a global provider of industry-leading, high-performance document processing and conversion technology related to PDF, XPS, SVG and other graphic file formats. Our flagship product, PDFNet SDK, provides organizations a cost-effective, reliable and easy way to seamlessly integrate all types of PDF capabilities and document conversion functionality with complex enterprise-wide document management and publishing workflows, interactive client applications as well as high-traffic server-based applications. Forward-thinking, customer-centric, and quality-obsessed are some of the traits that have turned PDFTron into the primary resource for major technology, engineering, and healthcare companies as well as financial, educational and government institutions world-wide.

© 2010 PDFTron Systems Incorporated. All rights reserved. PDFNet SDK, SilverDox SDK, PDFTron and the PDFTron logo are either registered trademarks and/or trademarks of PDFTron Systems Inc. in Canada, US and/or other countries. All other trademarks are acknowledged and remain the property of their respective owners.

Polynesian Book Links Ancient Europeans, Asians and Africans

In the spirit of the annual Makahiki and Pasifika Hawaii festival comes a book which fortifies the cultural and scientific connections of Polynesians.

Honolulu, HI (PRWEB) December 23, 2005

In the spirit of the annual Makahiki and Pasifika Hawaii festival comes a book which fortifies the cultural and scientific connections of Polynesians.

Hawaii Book Release

Title: "Polynesian Interconnections"

By: Peter AhChing

Publisher / Distributor: Ingram Book Company-Lightning Source

ISBN: 1411602277 and 1411602730

Published: 2005

Price: $18.95

Synopsis: In the spirit of the annual Makahiki and Pasifika Hawaii festival comes a book which fortifies the cultural and scientific connections of Polynesians to ancient Europeans, Asians and Aboriginal Africans. "Polynesian Interconnections" revitalizes the writings of Hawaiian king David Kalakaua in 1888 and provides a world-wide education about the modern communities of Hawaii. Polynesian Interconnections was featured on the KHON2 news and now preserved in the Hawaii State Archives. It can be previewed at http://www. Harvard. com (http://www. Harvard. com) and http://www. Amazon. com (http://www. Amazon. com) and http://www. Barnesandnoble. com (http://www. Barnesandnoble. com) and at the Kahala and Ala Moana Barnes and Noble booksellers and various Hawaii Borders bookstores.

About the author: Peter AhChing is a Honolulu kama'aina at the John A. Burns School of Medicine and a Hawaii courts officer. He is a published author in the journals of Molecular and Cellular Biology in 1998, Genetics in 1999 and the Pacific Health Dialog in 2001. He is also featured in the "Marquis Who's Who in America" publication in 2006. Contact the author at ahchingp@hawaii. edu (808) 225-1728.

From the author: This book is dedicated to my late father and my Honolulu born son Rocco. The book celebrates the unity of one Polynesian family related to Europeans, Asians and Aborigines Africans through their ancient heritage and genetics. The term Polynesian means 'many islands' or 'many races.' Polynesians came from an ancient family of intermixed races and today we share our 'ohana with all peoples of the world. We are one family, the human family, the Polynesian family. To the world, we say "aloha" and may the love and spirit of family bring happiness and prosperity into our lives."

Book covers front and back can be viewed at http://www. lulu. com/content/68268/ (http://www. lulu. com/content/68268/)

Aloha Books Hawaii.

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Chicago Consultant Seeks to Improve Quality of Care by Nonprofits

Chicago business communication consultant Aimee N. Daramus has development a seminar to assist non-profit organizations in improving quality of care for the clients they serve by providing training in relating to clients.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) March 11, 2006

Rising costs, inadequate funding, and varying financial priorities have led to a crisis in the nonprofit sector, in which agencies in the health and human services fields cannot afford enough trained professionals to fulfill their mission in their communities. Particularly in the wake of severe funding cuts at the state level, agencies are being forced to cut staff, limit raises and benefits, and hire staff who are untrained to work directly with a population that is in need or in severe emotional distress. Many agencies have no trained staff working directly with their service population, only volunteers. This leads to a situation in which agencies and workers with even the best of intentions are struggling to work with populations that are ill, traumatized, stressed, or otherwise in need of counseling or other interventions.

