Friday, January 31, 2014

Announcing The Ibsen Scholarships 2014

SKIEN, Norway - Thursday, January 30th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Ibsen Scholarships award innovative projects in the field of drama and performing arts that act as incentives for critical discourse in regards to existential and society-related subject matters concerning Henrik Ibsen and his plays.

Scholarship funds amounting to NOK 1,000,000,- (approx. 120.000 Euro/162.000 US Dollars) will be awarded to projects worldwide.

Scholarships are applicable to individuals, organizations or institutions within the artistic and cultural community.

The Ibsen Scholarships are awarded annually and the applications are subject to scrutiny by an appointed jury.

The Ibsen Scholarships were initiated by the Norwegian government and will be handed out for the 7th time in 2014.

Ibsen Awards has till now handed out 23 scholarships to projects in 17 different countries.

The application deadline for The Ibsen Scholarships is April 30th 2014.

The winners of The Ibsen Scholarships 2014 will be presented at Skien International Ibsen Conference on September 22nd and 23rd in Skien, Norway.

For further information, statutes and application form, kindly visit our website www.ibsenawards.com

Contacts

Teater Ibsen

Hilde Guri Bohlin

E-mail: hildeguri@teateribsen.no

Phone: +47 35 90 50 50

Cell: + 47 917 67 903









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9877/en

SES’s ASTRA 2E Satellite Goes Live at 28.2/28.5 Degrees East over EMEA

ME NewsWire/ Business Wire

LUXEMBOURG - Friday, January 31st 2014

SES S.A. (NYSE Paris:SESG) (LuxX:SESG) announces that the ASTRA 2E satellite enters into commercial service in the orbital arc of 28.2/28.5 degrees East on February 1, 2014. The satellite was launched on board an ILS Proton launch vehicle from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on September 30, 2013.

Extensive in-orbit tests have since then confirmed the satellite to be fully operational and performing to specifications.

ASTRA 2E has now been deployed at its final destination in the orbital arc of 28.2/28.5 degrees East, where it is co-positioned with ASTRA 2A, ASTRA 2F and ASTRA 1N. Over the coming weeks, BSkyB, Channel4, ITV and BBC programming in this arc will be transitioned to the new satellite with its powerful footprint over the British Isles.

The satellite was built for SES by Astrium of France. Based on the highly reliable Eurostar E3000 platform, the spacecraft carries 60 Ku-band transponders, including 12 incremental transponders for delivery of services outside Europe, as well as 4 Ka-band transponders. ASTRA 2E enables the delivery of next generation broadcast and broadband services in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. ASTRA 2E, which had a launch mass of 6 tonnes, features a wingspan of 40m after its solar arrays have been deployed in orbit, and is designed to generate 13 kW of spacecraft power up to the end of its 15-year design lifetime.

Follow us on:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SES_Satellites

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SES.YourSatelliteCompany

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/SESVideoChannel

Blog: http://en.ses.com/4243715/blog

Find pictures and videos under: http://www.ses.com/4245221/library

About SES

SES is a world-leading satellite operator with a fleet of 55 geostationary satellites. The company provides satellite communications services to broadcasters, content and internet service providers, mobile and fixed network operators and business and governmental organisations worldwide.

SES stands for long-lasting business relationships, high-quality service and excellence in the broadcasting industry. The culturally diverse regional teams of SES are located around the globe and work closely with customers to meet their specific satellite bandwidth and service requirements.

SES (NYSE Paris:SESG) (LuxX:SESG) holds participations in Ciel in Canada and QuetzSat in Mexico, as well as a strategic participation in satellite infrastructure start-up O3b Networks. Further information under: www.ses.com.

