Naturejobs and CheckOrphan Unite for Rare Disease Day

Naturejobs and CheckOrphan Unite for Rare Disease Day

Naturejobs and CheckOrphan, the leading source for the latest news about rare, orphan and neglected diseases, are proud to announce a new partnership for Rare Disease Day. CheckOrphan will feature a feed of relevant job vacancies and content from naturejobs.com. Jobs will focus on the rapidly emerging fields of rare diseases and personalized medicine. The partnership is another step in CheckOrphan's quest to become a comprehensive platform for rare, orphan and neglected diseases.

Basel, Switzerland (PRWEB) February 28, 2009 -- In support of Rare Disease Day, Naturejobs and CheckOrphan, the leading source for the latest news about rare, orphan and neglected diseases, are proud to announce a new partnership. CheckOrphan will feature a feed of relevant job vacancies and content from naturejobs.com, the leading scientific jobs website. Vacancies will focus on the rapidly emerging fields of rare diseases and personalized medicine.

"Naturejobs.com builds upon the excellent brand of Nature that the research world associates with scientific excellence," notes Ian Sowers, Head of Marketing and PR for CheckOrphan. "We are glad to have Naturejobs as a partner and look forward to equaling their dedication to science and research."

The Job Market, powered by Naturejobs is another step towards achieving CheckOrphan's goal of offering its users a comprehensive platform about rare diseases.

"Now scientists in the fields of rare diseases and personalized medicine can enjoy free and convenient access on www.checkorphan.org to relevant jobs from the naturejobs.com global database of science jobs," says Dan Churchward, European Manager for Naturejobs. "Naturejobs' free online job-posting service offers research institutions and companies an excellent opportunity to attract the cream of scientific talent worldwide."

Vacancies from the naturejobs.com database featured on CheckOrphan will direct visitors to positions within academia or industry in fields such as: research, development, clinical studies, regulatory affairs, marketing, IT, and communications.

"A partner like Naturejobs is great for CheckOrphan," adds David Galipeau, Board Member of CheckOrphan. "We are certain the list of future partners and sponsors will continue to grow, because our door is always open to new ideas and features for CheckOrphan."

"This partnership is representative of Naturejobs' continuing drive to develop innovative solutions to the evolving challenges of scientific recruitment," says Dean Sanderson, Head of Global Advertising, Sales and Sponsorship, Nature Publishing Group. "We are delighted to be collaborating with CheckOrphan to help jobseekers and recruiters in the emerging fields of rare, orphan and neglected diseases."

The Job Market, powered by Naturejobs, also compliments CheckOrphan vision of augmenting the amount of global research into rare, orphan and neglected diseases.

"Without research you do not obtain innovative solutions, and without innovation you cannot create a cure for a rare disease," notes Tatsuo Satoh, Managing Director of CheckOrphan. "Research is a strong emphasis of CheckOrphan and we will always be dedicated to furthering research efforts with rare diseases."

CheckOrphan is home to a database of over 6,800 rare diseases and a database of over 8,000 news articles. It also aggregates the latest research news articles and press releases from universities and academic institutes. Users can also consult and contribute to a database of researchers around the world who are working on improving our scientific knowledge of rare diseases.

About Naturejobs

Naturejobs is the largest dedicated job board for the scientific community with over 5,000 job posts advertised globally on the website. Job postings to the website are free and employers using the site range from top pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to highly respected academic and government institutions. Naturejobs.com is free to use for jobseekers, attracting mores than 2.5 million page views per month. Naturejobs is the careers and recruitment section for Nature Publishing Group, publishers of Nature. For more information, visit www.naturejobs.com

About CheckOrphan

CheckOrphan is the leading source for news and information about rare diseases. Its news database holds the largest concentration of articles about rare diseases, with over 8,000 entries. In addition, CheckOrphan's users benefit from several other large databases that include: the latest research publications, clinical trials, products in development or currently on the market for rare, orphan and neglected diseases, videos, hospitals, researchers and more. It is also home to iWish - without a wish, there is no hope for a better tomorrow. CheckOrphan is always interested in meeting new partners and supporters. CheckOrphan is non-profit organization and encourages its visitors to submit content and information to the platform. CheckOrphan would like to thank the Gebert-Rüf Stiftung for its support. Please visit http://www.grstiftung.ch/_english/index.html for more information about this foundation.

About Halosys

Halosys is a company that transforms real life scenarios in Online and Mobile Solutions by offering a unique blend of Creativity, Knowledge and Technology. Halosys is a New Media Technology Services Company that helps its clients create innovative Online and Mobile solutions. Our efforts on the Web are focused on developing innovative and engaging applications that are new in the market or something we believe can bring Return on Investment to our clients. We develop world class quality web 2.0 sites and applications by considering the latest development trends and techniques with a special emphasis on community creation. On Mobile front, we are among the industry front runners and are among the first to develop applications for some of the platforms, including iPhone.

Contacts:

Naturejobs

Dan Churchward

European Manager

Tel: +44 20 7843 4966

E-mail: d.churchward (at) nature (dot) com

Web: http://www.naturejobs.com

CheckOrphan

Ian Sowers

Head of Marketing and PR

Tel: +41 61 267 0447

E-mail: ian.sowers (at) checkorphan (dot) org

# # #

Contact Information Rober Derham

CheckOrphan

http://www.checkorphan.org

41612670447

CheckOrphan Launches iWish to Commemorate Rare Disease Day

CheckOrphan Launches iWish to Commemorate Rare Disease Day

CheckOrphan, the leading news site for rare, orphan and neglected diseases, launches iWish, which allows people to visually (creative, artistic and realistic images) show their conception of these diseases through and image. In addition, people are invited to explain their imagery and add their iWish - which should convey creative solutions for a rare disease or for the community in general.

Basel, Switzerland (PRWEB) February 28, 2009 -- Today, CheckOrphan is launching one of its flagship features - iWish (http://www.checkorphan.org/content/iWish) - in conjunction with Rare Disease Day, February 28, which is an international effort to raise awareness for rare diseases and the needs of people affected by them.

To help commemorate this day, iWish is a way for people affected by, or working with, rare diseases to step forward and tell their stories through words and images. Currently, CheckOrphan is accepting iWish submissions in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

Participants are asked to provide a text of up to 1,000 words describing a change or development they would like to see in the world of rare diseases - their iWish. They are also encouraged to discuss their experience with a rare disease or diseases, if applicable, and to provide and describe an image (a photograph or other creative image) that in some way complements or illustrates their text. Examples of some iWish contributions can be viewed at:

http://www.checkorphan.org/content/iWish

"People affected by a rare disease have the chance to show the world in an artistic or realistic way through a picture and words what it is like to have a rare disease," explains Ian Sowers, Head of Marketing and PR for CheckOrphan. "But, we also encourage industry professionals, physicians, researchers and others to explain want they encounter as well. This way the world will have a complete view of the problem, accompanied with ways to overcome the hurdles that rare, orphan and neglected diseases face."

CheckOrphan's goal is to allow people around the world to provide creative solutions, through their iWish. At the same time CheckOrphan offers people the opportunity to make an iWish come true. People who want to support an iWish can contact CheckOrphan and then CheckOrphan will contact the individual who submitted the iWish on behalf of the interested supporter.

"Rare, orphan and neglected disease need solutions. They are a huge drain on families and society in general," says Robert Derham, President of CheckOrphan. "So as the saying goes 'two heads are better than one' - we believe that 7 billion heads will be even better. Collectively we will be able to think outside of the box and start to bring solutions to the hundreds of millions of people that are affected with rare, orphan and neglected diseases."

Since its inception two years ago, CheckOrphan.org has become the leading online source of news about rare, orphan, and neglected diseases.

Recently re-launched with a new look and increased functionality, CheckOrphan is dedicated to being a complete web platform for rare diseases that unites and empowers researchers, physicians, professionals and, most importantly, those affected by rare diseases so that they can initiate change.

CheckOrphan's features include: a database of over 8,000 news articles (http://www.checkorphan.org/news) about rare diseases, events, clinical trials, treatments (http://www.checkorphan.org/node/8379), research publications, physician-researcher-hospital-organization-industry databases, videos, daily newsletters and more. Users can submit content for each feature

About CheckOrphan

CheckOrphan is the leading source of news about rare, orphan and neglected diseases. Its news database holds the largest concentration of articles about rare diseases, with over 8,000 entries. CheckOrphan's users benefit from several large databases that also include: events, treatments, research publications, physician-researcher-hospital-organization-industry databases, videos, daily newsletters and more. It is also home to iWish - every wish means hope for a better tomorrow.

CheckOrphan is a non-profit organization that encourages its visitors to submit content and information to the platform. CheckOrphan is always interested in meeting new partners and supporters. CheckOrphan would like to thank the Gebert Rüf Stiftung for its support. For more information about this foundation, please visit http://www.grstiftung.ch.

