New Genetic Testing Offers Hope for Chronic Blood Diseases: Rare Cancers Share a Genetic Mutation

New Genetic Testing Offers Hope for Chronic Blood Diseases: Rare Cancers Share a Genetic Mutation



Chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, or MPNs, are a group of incurable blood cancers that affect up to 100,000 Americans and, until fairly recently, were a mystery to scientists. What caused MPNs? And why were some people more susceptible than others? The question is being answered, at least in part, right now. Researchers believe that identifying genetic mutations holds some of the answers for earlier diagnosis and the development of better treatments.



Plainview, New York (PRWEB) December 17, 2009



Chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, or MPNs, are a group of incurable blood cancers that affect up to 100,000 Americans and, until fairly recently, were a mystery to scientists. Doctors had long since determined that these deadly diseases caused the body to produce excessive blood cells, but were in the dark about their origins: What caused MPNs? And why were some people more susceptible than others?



The question is being answered, at least in part, right now. Researchers believe that identifying genetic mutations holds some of the answers for earlier diagnosis and the development of better treatments.



The first step came a few years ago, when researchers found the first genetic link to MPNs: Mutations of a protein called Janus kinase 2 (or JAK2 for short) can lead to activation of what’s known as the JAK-STAT pathway, a signaling mechanism for various proteins and other substances that control cellular communication and growth. When activated, the JAK-STAT pathway stimulates cell proliferation and other processes (and, when damaged, can lead to cancer). A single acquired mutation in JAK2 was identified in more than half of the chronic MPD patients tested, leading the researchers to hypothesize that MPD cancers are directly tied to mutations in JAK2.



Since then, other studies have ID’d several other common genetic denominators in patients with MPNs. For example, we now know that mutations in a genetic sequence known as MPLW515 are also linked to the JAK-STAT pathway — and the development of an MPN. And, just this year, researchers have discovered a connection to mutations in a gene known as TET2.



“The discovery of these mutations has completely modified the understanding, diagnosis, and management of MPNs,” says Dr. Shashi Pawar, director of genetics at Acupath Laboratories, Inc., a New York pathology lab. In fact, she notes that the World Health Organization recently changed its diagnostic criteria for MPNs to include JAK2 and MPL mutations. “As we continue to identify other genetic factors, we can develop better diagnostic tools —and drugs — to help more patients, more quickly.”



“Chronic MPD is a hematomalignancy, or cancer of the blood, that’s characterized by increases in one or more of the elements of the blood — like red blood cells and platelets — plus a tendency to develop excessive cells in the bone marrow,” Dr. Pawar explains. “We know that thrombopoietin (TPO) and the TPO receptor (MPL) are the key to platelet regulation, and we’ve shown that people with MPNs typically have a shortfall in MPL. Thus, we know that testing for MPL as well as JAK2 can help us diagnose and treat MPNs. And since we already have JAK2 mutation test available to our clients, it makes sense to have a test to detect mutation in MPL as well.”



And, as time goes by and more connections are made, the discovery of genes and genetic factors that are associated with MPNs will help researchers develop more accurate tests and treatments.



About MPNs

The three types of MPNs, polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), are what experts call clonal hematopoietic stem-cell disorders, which are caused by an acquired, rather than inborn, mutation in blood cells — an injury to the DNA of a single cell in the bone marrow, where blood cells are formed, that causes it to become malignant and multiply uncontrollably (and interfere with the body's production of healthy blood cells). IN PV, the marrow produces too many red blood cells, in ET it produces excessive platelets, and in PMF, the marrow develops scar-like lesions because of an overabundance of white cells and platelets and an inadequate supply of red blood cells.



About Dr. Pawar: Shashi Pawar, Ph. D, FACMG, is director of genetics at Acupath, Inc. With more than 20 years of varied experience in molecular genetics and molecular pathology, Dr. Pawar is board-certified in both clinical cytogenetics and clinical molecular genetics. Prior to joining Acupath, Dr. Pawar was technical director for Genova Diagnostics. She has been named a diplomat of the American Society of Human Genetics and a member of the association of Molecular Pathology. In addition, she has been published in the Journal of Biological Chemisty and the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, among others. She earned her Ph. D. in biochemistry at the City University of New York.



About Acupath Laboratories: Acupath Laboratories, Inc. is a Plainview, New York, specialty medical lab engaged in leading-edge molecular and cytogenetic analysis. www. acupath. com



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Per-Inquiry Ad Firm Flips Paradigm for Growth

Per-Inquiry Ad Firm Flips Paradigm for Growth



Three hires in two months lay groundwork for new business.



Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) May 12, 2007



Peter Feinstein, president and CEO of per-inquiry (PI) advertising (http://www. hpowermarketing. com/) leader Higher Power Marketing (HPM), believes the path to growth should be paved, not potholed.



Most businesses, he says, hire based upon growth they've experienced. Playing catch-up hinders customer service as the companies struggle to reach the correct bandwidth.



"We're hiring just in advance of the growth curve, so we're in a great position to maintain customer service," Feinstein says. "I try to hire to lead the company to growth. It allows me to improve processes, open new channels of distribution and make the company function more efficiently."



HPM retained Chuck Edwards of Phoenix in April to manage accounts and operations, along with Janelle Hutter of Colorado Springs, Colo., to manage HPM's database. Only a month earlier, the company hired Cindy Truitt of Dallas to handle radio sales and service. The company's "virtual office" model allows it to tap talent from near and far.

"I can go months at a time without seeing the need to hire. But in the flash of a moment, I'll get the inspiration to hire a person to fill a role," Feinstein says. "It's great the way the universe works - that the inspiration hits and within a day or two I receive a referral or a question about whether I'm looking for somebody. That's what happened in these three instances."



Edwards and Feinstein have known each other for 15 years, originally working together at KLDE-FM in Houston. After attending Arizona State University, Edwards worked in Albuquerque, N. M., and Charleston, W. Va., as well as Houston, before returning to the Phoenix area in 1999. Since then, he has worked with KYOT-AM/FM, Entravision Communications and his own company, CLE Enterprises.



"Chuck's expertise is in listening to people and providing solutions based upon what he hears," says Feinstein, who believes Edwards "fills a need in client relations so I don't always have to be the face of the company."



Hutter, HPM's other April hire, brings more than 12 years of experience managing data operations in the direct-response (DR) industry - from managing toll-free number assignment processes to generating daily, weekly and monthly reporting for media outlets. She will oversee the day-to-day operations of HPM's database.



The new hires bring management skills that enable Feinstein to focus back on strategy and growth opportunities. "The bigger the company gets, the more important the operational side becomes," Feinstein says, adding that Hutter alone "saves me two hours a day."



The key to PI - also known variously as cost per lead (http://www. hpowermarketing. com/whatwedo. asp) (CPL), pay per lead (http://www. hpowermarketing. com/howwedoit. asp) (PPL) or cost per action (http://www. hpowermarketing. com/per_inquiry_tv. asp) (CPA), in addition to DR - is that the client receives free ad time and space while paying only for results. HPM has relationships with media outlets across the country - radio, television, print, Internet and billboards - and access to their unsold inventory of ad space. The agency acquires the rights to the unsold time and/or space for its clients, which pay only for qualified responses. Thus, a client can establish a stable, predictable CPL within its business plan, assuring a positive return on investment (ROI).



Truitt, the Dallas-based advertising veteran who joined HPM in March, contacts radio networks, program syndicators and group-owned stations to see if they have unsold inventory they would like to monetize by airing HPM clients' ads. She also makes sure those outlets have updated versions of clients' commercials and the terms for their use.



HPM's emphasis on PI and CPL results appeals to clients who care about how well their advertising works, not necessarily when or where it runs. Those clients come from a variety of business sectors, including:

Health insurance IRS tax resolution Structured settlements Higher education Mortgage Credit counseling Tort litigation Home/lifestyle improvement Business opportunities Home care products Travel vacation sales Automotive aftermarket Debt elimination Information services Weight-loss programs Medical discount programs



HPM's PI strategy allows companies to boost business without the usual risks associated with advertising.



Contact: Peter Feinstein, 480-837-3580



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Christopher and Dziejma Join The Hampshire Companies

Christopher and Dziejma Join The Hampshire Companies



The Hampshire Companies announces the appointments of Julie Christopher as Executive Assistant/Marketing Coordinator and Lisa Dziejma as Executive Administrator.



Morristown, NJ (PRWEB) June 3, 2007



The Hampshire Companies, a full service, private real estate investment fund manager with equity in assets valued at over $1.5 billion, announces the appointments of Julie Christopher as Executive Assistant/Marketing Coordinator and Lisa Dziejma as Executive Administrator.



Ms. Christopher's responsibilities will include assisting the company's Executive Managing Director as well as coordinating marketing efforts. Prior to joining The Hampshire Companies, she was the Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Finance/CFO of Atlantic Health System for 10 years.



Ms. Dziejma's responsibilities will include quarterly reports production and administrative systems support within Hampshire's Finance Department. Her previous experience includes data quality and system analysis for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Ms. Dziejma is a graduate of New York University and has her B. S. in Management Information Systems.



"Julie and Lisa join The Hampshire Companies as integral parts of our team," said James E. Hanson II, CEO and President of The Hampshire Companies. "Their enthusiasm, organization, skills, and drive are symbolic of our firm as a whole. We are excited to have them join our team, and look forward to them making an immediate contribution to our company."



The Hampshire Companies is a full-service, private real estate investment fund manager based in Morristown, New Jersey. The Hampshire Companies is a vibrant, dynamic organization that combines creative vision and superior execution, thereby enabling it to create and enhance value in real estate investments in order to consistently outperform the market. Additional information on The Hampshire Companies and its funds is available online at www. hampshireco. com.



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FolderWave Selected by AIIM as 2009 Best Practices Finalist for Work at Boston College

FolderWave Selected by AIIM as 2009 Best Practices Finalist for Work at Boston College



FolderWave recognized for excellence in the field of enterprise content management (ECM)



Westford, MA (PRWEB) May 12, 2009



FolderWave has been selected as a finalist for the Carl E. Nelson Best Practices Award for its work with Boston College and DataBank IMX. The award recognizes excellence that has been achieved within an organization and refers to a process that can be quantified, adapted, and repeated in the enterprise content management (ECM) field.