Contacts

SES

Yves Feltes

Media Relations

Tel. +352 710 725 311

Yves.Feltes@ses.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9894/en

Kurion Acquires Vista Engineering Technologies to Accelerate Global Growth in Nuclear and Hazardous Waste Management

Execution Platform Provides Scale to Service World’s Largest Waste Projects

IRVINE, Calif. & RICHLAND, Wash. - Thursday, January 30th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Kurion, Inc., an innovator in nuclear and hazardous waste management, announced it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Vista Engineering Technologies, a full-service engineering, design and technology firm based in Richland, Wash. The transaction triples Kurion in size by number of employees, and the combined company has facilities in Richland, Wash., Oak Ridge, Tenn., Houston, Texas, Loveland, Colo., and Irvine, Calif. Kurion is backed by venture capital investors Lux Capital, Firelake Capital Management and Acadia Woods Partners.

“Kurion is building tremendous momentum around the world through projects in the U.S., Japan and Europe,” said Bill Gallo, Kurion CEO. “The combined talents, capabilities and technologies of the Kurion and Vista Engineering teams provide the execution platform and the scale to address our clients’ most pressing nuclear and hazardous waste problems.”

Through this transaction, Kurion acquires Vista Engineering’s entire technology, patent and trade secret portfolio. It will also retain Vista Engineering’s entire staff to accelerate the company’s growth.

Phil Ohl, president and CEO of Vista Engineering Technologies, added, “We have worked closely with the Kurion team for more than a year on global nuclear waste projects and have high respect for their expertise and technologies. Joining Kurion presents an opportunity for us to address nuclear and hazardous waste challenges around the world.”

Founded in 2000, Vista Engineering specializes in three areas: remote systems and services, engineering and design services, and environmental services. The company has supported the U.S. Department of Defense and the Department of Energy for 13 years on a number of efforts, including projects at the Hanford nuclear waste site, the Idaho National Laboratory, and the Umatilla chemical weapons depot. The company has also supported cleanup at international waste sites, including sites in Japan and the UK, and it has provided engineering design and analysis services to advanced commercial nuclear reactor projects.

Phil Ohl Named to Kurion Leadership Team

As part of the acquisition, Phil Ohl, president and CEO of Vista Engineering, will become chief operating officer of Kurion. David Brockman will oversee the combined company's domestic business as senior vice president. John Raymont, Kurion founder and president of international operations, continues his responsibility for all international markets.

Ohl brings more than 20 years of engineering and design experience for nuclear and hazardous waste sites. He currently serves on the engineering advisory board for the Department of Materials and Mechanical Engineering at Washington State University. He is also past president and a member of the board of the Washington State STEM Education Foundation. Ohl is a registered professional mechanical engineer in the states of Washington and Oregon.

Acquisition Accelerates Kurion’s Growth

Kurion first made a name for itself at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in 2011 when it was part of an unprecedented effort by an international team of leading nuclear waste management companies to quickly deliver the first-ever external reactor cooling system. Kurion continues to work closely with the Tokyo Electric Power Company to develop and implement innovative solutions for contaminated water at Fukushima and to support other cleanup elements at the site. Additionally, the company is developing projects for the U.S. Department of Energy and for European nuclear waste sites. Earlier this month Kurion announced its partnership with the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory to install a GeoMelt vitrification plant at the Sellafield waste site.

ABOUT KURION

Kurion provides innovative, easily deployable technologies to accelerate project performance and compliance and substantially reduce customer radioactive waste management life-cycle costs. Founded in 2008, Kurion is backed by leading energy investors Lux Capital, Firelake Capital Management and Acadia Woods Partners. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Kurion operates a technology development center at its radioactive materials licensed facility in Oak Ridge, Tenn., a detritiation testing facility in Houston, Texas, and two facilities in Richland, Wash., for non-radioactive demonstration testing, engineering and storage of mobile systems. For more information, please visit www.kurion.com.

ABOUT VISTA ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIES

Vista Engineering Technologies, Inc., is a full-service engineering design and technology development firm based in Richland, Wash., and an office in Loveland, Colo. Founded in 2000, Vista Engineering specializes in three areas: remote systems and services, engineering and design services, and environmental services. More information is available atwww.vistaengr.com.

Contacts

Kurion, Inc.