Contact:

CheckOrphan

Ian Sowers

Head of Marketing and PR

Tel: +41 61 267 0447

Mob: +41 79 719 5539

Robert Derham

President

Tel: +41 61 267 0447

Mob: +41 78 662 5231

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Contact Information Robert Derham

CheckOrphan

http://www.checkorphan.org

+41 61 267 0447

Ian Sowers

CheckOrphan

http://www.checkorphan.org

Inspired Cancer Survivor Launches Customized Hair Replacement Techniques at Award-Winning Hair Salon

Inspired Cancer Survivor Launches Customized Hair Replacement Techniques at Award-Winning Hair Salon

Greenbelt, MD Salon & Hair Replacement Center, Hair Fantasy, LLC is now offering new innovative hair replacement services for clients battling with hair loss, thinning hair or baldness.

Greenbelt, MD (PRWEB) February 27, 2009 -- There are several reasons for hair loss that may be attributed to chemotherapy from cancer, burn trauma, alopecia, male pattern baldness, follicular damage, side effects from medication, iron or zinc deficiency and/or the effects associated with aging.

As a former cancer survivor, the Owner and Executive Stylist at Hair Fantasy, LLC, Anita Hampton, says that "she is aware of the circumstances surrounding hair loss, due to her own experience with chemotherapy. She totally empathizes with this struggle and understands the impact that hair loss can have on one's self-esteem". Anita Hampton's passion was sparked in her effort to help others look and feel good about their hair and themselves.

Ms. Hampton discovered that wearing a wig does not lend itself to the natural flexibility of life nor does a wig mimic a real head of hair. Hair Fantasy's newly launched Hair Replacement (www.hairfantasy.net) solution offers hair that one can swim in, exercise in, style, sleep in, shower in--and hair that is so uniquely customized that it resembles one's own natural hair!

At Hair Fantasy, miracles have been created by the formation of undetectable hair replacement units. The staff at Hair Fantasy understands that hair loss and hair replacement are personal, sensitive and private matters and therefore ensures that each client receives a private consultation. The complete hair replacement process is also done in private. All hair units are made with 100% human hair and come in a variety of textures, colors and lengths. The hair unit, which does not consist of tracks, is custom made and custom fitted to each client's head.

About Hair Fantasy, LLC

Hair Fantasy (www.hairfantasy.net)'s goal and mission is to turn hair loss trauma into hair replacement triumph, while serving clients with dignity and respect. Hair Fantasy, LLC has been a longstanding participant and sponsor for various events within the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Hair Fantasy, LLC is also a member of the National Cosmetology Association and the proud recipient of the Prince George's County Small Business Initiative's "Outstanding Retail" of the Year Award for highlighted business accomplishments and commitments to the community.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Anita Hampton

Hair Fantasy, LLC

(301)806-HAIR (4247)

www.hairfantasy.net

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Contact Information Anita Hampton

Hair Fantasy, LLC

http://www.hairfantasy.net

(301)806-4247

Stemedica Medical Team Cautions Patients About Stem Cell Therapy & Comments on PLoS Medicine Article

Stemedica Medical Team Cautions Patients About Stem Cell Therapy & Comments on PLoS Medicine Article

Stemedica provides its observations and comments to the media regarding the PLoS Medicine article published online February 17, 2009. The PLoS Medicine article describes a patient who developed "brain tumors" (glioneuronal neoplasms) after undergoing repeated transplants of "fetal neural stem cells" in Russia starting in 2001.

San Diego, California (PRWEB) February 27, 2009 -- Stemedica Cell Technologies (http://www.stemedica.com), Inc. ("Stemedica") provided its observations and comments to the media regarding the PLoS Medicine article published online February 17, 2009. The PLoS Medicine article describes a patient who developed "brain tumors" (glioneuronal neoplasms) after undergoing repeated transplants of "fetal neural stem cells" in Russia starting in 2001.

"All of us at Stemedica would like to extend our condolences to the young patient involved in this situation and our hope is for a speedy and positive outcome to this unfortunate experience. Never before have we or any of our Principal Investigators ever encountered such an occurrence either in our own research or in any of the published research", said Dr. David Howe, Stemedica's Vice President and Medical Director.

"We want to use this unfortunate incident to warn those seeking stem cell therapy abroad," warns Dr. Nikolai Tankovich, President & Chief Medical Officer of Stemedica, "to make certain that the manufacturer of the stem cells used in transplantation comply with the rigid standards that have been established by the FDA and other Internationally-recognized regulatory agencies. The future of this industry and the safety of all future patients depend on such adherence." FDA Compliance and Surveillance Standards can be referenced by visiting www.fda.gov/cber/compliance.htm (http://www.fda.gov/cber/compliance.htm).

The report in PLoS, Donor-Derived Brain Tumor Following Neural Stem Cell Transplantation in an Ataxia Telangiectasia Patient (http://medicine.plosjournals.org/perlserv/?request=get-document&doi=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000029), describes the development of multifocal glioneuronal neoplasms along the spinal nerves and brain stem in a 13-year-old patient who underwent repeated transplantation procedures in an attempt to treat ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T). A-T is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder known to have an increased risk of developing cancer.

Malignancy and neoplasia are common in A-T secondary to deficient cellular and humoral immunity. This immune deficiency is a contra-indication to stem cell transplant therapy. In addition, the mutations associated with A-T in the A-T mutation gene lead to mutations in nuclear protein, which normally repairs DNA. This loss of DNA repair combined with immune deficiency in A-T increases risk of neoplasia with and without cellular transplant therapy in A-T.

"Due to age, children and adolescents have significantly increased quantities of growth factors. Adding stem cells, known for their growth factor production capabilities, to a child with this presenting condition may have been a contributing factor. As in the administration of pharmaceuticals, many of which are not recommended for use in children and adolescents in the same way as in treating adults, great care must be taken in using stem cell therapy with this population of patients", said Dr. Michael Bayer, Stemedica's Director of Medical Services.

Based on the facts and references cited within the PLoS Medicine article, researchers have discovered that some of the cells were female and had two copies of the gene that causes A-T. Karyotype testing was reported in this case which confirms inadequate testing of the stem cells prior to transplantation. "The stem cell preparation protocol provided to the parents by the treatment team was reviewed and found to be inadequate by our standards", said Dr. Howe. "No cell characteristics, cell markers or bio-safety data was present. Mechanical desegregation in the 8-12 week age fetus is not recommended. Enzymatic separation is preferred, a process that also removes any dead cells that may be present. There is also a significant lack of detail on the number of cell passages as well as the dispersion of the neurospheres", Dr. Howe went on to say.

Dr. Alex Kharazi, Stemedica's Vice President for Manufacturing & Research observed, "Limited cell culturing in only 12-16 days as described in their protocol is like using a crude primary culture of cells. There are numerous risks associated with using crude cell preparations that have not been subjected to rigid manufacturing and testing protocols such as purity, identity and potency. In addition, the antibiotics used to manufacture the stem cells, are potentially neurotoxic." Dr. Kharazi went on to say, "Overall the description provided for the manufacturing protocol was vague and a poor example of what a well thought out manufacturing and safety-driven process should be. For example, there was no data provided relating to tumorgenicity, toxicity, or bio-distribution testing of the manufactured cells in nude mice which is a mandatory requirement as a first and critical step to assessing cell safety."

"Stemedica is committed to a manufacturing process that puts safety first at all times. Our stem cell product lines go through extensive testing during several stages of the manufacturing process and are also subjected to in-depth pre-clinical studies before filing with the FDA and other regulatory agencies for clinical trials", continued Dr. Kharazi. "Nothing is more important than the welfare of the patient and there is no explanation that can justify any deviance from compliance to FDA guidelines for the manufacturing and testing of stem cells prior to administration. These are the guidelines we follow and any patient considering stem cell therapy, at any location worldwide, should confirm that the manufacturer is in full compliance before they decide to undergo stem cell transplantation." warns Dr. Kharazi.

About Stemedica Technologies, Inc.

Stemedica Cell Technologies Inc. (http://www.stemedica.com (http://www.stemedica.com)) is a specialty biopharmaceutical company that is committed to the development and manufacture of best-in-class adult stem cells for use by approved research institutions and hospitals for pre-clinical and clinical studies. Stemdedica complies with the standards and guidelines established by the FDA and the FDB (Food and Drug Board) in the manufacturing and testing of its stem cells. Within the United States, the Company is currently developing regulatory pathways for stroke, traumatic brain injury and wound repair. Outside the United States, Stemedica provides its adult stem cells to hospitals and research centers that are conducting studies under protocols approved by the appropriate regulatory agencies. These studies are focused on the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, sight restoration and wound repair. Stemedica is based in San Diego, California.

Media Contact for Stemedica: Dave McGuigan at dmcguigan (at) stemedica.com.