Aimee N. Daramus, M. A., L. P.C., is a Chicago-based therapist and speech communication consultant who has developed a program to address this program in a cost-effective manner. This program is designed to teach basic counseling skills to volunteers and workers with little or no formal training in counseling or social work. The one-day seminar focuses on building rapport, assessing the client’s mental and emotional functioning, identifying key issues, and keeping track of the client’s progress in addressing those issues. While this program will not replace a full education in counseling or social work, it is intended to give workers who don’t have an advanced degree a clear idea of where to begin and how to monitor progress with clients.

This seminar will be of enormous help not only to agencies providing extensive counseling services, but any agency that works with clients in some sort of mental or emotional distress, such as victims or survivors of serious illness, trauma victims, or families of divorce. For more information, please contact Aimee Daramus at (312) 588 – 0954 or at http://home. earthlink. net/~aimeed/speechcoaching/ (http://home. earthlink. net/~aimeed/speechcoaching/)

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XRackPro Web Site Launched

XRackPro2 and XtroVert Rack Mount Enclosures Web Site Launched by GizMac Accessories LLC

Torrance, CA (PRWEB) July 18, 2005

GizMac Accessories LLC, designer and manufacturer of innovative products for the Apple platform, launches its new web site featuring the XRackPro2 and XtroVert rack mount enclosures for the Xserve server computer and Xserve RAID storage systems.

XRackPro2 is a rack mount enclosure cabinet designed to reduce noise and add mobility to AppleÂ’s Xserve line of servers and RAID systems. Noise from rack mount equipment mounted inside the XRackPro2 will be reduced up to 75% while the heavy duty caster wheels provide a method for easily moving the rolling rack enclosure cabinet when needed.

XtroVert is a rack mount chassis that allows the Xserve RAID to stand vertically to become a desktop or deskside unit. Whether a complete rack system is not practical or the Xserve RAID needs to be moved closer to a computer, the XtroVert is a cost effective solution.

Â“The launch of the XRackPro web site is the first step toward establishing world wide communications on GizMacÂ’s rack mount products,Â” says Tim Cave, founder of GizMac, Â“We will be introducing new products as well as improving product information details on our existing product lines through the XRackPro web site.Â”

XRackPro2 and XtroVert rack mount enclosures are used in video and audio post production, film and broadcast applications, pre-press and graphics companies, health care and any other environment that needs noise reduction and/or flexibility of equipment location. Additional information on XRackPro2, XtroVert and GizMac can be found on this new web site at www. XRackPro. com. Information can also be obtained by calling the Southern California corporate headquarters at (800) 475-1677

About GizMac Accessories LLC

GizMac Accessories LLC, headquartered in the United States, designs and manufactures creative and innovative products for the Apple platform. With over 35 total years of Mac-centric product experience, the GizMac team is dedicated to providing solutions and support for the Apple communities around the world.

Press Contact:

Ken Vitto

Director of Marketing

(310) 798-7879

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Material Testing and Quality Assurance Firm, TCR, Expands to Saudi Arabia

Materials Testing Laboratory, Failure Analysis, Engineering Consulting, NDT Services and comprehensive Quality Assurance Services for industries in the region of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Damman, Saudi Arabia (PRWEB) April 25, 2007

TCR Engineering Services, India's leading ISO 17025 accredited independent materials testing laboratory, has signed a joint venture partnership agreement with GAS Arabian Services to bring its material testing and quality assurance expertise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The newly formed joint venture company, based in Damman, Saudi Arabia will be called TCR Arabia LLC.

Speaking at the company formation, Mr. Faisal K. Al-Dabal, GM, GAS Arabian Services, said, "We are delighted to welcome TCR as our partner in the region. TCR's core strengths in metallurgy related material testing services will help service the increasing quality assurance demands of clients in Saudi Arabia."