The Best Practices Award was established by AIIM to recognize excellence in the enterprise content management (ECM) field and provides an exciting and unique way for end-user organizations to share their ECM project implementations with their peers and for ECM solution providers to showcase the ROI that their solutions can achieve.



Boston College initially implemented FolderWave's system to support the tracking, processing and verification of information for the Financial Aid Department. Through streamlined processes and innovative technology, Boston College Financial Aid counselors can focus on the verification and awarding process.



With several years of operating experience, FolderWave's products and services have shown that they clearly improve the financial aid process, shorten the time and improve communication, resulting in better service to the applicants and their families.



Following the success of the Financial Aid application, BC has implemented the FolderWave Admissions and On-line application modules in their Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions areas, along with FolderWave's Transcripts and Development Office modules.



"This is exciting for us at Boston College. To be a finalist among elite competition speaks volumes for the innovation provided by our partners in FolderWave and Databank IMX, but also is a win for the BC project team that has worked hard to make this technology and culture change a reality. The benefits have been tremendous," said Rita Owens, Executive Director of Academic Technology at Boston College.



"Once again, the quality of the submissions for the Carl E. Nelson Best Practice Award continues to improve raising the bar on best practices," said John Mancini, President, AIIM. "Our AIIM Emerging Technology Advisory Group (EmTAG), assisted by several of the 2008 award recipients, evaluated and selected the finalists in each category for the Best Practices."



"FolderWave is extremely proud of the work we have done with BC and Databank IMX," said Robert Burke, FolderWave President."It has been an excellent collaboration and has demonstrated how major change and new levels of effectiveness and efficiency can be achieved with a foundation of technology. Most important, the people at all 3 organizations have made this a success. We are honored to be a finalist. "



About AIIM

AIIM is a very large international organization with over 65,000 members. For over 60 years, AIIM has been the leading non-profit organization focused on helping users to understand the challenges associated with managing documents, content, records, and business processes.



AIIM was founded in 1943 as the National Microfilm Association and later became the Association for Information and Image Management. AIIM is also known as the enterprise content management (ECM) association.



Today, AIIM is international in scope, independent, and implementation-focused. As the industry's intermediary, AIIM represents the entire industry, including users, suppliers, and the channel.



About Boston College

Founded in 1863, Boston College is a coeducational university with an enrollment of 9,000 undergraduates and 4,700 graduate and professional students representing every state and more than 80 countries. US News and World Report ranks Boston College 34th among national universities.



Boston College confers more than 3,800 degrees in more than 50 fields of study through 11 schools and colleges. Its more than 600 full-time faculty members are committed to both teaching and research and have set new marks for research grants in each of the last ten years. The University is in the process of adding new faculty positions, expanding research, increasing student financial aid, and widening opportunities in key undergraduate programs. Its commitment to its Jesuit and Catholic heritage has recently been manifested in the widely praised Church in the 21st Century Initiative.. For more about Boston College, visit www. BC. edu.



About FolderWave

FolderWave, Inc. of Westford, MA provides secondary and higher education institutions with a fully integrated family of 9 Web-based complete processes. FolderWave is a unique Web-based company offering products and services designed to significantly improve complex, high-volume time-dependent process - and data-management operations in many operational areas in Education.



The FolderWave strategy is not limited to technology or process but focuses on a complete approach that employs Web technologies, outsourced services, document-management, case-management, content-management, and work-process automation in a single fully-integrated solution set, delivered via the Web. FolderWave has proven it can offer rapid deployment to address complex problems while demonstrating a significant ROI.



FolderWave currently has the following fully integrated modules in full production:

 Inquiry  Online Application (e-forms with multiple uses)  Undergraduate Admissions  Graduate Admissions  Financial Aid  Transcripts  Development Office (fundraising)  Student Academic Folder  Contracts and Grants For more about proven ROI solutions like these, visit www. FolderWave. com.



About DataBankIMX

DataBank is a premier national full-service provider of Image and Information Solutions. With nine production centers throughout the United States, DataBank delivers services, technology, tools and methods to capture, manage, store, preserve and deliver information to clients.



As a leader in the industry, delivering end-to-end solutions, DataBank understands customers' environments and their focus on security. DataBank is customer-focused, with a proven track record of success in delivering quantifiable value to customers in Higher Education, Government, and Health Services, among many other industries. DataBank backs its work with a 100% guarantee. Visit www. DataBankIMX. com



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Physician's Group Applauds Oregon Supreme Court for Protecting Boy from Circumcision

Physician's Group Applauds Oregon Supreme Court for Protecting Boy from Circumcision



Doctors Opposing Circumcision (D. O.C.), www. doctorsopposingcircumcision. org, celebrated the decision by the Oregon Supreme Court this week for the case of a 12-year-old Washington boy facing a religious circumcision, calling it a step forward for children's rights.



Seattle, WA (PRWEB) January 30, 2008



Doctors Opposing Circumcision (D. O.C.), www. doctorsopposingcircumcision. org], celebrated the decision by the Oregon Supreme Court this week for the case of a 12-year-old Washington boy facing a religious circumcision, calling it a step forward for children's rights.



“We are pleased that the Oregon Supreme Court recognized this healthy child does not need this surgery and has a right to be heard, though we remain concerned he may have been manipulated,” said attorney John Geisheker, Director of D. O.C. “Nevertheless, this is a landmark step toward recognizing the separate rights of children. We applaud the Court for protecting this boy. There is no more important decision to make for a male child.”



The Court overturned opinions of both the trial court and the Oregon Court of Appeals which had allowed the ritual surgery regardless of the child's preferences. The custodial father, an attorney, claims to have converted to a branch of Judaism which requires the procedure. The mother, an Orthodox Christian, opposed the father and was supported by the Seattle based organization, D. O.C., who submitted two 'friend of the Court' briefs.



A consortium of Jewish groups had supported the father and opposed the mother.



"In our view, at age 12, the (boy’s) attitude regarding circumcision, though not conclusive of the custody issue presented here, is a fact necessary to the determination," Chief Justice Paul De Muniz wrote. "Forcing (him) at age 12 to undergo circumcision against his will could seriously affect the relationship between (he) and his father, and could have a pronounced effect on father's capability to properly care for (him)."



After delay for a possible appeal, the case goes back to an Oregon Circuit Court for the testimony of the child and of experts.



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Dietary Cocoa Flavanols Improve Vascular And Blood Pressure Measures For Coronary Artery Disease Patients

Dietary Cocoa Flavanols Improve Vascular And Blood Pressure Measures For Coronary Artery Disease Patients



A new study by UCSF cardiologists and researchers found that high concentrations of cocoa flavanols decrease blood pressure, improve the health of blood vessels and increase the number of circulating angiogenic cells in patients with heart disease. The findings indicate that foods rich in flavanols – such as cocoa products, tea, wine, and various fruits and vegetables – have a cardio-protective benefit for heart disease patients.



(Vocus) July 7, 2010



A new study by UCSF cardiologists and researchers found that high concentrations of cocoa flavanols decrease blood pressure, improve the health of blood vessels and increase the number of circulating angiogenic cells in patients with heart disease. The findings indicate that foods rich in flavanols – such as cocoa products, tea, wine, and various fruits and vegetables – have a cardio-protective benefit for heart disease patients.



Findings will be published online July 5th and in the July 13, 2010 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC).



Flavanols are phytonutrient compounds that are found naturally in apples, grapes, tea, cocoa and cherries, which account for the antioxidant effect provided by red wine and green tea. The study found a protective effect from a cocoa drink with 375 mg of flavanols, but according to researchers, a standard or recommended dosage has not yet been defined to achieve optimal health benefit.



The UCSF team has shown for the first time that one of the possible mechanisms of flavanol’s benefit is an increase in the circulation of so-called angiogenic cells in the blood. These cells, also known as early endothelial progenitor cells, are critical for the repair process after vascular injury, and perform function and maintenance roles in the endothelium. Endothelium is the thin layer of cells that line the interior wall of blood vessels.



“Reduced blood vessel function is a hallmark of early development of coronary artery disease,” said cardiologist Yerem Yeghiazarians, MD, senior author, associate professor of medicine, and researcher in the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCSF. “If we can improve the health and function of damaged blood vessels, heart disease patients will have a better chance of survival.”



In 2005, researchers reported that an increased level of circulating angiogenic cells is associated with a decreased risk of death from cardiovascular causes (New England Journal of Medicine by Werner, N., et al.)



In the current study, the benefit seen from the two-fold increase in circulating angiogenic cells was similar to that achieved by therapy with statins and with lifestyle changes such as exercise and smoking cessation. The benefit demonstrated with cocoa flavanol therapy occurred in addition to the medical regimen already being taken by study participants.



“Our data support the concept that dietary flavanols at the levels provided - in tandem with current medical therapy - are safe, improve cardiovascular function, and increase circulating angiogenic cells, which have previously been shown to correlate positively with long-term cardiovascular outcomes” said Yeghiazarians. “Long-term trials examining the effects of high-flavanol diets on cardiovascular health and function are warranted, but these early findings help us understand how these compounds impact the function of damaged blood vessels.”



The study included 16 coronary artery disease patients aged 64 years (±three years) who received both a high-flavanol cocoa drink (containing 375 mg of flavanols) twice a day over 30 days and later a nutrient-matched low-flavanol cocoa drink (containing 9mg flavanols) twice a day over 30 days. Giving the same study participants both interventions makes this a “crossover” study since participants crossed over from one intervention to the other.



The study was randomized, controlled and “masked” as well, meaning both the doctors and patients were prevented from knowing which variation of the cocoa drink a patient was drinking at a given time until after the study was completed. The patients continued taking all regular medications for their underlying heart disease during the study period, including statin medications for lowering the cholesterol levels to recommended goals.



Researchers calculated the outcome of the cocoa intervention using blood pressure readings, ultrasound to measure dilation of the brachial artery, and cell assays to calculate the number and behavior of circulating angiogenic cells. The tests showed a 47 percent improvement in vasodilation, or widening rather than constriction, of the brachial artery in the high-flavanol time period compared to the low-flavanol period. In addition, circulating angiogenic cells increased 2.2-fold and systolic blood pressure decreased among the high-flavanol versus low-flavanol periods.