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Contact Information Dave McGuigan

Stemedica Cell Technologies Inc

http://www.stemedica.com

+1 858 658 0910

Barnett Releases IND Submissions: A Primer

Barnett Releases IND Submissions: A Primer

Barnett International, a division of Cambridge Healthtech Institute, has announced the release of IND Submissions: A Primer, an in-depth guide to writing, editing, tracking, and submitting the original IND and applicable IND amendments. IND Submissions: A Primer is the only comprehensive IND manual of its kind.

Needham, MA (PRWEB) February 25, 2009 -- IND Submissions: A Primer provides a "hands-on" approach that teaches regulatory professionals - novice and veteran alike - to work with the regulations, guidance documents, content templates, contributing authors, and style guides necessary to write an IND. The book's writing tips show regulatory professionals how to produce a range of U.S. drug and biologics submissions that comply with the requirements and are also clear to read. Included with the book is a CD filled with electronic examples.

The 600-page, spiral-bound, hardcover book is easy to use, providing step-by-step instructions on how to plan, write, and submit regulatory documents. Each chapter (62 in total) is divided by easy-to-read tabs.

IND Submissions: A Primer is the ideal resource for new professionals entering the field, a useful training guide, and a valuable reference for the experienced professional. This comprehensive "how-to" guide contains:

•    Regulations and guidance document references

•    Overview and background of why the submission is required

•    Structure of the submission itself

•    Details on who should contribute to the submission

•    Where to pull, re-use, or start as a basis for information needed in a submission

•    Tips and lessons learned from the author's experience

•    Different perspectives on how a submission can be approached

•    Applicable FDA Form 1571 information for each submission

•    Paper publishing tips

•    Electronic CTD publishing sections for each submission, where applicable

•    Real life examples taken from the press and approved NDAs when available

•    Electronic examples and content templates to utilize so that an RA professional can begin immediately working on a submission

IND Submissions: A Primer is available for $295 per copy by calling 800-856-2556, or by ordering online at www.barnettinternational.com. Estimated shipping date is February 27, 2009.

About the author:

IND Submissions: A Primer was written by Meredith Brown-Tuttle, RAC, a regulatory consultant whose background incorporates all aspects of drug, device, and biologics development including clinical research, data management, medical writing, and regulatory affairs. She served for six years on the Board of Editors for the Regulatory Affairs Professional Society's journal, "Focus," and has published numerous articles, edited books and book chapters, and presented at professional meetings on a variety of clinical research and regulatory topics. Ms. Brown-Tuttle also teaches about regulatory submissions, intelligence, strategy, and agency interactions for the Regulatory Affairs Certificate program at UC Santa Cruz.

About Cambridge Healthtech Institute

Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI) is the preeminent life science network for leading researchers and business experts from top pharmaceutical, biotech and academic organizations. CHI's portfolio of products includes Cambridge Healthtech Institute Conferences, Insight Pharma Reports, Cambridge Marketing Consultants, Cambridge Meeting Planners and Cambridge Healthtech's Media Group, which includes numerous e-newsletters as well as Bio-IT World magazine.

Founded in 1992, Cambridge Healthtech Institute strives to develop quality information sources that provide valuable new insights and competing points of view while offering balanced coverage of the latest developments. Basic research related to commercial implications is covered, with heavy emphasis placed on end-user insights into new products and technology as well as coverage on the strategy behind the business.

About Barnett International

Founded in 1979, Barnett International is widely recognized for its superior consulting services and its targeted education and training programs. Barnett helps clients get the most out of their research and development dollars by managing change effectively, improving organizational performance, and enhancing staff knowledge. The Barnett approach is a unique combination of strategy development and practical, hands-on implementation. The "Barnett Difference" is evident in our deep understanding of the clinical research process and in the rapid and tangible performance improvements we deliver.

We help pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies maximize the speed and quality of their product development efforts. With an international presence and with many staff members working from the client site for increased benefits, Barnett is able to apply a global expertise to its projects.

Our services include educational programs and products and consulting.

The source of our expertise:

•    Exclusively focused on the pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical industry for more than 20 years

•    A team of talented professionals (150+) with deep-rooted industry insight and expertise

•    An in-depth understanding of different cultures and unique organizations

•    Experience working with major pharmaceutical companies around the world

•    Global resources with offices in the US and Europe

Media Contact:

Barnett International

Kate Bliss

Marketing Communications Manager

781-972-5435

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Contact Information Tracey Fielding

7814-972-5429

American TeleCare, Inc. (ATI) Appoints Michael A. Brodeur as Chief Financial Officer

American TeleCare, Inc. (ATI) Appoints Michael A. Brodeur as Chief Financial Officer

American TeleCare, the Leader in Technology-Enabled Telehealth Solutions, Adds Accomplished Financial Executive to its Senior Management Team

Minneapolis (PRWEB) February 25, 2009 -- American TeleCare, Inc. (ATI) announced that Michael A. Brodeur has joined the company as its chief financial officer. ATI is the leader in the development and application of video-based telehealth solutions to advance patient care.

"Mike is a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of high-level financial management experience in the health care, medical device, biotechnology and clinical laboratory industries," said Randy Moore, M.D., M.B.A., chairman and chief executive officer, American TeleCare (ATI). "He brings ATI exceptional expertise in corporate finance, business development and the capital markets."

"With solutions that combine telecommunications technology with unmatched clinical functionality, ATI is at the forefront of the telehealth industry," said Brodeur. "Managing the costs of caring for patients with complex, chronic conditions is a fundamental challenge in health system reform. ATI is positioned to lead the way to establish new models of telehealth-supported care that connect high-risk patients to essential clinical expertise."

Immediately before joining ATI, Brodeur was the chief financial officer of Medical CV, Inc. (NASDAQ:MDCV), developer and manufacturer of laser-based surgical devices. He has also served as CFO of McKesson Medical Management (a $500 million pharmacy outsource provider to hospitals) and Meris Laboratories, Inc. (a $50 million clinical laboratory testing company). He previously held other senior financial leadership positions with EPS Solutions Corporation and WellPoint Health Networks, Inc., now WellPoint, Inc. (NYSE:WLP), which today is the nation's largest health insurer by member numbers. Brodeur was a managing partner at Prairieview CFO Partners, LLP, a CFO services firm for public and pre-IPO emerging and middle-market businesses. And as senior partner at Tatum CFO Partners, LLP, another national CFO services firm, he served as CFO of Molecular Diagnostics, Inc., now CytoCore, Inc. (OTCBB:CYTO) and Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTM).

Brodeur is a certified public accountant who began his career at Ernst & Young. He earned a bachelor's of science degree in business administration and accountancy at California State University, Long Beach, Calif.

About American TeleCare, Inc. (ATI)

Founded in 1993, American TeleCare (ATI) is the pioneer of intelligent monitoring and video-based telehealth technology. With proven experience in clinical process re-engineering, ATI works with leading healthcare organizations to put their patients at the center of care teams and supports them with best-in-class solutions. ATI systems connect continuous healing relationships and deliver essential information for clinical and self care. Ongoing monitoring and constant care of patients at home keeps them connected to clinical expertise and may help prevent acute events. The results: 100-200 percent increases in provider productivity and 65-95 percent reductions in emergency room and inpatient costs - achieved as care teams help physicians watch over, improve and maintain their patients' health. For more information, visit www.americantelecare.com. Then call 800-323-6667.

NOTE: American TeleCare will exhibit at the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) Annual International Meeting & Exposition, which will be held on April 26-28, 2009 at the Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nev. American TeleCare will be at booth #300.

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Contact Information DAVID AQUILINA

American TeleCare, Inc. (ATI)

http://www.americantelecare.com

612.922.5551

Stemedica Advances its Certification to Become a Licensed Manufacturer of Adult Stem Cells for U.S. Based Clinical Trials

Stemedica Advances its Certification to Become a Licensed Manufacturer of Adult Stem Cells for U.S. Based Clinical Trials

Stemedica Cell Technologies, Inc. announced today that it has filed with the Food and Drug Branch of the State of California's Department of Public Health for certification as a licensed manufacturer of adult stem cells for U.S.-based Phase I and Phase II Clinical Trials.

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) February 25, 2009 -- Stemedica Cell Technologies (http://www.stemedica.com), Inc. ("Stemedica") announced today that it has filed with the Food and Drug Branch of the State of California's Department of Public Health for certification as a licensed manufacturer of adult stem cells for U.S.-based Phase I and Phase II Clinical Trials. Readiness for manufacture includes obtaining a California Drug Manufacturing License for the Stemedica facility in San Diego, California.

"Completion of this certification will allow us to manufacture stem cells under contract for clinical trials for Stemedica as well as for other companies and research centers in California and across the United States. This marks a significant milestone along the journey toward the future availability of stem cell treatment for patients who so urgently need it," said Dr. Maynard Howe, Vice Chairman and CEO at Stemedica.