TCR Arabia will provide services in the areas of Sour Gas Corrosion Studies, NDT Services including ToFD, Plant Health Assessment including In-Situ Metallography and RLA, Failure Investigation, Chemical Analysis, Positive Material Identification, Post Weld Heat Treatment, RoHS Compliance, Third Party Inspection and Advanced Engineering Consulting on Metallurgical Problems.

"TCR Arabia is a further testament of our ongoing commitment in providing world class Metallurgical Testing and QA service in a highly quality conscious environment for companies in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. There are many synergies to exploit between the services currently offered by TCR Engineering in India and those that will be provided by TCR Arabia in KSA," said Mr. Rohit Bafna, Director Global Sales at TCR Engineering Services.

TCR Arabia's materials testing engineers, scientists and technicians will help customers in the region understand the potentials and limitations of metallurgical materials, providing crucial data they need to invent, design, build, manufacture, their product with accurate, customized materials testing solutions.

Skilled failure analysis specialists from TCR Arabia will conduct in-depth investigation and analysis to determine the root cause of part and assembly failures and identify the means for preventing future problems. Using the latest analytical equipment and materials characterization techniques, TCR Arabia's failure analysts will provide clear answers to plant problems and ultimately help companies deliver bottom-line results.

The testing of materials in sour service conditions for oil & gas pipeline applications is an area where the laboratory of TCR Arabia will truly excel amongst other test facilities in the region.

The non-destructive service offering of TCR Arabia will include Boroscope Inspection, Hardness testing, Ultrasonic Testing, Magnetic Particle Testing, Dye Penetrant Testing, fabrication inspection, chemical analysis, Weld procedures and welder qualifications, Visual examination, storage tank inspection, as well as the state-of-the-art Automated Ultrasonic Testing using Time of Flight Diffraction (ToFD).

TCR Arabia's range of services will be utilized in various business sectors including Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals, Environment, Health Sciences, Pipeline, Construction, Manufacturing, and Consumer Products among others.

For more information about analytical and material testing facilities at TCR Engineering Services and her associate companies in Mumbai, Vadodara, Navi Mumbai, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and USA, please visit www. tcreng. com. Details on GAS Arabian Services is available at www. gasarabian. com.

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Finalists Named in Boomer-Focused Business Competition

Silicon Valley competition selects five teams with innovative products and services for the 45+ market; entrepreneurs focus on baby boomers’ healthcare and home modification needs

Santa Clara, CA (PRWEB) June 15, 2006

Five finalists have been selected for the 2006 Boomer Business Plan Competition, an annual Silicon Valley-based event that serves as an incubator for entrepreneurs developing new products and services aimed at consumers age 45 and up.

This year’s competition, co-produced by Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business and Mary Furlong & Associates, attracted contestants from around the United States and as far away as New Zealand and the Philippines. In all, more than 75 business plans were submitted by college students and early-stage companies with up to $1 million in annual revenue.

Plans targeted ventures in a range of industries poised for significant growth as the population ages, including medicine, technology, fashion and financial services. Competitors focused on the evolving needs and interests of America’s 78 million baby boomers, a generation with more than $2.5 trillion in spending power that is fast approaching its golden years. The first wave of boomers began turning 60 in January.

“The boomers need innovation,” says Mary Furlong, consultant and expert in the boomer and senior markets. “The Boomer Business Plan Competition seeks to foster innovation and help entrepreneurs of all ages and stages take their ideas and build businesses out of them.”

The five promising ventures selected by the competition’s judges include::

Renovus, a Stanford, CA-based business developing a waste-management solution for people who have undergone ostomy surgery. Novelios Pharmaceuticals, a Durham, NC-based company developing a drug that fights glaucoma. ALCiS Health, a San Jose-based company that develops and markets total body therapy solutions, including topical pain relief products. iRhythm Technologies, a Stanford, CA-based company that has developed an easy-to-use cardiac rhythm monitoring device. In Your Home, a Portland, OR-based company that modifies homes so that older residents can continue living there independently and safely as they age.

Several of the finalist teams are headed by students or graduates of leading universities, including Stanford, Duke and Santa Clara University. They were selected from a pool of 20 semifinalists, all of whom will have their plans reviewed by top Silicon Valley venture capitalists and boomer market experts.