Greg Wood

Phone: +1 (650) 801-7958

Fax: +1 (650) 508-8336

E-mail: Greg.Wood@Zenogroup.com

www.kurion.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9873/en

Nordson EFD’s 781S Spray Valve System Applies Oils, Grease, & Lubricants

Enables precise, consistent coverage for a broad array of applications

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Thursday, January 30th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nordson EFD, a Nordson company (NASDAQ:NDSN), the world’s leading precision fluid dispensing systems manufacturer, is working with manufacturers around the world to help them improve their lubrication process and control fluid costs with its 781S Spray Valve. This valve enables precise and consistent application of medium-viscosity oils, grease, reagents, marking inks, and adhesive activators .for many manufacturing processes in the electronics, automotive, cosmetics, food, and medical industries. The 781S valve uses low-volume low-pressure (LVLP) technology to accurately apply a fine, uniform coating of material without waste, mess, or overspray. Benefits include cleaner production areas and reduced rework, contamination, and overall fluid use. This technology has been used in many applications including applying adhesives onto automotive trim, marking inks onto circuit boards, spraying reagents onto medical test strips and grease onto door handle springs.

“Speed and throughput are critical factors in production and the 781S valve dispenses consistent fluid deposits, exactly where needed,” said Claude Bergeron, global product line manager, Nordson EFD. “The combination of adjustable fluid flow, adjustable nozzle air, and post-air cutoff provides excellent spray control.”

“When there are a large number of parts produced, even small cost reductions in labor or materials per part can represent significant savings,” continued Bergeron. “Just eliminating over-deposits can reduce material waste by 50 percent or more. Nordson EFD’s 781S spray valve system has helped manufacturers in numerous industries all over the world to improve their manufacturing process.”

For more information, check out the 781S valve in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ev6c0Mklro, or visit Nordson EFD on the web at www.nordsonefd.com,www.facebook.com/NordsonEFD, or www.linkedin.com/company/nordson-efd, email at info@nordsonefd.com, or call +1 401.431.7000 or 800.556.3484.

A photo of the 781S is available at: http://www.nordsonefd.com/images/Nordson_EFD_781S_Spraying_Grease.jpg

About Nordson EFD

Nordson EFD designs and manufactures precision fluid dispensing systems for benchtop assembly processes and automated assembly lines. By enabling manufacturers to apply the same amount of adhesive, lubricant or other assembly fluid to every part, every time, EFD dispensing systems are helping companies in a wide variety of industries increase throughput, improve quality, and lower their production costs. Other fluid management capabilities include high-quality syringe barrels and cartridges for packaging one- and two-component materials, along with a wide variety of fittings, couplers and connectors for controlling fluid flow in medical, biopharmaceutical and industrial environments. The company is also a leading formulator of specialty solder pastes for dispensing and printing applications in the electronics industry.

About Nordson Corporation

Nordson Corporation (NASDAQ: NDSN) delivers precision technology solutions to help customers succeed worldwide. The company engineers, manufactures and markets differentiated products and systems used for dispensing adhesives, coatings, sealants, biomaterials and other materials, fluid management, test and inspection, UV curing and plasma surface treatment, all supported by application expertise and direct global sales and service. Nordson serves a wide variety of consumer non-durable, durable and technology end markets including packaging, nonwovens, electronics, medical, appliances, energy, transportation, construction, and general product assembly and finishing. Founded in 1954 and headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, the company has operations and support offices in more than 30 countries. Visit Nordson on the web at www.nordson.com,www.twitter.com/Nordson_Corp or www.facebook.com/nordson.

Contacts

Nordson EFD

Steve Neves

USA & Canada: 800-556-3484

+1-401-431-7032

Steven.Neves@nordsonefd.com



A R Marketing, Inc.