To prepare for inspection, Stemedica fully reconstructed its facility according to FDA requirements, which had previously focused on research and development. Stemedica's manufacturing facility now includes a fully compliant manufacturing wing with entry-level gowning rooms, two ISO class 8 sterile gowning suites, an ISO Class 7 Manufacturing Clean Room, an ISO Class 7 Processing Clean Room, a Good Manufacturing Process compliant materials warehouse and a controlled-access Quality Control testing laboratory.

"As soon as Stemedica secures its license from the State of California's Department of Public Health, we plan on filing for one or more IND's (Investigative New Drug) for specific indications with the FDA using our proprietary technology. The final major step by the Food and Drug Branch within the Department of Public Health is an in-depth, in-person inspection by their personnel. We're particularly proud of the fact that we are ready for, and capable of, seeking licensing in California, which has exceptionally stringent standards," said Dr. Alex Kharazi, Vice President, Research & Manufacturing at Stemedica.

"Becoming a Licensed Manufacturer of clinical grade adult stem cells is a significant scientific and medical step forward for the Company," said Dr. Nikolai Tankovich, Stemedica's President and Chief Medical Officer. "Securing this status will allow us to become a primary CMO (Contract Manufacturing Organization) for other for-profit companies and the many research organizations interested in advancing stem cell research through clinical application. Additionally, achieving this regulatory status within the manufacturing world will provide Stemedica with the foundation to advance its own Phase I and Phase II Clinical Studies once approved by the FDA."

About Stemedica Technologies, Inc.

Stemedica Cell Technologies Inc. (www.stemedica.com (http://www.stemedica.com)) is a specialty biopharmaceutical company that is committed to the development and manufacture of best-in-class adult stem cells for use by approved research institutions and hospitals for pre-clinical and clinical studies. Within the United States, the Company is currently developing regulatory pathways for stroke, traumatic brain injury and wound repair. Outside the United States, Stemedica provides its adult stem cells to hospitals and research centers that are conducting studies under protocols approved by the appropriate regulatory agencies. These studies are focused on the treatment of neurodegenerative disease, sight restoration and wound repair. Stemedica is based in San Diego, California.

Media Contact for Stemedica: Dave McGuigan -- dmcguigan (at) stemedica.com.

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Contact Information Dave McGuigan

Stemedica Cell Technologies Inc

http://www.stemedica.com

+1 858 658 0910

Paving the Way for Peace in the Middle East with Mind-Body Skills

Paving the Way for Peace in the Middle East with Mind-Body Skills

Truce talks are gridlocked, but this mission to provide trauma relief to both sides of the conflict goes forward. Dr. James S. Gordon and his international team plans a training of health and mental health professionals in both Israel and Gaza--the only program of its kind working in both Israel and Gaza. After arriving February 28th, 2009. With The Center for Mind-Body Medicine's groundbreaking model which teaches self-care techniques (such as meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and yoga, as well as self-expression in words, drawing, and movement, all in a supportive small group), Dr. Gordon and his team will help heal the wounds of war and bring relief to those suffering following the devastating siege on Gaza.

Washington, D.C., Tel Aviv, and Gaza (PRWEB) February 23, 2009 -- As truce talks drag on between Israel and Gaza, James S. Gordon, M.D., the distinguished psychiatrist who leads the Washington D.C.-based Center for Mind-Body Medicine (http://www.cmbm.org), will on March 4, 2009 lead an international team of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish mental health professionals into Gaza in a groundbreaking effort to relieve population-wide psychological trauma in that war-devastated Israeli-occupied territory. The team will arrive in Israel February 28, 2009 and make their way to a border crossing.

For the last seven years, Dr. Gordon and his CMBM team have been working intensively with the traumatized population in Gaza and Israel separately and jointly -- they are the only organization doing so. During this time, they've trained 300 Israeli professionals and 90 in Gaza to develop comprehensive, scientifically based programs that are effectively treating widespread post traumatic stress disorder, major depression, anxiety, violence, and despair.

CMBM's pioneering program, which recently received a research award from the US Department of Defense, combines such mind-body techniques as meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and yoga with self-expression in words, drawings, and movement in a supportive small group setting.

CMBM's program is a powerful force for peace for those living in Gaza. Before the recent Israeli invasion, CMBM's Gaza team, which has treated 15-20,000 children and adults, was providing up to 75 ten-week long mind-body groups every three months. In the aftermath of the devastation, the number of groups has tripled. The CMBM approach is currently also being offered to hundreds of families that lost members in the conflict, to orphaned children, mothers with 'failure to thrive' infants, and depressed, suicidal, and violent children and adults.

A wealth of data supports and informs CMBM's unique, highly effective model, which has been used to help traumatized populations in postwar Kosovo, post-Katrina New Orleans, as well as Israel and Gaza, and is now being implemented on an increasingly large scale with US military returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and their families.

As Dr. Gordon says, "The CMBM model is welcomed by people of all ages and races around the world because it is educational, non-stigmatizing, and demonstrably beneficial. It can be easily taught and can be used by all people of all ages on their own." Dr. Gordon describes this groundbreaking approach in his newest book Unstuck: Your Guide to the Seven-Stage Journey Out of Depression (Penguin Press; June 2008).

The results of CMBM's program are astonishing. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) on the use of the model with war-traumatized children in Kosovo -- the first RCT of any intervention with war-traumatized children -- was published in the prestigious Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2008; it showed an 80% decrease in symptoms following 12 sessions of mind-body skills groups. Also, data collected on the first 500 children and 600 adults in the CMBM Gaza program revealed significant decreases in symptoms of PTSD and depression and anger and increased hopefulness in those who participated in CMBM groups, gains which were largely maintained even during the ongoing siege of Gaza at six months' follow-up.

After four days working with the CMBM faculty in Israel and visiting with people affected by the Palestinian shelling in Sderot and Ashkelon, Dr. Gordon and his team will enter Gaza. During the first several days, they will visit with some of the thousands who have sought out CMBM-trained counselors to help them deal with the loss of family members and friends. During the following five days, Dr. Gordon and his colleagues will supervise the 15-member CMBM Gaza leadership team as they prepare 150 more of the most committed mental health professionals, including school psychologists and school counselors, to offer CMBM's program to Gaza's devastated children and their families.

Journalists are invited to accompany Dr. Gordon as he meets with CMBM's Israeli staff prior to entering Gaza and visits Sderot, and as the team interviews individuals and families throughout Gaza. There will be opportunities for interviews with Dr. Gordon and his Palestinian leadership team, traumatized families who have been aided, as well as the possibility to observe the training program. A short article on Dr. Gordon's work in Gaza (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/13/health/views/13case.html?ref=health) which appeared in the New York Times.

Dr. Gordon is a dynamic public speaker with a wealth of personal stories of children and adults he has helped find healing in the midst of loss and despair. A respected and world-renowned expert in mind-body medicine, he can bring the human aspects of this story to life in any medium -- radio, television, or print -- with a warm, knowledgeable voice and his wealth of experience. He is available for immediate comment and interview.

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Contact Information Dr. Gordon EA

The Center for Mind-Body Medicine

http://www.cmbm.org

202-537-6837

Physicians Wellness Network Offers Online Laboratory Testing Services On Google Health

Physicians Wellness Network Offers Online Laboratory Testing Services On Google Health

webLAB™ ensures medical and legal compliance for consumer-selected lab tests

Jackson, Wyo. -- Physicians Wellness Network (PWN), the developer of webLAB, the first online consumer portal that connects consumers to laboratory testing services in a medically and legally compliant manner, today announced its integration with Google Health™, http://www.Google.com/Health

Consumers no longer need to go through the lengthy and often expensive process of scheduling multiple doctor appointments with several co-pays to get basic wellness tests such as a heart risk assessment. Instead they can select up to four basic lab tests online, starting at $54.95, using the webLAB wizard located in the Google Health Services Directory. The tests consumers order are conducted in a manner that fully complies with state and federal regulations. In addition, test results are delivered within a few days and can be stored in the consumer's Google Health account.

"webLAB makes it safe, easy and affordable for people to directly order lab tests online, then store and track the results electronically on Google Health," said John Eastman, director of business development for PWN. "With President Obama calling for a national system of electronic health records within five years, webLAB's integration with Google Health will provide momentum toward this initiative."

Google Health allows consumers to store and manage their medical records online, in one central place for free. Consumers can build online health profiles, import medical records and connect to online health services such as webLAB.

After a consumer selects one of four lab tests using webLAB on Google Health, a PWN physician provides prescriptive authority for the test to be conducted. The consumer then has their blood sample drawn at a local lab and a result is produced. A PWN physician reviews and releases the result to the consumer within a few days so that it can be imported into the consumer's Google Health account. A PWN representative follows up with the consumer in the event a critical value is presented in the result.

PWN offers four basic wellness tests with webLAB: Diabetes Risk Assessment; General Wellness; Heart Risk Assessment; and, Prostate Cancer Risk Assessment.