“This is exciting data,” Yeghiazarians added. “Our findings demonstrate that a further increase in endothelial function and improvement in blood pressure can be achieved by complementing standard treatment with a flavanol-rich diet. The 80 million Americans impacted by heart disease may be glad to hear this.” Notably, the therapy did not influence fasting glucose levels of study participants. (Fasting glucose is the standard for measuring an individual’s blood sugar level to diagnose conditions such as diabetes and heart disease).



The study was funded by Mars, Inc., and the American Heart Association.



Corresponding author was Christian Heiss, MD, of UCSF’s Division of Cardiology with additional affiliations with the Division of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine and Pulmonology in Dusseldorf, Germany, and the Department of Nutrition at University of California, Davis. 



Additional UCSF investigators include Stanton Glantz, PhD; Andrew Boyle, PhD; William Grossman, MD; Shirley Mihardja, PhD; Franca S. Angeli, MD; Nicolas Amabile, MD; Megha Prasad, Sarah Jahn, Melanie Taylor, Wendy May Real, Maelene L. Wong, and Matthew L. Springer, PhD, from UCSF’s Cardiovascular Research Institute and the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research.



Other co-authors include Tienush Rassaf, MD, with the Division of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine and Pulmonology in Dusseldorf, Germany; Javier I. Ottaviani, PhD, and Carl L. Keen, PhD, from the Department of Nutrition at the University of California, Davis; and Hagen Schroeter, PhD, from Mars, Inc.



UCSF is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. For further information, visit www. ucsf. edu.



Follow UCSF on Twitter at http://twitter. com/ucsfnews (http://twitter. com/ucsfnews)



Related links:



UCSF Cardiology Practice

Http://cardiology. ucsf. edu/clinical/interventional/faculty/Yeghiazarians. html (http://cardiology. ucsf. edu/clinical/interventional/faculty/Yeghiazarians. html)



Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCSF

Http://stemcell. ucsf. edu/ (http://stemcell. ucsf. edu/)



UCSF Today web story about what makes chocolate heart healthy

Http://today. ucsf. edu/stories/heart-healthy-chocolate-how-sweet-it-is/ (http://today. ucsf. edu/stories/heart-healthy-chocolate-how-sweet-it-is/)



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New Director At Kwik Fit Financial Services

New Director At Kwik Fit Financial Services



The Leading UK insurance intermediary Kwik Fit Financial Services has appointed Stevie Sutherland as the new business development director from Banco Santander.



London, UK (PRWEB) May 28, 2009



Leading UK insurance intermediary Kwik Fit Financial Services has appointed Stevie Sutherland as business development director from Banco Santander.



Stevie, who also worked at GE Capital with Kwik Fit Financial Services group managing director Brendan Devine, will join the Uddingston-based insurer from May 5, with overall responsibility for developing and maintaining relationships with insurer partners across the business.



Brendan Devine said: "Stevie has an outstanding track record in financial services and I'm immensely looking forward to working with him again. His skills in business development are second-to-none and he will be an extremely valuable addition to the board of directors at Kwik Fit Financial Services."



Stevie added: "I'm really excited about the prospect of joining Kwik Fit Financial Services and helping to grow the business further across the product range. There are great opportunities to build on what the company has already achieved, as well as new areas to be explored which offer significant potential for increasing our share of the UK insurance market."



Stevie began his career at Woodchester Credit Lyonnais as an account manager in June 1994, and was awarded Salesperson of the Year two years running from a national pool of 75 account managers. Stevie progressed to manage the Scottish operation under new owners, GE Capital from 1999 to 2002. From there he became European Business Development Manager with the remit of developing pan European accounts, the first of which was Kia Motors across eight countries. In 2007, he joined GE Money Loans as UK Commercial Director and subsequently Banco Santander from where he joins Kwik Fit Financial Services.



Kwik Fit Financial Services has reported strong trading this year, with February sales of new home insurance policies up 65.8 per cent compared to 2008, with 77,000 home insurance policies now on the firm's books. In January sales of the same product increased by 62 per cent.



With almost 500,000 motor insurance policies also currently live, Kwik Fit Financial Services' figures reflect the business's general good health despite the tough economic climate.



Issued by The BIG Partnership on behalf of Kwik-Fit Insurance.

For further information, please contact Michelle Holton, Jane Robertson or Bryan Garvie at The BIG Partnership on 0141 333 9585



Note To Editors:

Kwik Fit Financial Services was launched in 1995 and has grown to become one of the UK's leading car insurance (http://www. kwik-fitinsurance. com) distributors, as well as a major presence in home insurance (http://www. kwik-fitinsurance. com/home/home-insurance. html) and other insurance markets.



The company's award-winning call centre in Uddingston, Lanarkshire, now employs almost 1000 people, and was named top insurer (17th overall) in the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For 2009.



Since its launch in 1995, Kwik Fit Financial Services has grown and developed into one of Scotland's most dynamic contact centres.

Kwik Fit Financial Services is part of the Kwik Fit Group owned by private equity firm PAI Partners.



The philosophy of the business is to provide the best possible service to customers.



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ChicExecs PR Announces: Ointment Once Used for Dairy Cow’s Chapped Udders is Now Recognized for its Healing Abilities on Human Hands!

ChicExecs PR Announces: Ointment Once Used for Dairy Cow’s Chapped Udders is Now Recognized for its Healing Abilities on Human Hands!



Dr. Hess's Udder Ointment is healing chapped hands for people nationwide and for the soldiers overseas.



Vista, CA (Vocus) October 15, 2009



An ointment that was once used to heal dairy cow's chapped udders is now known as a human healing sensation for chapped hands.



Dr. Hess’s Udder Ointment has been around for over a hundred years, which is no wonder with its therapeutic recipe and positive results.



Established in 1897 by Dr. Gilbert Hess and, J. L. Clark, Dr. Hess's Udder Ointment was developed for treating chapped teats and udders of dairy cattle. Farmers using the products quickly realized the improvement of their own dry, chapped hands and from there the rest is history.



What started as just an ointment for dairy cow’s chapped udders, was soon being recognized for its healing abilities on human hands. Farmers were noticing that both their cow’s and their own cuts and dry skin were healing much more rapidly. Across the country people were using it as a veterinary and home remedy.



Through the years, Udder Ointment came under varying ownerships until finally returning to the family with great granddaughter of J. L. Clark, Polly Clark Tribe and her husband Tyler. She listened to people’s rave reviews and sadness after its disappearance from the market, and decided to resurrect Dr. Hess’s line of Udder Ointment.



Their claim to fame is the original Dr. Hess Udder Ointment. It’s perfect for smearing on all parts of the body that could use a little smoothing and polishing. Its hydrating nature leaves skin utterly quenched.



Everyone knows the uncomfortable and unhappy screams of a baby suffering from diaper rash. Dr. Hess Udder Ointment for Baby Butts was created to ease the rough spots and soothe the burning - offering some relief for mom and baby.



The Dr. Hess Udder Stick works wonders on chapped and cracking lips. It leaves lips looking healthy and plump when before they looked dry and damaged. Based on the original recipe, the chapstick includes sunscreen to protect against those harmful rays.



Udder Ointment is a pharmacist recommended skin cream for dry skin, chapped lips, cracked heels, diaper rash, athletic chafing, eczema, burns, abrasions, and more. To carry on the founder’s humanitarian spirit, the Tribe’s have donated Udder Ointment overseas to those stationed in Afghanistan, in the hopes it will help soothe their dry skin and bring some relief after missions.



For samples or additional information, please contact media (at) chicexecs (dot) com.



ChicExecs PR

1487 Poinsettia Ave Ste 125

Vista, CA 92081

760.992.9113



About ChicBlvd Inc: ChicBlvd Inc, a women-owned multi-media company located in San Diego, CA which began in 2004, includes three divisions--an online magazine: ChicBlvd at www. ChicBlvd. com, product development division: chicBuds Designer Electronics at www. chicbuds. com and a Public Relations firm: ChicExecs PR at www. chicexecs. com - servicing over 80 Clients. Sign up for Client updates at www. ChicExecsMedia. com



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Global Medical Nonwoven Disposables Market to Reach $12 Billion by 2010, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc

Global Medical Nonwoven Disposables Market to Reach $12 Billion by 2010, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc.



A range of factors are driving the global market for medical nonwoven disposables, including rapid advancements in the nonwovens production technology, increase in surgical procedures, and robust growth in European and developing countries. The global medical nonwoven disposables market is projected to reach $12 billion by the year 2010, growing at a compounded annual rate of over 4% during the 2000-2010 period.



San Jose, CA (PRWEB) March 19, 2008



With increase in range of infectious diseases and regulations put into effect in healthcare and hospital facilities, nonwovens has emerged as a goldmine for roll manufacturers fuelled by consumer demand. Nonwoven disposables are rapidly making inroads into the medical sector, principally driven by growing consumer awareness against spread of infectious diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis. The stringent standards being imposed by various regulatory agencies globally are also impacting the use of nonwovens positively. Though the medical market is increasingly moving towards non-invasive surgeries, overall impact on the nonwoven disposables market remains miniscule. Not surprisingly, nonwovens industry is witness to developments of new manufacturing, compound and finishing processes. Consumer demand higher protective apparel largely influences production of nonwoven materials.



United States is the largest medical nonwovens market (http://www. strategyr. com/Medical_Nonwoven_Disposables_Market_Report. asp) in the world and is projected to exceed $3.4 billion by the year 2010, as stated by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. With volume of sophisticated hi-tech surgical intervention growing rapidly, Europe is projected to experience high growth in medical nonwovens sector in the coming years. Alternatively, Asia-Pacific offers massive potential in the long run largely driven by some of the fastest growing global economies, including China and India. A large consumer base in these countries coupled with improving healthcare system and safety awareness bodes well for the medical nonwovens disposables market. Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing medical nonwovens market and is projected to register a CAGR of more than 5% during the 2000-2010 period.