The five finalists will present their plans to a panel of judges at the 2006 Silicon Valley Boomer Venture Summit on June 20 at Santa Clara University, where a $10,000 grand prize winner will be chosen. For more information and Summit registration, please visit www. boomerventuresummit. com.

The winner will be chosen by a panel of judges that features distinguished members of the venture capital, business, media and education communities, including: Jennifer Fonstad, Managing Director, Draper Fisher Jurvetson; Michael Goldberg, General Partner, Mohr Davidow Ventures; Emilio Pardo, Chief Brand Officer, AARP Services, Inc.; Nancy Kamei, Senior Director, Digital Health, Intel Capital; Jon Staenberg, Partner, Rustic Canyon Partners; Brad Vale, Vice President, Johnson & Johnson Development Corporation.

The Silicon Valley Boomer Venture Summit’s sponsors include North Castle Partners, AARP Services, Inc., Intel Capital, MetLife Mature Market Institute, Silicon Valley Bank, Wells Fargo, Facebook, NBC, Story of My Life and CogniFit. Marketing partners include: American Society on Aging’s Business Forum on Aging, SmartSilvers Alliance, CEOnetworking, SVASE, Career Company, EBIG and GRANDtimes. com.

About the Co-producers

Leavey School of Business, Santa Clara University

Founded in 1926, the Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University was one of the first business schools in the country to receive national accreditation. Its undergraduate business program is recognized as one of the best in California, and its MBA program is ranked 10th in the nation among part-time graduate programs for working professionals.

Mary Furlong & Associates works with companies seeking to capitalize on new business and investment opportunities in this $2 trillion-per-year market. MFA provides business development, financing strategy and integrated marketing solutions to entrepreneurs, corporations and nonprofit organizations serving the 50+ market. Mary Furlong, Ed. D also serves as an executive professor on Entrepreneurship at Santa Clara University in the Silicon Valley. See www. MaryFurlong. com for more information.

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Bell Rock Growers Showcases New Pet Greens Crunchy Cat Treats at H. H. Backer's Christmas Show

New Pet Greens Crunchy Cat Treats help control tartar. Now available in three all-natural, grain-free recipes, made with nutritious greens, turkey, chicken, salmon, and other wholesome ingredients.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) October 8, 2010

Bell Rock Growers, the pioneer grower and supplier of green nutrition products for pets, adds tartar control crunchy treats to their popular line of Pet Greens® Treats for cats. New Pet Greens Crunchy Cat Treats are all-natural recipes, made with nutrient-rich wheat grass, turkey, chicken, salmon, and other wholesome ingredients. All varieties are grain free and contain no wheat gluten, no corn or soy, and no artificial colors or flavors. Available in three varieties - Turkey & Veggie, Chicken Pot Pie and Seafood Salad - Pet Greens Crunchy Cat Treats, Powered with Green Nutrition®, will be showcased during H. H. Backer's 44th Annual Pet Industry Christmas Trade Show & Educational Conference, Oct. 8-10, 2010, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL (booth 731).

Now cats can enjoy healthy and delicious Pet Greens Treats with the added benefit of a crunchy recipe to help control tartar and plaque buildup. "Studies show up to 90 percent of domestic cats develop dental issues. Including crunchy treats in a cat's diet is a great way to help improve dental health," says Bell Rock Growers Co-Founder Catherine Hoffmann.

Pet Greens Treats are the pet food industry's only line of cat and dog treats made with nutrient-rich wheat grass. While wheat grass and pet treats may seem like an unusual combination, Hoffmann says Pet Greens Treats are a tasty, convenient way to deliver green nutrition that is missing in most commercially produced pet foods. "Cats and dogs have a natural attraction to greens. While dogs are considered omnivores and cats carnivores, they are both able to digest plant-based foods and benefit from their powerful nutrients," says Hoffmann, who has co-authored an e-book on the topic. The e-book, called 'Why Green Nutrition? Exploring the Nutritional Benefits of Wheat Grass for Pets,' is available for free downloads at http://www. bellrockgrowers. com.