Andrea Roberts, 1-858-204-9584

andrea@armarketinginc.com



Dunstable, Bedfordshire, UK

0800 585733; +44 (0) 1582 666334

europe@nordsonefd.com

Shanghai, China

+86 (21) 3866 9006

china@nordsonefd.com



Tokyo, Japan

+81 (03) 5762 2760

japan@nordsonefdcom

Singapore: +65 6796 9522

sin-mal@nordsonefd.com


Wednesday, January 29, 2014

ASG Realigns Worldwide Operations

STAMFORD, Conn. - Wednesday, January 29th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The board of directors of ASG, a leading global specialty-packaging manufacturer, announced today the company has been reorganized to provide increased regional focus and responsiveness to its customers. Effective immediately, ASG will now operate as three affiliated business units: ASG Americas, ASG Europe, and ASG Asia. The new structure is consistent with the company’s continuing efforts to simplify process, tighten its lean business model, and increase focus on its customers’ needs.

With this change, the board has named Welson Zhou CEO of ASG Asia. Mark Caines and Tony Garnish will remain CEOs of ASG Americas and ASG Europe, respectively. The three business unit CEOs will report directly to ASG’s board of directors.

As a result, the board is eliminating the role of president and CEO. The board expressed confidence the new, lean structure and the ongoing execution of ASG’s investment plan will drive customer growth opportunities and operational improvement. In addition, a continuing commitment to innovation and Spark! creative service center expansion will enable the ASG companies to present best-in-class packaging solutions while remaining highly reponsive to customer needs and service requirements.

ASG will continue to benefit from Mike Ukropina’s guidance in the short term as he concludes the leadership transition and completes certain projects. The board expressed its appreciation to Mr. Ukropina for his important role in creating a strong organization that increasingly is demonstrating its capabilities in packaging innovation and creative services across a wide range of home entertainment and consumer goods companies. His legacy is the exceptional management team and operating talent he has groomed, which will lead the ASG businesses effectively into the future.

About ASG

ASG is a leading specialty packaging company that delivers innovative packaging solutions for the world’s premier consumer brands. Key packaging segments ASG serves include health and beauty, pharmaceutical, home entertainment, consumer electronics, confectionery and specialty foods, spirits, and sporting goods. The company operates 18 manufacturing facilities — the capabilities for which include lithographic, flexographic, digital, and specialty gravure printing and injection-molded plastics — in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It also boasts seven Spark! creative services centers in the U.S., U.K., France, China, and Australia. ASG is comprised of two separate legal entities — AGI-Shorewood U.S. and AGI-Shorewood International — and collectively employs nearly 3,000 people worldwide. Please visit www.asg-worldwide.com for more details.

Contacts
ASG
Camille Lee
camille.lee@asg-worldwide.com



Ken Stoltz, 208-388-0766
kens@stoltzgroup.com



Tony Harrison, 208-880-9814
tharrison@stoltzgroup.com





Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9871/en

Toshiba-Developed Wristband Activity Monitor Now Available from NTT Docomo, Inc.

TOKYO - Wednesday, January 29th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO:6502) today announced that it has developed a wristband activity and fitness monitor that is available from NTT Docomo, Inc. from today. The monitor integrates low power Bluetooth® 4.0 and synchronizes with a smartphone app that displays monitored activities. It makes tracking daily activities as easy as wearing a wristband.

Toshiba’s low-power technology ensures that the activity sensors secure a long life between charges. The sensor information can categorize the user’s activity as “rest,” “walking,” “running” and more; the monitor can calculate steps taken, activity intensity and estimate calories consumed. Activities are logged by the monitor along with the time data and delivered to a smartphone app via Bluetooth®. The smartphone provides a hub for connection to the cloud and uploading to a wide range of services, and the information provides a profile of the user’s exercise and a tool for personal healthcare management.

The wearable device market is expanding rapidly. Toshiba will continue to promote development work to secure a continuing lead in various types of sensors, data processing and cloud connectivity.


Product Specification

Product No.
         

WMB-01-GR/WMB-01-K

Toshiba

Product No.
         