Medical nonwoven disposables market is witnessing exuberant growth and manufacturers are vying to tap this immense opportunity available in the market. Nonwoven disposables forms a part of variety of medical applications, including the manufacture of surgical packs, sterilization packaging, protective footwear, facial masks, hospital beddings, linens, towels, drapes, gowns, and gloves among others. About 3.3 billion square yards of nonwoven material is used in medical and surgical applications in North America alone. This indicates the potential of the market lying ahead and opens up newer avenues for the producers. Aging population worldwide is also fueling demand for medical nonwovens disposables. The old age is characterized by increased incidences of acute diseases, necessitating the need for more number of surgical procedures. Nonwovens disposables are more preferred in such procedures due to higher safety and usage convenience. As the population of old people continues to grow alarmingly throughout the world, surgical procedures using nonwoven disposables such as surgical gloves, masks, and adult diapers are also expected to multiply.



Among product segments, surgical nonwoven products market (http://www. strategyr. com/Medical_Nonwoven_Disposables_Market_Report. asp) is the largest and the fastest growing segment and is projected to cross $5.0 billion by the year 2010, at a CAGR of about 5%. Though the medical nonwovens disposable market offers significant growth prospects, few hurdles do exist that are likely to pose as a constraint to market growth. The continuing slowdown in the fiber industry on which the nonwovens market is largely dependent could restrain the market from rapidly achieving its potential. The issue of proper comprehension of nonwovens disposable applications in medical industry among consumers in various countries is also likely to influence the market. Countries with low awareness about the product's medical usages would experience low market development, thereby limiting the overall market growth.



The report titled "Medical Nonwoven Disposables: A Global Strategic Business Report" published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., provides a comprehensive review of market trends and issues, growth drivers, demographic trends, product overview, product introductions/innovations, and recent industry activity. The study also analyzes market data and analytics in value sales for regions such as United States, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Rest of World by the following product segments - Incontinence Products, Surgical Nonwoven Products, and Medical Nonwoven Supplies.



Key players dominating the global medical nonwoven disposables market include Ahlstrom Corporation, Asahi Kasei Corporation, Attends Healthcare Products, Buckeye Technologies, Covidien, EI. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND CO. (DUPONT), Fiberweb Plc, Freudenberg Nonwovens, Hogy Medical, Kao Corporation, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Medline Industries, Mölnlycke Health Care, Nissan Medical Industries, Polymer Group, Precision Fabrics Group, SCA Hygiene Products, THE HARTMANN GROUP, and UniCharm Corporation.



For more details about this research report, please visit http://www. strategyr. com/Medical_Nonwoven_Disposables_Market_Report. asp (http://www. strategyr. com/Medical_Nonwoven_Disposables_Market_Report. asp)



About Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

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



Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Telephone 408-528-9966

Fax 408-528-9977

Email press @ StrategyR. com

Web Site www. StrategyR. com



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The Evergreen State College Campus ChildrenÂ’s Center Opens New Facility to Public for Summer Enrollment

The Evergreen State College Campus ChildrenÂ’s Center Opens New Facility to Public for Summer Enrollment



The Evergreen State College Campus ChildrenÂ’s Center is now extending enrollment opportunities in their nationally accredited (NYAEC) childcare program to the public for summer. The opening of the new environmentally designed building and playground brings more space and rare vacancies to the popular program that usually boasts a long waiting list for students and staff of the Evergreen State College. The expansion allows the ChildrenÂ’s Center to share the Evergreen experience with families outside of the college for the first time, while fulfilling the demand for high quality summer child care and school readiness programs in the community.



(PRWEB) July 8, 2004



The Children’s Center has a unique, child and family centered philosophy that values diversity, respects the environment, supports individual growth, and encourages natural development. “We are committed to creating an environment of joy where the talents of children and adults are recognized, nurtured, and celebrated,” says Michael Harris, Director of the Children’s Center. The curriculum is loosely structured giving children the opportunity to learn naturally at their own pace through play. Experienced, nurturing, teachers with training in early childhood education, provide fun activities and themes to help children build social and academic skills. Summer activities will include exciting field trips on the beautiful, wooded, Evergreen State College Campus, picnics, water play, and a variety of art, literacy, and creative play experiences.



With the opening of its new doors this summer, the ChildrenÂ’s Center is also launching its new Infant/Parent Program, “Come Play With Me,” a series of fun classes for parents and their babies facilitated by experienced infant educator Marilyn Fuller. Ongoing classes will offer parents the opportunity to learn about infant development through interactive play, bonding, and socialization with other parents and babies. Parents will also learn how to make home made toys, play stimulating games, and practice basic infant massage techniques. 



The Evergreen State College Campus ChildrenÂ’s Center currently has full and part time openings for children ages 1-7 and a limited number of spaces in the Infant/Parent Program. USDA approved organic lunches and healthy snacks are provided. Reasonable rates, DSHS accepted. For more information or to enroll your child call 360-867-6060.



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Seattle-based Watermark Credit Union Receives Prestigious Award from Washington State Psychological Association

Seattle-based Watermark Credit Union Receives Prestigious Award from Washington State Psychological Association



Watermark Credit Union is excited to announce that it won an award in 2007 from the Washington State Psychological Association as a Psychologically Healthy Workplace.



Seattle, WA (PRWEB) January 30, 2008



Watermark Credit Union is excited to announce that it won an award in 2007 from the Washington State Psychological Association as a Psychologically Healthy Workplace. Nominated by one of the credit union's consultants, Watermark was closely scrutinized to see if it merited an award in any of five categories: employee involvement, work-life balance, employee growth and development, health and safety, and employee recognition.



After a rigorous screening and evaluation process, the WSPA determined that Watermark Credit Union had won in all five areas. Brent Evans, executive vice president of operations, accepted the honor at a ceremony in Tacoma in October. Watermark Credit Union President and CEO Chuck Cockburn attributes the company's success to two primary philosophies: Dr. Deming's quality management principles and a gainsharing program developed in conjunction with the Scanlon Leadership Network, in which teamwork is rewarded rather than individual successes.



Cockburn implemented Dr. Deming's principles when he came to the credit union nearly seven years ago. Since then, he and the credit union team have built on those principles to form a collaborative, teamwork-centered environment. In addition, the credit union encourages feedback from its employees. In the last two years, the credit union has implemented more than 200 suggestions from employees.



"We didn't create our culture for the purpose of winning this award," said Sabrina Stabbert, vice president of operations, "But it affirms what we've been working on and dedicating ourselves to from a management perspective for the last seven years. The recognition means a lot."



In addition to this award, Watermark Credit Union has been named one of the best places to work by both Washington CEO and Seattle Business Monthly magazines.



"It's a journey of continuous improvement," Stabbert said. "That's what we're really striving for."



For more information about Watermark Credit Union, please contact Sherry Lotze, vice president of marketing, at 206-381-6542 or slotze@watermarkcu. org or visit the company's Web site at www. watermarkcu. org.



Founded in 1938, Watermark Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution based in Seattle, Washington. With $486 million in assets and more than 70,000 members, Watermark Credit Union offers a wide range of personal and commercial banking services, with branches in Bellevue, Burien, Lynnwood, Redmond, Seattle, Shoreline and Southcenter. Membership is available to anyone who lives or works in the state of Washington. Watermark Credit Union prides itself on remaining true to the original purpose of credit unions--people helping people--to make certain that all members have access to the best products and services, and receive sound financial advice from professionals they trust.



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Unitus 'Empowering Women' Campaign Fights Global Poverty through Microfinance

Unitus 'Empowering Women' Campaign Fights Global Poverty through Microfinance



Inventive tribute website honors inspiring, everyday women for Mother's Day.



Redmond, WA (PRWEB) April 24, 2007



Just in time for Mother's Day, Unitus, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing global poverty by increasing access to microfinance, is kicking off an innovative "Empowering Women (http://www. unitus. com/sections/ew/index. asp)" campaign designed to celebrate inspiring women around the world and expand access to crucial microfinance loans. Starting today, visitors to www. unitus. com/empoweringwomen (http://www. unitus. com/empoweringwomen) can build individualized tribute pages honoring the empowering women in their lives, and in their honoree's name, provide economic opportunity to hardworking women in developing countries.



For every $5 gift, Unitus and its global microfinance partners will empower one woman by connecting her to a life-changing $100 microcredit loan. Unitus does this by using its proven Acceleration Model (http://www. unitus. com/sections/aboutus/aboutus_os_main. asp), which leverages donor dollars with technology, consulting and financing to create a 20-to-1 impact for these "banks for the poor."



"When women in developing countries gain access to small loans, they are empowered to expand their businesses, increase their savings, send their children to school and lift themselves out of poverty," said Unitus President and CEO Geoff Davis. "We know that 94 percent of entrepreneurs the Unitus portfolio serves are women, and that empowering these women with small loans will have ripple effects on families, communities, and entire generations."



Microfinance (http://www. unitus. com/sections/impact/impact_main. asp) loans - typically in amounts of $100 or less - enable entrepreneurs in developing countries to start or expand small businesses, such as weaving baskets, raising chickens, or running small retail shops and restaurants. Income from these businesses provides better food, housing, health care and education for entire families, and perhaps most importantly, hope for a better future. Unitus provides advisory services, mission-critical business solutions and financial support; including loans, grants and guarantees, to help microfinance institutions increase their capacity and enhance their ability to reach even more of the world's working poor.



Unitus's Empowering Women (http://www. unitus. com/sections/ew/) website makes it easy to create a tribute page to honor an inspiring woman, including the ability to upload photos and videos to help personalize the story. When the online tribute is complete, Unitus will send a paper card and/or an e-card with a link to the tribute page to the woman being honored, with the option of sending e-mail alerts out to her family and friends. A tracker on the top of the tribute page shows how many women around the world have been empowered by the donation made on the honoree's behalf; a master tracker on the campaign home page shows how many women in total have been positively impacted by the campaign to date.



"Great gifts come from the heart, and the best gifts help truly make a difference for someone. We hope people will consider skipping the flowers and candy this Mother's Day and instead honor their mothers by creating a tribute on our Empowering Women website," said Mary Balmaceda, Unitus director of marketing and communications. "Making a donation to help a mother in another corner of the world is a powerful, meaningful gift that recipients will remember for years to come."