About Physicians Wellness Network

Physicians Wellness Network is the leading provider of compliance services for online wellness screening tests. Through a trusted national network of 250 credentialed physicians dedicated to connecting consumers with their own health information, PWN delivers what no one else in the industry can--fully compliant, private blood testing for consumers in every state. The network's unique, online data system--webLAB™--connects health consumers with laboratory testing and accurate results in a private and secure environment.

PWN was founded in 2001 and is a subsidiary of DocTalk, Inc. For more information, call 888-362-4321 or visit www.physicianswellnessnetwork.com.

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Contact Information Suzanne Fedoruk

For Physicians Wellness Network

http://www.physicianswellnessnetwork.com

612-861-7807

Carestream Molecular Imaging Releases Western Blot Kits For Added Convenience, Better Performance

Carestream Molecular Imaging Releases Western Blot Kits For Added Convenience, Better Performance

Carestream Molecular Imaging today released convenient, cost-effective kits for performing western blots -- a popular analytical technique used to detect proteins.

New Haven, CT (Vocus) February 23, 2009 -- Carestream Molecular Imaging, a division of Carestream Health, Inc., today released convenient, cost-effective kits for performing western blots (http://mistore.carestreamhealth.com) -- a popular analytical technique used to detect proteins. KODAK X-SIGHT Western Kits provide industry-leading components and step-by-step protocols designed to deliver peak performance from X-SIGHT Nanosphere Conjugates in western blots.

"The X-SIGHT Nanosphere Conjugates, when used with the components supplied in the Western Kit, outperformed our current western blot method," said Kevin McCarthy, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Pathology, LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport. "The whole process was faster, easier and the signal obtained was immediate, more stable and brighter -- with less background noise."

KODAK X-SIGHT Western Kits are built on X-SIGHT Nanospheres (http://mistore.carestreamhealth.com), which are available in four distinct wavelengths including three in the near-IR range. The kits are offered in several different wavelength combinations that include up to three X-SIGHT Nanosphere Conjugates, making them ideal for multiplex applications (http://mistore.carestreamhealth.com). Each kit is optimized for 10 blots and includes best-in-class membranes and buffers to achieve high signal-to-noise ratios. A separate Accessory Kit is also available for use with any of the X-SIGHT Nanosphere Conjugates or any other commercially available fluorescently-labeled secondary antibody conjugate (nanoparticle or dye).

The new kit delivers added productivity and can reduce costs when compared with purchasing each component separately or in larger quantities than may be necessary. Components suppliers include Fisher BioReagents (Fairlawn, NJ) part of Thermo Fisher Scientific and Millipore Corporation (Billerica, Mass.).

The kits are available worldwide. U.S. customers can place orders directly or through channel partners. For more information, go to http://mistore.carestreamhealth.com.

About Carestream Molecular Imaging

Carestream Molecular Imaging group, a division of Carestream Health, Inc., develops and markets high performance digital imaging systems, imaging agents, film and accessories under the KODAK brand for the life science research and drug discovery/development market segments. For more information, visit mi.carestreamhealth.com or call 1-877-747-4357, express code 7. Outside of the United States, call 1-203-786-5657.

About Carestream Health, Inc.

Carestream Health, Inc., is a leading provider of dental and medical imaging systems and healthcare IT solutions; molecular imaging systems for the life science research and drug discovery/development market segments; and x-ray film and digital x-ray products for the non-destructive testing market. Headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., and serving customers in more than 150 countries, Carestream Health is an independent company operating within the family of companies owned by Onex Corporation (TSX: OCX.TO) of Toronto, Canada. For more information about Carestream Health, contact your Carestream Health representative or visit www.carestreamhealth.com.

KODAK is a trademark of Kodak used under license.

X-SIGHT is a trademark of Carestream Health.

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Contact Information Jim Barillo

Carestream Health, Inc.

http://mistore.carestreamhealth.com

585-627-6440

Robette Brooks

CCS PR

303-699-8861

Reprints Desk Named to "KMWorld 100 Companies that Matter in Knowledge Management" List

Reprints Desk Named to "KMWorld 100 Companies that Matter in Knowledge Management" List

Reprints Desk, Inc., the content workflow company, today announced that the company has been named as one of "KMWorld's 100 Companies that Matter in Knowledge Management" by KMWorld Magazine.

Los Angeles, Calif. (PRWEB) February 23, 2009 -- Reprints Desk, Inc., the content workflow company (http://www.reprintsdesk.com/main/home.aspx), today announced that the company has been named as one of "KMWorld's 100 Companies that Matter in Knowledge Management" by KMWorld Magazine.

KMWorld's annual list, now in its eighth year, is compiled by knowledge management (KM) practitioners, theorists, analysts, vendors, and customers. Companies that have previously been named to the list include Google, Apple, Oracle, SAP, and EMC.

"Each company embodies as part of its culture agile and limber execution of its mission, embracing a spirit of both adaptability and innovation," said Hugh McKellar, KMWorld editor in chief.

In 2008, Reprints Desk achieved a number of accomplishments:

• Ranked first overall and in each category within the Document Delivery (http://www.reprintsdesk.com/main/docdel_overview.aspx) Best Practices and Vendor Scorecard Report published by Outsell, Inc.

• Served more than 50% of the world's top-50 pharmaceutical companies

• Launched eCTD Article Service (http://www.reprintsdesk.com/main/news.aspx) for regulatory submissions

• Established an office in Germany to support European sales

• Became a document supplier on FIZ Karlsruhe's full-text broker service FIZ AutoDoc

• Signed an agreement with the Copyright Clearance Center to integrate rights management from Rightsphere into the document delivery workflow

Reprints Desk is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, and was founded in 2006 by document delivery pioneer Peter Derycz. The company provides software services that simplify how healthcare companies and other research-oriented enterprises procure, manage, and share peerreviewed journal articles and other copyright-protected content.

About KMWorld

The leading information provider serving the Knowledge, Document and Content Management systems market, KMWorld informs more than 50,000 subscribers about the components and processes - and subsequent success stories - that together offer solutions for improving business performance. KMWorld is a publishing unit of Information Today, Inc.

About Reprints Desk ®

Reprints Desk, Inc. (www.reprintsdesk.com), is a content technology and services company that simplifies how healthcare companies and other enterprises procure, manage and share scientific journal articles and other copyright-protected content. The company's workflow solutions and end user tools help customers effectively use peer-reviewed literature in product promotions, regulatory submissions, and research. A channel supplier for more than 100 scientific, technical, and medical (STM) publishers, Reprints Desk currently serves more than half of the world's Top-50 pharmaceutical companies and earned the #1 ranking in the 2008 Document Delivery Vendor Scorecard by Outsell, Inc. Reprints Desk is a Derycz Scientific, Inc. (OTC: DYSC.PK) company. For more information about Reprints Desk, contact Ian Palmer at +1 (707) 658-1931.

Public and Media Relations Contacts:

Ian Palmer, Head of Marketing

Reprints Desk, Inc. | +1 707.658.1931

ipalmer @ reprintsdesk.com

# # #

Contact Information Ian Palmer

Reprints Desk

http://www.reprintsdesk.com

707.658.1931

The first Intervention About Women Compulsive Gamblers Airs on A&E February 23, 2009 at 9 PM: Williamsville Wellness will be Featured

The first Intervention About Women Compulsive Gamblers Airs on A&E February 23, 2009 at 9 PM: Williamsville Wellness will be Featured

The show will be about an intervention and the growing problem of female compulsive gambling. Ten years ago only 3% of compulsive gamblers were women, today that figure is 46% or higher. Williamsville Wellness (located in Hanover, VA) specializes in treating compulsive gambling, is licensed to treat compulsive gambling (one of the only such licensed treatment centers in the US), encourages women gamblers with scholarships and a safe serene setting, and offers an individual approach to treating gambling addiction.

Hanover, VA (PRWEB) February 22, 2009 -- The first intervention about women compulsive gamblers airs on A&E February 23, 2009 at 9 PM. Williamsville Wellness will be featured.

Williamsville Wellness (located in Hanover, VA) specializes in treating compulsive gambling, is licensed to treat compulsive gambling (one of the only such licensed treatment centers in the US), encourages women gamblers with scholarships and a safe serene setting, and offers an individual approach to treating gambling addiction.

The Williamsville Plantation House, built more than 200 years ago, has been restored and has all modern conveniences and comforts, but retains the charm and serenity of a 19th Century manor. Neighbors like Patrick Henry visited the plantation and enjoyed its hospitality years and years ago, and patients will enjoy the same charm and hospitality now.

Williams Wellness offer a unique approach of mental, holistic, and physical therapy, offers patients the promise of freedom from gambling and a positive outlook and approach to life. The setting promotes wellness, introspection, safety and security, and aim to make the stay both pleasant and rewarding.

Williamsville Wellness provides an integrated approach to the process of recovery. The clinical director is Sherman Master, MD who manages a staff of psychologists, peer counselors, massage therapists, art therapists, personal trainers, hypnotists and specialized counselors, who all work together to create a synergy that accelerates the process of healing and change and promotes recovery in the shortest possible time.