TWBM100P-G/TWBM100P-NB

Sensors
         

Accelerometer, Gyro Sensor

Communication
         

Bluetooth® 3.0 / 4.0 (Class 2)

Temperature range
         

5oC to 40oC

Humidity range
         

20% to 90% (no condensation)

Battery life
         

4 to 5 days Depends on settings and use.

Size
         

Largest wrist size(strap buckle): Approx. 200mm Smallest wrist size: Approx. 145mm Thickness: Approx. 12mm Width: Approx. 17mm

Battery
         

Li-ion rechargeable battery

Charge Method
         

USB charging through dedicated attachment

Weight
         

Approx. 22 g

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Toshiba Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

About Toshiba

Toshiba is a world-leading diversified manufacturer, solutions provider and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products and systems. Toshiba Group brings innovation and imagination to a wide range of businesses: digital products, including LCD TVs, notebook PCs, retail solutions and MFPs; electronic devices, including semiconductors, storage products and materials; industrial and social infrastructure systems, including power generation systems, smart community solutions, medical systems and escalators & elevators; and home appliances.

Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than 590 consolidated companies, with 206,000 employees worldwide and annual sales surpassing 5.8 trillion yen (US$61 billion). Visit Toshiba's web site at www.toshiba.co.jp/index.htm

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50770202&lang=en

Contacts

Toshiba Corporation

Semiconductor & Storage Products Company

Megumi Genchi / Kota Yamaji, +81-3-3457-3576

Communication IR Promotion Group

Business Planning Division

semicon-NR-mailbox@ml.toshiba.co.jp









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9859/en

Curtis International Enters into MPEG LA’s MPEG-2 and ATSC Licenses

DENVER - Wednesday, January 29th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- MPEG LA announced today that Curtis International Ltd. (“Curtis”) has become a Licensee to MPEG LA’s MPEG-2 Patent Portfolio License and ATSC Patent Portfolio License.

As a result of these agreements, companies that license their essential MPEG-2 and ATSC patents through MPEG LA have agreed to dismiss their patent infringement actions against Curtis before the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. See http://www.mpegla.com/Lists/MPEG%20LA%20Legal%20Action%20List/Attachments/51/n-13-08-01.pdf; and http://www.mpegla.com/Lists/MPEG%20LA%20Legal%20Action%20List/Attachments/50/n-13-06-05.pdf.

MPEG LA, LLC

MPEG LA is the world leader in alternative technology licenses. By assisting users with convenient access to patent rights for their technology choices, MPEG LA offers licensing solutions that create opportunities for wide adoption and fuel innovation. MPEG LA’s pioneering MPEG-2 licensing program helped produce the most widely employed standard in consumer electronics history and has become the template for addressing numerous other technologies. Today MPEG LA manages licensing programs consisting of 8500 patents in 74 countries with 162 licensors and some 5800 licensees. For more information, please refer to http://www.mpegla.com.

Contacts

MPEG LA, LLC

Tom O’Reilly, 303-200-1710

toreilly@mpegla.com



Tuesday, January 28, 2014

LifeCell Corporation Acquires Advanced Adipose Tissue Injector

Injector Offers Added Benefits to Surgeons and Patients and Expands the LifeCell Fat Grafting Portfolio

SAN ANTONIO - Tuesday, January 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (KCI) announced today that LifeCell Corporation (LifeCell) has acquired an advanced adipose Tissue Injector (aTI) for improved fat grafting procedures from the TauTona Group, a medical device incubator based in Menlo Park, California. With the aTI, LifeCell is expanding its offering for reconstructive and cosmetic procedures utilizing fat grafting technology. The acquisition of the aTI technology advances KCI’s strategy to bring new technologies into the combined KCI, LifeCell and Systagenix product portfolio to better serve the needs of customers and patients around the world.

“With this acquisition, we will leverage the LifeCell sales channel in the reconstructive and plastic surgery fields to commercialize this exciting new technology,” said Joe Woody, president & CEO, KCI. “We continue to be focused on innovation and acquisitions of technologies and platforms that both complement and further diversify our combined product portfolio.”