Launching today, the Unitus Empowering Women website will run year round, and makes a great gift for Mother's Day or any other occasion. For more information, visit www. unitus. com/empoweringwomen (http://www. unitus. com/empoweringwomen )



About Unitus

Unitus is a worldwide leader at scaling proven solutions to global poverty. Unitus accelerates access to life-changing financial services for those living at the bottom of the economic pyramid -- the three billion people who are living on less than $2 a day. We partner with the world's most promising microfinance institutions and provide them with breakthrough business strategies, technology and access to capital that empower them to serve thousands more hardworking micro-entrepreneurs around the world. Unitus partners are adding new loan recipients eight times fasted than the industry average. Our portfolio reaches more than 1.6 million families in Argentina, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico and the Philippines. Our goal is to reach more than 15 million of the world's working poor by 2015. Unitus has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and on National Public Radio, and received Fast Company magazine's Social Capitalist award in 2005 and 2006.



Unitus is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, with offices in Redmond, Wash. and Bangalore, India. For more information, please visit www. unitus. com.



Editors' Note: High-resolution Empowering Women campaign logo and website screen captures available upon request.



Media Contacts:

Amanda Foley, Duo Public Relations for Unitus, 206.957.1387

Robert Lowry, Public Relations Associate, Unitus, 425.881.2574



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NASCAR's Kyle Petty to Address Global Innovators in EH&S & Crisis Management At ESS Expo.08

NASCAR's Kyle Petty to Address Global Innovators in EH&S & Crisis Management At ESS Expo.08



NASCAR Nextel Cup winner will share perspectives on driving performance to achieve business success.



Tempe, Ariz. (Vocus) November 13, 2007 –-



ESS (http://www. ess-home. com/), the leading provider of Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) and Crisis Management software for Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) (http://blog. ess-home. com/), today announced that popular NASCAR driver Kyle Petty (http://www. pettyracing. com/) will appear as a featured speaker at ESS EXPO.08 (http://www. ess-expo. com/), which is being held April 13-17, 2008 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort in Phoenix.



EXPO.08 is a business conference and workshop for users of ESS’ enterprise and mid-market software solutions. The theme for this year’s event is Driving Performance through Innovation. Petty, the third generation of the legendary NASCAR racing family, will provide his perspective on the challenges of achieving success in a pressure-packed environment where performance and winning are paramount.



In addition to addressing the attendees of ESS EXPO.08, Petty will be a special guest at a networking event during the conference. In his 28-year career as driver of the #45 car on the Nextel Cup circuit, Petty ranks seventh on the list of all-time NASCAR starts and has enjoyed numerous career wins.



"The name Petty has been associated with success and winning for more than 50 years,” said ESS President and CEO Robert Johnson. “Kyle Petty is one of many speakers who will share insightful perspectives on driving business success with our worldwide network of customers and partners. His presence will help make ESS EXPO.08 the best conference in our history and the most popular EH&S and Crisis Management user conference in the industry.”



ESS EXPO.08 will offer more than 50 conference sessions, a two-day ESS partner technology exhibition and a hands-on software lab as well as two days of optional software training. Its goal is to help EH&S, Crisis Management and IT professionals learn more about the business sustainability issues that they face and how they can leverage the latest information management innovations to reduce risks and costs and achieve a competitive advantage. For more information about ESS EXPO.08, visit www. ess-expo. com.



About ESS

ESS is the leading provider of Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) and Crisis Management software for Governance, Risk and Compliance. The company has provided global and local software solutions for thousands of businesses, government agencies and other organizations worldwide. ESS is headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., with offices in Denver, Washington, Houston and Calgary, Alberta. For more information, visit

Www. ess-home. com.



Media Contact: Dawn Kehr

Phone: 480.346.5526



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Quixtar Reports Fourth Consecutive Year of Billion-Dollar Sales

Quixtar Reports Fourth Consecutive Year of Billion-Dollar Sales



Quixtar Inc. today announced fiscal 2006 sales of $1.118 billion and IBO earnings of $370.1 million in bonuses and other incentives.



GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (PRWEB) February 2, 2007



Quixtar Inc. (http://www. quixtar-inc. com) today announced fiscal 2006 sales of $1.118 billion, the fourth consecutive year in which the company surpassed the billion-dollar mark. This is the first year Quixtar has announced sales since switching to a fiscal year ending Dec. 31. Previously, Quixtar and other Alticor subsidiaries operated on a fiscal year ending Aug. 31.



No matter how it's sliced, 2006 represented a growth year for Quixtar (http://www. quixtar. com/about), Alticor's business opportunity company in the U. S. and Canada. The company's highest annual sales total ever represented a 2.2 percent increase over 2005 calendar year sales of $1.094 billion. Quixtar reported sales of $1.058 billion for the fiscal year that ended Aug. 31, 2005, and sales for the four-month period between that fiscal year and the beginning of 2006 were $376 million.



In 2006, Quixtar Independent Business Owners (IBOs) also generated $84.6 million in revenues for Quixtar's online Partner Stores, an increase of 12 percent from $75.5 million in calendar 2005. Partner Store sales reported for fiscal 2005 were $76 million, and IBOs generated another $28.1 million in Partner Store sales for the last four months of 2005.



In addition to earning retail profit on products sold to customers, IBOs earn bonuses and other incentives based on sales volume generated by their business groups. For their efforts, IBOs earned $370.1 million in bonuses and other incentives in 2006, up from $350.4 million in calendar 2005. Quixtar reported IBO bonuses and incentives of $344.7 million for the 2005 fiscal year, and they earned $125.8 million from Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, 2005. Since 1999, IBOs have earned more than $2.2 billion based on total Quixtar sales of nearly $6.8 billion and Partner Store Sales of more than $500 million.



"This was another good year for the Quixtar business," said Jim Payne, Quixtar's Managing Director. "We launched some new high-end health and beauty lines that helped sales, especially with loyal customers. We also increased the percentage of sales generated at Quixtar. com, which helps bolster our ranking as the leading online health and beauty retailer."



Quixtar's online sales in 2006 were $880 million, up 10% from calendar 2005 online sales of $800 million. Driven by its strong Health and Beauty brands, Quixtar again was ranked #1 in online Health and Beauty sales by Internet Retailer's "Top 500 Guide" in 2006, and 20th overall in e-commerce.



Among highlights contributing to those rankings for the 2006 fiscal year were:



•Launch of NUTRILITE (http://www. nutrilite. com)® Personalized Health program, including the Health Questionnaire, GENSONA™ Genetic Tests, Nutrigenomic supplements and Customized Packets of NUTRILITE supplements.

•The launch of the ARTISTRY (http://www. artistry. com)® TIME DEFIANCE® Skin Care Systems.

•The introduction of children's nutrition products like NUTRILITE Brainiums DHA™ and SEISMIC™ juices and healthy snacks.

•And many more product introductions, including the new iCOOK™ knifeware, ARTISTRY Microdermabrasion System, CLEARGUARD™ Dietary Supplement, NAO never accept ordinary™ shaded cosmetics, SATINIQUE™ Capture Color Series for hair, new XS™ Energy drinks, and more.



In addition to new products launched, Quixtar also conducted its first, limited national advertising campaign in 2006. The "Land of Will" Quixtar ads appeared on network and cable TV programming in the fourth quarter, while Nutrilite product ads appeared in Newsweek and Maclean's magazine and on cable TV during that same time frame. Tentative plans are for 2007 advertising to focus on key health and beauty brand advertising.



"We continue to focus on providing the best business opportunity in North America, rewarding entrepreneurs for their marketing and business-building efforts," said Payne. "And we're excited about some new programs we're developing right now that will help our IBOs do an even better job of introducing our products to their customers in the future."



ABOUT QUIXTAR

Based in Ada, Mich., Quixtar Inc. is part of the Alticor (http://www. alticor. com) group of companies, founded by the DeVos and Van Andel families. Alticor is led by Steve Van Andel, Chairman, and Doug DeVos, President. Global sales for the Alticor group of companies, which include Amway, Access Business Group, Alticor Corporate Enterprises (ACE), and Quixtar, exceeded $6.3 billion in fiscal 2006.



Quixtar currently supports independent businesses in the U. S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and various trust territories and independent island nations in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and Caribbean Sea. Quixtar Canada Corp. headquarters are located in London, Ont., Canada.



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Champion Nutrition Launches 20 New Knockout Items at Joe Weider's Olympia Weekend

Champion Nutrition Launches 20 New Knockout Items at Joe Weider's Olympia Weekend



Champion Nutrition has announced their highly-anticipated launch of 20 new items such as GlyproXTS™, WipeOut™ Fat Burner, and Pure Casein™. Since their relocation from Concord, CA to Sunrise, FL last April, the company has undergone a major re-branding initiative that has been focused on new product development, packaging, websites, and an international advertising campaign that has brought Champion Nutrition back to the forefront of the sports nutrition industry.



Sunrise, Florida (PRWEB) October 8, 2008



Champion Nutrition has announced their highly-anticipated launch of 20 new items such as GlyproXTS™, WipeOut™ Fat Burner, and Pure Casein™. Since their relocation from Concord, CA to Sunrise, FL last April, the company has gone under a major re-branding initiative that has been focused on new product development, new packaging, websites, and an international advertising campaign that has brought Champion Nutrition back to the forefront of the sports nutrition industry.



The new product charge is led by the innovative GlyproXTS™, a pre-workout formula containing the revolutionary ingredient GPLC (Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine). GPLC drives Oxygen into muscles like no other nitric oxide product to date. GlyproXTS™ will be offered as a complete pre-workout formula, GlyproXTS™ Complete Stack in Lemon Ice and Acai Berry Blast flavors, or in a tablet form. GlyproXTS™ will also be available as a supplement to existing Nitric Oxide Vasodilators. Available in powder and tablet form.



WipeOut™ is Champion Nutrition's entry into the fat burner category. Utilizing the proprietary ingredient ThermaSine™ from Sigma Tau HealthScience, Inc. WipeOut™ delivers an innovative 4-Stage fat burning process, drawing fat out of fat cells and into the muscle where it can be burned away in the "cellular furnace" as energy. WipeOut™ is also available with Crave Control, a unique blend of 4 appetite inhibitors designed to ease hunger.



Pure Casein™ is a slow digesting protein blend designed to be taken at night to suppress muscle breakdown during sleep. The total release of protein can last up to 7 hours and speeds recovery from training. Pure Casein™ is available in great tasting Chocolate and Vanilla flavors.