The facility offers unique treatment plan developed with individual therapy and counseling, that leads to an understanding of the underlying problem, to abstinence, and to an improved life for the long term. Combined with group sessions and GA meetings, the approach creates a treatment program that offers the best chance of long term success.

Compulsive gambling is a progressive illness which is diagnosable and treatable. It affects the gambler, the family, the employer, and the community. It is called the "hidden illness" since there is no smell on the breath nor stumbling of steps or speech. Nonetheless, a gambling addiction is as debilitating as alcohol or drug addiction.

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Contact Information Bob Cabaniss

Williamsville Wellness

http://www.nongambler.com

804-869-9725

Hissey Kientz, LLP Announces the Launch of Mesothelioma Lawyers Help Web Site

Hissey Kientz, LLP Announces the Launch of Mesothelioma Lawyers Help Web Site

The law firm of Hissey Kientz, LLP has announced the launch of its new website, Mesothelioma Lawyers Help (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com). Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer linked to exposure to asbestos. Thousands of workers and other individuals have developed mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos in the workplace or by using products that contain asbestos.

Austin, TX (Vocus) February 21, 2009 -- The law firm of Hissey Kientz, LLP has announced the launch of its new website, Mesothelioma Lawyers Help (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com). The site will serve as a news and information resource for individuals who have developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease after being exposed to asbestos fibers on the job, in the home or from another source.

Asbestos (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com/asbestos-info/what-is-asbestos/) is a naturally-occurring mineral that was once commonly used in many industrial, construction and manufacturing products because of its ability to withstand high temperatures and provide insulation. Products that were manufactured with asbestos over the last century include many industrial parts, insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, roofing shingles, paper and cement products, automobile parts, plastics and many others. In some cases, these products can still be found in the workplace, as well as in buildings and homes.

During the 1970s, severe restrictions were placed on the use and manufacture of asbestos-containing products because of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com/asbestos-info/asbestos-exposure/). When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they may cause mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that can attack the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos has also been linked to several other serious diseases, including lung cancer and asbestosis.

Because the risk of being diagnosed with mesothelioma increases the longer an individual is exposed to asbestos, workers whose jobs involved regular contact with asbestos or asbestos-containing products are at the highest risk of developing the disease. Workers at risk of asbestos exposure include miners, shipyard workers, mechanics, construction workers and many other industrial or manufacturing jobs.

Although nearly all cases of mesothelioma can be linked to asbestos, individuals may not begin to develop mesothelioma symptoms (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com/about-mesothelioma/mesothelioma-symptoms/) for several decades after being exposed. The symptoms of the disease may vary depending on the type of mesothelioma, but can include breathing problems, chest pain, abdominal pain, nausea, weakness or other symptoms. Because the symptoms of mesothelioma can be similar to other diseases, only a specially trained doctor can make a mesothelioma diagnosis.

Lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of asbestos products have revealed that many of these companies knew or should have known about the dangers of asbestos, but for decades failed to take steps to inform or protect workers or the public from the hazards of exposure. Since the first successful asbestos lawsuit (http://www.mesotheliomalawyershelp.com/about-mesothelioma/mesothelioma-lawsuits/) was filed in 1969, thousands of individuals who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace or from products containing asbestos have filed lawsuits against the manufacturers of these products for failing to take the necessary steps to shield them from the dangers of asbestos.

About Hissey Kientz, LLP

Hissey Kientz, LLP (http://www.hkllp.com) is currently accepting cases involving individuals who may have contracted mesothelioma or lung cancer as a result of asbestos exposure, as well as those injured by the Ortho Evra patch, digoxin toxicity from Digitek, PPH caused by Fen-Phen, the Composix Kugel mesh hernia patch, renal failure caused by Trasylol, the Duragesic patch (fentanyl), gadolinium MRI contrast dyes or other defective drugs and devices. To learn more about the firm and other drug cases, visit Hissey Kientz, LLP (www.hkllp.com) or call toll-free at (866) 275-4454.

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Contact Information Craig Whitney

Hissey Kientz, LLP

http://www.hkllp.com

512-320-9100

BurrellesLuce VP Johna Burke Among Measurement Experts To Speak at Feb. 25 Meeting of PRSA's National Capital Chapter

BurrellesLuce VP Johna Burke Among Measurement Experts To Speak at Feb. 25 Meeting of PRSA's National Capital Chapter

BurrellesLuce Vice President Johna Burke, a prominent authority on media monitoring and measurement, will be one of the expert panelists discussing strategic measurement at the Feb. 25 breakfast meeting of the National Capital Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America.

Livingston, NJ (PRWEB) February 20, 2009 -- BurrellesLuce (http://www.burrellesluce.com/?cid=thl_PR_B27I843X) Vice President Johna Burke, a prominent authority on media monitoring and measurement, will be one of the expert panelists discussing strategic measurement at the Feb. 25 breakfast meeting of the National Capital Chapter (http://www.prsa-ncc.org/) of the Public Relations Society of America.

The panel theme is "Using Strategic Media Measurement to Showcase Your Success." The event will be held Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington, D.C.

In describing the session, the chapter states that, more than at any previous time, PR professionals "need accurate and detailed media measurement to prove the value" of what they're delivering. The panelists will identify tools and strategies that practitioners can use "to showcase successes and strengths." They will focus on the following areas:

• Why measurement is vital to demonstrate media efforts

• Measurement fundamentals

• Measurement cost-effectiveness

• Monitoring and analyzing the impact of social media

• Using media measurement to demonstrate a PR professional's success to clients and internal audiences

Panelists will include (in alphabetical order):

• Johna Burke (http://www.burrellesluce.com/Bios/JBurke.php?cid=thl_PR_B27I843X), vice president, BurrellesLuce

• Barbara Coons, vice president, Strategy One

• Mike Carberry, president, CARMA International

• Katie Delahaye Paine, CEO, KD Paine & Associates

William N. Outlaw III, communications manager for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, will serve as moderator.

Prior to joining BurrellesLuce in 2000, Burke was director of public relations and investor relations for U-Haul International. She is a member of PRSA, and is Southern Region chair of the International Association of Business Communicators. Additional details regarding the Feb. 25 breakfast meeting, which is sponsored by BurrellesLuce, can be obtained from the chapter at 703-691-8733 or on its website (www.prsa-ncc.org), which can also handle registration.

About BurrellesLuce

BurrellesLuce (http://www.burrellesluce.com/?cid=thl_PR_B27I843X)helps communications professionals maximize their media relations results through a full range of planning, monitoring and measurement services. Besides delivering content, the company's online platform enables clients to target and connect with journalists and bloggers, monitor the media for coverage, and measure and understand the impact of their outreach efforts. The platform has been further enhanced with the introduction of BurrellesLuce iMonitor (http://www.burrellesluce.com/imonitor/prmedia09), a self-guided media monitoring tool that powers instant searches covering the most local, national and international news from free and subscription sources, including social media. BurrellesLuce offers three levels of measurement: Essential, Impact, and Custom (http://www.burrellesluce.com/Media_Measurement/?cid=thl_PR_B27I843X).

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Contact Information Gail Nelson

BurrellesLuce

http://www.burrellesluce.com

973-251-3312

In Today's Economy, Women In The Workforce Link Cosmetic Chicago Plastic Surgery To Success

In Today's Economy, Women In The Workforce Link Cosmetic Chicago Plastic Surgery To Success

Faced with news of increasing layoffs, straining economic times, President Obama's economic stimulus package, and a belief that hiring is based on looks, millions of American women are looking at cosmetic plastic surgery procedures to give them a competitive edge in the workplace. In a recent telephone survey of 756 women between the ages of 18 and 64 compiled by the ASPS, many working women reveal cosmetic plastic surgery procedures are now one of the most important rungs on the success ladder.

Park Ridge, IL (PRWEB) February 20, 2009 -- Faced with news of increasing layoffs, straining economic times, President Obama's economic stimulus package, and a belief that hiring is based on looks, millions of American women are looking at cosmetic plastic surgery procedures to give them a competitive edge in the workplace. In a recent telephone survey of 756 women between the ages of 18 and 64 compiled by the ASPS, many working women reveal cosmetic plastic surgery procedures are now one of the most important rungs on the success ladder.

"Successful women in the workplace want to look as good as they feel", says Dr. Sam Speron, Chicago plastic surgery expert and consumer advocate. "Time has given them knowledge and experience in their respective fields. However, father time can also take away their youthful sparkle. When you look good, you feel confident. Women in the workforce want to maintain a competitive edge. Nearly 15 million U.S. working women are considering cosmetic plastic surgery according to the ASPS. No one is more qualified than ASPS and ASAPS Member Surgeons to perform the full range of cosmetic surgical procedures."