The aTI is a battery-powered, single-use tool that was built to deliver fat at a controlled rate, which reduces the complexity of performing injections and allows the surgeon to focus on placement. By managing the pressure and flow rates during injection, the aTI minimizes damage to the injected fat and efficiently delivers the tissue to the injection site.

“The acquisition of the adipose Tissue Injector demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing clinicians with the tools they need to provide efficient, cost-effective surgical and reconstructive procedures to their patients,” said Philip Croxford, Senior Vice President, LifeCell. “We believe the aTI, in addition to LifeCell’s existing REVOLVE™ Fat Processing System, will offer clinicians valuable solutions from fat grafting processing through reinjection.”

“LifeCell is the best possible company to commercialize the adipose Tissue Injector, given its existing presence in the fat grafting market and long-standing position as a leader in the reconstructive and plastic surgery fields,” said Geoffrey Gurtner, MD, Managing Partner, TauTona and Professor of Plastic Surgery, Stanford University. “Fat grafting is rapidly growing as an effective surgical method, but is often performed with a 100-year-old technology, the syringe. Physicians are looking to simplify fat grafting in order to reduce costs and improve efficiency. We believe the adipose Tissue Injector can help simplify these types of procedures.”

The aTI is the second product in the LifeCell fat grafting portfolio since the launch of the REVOLVE™ Fat Processing System in October 2013. The REVOLVE™ System is a patented, single-use device that can be placed in a sterile field to facilitate more efficient processing, filtering, and transferring of a patient’s own fat tissue. It enables high-volume fat processing (up to 800ml lipoaspirate) in less than 15 minutes, offering the potential to reduce operating room procedure time.

For more information about LifeCell and fat grafting technology, please visit www.LifeCell.com.

About KCI, LifeCell and Systagenix

Kinetic Concepts Inc., LifeCell Corporation and Systagenix Wound Management form one globally diversified wound care, biologics and regenerative medicine company, committed to advancing the science of medicine through transformational healing solutions that reduce complications, speed healing and improve patient lives. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, the company is a leader in the medical technology industry with the most comprehensive offering of best-in-class surgical and chronic wound therapies. Additional information about the company and our products can be found at www.KCI1.com or www.LifeCell.com or www.Systagenix.com.

About TauTona Group

TauTona Group is a medical device incubator and investor focused on rapid development of innovative surgical products, with special expertise in the reconstructive and aesthetic markets. Co-founded in 2010 by two Stanford School of Medicine surgery professors, TauTona invests in and develops innovative medical devices for commercialization by strategic partners. Recent exits include the sale of the TauTona Tissue Injector to LifeCell and the sale of its Surgical Marker technology to Novadaq® Technologies Inc., (NASDAQ: NVDQ) (TSX: NDQ). TauTona also has several other devices currently under development or in the approval process.

TauTona partners with entrepreneurs, institutions and corporations to fund, develop and build exceptional surgical medical devices using its in-house engineering and business expertise.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/multimedia/home/20140127005313/en/

Contacts

Media

KCI Corporate Communications

Mike Barger, +1-210-255-6824

mike.barger@kci1.com



Investors

KCI Investor Relations

Nathan Speicher, +1-210-255-6027

nathan.speicher@kci1.com







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9849/en

Silver Spring Networks Unveils New SilverLink Sensor Network Empowering the Continuously Connected Utility

ME Newswire / Businesswire

Unlocking Big Data to Deliver Transformational Business Value at Up To 10x the Speed and 1/10th the Cost of Traditional Utility IT Infrastructure; App Store Fuels Partner Opportunity and Innovation

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. - Tuesday, January 28th 2014

DistribuTECH 2014

Silver Spring Networks, Inc. (NYSE: SSNI), a leading networking platform and solutions provider for smart energy networks, today announced the SilverLink™ Sensor Network, a new approach to organizing, programming, and using any data from any sensor network to fuel any application at up to 10x the speed and 1/10th the cost of traditional utility IT infrastructure. The SilverLink Sensor Network enables utilities and other network operators to connect real-time data to business processes to make smarter and faster business decisions, lower IT costs, create a more agile organization, and more quickly and cost-effectively launch new business models and services. Able to leverage both Silver Spring and non-Silver Spring networks, specific examples of the SilverLink Sensor Network in action include real-time voltage assessment, load disaggregation, remote temperature monitoring of grid devices, and empowering advanced customer engagement programs that reach across utility silos via a common platform.