Wheat grass is one of the finest sources of antioxidant vitamins, minerals and other nutrients for cats, dogs, birds, reptiles and small animals. Wheat grass also provides a safe alternative to potentially harmful household plants and chemically treated outside grasses.

Pet Greens Treats have a suggested retail price of $3.99 - $4.29 for 3 oz. packages of semi-moist and crunchy cat treats in all varieties. Retailer prices may vary. Retailers and distributors who visit Bell Rock Growers at H. H. Backer's Christmas Show in Rosemont (booth 731) will receive Pet Greens samples and exclusive show offers.

:: About Bell Rock Growers

Based in San Marcos, Calif., Bell Rock Growers is a certified organic grower of live wheat grass and the pioneer supplier of green nutrition products for pets. The company's complete line of products Powered with Green Nutrition® include: certified organic Pet Greens® Live Pet Grass®; Pet Greens Dog Biscuits and Pet Greens Dog & Cat Treats - all made with nutrient-rich wheat grass; certified organic Pet Greens Garden self-grow wheat grass kits; earth-friendly, therapeutic Pet Greens Grooming Line made with wheat grass and oatmeal; Pet Greens Live Catnip; and Pet Greens premium dried Catnip Buds.

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Pet-Friendly Options Now Available For Guests At Sands Resorts

Oceanside Accommodations Can Now Be Enjoyed By All Members Of The Family… Even Fido

Myrtle Beach, S. C. (PRWEB) March 12, 2008

Sands Resorts, Myrtle Beach, S. C.'s premier destination for beach and golf vacations, now offers dog-friendly accommodations for guests at their Ocean Dunes Resort & Villas for just $50.00 per dog, per stay.

Guests checking in will be greeted by Sands staff and the family pet will receive a bag of treats and dog bowls, so everyone can enjoy a relaxed vacation by the ocean.

A designated walking area is located on the north side of the Ocean Dunes, which is easily accessible. The walking area is a good place for daily exercise and Sands even supplies waste bags. From May 15 - Sept. 15, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9:00 a. m. and after 5:00 p. m. Between Sept. 15 and May 15, dogs are allowed on the beach anytime. Dogs are required to be on a leash at all times.

"We understand that, for most people, their dogs are an important part of the family and not being able to bring them on vacation creates a stressful situation," said Florence Collins, director of marketing at Sands Resorts. "We hope that by welcoming families and their furry friends, we'll be helping to give families a chance to truly relax and enjoy their vacation without wondering how their pet is doing miles away."

Daily housekeeping is provided and guests are asked to be in the room with their pet at that time. Guests who don't want to keep Fido in the room while enjoying the beach, can take advantage of a host of outside services that are available, including mobile dog grooming, dog sitting and dog walking. All are available for additional costs.

More information is available online at www. sandsfido. com or by calling Sands Resorts at (800) 386-1872. Some restrictions may apply.

About Sands Resorts

Sands Resorts is Myrtle Beach, S. C.'s premier destination for beach and golf vacations. Sands Resorts includes over 1,650 guest rooms at its six-oceanfront properties. All are located close to one another at the northern end of Myrtle Beach, and they are convenient to area golf, dining, shopping, and attractions.

Sands Resorts features 28,000 square feet of meeting and convention space; an on-site waterpark; indoor/outdoor pools and whirlpools; Atlantis Spa; oceanfront dining and lounges; Sands Health Club; massage therapy; on-staff PGA Professional; Concierge Services; and Sands Kids Club activity program with evening childcare.

More information is available online at www. sandsresorts. com or by calling Sands Resorts at (800) 386-1872.

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Technology, Security, and HIPAA

What architects, designers, and building owners working in healthcare need to know and how Shen Milsom & Wilke can help.

(PRWEB) July 3, 2004

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) defines how healthcare facilities handle patient health information. Identifying what information about patients should be protected is the responsibility of the institution; many have HIPAA compliance officers. But designing new and existing facilities that meet federal regulations is, ultimately, up to the architect, designer, and building owner.