Some interesting study results about cosmetic plastic surgery:

•    13% (more than 1 out of 10 of the 115 million working-age women surveyed) say they would consider having a cosmetic medical procedure specifically to make them more confident and more competitive in the job market.

•    An astounding 3% (nearly 3.5 million working women) say they have already had a cosmetic surgery procedure to increase their perceived value in the workplace.

•    73% (almost three out of four or 84 million working women) believe, particularly in these challenging economic times, that appearance and youthful looks play a significant part in getting hired, getting a promotion, or getting new clients.

•    80% (four out of five or 92 million working women) think having cosmetic surgical procedures can boost a person's confidence.

Dr Speron says you can still save money in today's economy by having non-invasive procedures, but you should never swap quality care for cost. ASPS and ASAPS Member Surgeons put safety and outcome satisfaction first. Consumers looking to cut costs during the economic downturn cannot afford to cut corners on quality of care

Dr. Speron is the founder and medical director of the Park Ridge Center for Plastic Surgery. He is board certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery and an active member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).

For more Chicago plastic surgery or Chicago cosmetic surgery information, please visit our web site at www.prplastic.com or www.drsperonplasticsurgery.com, call us at 847.696.9900 or email us at prplastic (at) yahoo.com .

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Contact Information SAM SPERON

Park Ridge Center for Plastic Surgery

http://www.prplastic.com

847.696.9900

EXACENT To Provide IT VIirtualization To HybridChart

EXACENT To Provide IT VIirtualization To HybridChart

Newly Founded Medical IT Company Launches into EXACENT's Virtualized Environment

Scottsdale, Arizona (PRWEB) February 19, 2009 -- EXACENT, the leading enterprise grade - on demand virtual data center (http://www.exacent.com/), is pleased to announce HybridChart as a new express virtual server customer.

HybridChart, a Scottsdale based company, has developed innovative and user-friendly products for medical practices of all specilities. An alternative to EMR, HybridChart manages hospital rounding, medical transcription and office communication without the need for large capital investment or the disruption to individual practice styles.

Every customized version of HybridChart has the ability to improve efficiency of daily operations and reduce practice overhead. Selective digitization of medical information provides the benefits of instant access to information, without taking on any of the downsides of complete electronic conversion. Wherever there is an internet connection, secure and HIPAA-compliant access to all crucial patient data is available.

HybridChart utilizes EXACENT as their turnkey virtual data center (http://www.exacent.com/) solution where all their information will be stored and available for access 24/7/365 via the Internet. EXACENT's services will allow HybridChart to increase their performance, reliability, security, scalability, as well as support leveraging best of class infrastructure and virtualization. This combination of technology allows HybridChart to "go green" by utilizing less hardware and less space for their virtual data center (http://www.exacent.com/) needs. In addition, as HybridChart continues to expand they have the ability to dynamically and effortlessly grow their infrastructure to match their customers' needs.

"By utilizing EXACENT virtualization, HybridChart will now have the same access to the data center performance, reliability, security, scalability and support as a Fortune 100 company," said David Shepard, General Manager of EXACENT. "I am pleased to be working with such a great technology forward company."

"EXACENT provides the security and reliability we need with regards to sensitive patient information," said Dr. Gregory Sanders, HybridChart CEO. "The degree of service and support we have received is unprecedented in this industry."

EXACENT will provide HybridChart with always on, secure, data grade power and network which is guaranteed with a 100 percent uptime Service Level Agreement. EXACENT resides in i/o Data Centers Phoenix Colocation (http://www.iodatacenters.com/data-centers/arizona/phoenix-data-center.aspx) Facility, a physically secure, SAS 70 Type II certified data center. EXACENT also adheres to PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) best practices to secure web property, intellectual property and payment account data for its clients.     

About EXACENT

Scottsdale-based EXACENT is the premier global provider of on-demand enterprise grade infrastructure that is secure, scalable, efficient, redundant and highly available. Its offerings allow organizations to eliminate capital expenditures, infrastructure management and provide companies with the best infrastructure available. EXACENT is located in i/o Data Centers (http://www.iodatacenters.com), an industry leader in delivering the highest quality, fully scalable and completely reliable data center and Phoenix colocation (http://www.iodatacenters.com/data-centers/arizona/phoenix-data-center.aspx) solutions with 100 percent uptime. For more information, go to www.exacent.com.

About HybridChart

HybridChart software was developed by Gregory P. Sanders, MD, FACC - a practicing, Harvard-trained, Board-certified cardiologist. Dr. Sanders began his career in software development long before entering medical training. After years of clinical practice and frustration with corporate solutions to the electronic needs of the medical community, Dr. Sanders set out to provide a more realistic and relevant electronic environment. HybridChart has partnered with MedSoft, a full-service company, providing product implementation, training and customer service. HybridChart, commercially ready since November 2008, is available to practices of any specialty or setting. For more information, go to www.HybridChart.com.

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Contact Information Sarah Slade

Exacent

http://www.exacent.com

866.282.5451

Gregory Sanders MD

HybridChart

http://www.hybridchart.com

480.329.0914

Toxic Element Research Foundation Announces Its Latest Worldwide Educational Programs for Health Professionals and Patients

Toxic Element Research Foundation Announces Its Latest Worldwide Educational Programs for Health Professionals and Patients

Toxic Elements Research Foundation (TERF), a non profit research foundation, announces its series of dental related health care reports under the title of 'Elements of Disease.'

Colorado Springs, CO (PRWEB) February 19, 2009 -- Toxic Elements Research Foundation (TERF), a non profit research foundation, announces its series of dental related health care reports under the title of 'Elements of Disease.' Toxicity, or the inadvertent poisoning of our population, is the focal point of the Toxic Element Research Foundation. For the past thirty years, TERF has funded a wide variety of research to discover the connection between dental materials and health. Its primary focus was its research on Mercury containing dental amalgam (silver) fillings and the dangers associated with it. The FDA has finally admitted many of these dangers. TERF has turned its attention to other dental materials and procedures, and is now releasing the results of this highly controversial research to the news media and general public.

This first series of reports identifies various factions of blood tests that demonstrate extremely unhealthy aspects of not only common silver mercury fillings, but introduces the role of bacterial toxins from root canals, dental implants and cavitations. A surprising expose is presented on 'cavitations', or defects in the bone where wisdom teeth were removed. Through the use of sophisticated DNA technology, identification of the especially damaging anaerobic bacteria (those who live in the absence of oxygen) that are found in root canals and cavitations has shed new light on the potential cause and advanced treatment for diseases thought to be incurable. This research confirms data discovered and presented to the American Dental Association over ninety years ago.

Examples of the diseases that have been associated with the bacterium discovered hidden within dental procedures are MS, ALS, AD, leukemia and diabetes. With proper dental treatment and recognition of these sources of toxins and their eradication, many patients can be improved, and TERF believes most could have been avoided entirely. New generations will not have these new diseases to be concerned about IF research institutions can be encouraged to explore these newly discovered avenues of their cause.

Results and correlations are provided free of charge in order to stimulate investigative type of reporters to assist the Toxic Element Research Foundation in generating awareness in the public. TERF has created a media outreach program where media writers can visit the web site - www.terftalks.com - and e-mail their choice of two topics in addition to the basic report up on root canals, the incubators. Other topics include: cavitations, the caverns of deceit; dental implants, the invitation for Alzheimer's; cholesterol, the giver of life; chronic fatigue, complexity encompassed; sodium and potassium, the butlers; albumin, the primary detoxifier; porphyrins, the origin of all energy; methyl mercury on the red cell, the biomarker of recovery; and white blood cells, our primary defense against autoimmune diseases.

About Toxic Elements Research Foundation

TERF, a non-profit research foundation, is dedicated to stimulating interest in the research community as well as informing the public to become aware of potential problems associated with dental materials and procedures. Informed consent of potential problems makes for better informed decisions by the patient - especially where health is at risk.

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Contact Information Jamie Tolle

Toxic Element Research Foundation

http://www.terftalks.com

719-262-2978

Landmark Trial Provides Vital Information for Cardiac Disease Treatment

Landmark Trial Provides Vital Information for Cardiac Disease Treatment

NorthShore University HealthSystem Ted Feldman, M.D., Lead Investigator

Evanston, IL. -- NorthShore University HealthSystem (http://www.northshore.org/) (NorthShore) has played a leading role in a landmark clinical trial comparing two forms of treatment for patients with severe coronary artery disease (CAD). The results were published on-line in this week's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

The SYNTAX trial was a clinical research study that compared percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents and coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) in patients with three-vessel and left main coronary disease. The trial results did not show any statistically significant differences between PCI and CABG in rates of death or heart attack, an excess of stroke in the CABG treated patients, and a greater need for repeat PCI procedures in the stent treated patients. These are better outcomes for PCI than have been seen in prior trials in less complex patients.

"At NorthShore, we experienced stunning outcomes in patients whose only option would have previously been bypass surgery," said Ted Feldman, M.D, F.S.C.A.I., Director of Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, NorthShore University HealthSystem, and a lead investigator of the trial. "The data in this study will provide cardiologists with additional information as they determine treatment therapy for patients with complex CAD."