Performade™ is a pre-post workout formula with a specialized Creatine Matrix with 3 forms of creatine for maximum muscle absorption. Available in awesome Lemon Ice and Raspberry Blast flavors.

Wellness Nutrition™ is a complete line of essential supplements specifically designed for the athlete. Wellness Nutrition™ will feature: Multi Vitamin + Energy, Digestive Enzymes, Sleep Aid, Liver Cleanse, Performance BCAA's and Omega 3 Fish Oil. They supplement any athletes complete nutrition needs.



In an unprecedented show of support every distributor that carries Champion Nutrition has placed orders for each new item. During Mr. Olympia Weekend many national retailers showed renewed interest in the brand and in many new items. International customers were very excited about the new items and have committed their support.



Champion Nutrition is a Sunrise, FL based marketer and manufacturer of performance-based sports nutrition products. Champion maintains its own 135,000 square-foot GMP-certified manufacturing facility. Currently in their 25th year, Champion's attention to product formulation, quality, and taste have kept it as one of the most well-respected sports nutrition companies in the industry.



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Women's Health Partners Chooses Aprima EHR and Practice Management Solution

Women's Health Partners Chooses Aprima EHR and Practice Management Solution



Aprima’s cost-effective solution, seamless implementation is preferred choice for gynecology practice



Dallas, TX (Vocus) August 26, 2010



Aprima Medical Software, a leading developer of electronic health record (EHR), practice management (PM) and revenue cycle management (RCM) solutions for medical practices, today announced that Women’s Health Partners has selected Aprima’s EHR/PM solution for its gynecological practice in Powell, OH.



“After reviewing several options available to us as part of the Ohio State Medical Association’s EHR Standards of Excellence Program, we decided to go with Aprima,” said Delane Bergman, Office Manager at Women’s Health Partners, LLC. “As a small practice it was important to us to find a solution that offered a cost-effective purchase model and would help ease our transition from paper-based charts to electronic health records. Compared to the other vendors we considered, Aprima offered a superior product in both of these categories.”



Aprima’s flexible implementation options enable a practice to pay only for the functionalities that they need and allows them to turn on additional features as they become more comfortable with the product. This capability eases the transition and eliminates the possibility of practices overpaying for functionality they are not prepared to use.



“As one of the participating vendors in the Ohio State Medical Association’s EHR Standards of Excellence Program, Aprima is pleased to be the EHR solution of choice for Women’s Health Partners as they transition from paper-based charts to electronic health records,” said Michael Nissenbaum, President and CEO of Aprima.



Aprima’s template-free, content rich EHR software enables providers to follow their own protocols. Its adaptive learning feature speeds adoption and deployment, a critical capability as medical practices seek to meet Meaningful Use standards for government stimulus fund reimbursements. Furthermore, as a single EHR + PM application built on a single database, Aprima affords users with the fastest access to clinical and financial data. AprimaRCM addresses practices’ needs for seasoned financial expertise by delivering insight that helps practices collect every dollar they earn. Aprima’s licensing plans make sense for everyone from a solo rural practitioner to a multi-specialty urban group. Aprima 2011 is a pre-market conditionally CCHIT Certified® 2011 Ambulatory EHR additionally certified for Child Health. For details, click here. Read a preliminary assessment of Aprima 2011 relative to ARRA IFR Stage 1 readiness here.



CCHIT® and CCHIT Certified® are registered marks of the Certification Commission for Health Information Technology.



About Women’s Health Partners, LLC

Women's Health Partners was founded by Dr. Carolyn Hixson. It is a solo practice in Powell, Ohio that specializes in Gynecology & Women's Health. Women’s Health Partners’ mission is “to provide excellent medical care to each patient, to make each patient feel valued and cared for in an environment in which we respect, encourage and care for each other making this a pleasant place to be.” For more information, visit http://www. womenshealthohio. com.



About Aprima Medical Software, Inc.

Aprima Medical Software, Inc. develops innovative electronic health record, practice management and revenue cycle management solutions for medical practices. Reach Aprima at 866-960-6890, salesinfo@aprima. com or aprima. com.



Company Contact:

Randy Schiff

Aprima Medical Software, Inc. 

214-466-8113

Rschiff(at)aprima(dot)com



Media Contact:

Emma Douglas

KNB Communications

203-604-6903

Edouglas(at)knbpr(dot)com



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Extech Instruments Supports CarePacks Veterans Support Organization

Extech Instruments Supports CarePacks Veterans Support Organization



Extech is donating $1,000 to CarePacks, an organization dedicated to sending care packages to US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The award will be given to CarePacks at the annual WZLX Karlson & McKenzie Live Veterans Day Broadcast, November 11, 2010 from 5:30 -10 am. The event takes place at the Weymouth Elks Lodge as volunteers gather Care Packs to send to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.



Weymouth, MA (Vocus) November 10, 2010



Extech Instruments is pleased to announce we will be donating $1,000 to CarePacks, an organization dedicated to sending care packages to US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The award will be given to Stephen Doyle, president of CarePacks at the annual WZLX live Veterans Day broadcast, November 11, 2010 from 5:30 -10 am. The event takes place at the Weymouth Elks Lodge on Route 53 as volunteers gather Care Packs to send to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.



Arpineh Mullaney, Extech vice president spoke about the donation, “As part of the FLIR Systems family, Extech has been able to support a number of local and national programs with a giving program based at our Waltham office. We’re honored and humbled to commemorate the tremendous sacrifice and efforts of our soldiers who are defending our freedom every day. Working with such a focused and effective organization as CarePacks, here in South Weymouth, we hope that our support helps them to continue their valuable work supporting our troops with items that make our soldiers' lives a little easier.”



As part of the FLIR mission, FLIR believes that it is our responsibility to support our countries and our communities. In addition to our Corporate Charitable Giving Program, each of our locations supports various local community initiatives as well as contributes to national and international disaster relief efforts. It is another way we make a difference in our world.



About CarePacks

CarePacks is a non-profit organization—staffed and managed entirely by volunteers—that is dedicated to sending care packages to US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Founded in 2004, CarePacks' goal is to provide these soldiers with supplies to help improve their morale, mental health, and quality of life, and to remind soldiers that they are remembered by people “back home.”



CarePacks’ care packages contain high-calorie food products, undergarments, personal care items, books, magazines, and more. Each package also contains at least one letter or card from a child so that the soldier who receives the package has a personal connection to someone back in the United States. CarePacks coordinates its efforts with local schools, Cub Scout packs, Boy and Girl Scout troops, churches, and other organizations to involve the community in the support process and to inform them about the needs of US military personnel.



Visit http://www. carepacks. org to learn how you can support CarePacks through care package material donations and volunteering.



About Extech Instruments, a FLIR Company

Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, USA, Extech Instruments is one of the largest suppliers of test and measurement equipment worldwide. Founded in 1971, Extech is known for its depth and breadth of products and its innovation in providing instruments with unique combinations of features that make them highly useful and very convenient. All Extech meters are distributed worldwide through leading representatives, distributors and OEMs. The company is ISO 9001 2008 certified and is a wholly owned subsidiary of FLIR Systems, Inc.



About FLIR Systems:

Pioneers in all aspects of infrared and lowlight imaging technologies, FLIR designs, manufactures, and supports thermal imaging systems and subsystems for industrial, scientific, government, commercial, and firefighting applications. With a 40-year history of infrared innovation, +100,000 systems in use worldwide, and development centers and sales offices in over 60 countries, FLIR is the world leader in thermal imaging technology. Visit the company's website at http://www. FLIR. com.



Contact:

André Rebelo

Global PR Manager, Extech Instruments

Office: 781-434-3901 andre (dot) rebelo (at) extech (dot) com



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The Home Front

The Home Front



4thishouse. com and Artemis telecoms join hands once again to help people in need.



Canton, MI (PRWEB) September 16, 2005



Hurricane Katrina has come and gone, almost year after the great tsunami of Asia the world is once again faced with a disaster at a global scale. Though the people affected by Hurricane Katrina are mostly American the world will suffer economically for years as a ripple effect of the natural disaster.



Is the true what they say about people? That we really do not care? That we people forget? 4thishouse. com, Artemis Telecom in conjunction with World Care International and Center for Health and Human Services will prove that we donÂ’t.



In spite of the economic implications of the storm the people affected directly by the storm tries their best to survive. The news is starting to die down and like everything else those who are not directly affected forgets about it. The water in New Orleans however although being pumped out is still there. Bodies are still un-recovered, families are still separated and people are still left without their homes.



The Real Estate Industry will continue to provide quality service and 4thishouse being a non profit organization have been donating itÂ’s proceeds to the victims of Hurricane Katrina as it has been donating to the Tsunami victims of Asia. Putting its educational programs on hold to help those in dire need, the battle returns to the home front. For the past 2 years World Care International has been concentrating its efforts in Asia while providing quality service to Americans by helping them sell their homes efficiently while saving them money.



Bringing the efforts back to our home country will prove that Americans are not spared from the tragedies that inflict human beings. Efforts to provide food water and eventually cheap housing are now underway. In spite of our limited resources since our donations are mainly from the service we provide to the Real Estate industry we are giving a helping hand to those who needs it the most.



Though are efforts are concentrated on Education we cannot as a humanitarian society turn our backs when the people who fuel our services are now the same people who need the worlds help. 100% of 4thishouse. com proceeds are given entirely to these people and we are happy to give them. We make people happy by taking their money by giving them premium real estate service and we give it back to the people.



We are not alone. Everyone can lend a helping hand; the world today may be too fast and too busy to do so. Internet has solved all that. We no longer have to leave the comfort of our homes to provide support for these people. We do not do this cause we are heroes we do this cause we do not forget. Through 4thishouse. com and World Care Fund International Americans have helped thousands across Asia, we are now helping Americans. We do not forget. Cause one day the victim will be us. And it will be our turn to ask for a helping hand. When that dark day arrives, we pray that other people have not forgotten us.



We wonÂ’t, they wonÂ’t and someday you wonÂ’t. The Human Race will not forget. History may not write it. Mass Media will stop showing it. But the people will always remember.