Compliance is based on instituting Â“reasonable safeguards,Â” an ambiguous and subjective term. Consultants within Shen Milsom & WilkeÂ’s acoustics, multimedia, information technology, and security areas are specially trained to understand HIPAA standards and to guide design professionals. Additionally, consultant Brian Moores, a healthcare multimedia and network designer, recently earned his HIPAA Certified Security Specialist and HIPAA Certified Professional designations from the well-respected HIPAA Academy.

HIPAA standards affect electronic, written, and aural health information security and exchange. Shen Milsom & Wilke has compliance recommendations for each of these aspects, as well as for physical security. The recommendations are guidelines for healthcare providers to follow in meeting the Â“reasonable safeguardsÂ” requirements for new and renovated spaces. If an obvious attempt is made to implement these safeguards, this may be sufficient for HIPAA. Here are excerpts from Shen Milsom & WilkeÂ’s recommendations.

Electronic

HIPAAÂ’s electronics standards guide data exchange (which often includes written materials); audio, including real-time transcription and audioconferences; and video, including surgical procedures, videoconferencing, and still images. This information may be recorded, transmitted, and sometimes replayed to many different individuals and entities. HIPAA stipulates the safeguard of information in transit as well as in storage.

Recommendations include:

HIPAA-compliant monitor and display locations; Physical access security systems for media control and telecommunications rooms, and electronic data storage facilities; Network and facility security policies to designate user groups and access policies; Coordinating IT systems design to adhere to the facilityÂ’s security policies and procedures; Touch-screen control system interface designs that enable access to middleware that bridges multiple database healthcare systems. This facilitates the control and selection of private healthcare information in the form of audio/video content for review, display, archive, and transport; Integration of archival database and storage systems, and creation of patient audiovisual files and associated metadata for instant access and display through departmental healthcare systems, such as radiological, surgical, or hospital information systems.

Acoustic

Spoken disclosure of protected health information may include patient consultations, laboratory test results, diagnosis, and information read aloud from a computer screen or written documents. It may also include electronic soundÂ—from videoconferences, recordings, and other sources.

There are two components to acoustical privacy: speech privacy and freedom from intrusive noise. The ideal environment permits occupants to speak easily with a visitor or on the telephone without distraction and without being clearly understood by those in surrounding spaces. Electronic information should be clearly intelligible and confined to its intended space.

Recommendations include:

Upgrading partition constructions and specifying acoustically efficient ceilings and wall treatments. Electronic masking sound system or other systems for raising the ambient sound level. For example, many doctorsÂ’ offices have bubbling fish tanks in the reception area to cover noise from the exam rooms. Masking is also recommended throughout an open-plan office. Open-office workstations located so that the distance between individuals is at least 12 feet and the adjoining workers do not face each other or a common reflective wall surface. They should include acoustical screens, ceiling tile, and wall treatments, and fully carpeted floors. Closed offices and conference rooms where sensitive patient information is shared should provide excellent speech privacy potentialÂ—normal voices are barely audible; raised voices are audible but mostly unintelligible. These spaces should have high sound transmission class (STC) partitions extending slab to slab.

Physical Security

Controling access to sensitive information and the ability to retrace unauthorized access are the central goals of a security program. They are accomplished in a number of ways, including the following recommendations:

Use of biometric authorization in conjunction with another verifiable technology. Closed-circuit television surveillance and observation. Radio frequency indentification tracking of files and data media used to trace locations and check-out patterns.

Shen Milsom & Wilke, an international technology consulting practice founded in 1986, offers comprehensive services in the areas of multimedia/audiovisual, information technology/telecommunications, building security, and acoustics. The firm has offices in New York, Princeton, Washington, D. C., Chicago, Houston, Denver, San Francisco, Las Vegas, London, Dubai, and Hong Kong, and a staff of more than 140 professionals. Shen Milsom & Wilke was named one of the 100 fastest growing A/E/P firms in the nation by Zweig White & Associates for the years 2001, 2002, and 2003.

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