The trial is the first randomized, controlled clinical trial to compare these two treatments in patients with left main disease and/or three-vessel disease, who are typically treated with CABG and represent a population with far more complex anatomy and advanced disease than those studied in prior drug-eluting stent (DES) clinical trials.

There were 1,800 patients enrolled in the randomized arm of the trial. All patients were assessed by a multidisciplinary team including an interventional cardiologist and a cardiac surgeon. If both the cardiologist and surgeon felt that they could offer equivalent complete revascularization, patients were randomized 1:1 into one of the two treatment strategies. If either the cardiologist or surgeon felt that one or the other revascularization technique was the preferred option, due to technical considerations or co-morbidity, for example, then patients were recruited into one of two parallel, nested registries for PCI or CABG. Thus, patients in the PCI registry had been rejected for cardiac surgery.

About NorthShore University HealthSystem

Headquartered in Evanston, Ill., NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) is a comprehensive, fully integrated, healthcare delivery system that serves the greater North Shore and northern Illinois communities. The system includes three Hospitals--Evanston Hospital, Glenbrook Hospital and Highland Park Hospital--and a fourth, Skokie-based Rush North Shore Hospital, to be added in January 2009. In addition, the healthsystem has more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, including a 550-physician, multispecialty physician group practice with over 70 office locations-- NorthShore University HealthSystem Medical Group. Further, NorthShore is committed to excellence in its academic mission and supports teaching and research as the principal teaching affiliate of the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine. The NorthShore University HealthSystem Research Institute, with more than $100 million of grants, focuses on clinical and translational research, including leadership in outcomes research and clinical trials.

NorthShore has annual revenues of $1.5 billion and a staff of more than 8,000. The healthsystem has significant capabilities in a wide spectrum of clinical programs, including cancer, heart, orthopaedics, high-risk maternity and pediatrics. NorthShore is a national leader in the implementation of innovative technologies, including electronic medical records, (EMR ). In 2003, the healthsystem was among the first in the country to successfully launch a systemwide EMR with demonstrable benefits in quality, safety, efficiency and service to patients. NorthShore has been recognized by multiple national organizations for this notable achievement. Visit http://www.northshore.org/

CONTACT: Amy Ferguson

Senior Director, Public Relations

NorthShore University HealthSystem

(847) 570-3146

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Contact Information Amy Ferguson

Northshore University HealthSystem

http://www.northshore.org/

847-570-3146

Dr. Larry Kaskel, Medical Director of the Heart Attack Prevention Center, to Speak March 4th at CardioCareLive about FirstLine Therapy

Dr. Larry Kaskel, Medical Director of the Heart Attack Prevention Center, to Speak March 4th at CardioCareLive about FirstLine Therapy

CardioCareLive, a medical conference that takes place entirely online, announces participation of Dr. Larry Kaskel, Founder and Medical Director of the Heart Attack Prevention Center. Dr. Kaskel to present "Improved Patient Outcomes and Enhanced Revenue with Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes."

Needham, MA (PRWEB) February 18, 2009 -- CardioCareLive (http://www.cardiocarelive.com), the first of its kind online medical conference for primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals who work with patients with cardiometabolic risk factors, today announced Metagenics as an exhibitor at the March 3-4 event. Metagenics will also sponsor a session by Dr. Larry Kaskel, Founder and Medical Director of the Heart Attack Prevention Center, who will speak on "Improved Patient Outcomes and Enhanced Revenue with Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes." Attendees can watch this live video session and have their questions addressed in near real-time by Dr. Kaskel.

CardioCareLive provides an opportunity for healthcare practitioners to learn and interact with leading practitioners and stay informed about new treatments and therapies for patients with cardiovascular risk factors, such as Metagenics' FirstLine Therapy® program. This turn-key therapeutic lifestyle change program is easy to integrate into a practice and enables primary care physicians to provide lifestyle change therapies in a systematic way that is successful for the patient while also a revenue driver for the practice.

"Physicians recognize the need to guide their patients through lifestyle changes in order to achieve better outcomes," said Mike Katke, VP of Medical Marketing for Metagenics. "But time constraints and practice processes make ongoing care of this type challenging. FirstLine Therapy provides a systematic approach to aid patients in implementing lifestyle changes that can be truly successful."

CardioCareLive recognizes the need for time-constrained physicians to stay current with the latest healthcare innovations. The event delivers all the benefits of a physical medical conference, with live keynote presentations, lectures, peer networking and an exhibit floor, from the convenience of a computer. To view a complete list of speakers, agenda, or to register now for free, visit CardioCarelive.com (http://www.CardioCareLive.com).

About CardioCareLive

CardioCareLive, a medical conference that takes place entirely online, enables healthcare practitioners and others interested in understanding and managing cardiometabolic risk factors to learn, connect and interact through powerful Web-based software and services.

CardioCareLive is produced by PlatformQ (http://www.platformq.com), whose mission is to connect people, companies, organizations and associations worldwide to meet, interact and learn from leading experts and thought leaders through proven interactive tools at online events.

CardioCareLive and PlatformQ are trademarks of PlatformQ, LLC. All other trademarks or service marks are property of their respective owners.

About Metagenics

Metagenics, Inc. (http://www.metagenics.com) is a life sciences company and the premier manufacturer and distributor of science-based medical foods, nutraceuticals and therapeutic lifestyle change programs marketed to healthcare professionals. As a leader in the fields of nutrigenomics and functional medicine, healthcare practitioners around the world rely on Metagenics' products and services to help their patients achieve a lifetime of good health.

Press Contact: Sal Giliberto, 617-938-6006.

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Contact Information Martha Collins

PlatformQ, LLC.

http://www.CardioCareLive.com

(617) 938-6008

Eye Care Profession Receives U.S. Occupational Listing

Eye Care Profession Receives U.S. Occupational Listing

The ophthalmic allied health profession received official notification of approval for a separate occupational classification, Ophthalmic Medical Technician, from the United States Bureau of Labor's 2010 Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Committee.

St. Paul, MN (PRWEB) February 16, 2009 -- The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology® (JCAHPO®) http://www.jcahpo.org announces that the ophthalmic allied health profession received official notification of approval for a separate occupational classification, Ophthalmic Medical Technician, from the United States Bureau of Labor's 2010 Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Committee. JCAHPO calls the new occupational classification a landmark decision.

"This is a historic milestone for the ophthalmic allied health profession," remarks JCAHPO President William F. Astle, MD, FRCS(C), Dipl. ABO. "Ophthalmic Medical Technicians are important in the eye care team as ophthalmology becomes more technologically oriented, and confronts the challenges of an aging patient population. This is a significant measure of how much this profession has evolved into its own, and an empowering validation of this occupation's professional merit," adds Astle.

The 2010 SOC system is used by federal statistical agencies to classify workers into occupational categories for the purpose of collecting, calculating, and disseminating data. For an occupation to be accepted for inclusion in the SOC, it requires a set of uniquely identifiable skills. The first set of skills is related to the complexity and range of tasks and duties, including knowledge and experience. These are defined by preparation levels and credentials, and considered necessary for new entrants to an occupation (skill level). The second set is related to both the type of work performed and the nature of the work activities.

Under the 2000 SOC listing, ophthalmic assisting was classified under Other Healthcare Support Occupations (Medical Assistants). Every ten years, the occupational listings undergo an extensive review. The Ophthalmic Medical Technician is one of many allied health professions impacted by this sweeping reclassification. Ophthalmic Medical Technicians are now classified under the major category of Health Technologists and Technicians, and the sub-group of Health Practitioner Support Technicians and Technologists. The former grouping excluded important tasks and responsibilities of Ophthalmic Medical Technicians that require more advanced, clinical, and overall medically detailed skills and knowledge than those of the general Medical Assistant.

Although the new occupational listing is identified as Ophthalmic Medical Technician, the SOC listing encompasses all three levels of JCAHPO certification, Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA®), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT®), and Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT®). The term "Ophthalmic Medical Technician" communicates the complexity and range of tasks from "assisting" that differentiates this profession from medical assisting.

JCAHPO leadership notes that the SOC decision will facilitate heightened public awareness and aid in recruiting more people into the profession. "The new classification will identify this profession as a definitive career pathway separate from other health personnel disciplines, and ultimately have a profound impact on the ongoing development of the Ophthalmic Medical Technician profession," says Astle.

For more information on JCAHPO or information on a career as a certified Ophthalmic Medical Technician, visit www.jcahpo.org or call (800) 284-3937.

JCAHPO is a non-profit organization that has been providing certification and training for eye care excellence since 1969. More than 17,000 ophthalmic assistants, technicians, and technologists in 22 countries are JCAHPO-certified.

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Contact Information JCAHPO

JCAHPO

http://www.myeyecareer.org

(800) 284-3937