“Our lives are more connected than ever – billions of devices are coming online, producing staggering data volumes. Utility CEOs often tell me that more than 70% of their total enterprise data is already coming from their Smart Grid networks alone. Old, model-based approaches and IT architectures simply can’t keep up with the needs of this real-time, continuously connected world,” said Scott Lang, Chairman, President and CEO of Silver Spring Networks. “The SilverLink Sensor Network changes the game – we are applying our deep understanding of large-scale networks to real-time big data. We’re enabling utilities to develop even deeper connections with their customers, offer innovative new services, and better manage their grid assets and operations.”

“Several years ago OG&E embarked on a transformational journey with Silver Spring. We knew that by creating a continuous connection with our customers, our grid assets, and the data running across our network, we would be able to deliver more reliable service to our customers and lower our economic and carbon footprints,” said Pete Delaney, Oklahoma Gas & Electric. “I’m proud to say OG&E’s Positive Energy Smart Grid program has now been widely embraced by our customers. We are excited for the next-generation of technology Silver Spring is bringing to market to help us deliver even more innovative services to our customers, and unlock even more value from the ocean of real-time data that our network is providing.”

"Silver Spring's vision and commitment to technology leadership offers great opportunities for the way PG&E will continue to draw value from the Smart Grid," said Brian Rich, VP of Business Technology, PG&E. "A next-generation data platform such as the one offered by Silver Spring will help enable more innovation, faster deployments, and new applications and services at a lower cost for both energy companies and their customers."

Unlocking Smart Grid Big-Data for the Continuously Connected Utility

Utilities today are looking to their existing networks to unlock more value, help transform their relationship with their customers, and quickly and cost effectively develop and deliver new services. Third-party software companies are also seeking a platform upon which they can utilize network data to roll out new energy applications for both utilities and end-consumers.

Silver Spring is leveraging the distributed intelligence, proven scale, and award-winning deployments with leaders such as OG&E to deliver one of the industry’s first software defined sensor networks. The SilverLink Sensor Network connects network infrastructure, other AMI infrastructure and back-office data sources to virtualize endpoint devices and make sensor data subscribe-able and accessible via common Internet standards. This approach radically cuts the cost to organize and program sensors to use diverse real-time data to create breakthrough business applications at up to 10x the speed and 1/10th the cost of traditional utility IT infrastructure – making it far easier, less risky and faster to implement the applications that unlock the promise of the Smart Grid.

The SilverLink Sensor Network will be available as a cloud-based subscription service. Silver Spring is already working with several of its customers to leverage the SilverLink Sensor Network for innovative new services such as:

    Load Disaggregation and Deep Energy Audits
    Real-Time Voltage Assessment
    Remote Temperature Monitoring
    Improved Revenue Assurance and Non-Technical Loss Analysis
    Customer Segmentation and Opt-In for Price Programs
    Advanced Customer Engagement Programs

The SilverLink Sensor Network will make vast quantities of previously unavailable data easy for third-party applications to access and utilize, powering a myriad of new applications and services. Silver Spring plans to make a wide array of new applications readily available to utilities, sensor network operators, and consumers through a SilverLink App Store. The SilverLink App Store will initially include existing SilverLink applications such as SilverLink Console, SilverLink MeterOps, and SilverLink Network Ops. The SilverLink App Store will also include new applications from Silver Spring and members of its partner community as they come to market. Read the SilverLink partner announcement at www.silverspringnet.com/press-releases/silverlinkpartner.