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Alternative Medicine, Homeopathic & Herbal Remedies Info Big Part of New "Independent" Vitamin Website

Alternative Medicine, Homeopathic & Herbal Remedies Info Big Part of New "Independent" Vitamin Website



A new website containing extensive information on alternative medicine, vitamins, homeopathic and herbal remedies launched today on the Internet. The site, at www. MyVitaminGuide. com, contains one of the largest searchable databases of dietary supplement information available on the web. "The objective of MyVitaminGuide. com is to be an unbiased provider of very comprehensive information. Our vitamin database is impressive and so is our natural health care information." says Sam Knoll, the siteÂ’s creator. "We also provide detailed information on over 370 commonly used herbal remedies, including American, European, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs.



Virginia Beach, VA (PRWEB) September 20, 2004



A new website containing extensive information on alternative medicine, vitamins, homeopathic and herbal remedies launched today on the Internet. The site, at www. MyVitaminGuide. com, contains one of the largest searchable databases of dietary supplement information available on the web.



"The objective of MyVitaminGuide. com is to be an unbiased provider of very comprehensive information. Our vitamin database is impressive and so is our natural health care information. Our Homeopathy section, for example, contains hundreds of suggested homeopathic remedies for conditions ranging from the common cold, to bee stings, to rashes, and much more," says Sam Knoll, the siteÂ’s creator. "We also provide detailed information on over 370 commonly used herbal remedies, including American, European, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs."



Knoll, President of Healthex Corporation, spent more than six months and thousands of dollars assembling MyVitaminGuide. com. He started the project after watching consumers struggle with confusion about taking vitamins and other supplements. By designing the site to provide information only, Knoll says consumers can expect unbiased advice.



A main component of MyVitaminGuide. com is its comprehensive Brands Database. For the first time ever, consumers will be able to see direct comparisons between well known brands and private label "house brands" from most major retailers and health food stores including outlets such as General Nutrition Center, Vitamin Shoppe, Walgreen, Whole Foods Market, and independent health food stores.



Using the Brands Database, members of the website can easily compare the kind of supplement, the type of pill (for example, capsule or tablet), package size, suggested retail price, recommended usage, and resulting cost per day. The site also offers a proprietary EZ Cost Calculator so consumers can instantly calculate their cost per day for vitamins they find on the web or in a store.



In addition to its Brands Database and cost calculator, MyVitaminGuide. com offers weekly and monthly newsletters written by medical professionals, a searchable database of information about vitamins, herbal and homeopathic remedies, "health concerns" such as heart disease and diabetes, a recipe database, and a "Safetychecker" that identifies potential interactions between dietary supplements, common prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs.



To maintain its independent and unbiased status, MyVitaminGuide. com will be supported by its members and does not accept any outside advertising, nor does it sell vitamins or other supplements. The website is found at www. MyVitaminGuide. com on the Internet..



About Sam Knoll, Founder of MyVitaminGuide. com



Sam Knoll is a vitamin industry expert with more than 20 years experience. In the early 1980Â’s, Mr. Knoll founded Home Health Products, one of the largest direct marketers and FDA-approved manufacturers of natural healthcare products in the US. He sold the company in the late 1990Â’s. He is the author of "How To Buy Vitamins," an e-book provided free to all members of MyVitaminGuide. com.



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American Community Employees Donate Easter Baskets to In-Need Children

American Community Employees Donate Easter Baskets to In-Need Children



In its eleventh consecutive year, American Community Mutual Insurance Company employees played “Peter Cottontail” by donating Easter baskets filled with candy, games, toys, and other fun items.



Livonia, MI (PRWEB) March 21, 2008



Easter morning will be a little brighter for 31 underprivileged children and their siblings from three schools in the Livonia Public School District. In its eleventh consecutive year, American Community Mutual Insurance Company employees played “Peter Cottontail” by donating Easter baskets filled with candy, games, toys, and other fun items.



“We’re so thrilled that American Community employees are so generous to take time out of their schedule to put together Easter baskets for needy children in our school district,” said Julie Juenemann, Elementary Student Assistance Program Provider, Cooper Elementary School. “Because of the current economic condition in Michigan, most of the families are struggling to pay for life’s necessities, such as, food, heat and housing. By offering a helping hand from members of the community, this provides the parents with a sense that someone out there cares and that there is hope for better times.”



The children who will be receiving the Easter baskets range from 10 months to 14 years of age, and are from Roosevelt and Cooper Elementary schools, both in Livonia; and Hayes Elementary, located in Westland.



“Throughout the year, American Community employees work hard to support the local community,” said Tina Boback, Junior Underwriter and Co-Chair, Employee Committee. “Because of the generosity of employees, we were able provide Easter baskets to children who would otherwise not be able to ‘hunt’ for a basket on Easter morning.”



This initiative was coordinated by the American Community Charity Committee which spearheads all fundraising, chartable contributions and employee events throughout the year.



About American Community:

With beginnings dating back to 1938, American Community Mutual Insurance Company is one of the oldest health insurance companies in the nation. Based in Livonia, Michigan, American Community is currently licensed in 41 states. The company markets individual and group health insurance products in nine states through an agency force of 12,000. For more information, visit www. american-community. com.



This press release was distributed through eMediawire by Human Resources Marketer (HR Marketer: www. HRmarketer. com) on behalf of the company

Listed above.



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Edgewood Solutions Joins Expanding Neverfail Channel Network

Edgewood Solutions Joins Expanding Neverfail Channel Network



Partnership brings real-time high availability software to Edgewood Solutions’ customers. Edgewood Solutions and Neverfail today announced their partnership to deliver Neverfail’s high availability and disaster recovery solutions to companies of all sizes. With Neverfail, Edgewood Solutions’ customers remain continuously connected to working applications, no matter where a failure occurs – hardware, software, network or operating system.



Wilton, New Hampshire and Austin Texas (PRWEB) May 25, 2006



Edgewood Solutions and Neverfail today announced their partnership to deliver Neverfail’s high availability and disaster recovery solutions to companies of all sizes. With Neverfail, Edgewood Solutions’ customers remain continuously connected to working applications, no matter where a failure occurs – hardware, software, network or operating system.



The partnership will combine Neverfail’s cluster-class high availability, data protection and disaster recovery solutions for Microsoft Exchange, SQL and File Server, IIS, SharePoint and RIM BlackBerry with Edgewood Solutions’ superior customer service and technology expertise in integrating systems and deploying applications within the Windows environment.



"We have been looking for a product that meets a growing need for continuous application availability,” said Jeremy Kadlec, Edgewood Solutions’ CTO. “Through our partnership with Neverfail, we can give our customers peace of mind – the knowledge that their employees, clients and partners will have seamless, uninterrupted access to critical business applications and data in the event of a failure."



Edgewood Solutions was founded in the Boston area in 2002. The company has a diverse client list that includes organizations in the healthcare, education, finance and high technology industries.



"Downtime is expensive, disruptive and becoming unacceptable. Edgewood Solutions is another example of a successful partner that has chosen Neverfail for our ability to provide immediate and non-disruptive failover and switchback over a LAN or WAN; keeping users continuously connected and productive," said Dave French, Neverfail Americas’ CEO. "We are pleased to have a reputable company such as Edgewood Solutions join our expanding list of successful partners, and look forward to combining our efforts to bring the benefits of our high availability solution to their customers."



About Edgewood Solutions



Edgewood Solutions is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner offering a full spectrum of database solutions and tools to solve SQL Server challenges of any size. Experts at SQL Server database administration, development, performance issues and problem-solving, Edgewood combines an understanding of business goals and effective project management to deliver complete SQL Server solutions. More information about Edgewood Solutions can be found at www. edgewoodsolutions. com.



About Neverfail



The Neverfail Group is a leading global software company providing affordable data protection, “cluster-class” high application availability, and disaster recovery software solutions for the Window-based technology platform. Neverfail’s software solutions enable users to remain continuously connected to the live software application irrespective of hardware, software, operating system, or network failures. Neverfail’s mission of eliminating application downtime for the end user delivers the assurance of business continuity, removes the commercial and IT management costs associated with system downtime and enables the more productive use of IT resources. More information can be found at www. neverfailgroup. com.



For further information please contact:



Sheryl Allen



Edgewood Solutions



One Chalet Dr., Ste. 109



Wilton, NH 03086



Tel: (603) 654-7856



Fax: (603) 484-0462



North America



Ann Taylor



Neverfail Inc.



515 Capital of Texas Highway, Ste.120



Austin, TX 78746



Tel: (512) 327-5777 ext. 1834



Fax: (512) 970-4067



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The 2006 Online Dog Expo September 22-24: Celebrating Canines Virtually

The 2006 Online Dog Expo September 22-24: Celebrating Canines Virtually



Canines have their own bakeries, hotels, and high fashion, so not surprisingly they are now taking over the internet with their own expo.



Albuquerque, NM (PRWEB) August 10, 2006



Dogs seem to have it all these days with special bakeries dedicated to them, haute couture, along with special doggie daycares and hotels. With this in mind, it isn't surprising that the next big thing for dogs would be their very own online exposition.



The first annual Virtual Dog Exposition will take place Friday September 22 through Sunday September 24, 2006. The weekend long event will kick off on Friday evening at 7PM EST at www. onlinedogexpo. com The Animal Talk Naturally online radio duet, Kim Bloomer & Jeannie Thomason, along with Co-op World's Rob Anderson are hosting the event.



With a line up of expert speakers ranging in topics from dog training to acupressure, health, nutrition and legal issues, the Online Dog Expo will bring a wide variety of learning and fun for dog owners, fanciers, professionals, welfare advocates, breeders, and dog lovers worldwide.



The Online Dog Expo will also feature a virtual dog show and exhibitors running the gamut from dog nutritionals, training gear and doggie high fashion. Your favorite animal talk radio show hosts, dog artists, and many others will be in attendance for you to mingle with as well. There will also be hundreds of dollars in giveaway prizes for attendees.



"Our mission is to empower dog owners with the knowledge they need to make informed and wise decisions for their dogs. For Jeannie and me, it is always about, and for, the animals." says Bloomer.



"With this user friendly technology, we are able to bring industry leaders from all over the world to a place where everyone can afford to attend. If you want to improve your dogs' quality of life, then you don't want to miss this!" commented Thomason.



To learn more on how you can attend, exhibit or sponsor the Online Dog Expo, please go to http://www. onlinedogexpo. com (http://www. onlinedogexpo. com) or email us at info@onlinedogexpo. com

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UMassOnline Revenue For FY '08 Sees 32% Increase to $37M While Enrollment Growth Exceeds 26%: While Overall Higher Education Student Population Grew by 1.5% in the U. S., UMassOnline Enrollments Show Better than 26% Increase to 33,900

UMassOnline Revenue For FY '08 Sees 32% Increase to $37M While Enrollment Growth Exceeds 26%: While Overall Higher Education Student Population Grew by 1.5% in the U. S., UMassOnline Enrollments Show Better than 26% Increase to 33,900



Pointing to its continually expanding portfolio of programs, its first year of innovative blended learning offerings, and a growing regional, national and international reputation and reach, UMassOnline, the online learning division of the University of Massachusetts, today announced a second consecutive fiscal year of record-breaking enrollment and revenue results. Matching last year's results, which were the best in three years, fiscal year 2008 at UMassOnline saw a 26.2% increase in enrollments, to 33,900 over 26,855 in fiscal year 2007, and a 31.9% increase in revenue to $36,977,854 over fiscal year 2007 revenues of $28,030,985.



SHREWSBURY, Mass. (PRWEB) April 30, 2008



 Nationally, as of the Fall 2006 semester, according to the Sloan Consortium's most recent research report entitled 'Online Nation: Five Years of Growth in Online Learning,' online enrollments nationwide were growing by 9.7% while the growth rate in the overall higher education student population was 1.5%. In contrast UMassOnline's enrollment in fiscal year 2008 grew two and a half times faster than the national average for online enrollments.



UMassOnline CEO David Gray attributes the sustained growth, in part, to developments throughout the fiscal year that saw UMassOnline, in cooperation with faculty, administrators, and course development professionals at the University of Massachusetts campuses, introduce new blended learning innovations for online learners, new programs matching contemporary career interests of adult learners, and new initiatives to expand the organization's reach and reputation globally.



The first blended learning offering, announced in June, 2007, featured the Graduate Program in Health Management and Policy via UMass Lowell. In November, 2007, UMassOnline launched the nation's first fully online Master of Public Health in Nutrition via UMass Amherst. Later that same month, ten new blended learning programs were announced representing all five campuses in the University of Massachusetts system.



These included a BA in Health and Human Services and Doctor of Nursing Practice from UMass Amherst; Expansion of RN to BS and Post Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate program from UMass Boston; B. A. in Liberal Arts Degree Completion program and business programs from UMass Dartmouth; Health Management and Policy Master's program with Certificates in Health Informatics, Health Management, and Health Policy from UMass Lowell; and Nurse Educator Post-Master's Certificate program and OBGYN Professional Development Training for Clinical Issues from UMass Worcester Graduate School of Nursing.



In January of this year, three more online study concentrations were announced. These new programs included a collaborative focus in Arts Administration - the first and only program of its kind in the nation - as well as within the rapidly changing fields of Journalism Studies and Health and Human Services. And earlier this month, UMassOnline announced a partnership agreement with two major organizations in China which puts UMassOnline on a path to receive Chinese Ministry of Education approval for a significant number and diversity of accredited online programs in China and serve as the distance learning model for future approvals.



Major Initiative on the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning a Key, Too



"In the past year," said Mr. Gray, "we at UMassOnline have also focused on a major initiative on the scholarship of teaching and learning in the online environment, with an emphasis on how to maximize technology to accelerate, optimize, and enrich the student and faculty experience. In addition to the course quality we are able to offer based on our access to first-rate degree and certificate programs sourced from our traditional campuses, our mission at UMassOnline is to innovate world-class adaptations of these traditional quality courses to the virtual world of distance learning by the best possible implementation of technological tools, techniques, and applications."



About UMassOnline



UMassOnline, the online learning division of the University of Massachusetts, provides the highest quality education offered by the UMass system in a flexible, online format enabling students, professionals, and lifelong learners to take courses anywhere, anytime. With 80 undergraduate and graduate degree, certificate and professional development programs and more than 1,500 courses, UMassOnline offers one of the largest accredited online programs available. Programs span the disciplines for which the University is best known: liberal arts, education, management, nursing, public health, information technology, and other disciplines. UMassOnline courses are taught by the same award-winning faculty who teach on-campus, offering online students the same rich experience as the face-to-face classroom. Students from around the world and from almost every state are among our 33,900 enrollees. For more about UMassOnline, go to www. umassonline. net or visit our blog at www. umassonlineblog. com.

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Vision-Sciences, Inc. Introduces Advanced, Video-Based Bronchoscope and EndoSheath® Technology to Enthusiastic International Pulmonary Market

Vision-Sciences, Inc. Introduces Advanced, Video-Based Bronchoscope and EndoSheath® Technology to Enthusiastic International Pulmonary Market



Europe’s Largest Respiratory Conference, the site for ground-breaking endoscopy technology launch and educational workshops, greets Vision-Sciences product with robust acceptance.



Berlin, Germany (PRWEB) October 10, 2008



Vision-Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: VSCI) announced the international introduction of its new, advanced video bronchoscopy platform at the 18th Annual European Respiratory Society (ERS) conference in Berlin, Germany. Over 17,000 participants attended the scientific and educational conference, the largest in Europe and one of the most comprehensive ever in the field of lung health and disease.



Vision-Sciences’ new bronchoscopy system is the latest addition to its revolutionary 5000 Series video endoscopy line. The new bronchoscope provides high resolution video imaging and superior endoscopic functionality. It employs the company’s proprietary EndoSheath® technology, for the first time allowing pulmonologists high performance bronchoscopy combined with the unparalleled practice efficiency and enhanced safety of the EndoSheath® technology.



"We are excited to introduce our ground-breaking video bronchoscopy system to the European and international community," stated Mr. Ron Hadani, CEO of Vision-Sciences. "We believe that our advanced endoscope combined with the EndoSheath® technology is perfectly suited to address the specific needs and concerns of the pulmonology and respiratory communities. This new technology uniquely addresses the traditional concerns over cleaning, repairing and efficiency of conventional bronchoscopes."



The new Vision Sciences® BRS-5000 Flexible Bronchoscope is the first pulmonary endoscope in the company’s new series of uniquely advanced digital endoscopy platforms. The lightweight videoscope design facilitates diagnostic as well as therapeutic procedures using the world’s smallest diameter insertion tube. The insertion tube contains a high resolution, tiny CCD (charge coupled device) based camera at the tip, offering a sharp, high-definition, vibrant full screen image. The company is cleared to market its new bronchoscopy product line in the United States, and has recently received CE Mark to market the bronchoscopy system in Europe, Australia and other parts of the world.



Unlike endoscopes from other manufacturers, Vision-Sciences’ new advanced video bronchoscope does not contain difficult-to-clean operating channels. Instead, the BRS-5000 Bronchoscope utilizes the company’s patented, disposable, sterile EndoSheath® technology that covers the entire endoscope. Each single use, disposable sheath contains a sterile operative channel, which eliminates patient tissue or organic matter from coming into contact with the reusable endoscope or the next patient.



"The EndoSheath® Bronchoscope changes the playing field. With the introduction of this system, I believe that as of today you (Vision-Sciences) are the new leader in ICU bronchoscope functionality." commented Joris Van Der Horst, MD, a respiratory physician at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary.



Mr. Ron Hadani added, "With patient-to-patient cross-infection risks being a paramount concern in the Bronchoscopy arena, the EndoSheath® technology offers a unique alternative to the current cleaning and disinfection process associated with conventional bronchoscopes. Our technology does not have the small, difficult-to-clean mechanical components used on conventional bronchoscopes that have long been the subject of infection control monitoring. The EndoSheath® technology eliminates the need for elaborate high-level disinfection between each patient, permitting rapid equipment turnover. This reduces capital investment for additional endoscope inventory, reduces exposure of the staff, patients and equipment to toxic chemicals and dramatically lowers repair and maintenance costs while providing the patient with safe, sterile instrumentation."



"In addition," continued Mr. Hadani, "Until now the fact that the channel was an integrated part of the conventional bronchoscopes forced pulmonologists to purchase a large inventory of conventional bronchoscopes to address the need for different channel sizes for various patient conditions and procedures. Our new EndoSheath®-based BRS-5000 bronchoscope is the first and only product where the channel is part of the disposable sheath, thus the physician is able to configure the bronchoscope by loading a specific sheath with the required channel size for the procedure he or she is about to perform. This is a unique and extremely important feature that further reduces the need for a large inventory of scopes with various size channels."



The company has also successfully completed viral microorganism "barrier testing" in accordance with FDA guidance for the videoscope EndoSheath® technology, proving that the EndoSheath® barrier is effective to microorganisms as small as 27 nanometers – the FDA benchmark. All other dangerous microorganisms such as the AIDS virus (80-120 nanometers), Hepatitis-C (30-60 nanometers) or Herpes Simplex Virus (150-200 nanometers) are significantly larger.

Vision-Sciences will be introducing its new EndoSheath® Bronchoscopy product line to the United States and global community during the upcoming annual American College of Chest Physicians’ (ACCP) "CHEST" conference in Philadelphia, October 25th through the 30th.

Founded in 1990, the European Respiratory Society is a not-for-profit, international medical organization with nearly 9,000 members from over 100 countries. The society aims to alleviate suffering from respiratory disease and to promote lung health through research, knowledge sharing, medical and public education. It is the largest society in Europe in its field with research and education in areas such as: lung cancer, COPD, tuberculosis, and legionella pneumonia. This year the society, through its European Lung Foundation, awarded New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg its annual ELF award in recognition of his outstanding work to promote freedom from smoking worldwide. Additional information on the ERS can be found at www. ersnet. org.



About Vision-Sciences:



Vision-Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: VSCI) develops, manufactures and markets unique flexible endoscopic products for the urology, gastroenterology, pulmonology and ENT markets, utilizing the proprietary sterile disposable EndoSheath® Technology. This technology provides quick and efficient equipment turnover, and ensures the patient a contaminant-free endoscope insertion.



This release includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as Vision-Sciences or its management "believes," "expects," "allows", "anticipates," or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements in this release that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Other risk factors are detailed in our most recent annual report and other filings with the SEC.



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