Join Silver Spring Networks and its customers and partners to learn more about the new SilverLink Sensor Network and other exciting innovations at the DistribuTECH 2014 Conference in San Antonio, TX on January 28-30, 2014.

Additional Resources and Information

    Get more information on the SilverLink Sensor Network at www.silverspringnet.com/silverlink
    Read the SilverLink Sensor Network white paper at www.silverspringnet.com/silverlink
    Read the SilverLink partner announcement at www.silverspringnet.com/press-releases/silverlinkpartner
    Follow @SilverSpringNet on Twitter
    Like Silver Spring Networks on Facebook at www.facebook.com/silverspringnetworks

About Silver Spring Networks

Silver Spring Networks (NYSE: SSNI) is a leading networking platform and solutions provider for smart energy networks. Silver Spring’s pioneering IPv6 networking platform, with over 18 million Silver Spring enabled devices delivered, is connecting utilities to homes and businesses throughout the world with the goal of achieving greater energy efficiency for the planet. Silver Spring’s innovative solutions enable utilities to gain operational efficiencies, improve grid reliability, and empower consumers to monitor and manage energy consumption. Silver Spring Networks’ customers include major utilities around the globe such as Baltimore Gas & Electric, CitiPower & Powercor, Commonwealth Edison, CPS Energy, Florida Power & Light, Jemena Electricity Networks Limited, Pacific Gas & Electric, Pepco Holdings, Progress Energy, and Singapore Power, among others. To learn more, please visit www.silverspringnet.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Silver Spring Networks’ expectations, plans, intentions, and strategies, including, but not limited to statements regarding the performance and capabilities of the SilverLink Sensor Network; cost savings, speed and other benefits customers may realize from the SilverLink Sensor Network; and the desire for, development and availability of third-party applications. Statements including words such as "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" or “future” and statements in the future tense are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions, which, if they do not fully materialize or prove incorrect, could cause our results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties include those described in Silver Spring Networks' documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Silver Spring Networks as of the date hereof. Silver Spring Networks assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contacts

Silver Spring Networks

Noel Hartzell, 650-839-4184

Global Communications

nhartzell@silverspringnet.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9843/en

Hilton HHonors to Reward Weekenders with Bonus Points

HHonors Members can earn 1,000 Bonus Points for every night and an additional 5,000 Bonus Points during a weekend stay

MCLEAN, Va. - Tuesday, January 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Travel becomes more rewarding as Hilton HHonors, the loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide’s 10 distinct hotel brands, offers members the opportunity to earn Bonus Points February 1, 2014 through April 30, 2014. Through the Weekend Rewards promotion, registered Hilton HHonors members will earn 1,000 Bonus Points for each night they stay and can earn an additional 5,000 Bonus Points for any weekend stay of at least two nights (defined Thursday – Sunday) at participating Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations properties worldwide.

“Regardless of whether they’re traveling for business or for pleasure, we believe travelers should be rewarded,” said Mark Weinstein, vice president, Hilton HHonors. “In addition to earning 1,000 Bonus Points any day of the week, the Weekend Rewards promotion supports our ‘Be a Weekender’ philosophy by offering 5,000 Bonus Points for two-night weekend stays, making weekends even more rewarding for our most loyal guests.”

To participate in the Weekend Rewards promotion, members can register at HHonors.com/WeekendBonus and be rewarded for hotel stays booked and completed between February 1, 2014 and April 30, 2014. For more information, or to become a Hilton HHonors member, visit HHonors.com.

About Hilton HHonors

Hilton HHonors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide’s 10 distinct hotel brands, offers approximately 38 million members more ways to earn and redeem points than any other guest-loyalty program, enabling them to create experiences worth sharing at more than 4,000 hotels in 90 countries and territories. HHonors members can now redeem points for any room, anywhere, anytime, including the most luxurious suites, using any of four room rewards: Premium Room Rewards, Room Upgrade Rewards, Points & Money Rewards and Standard Room Rewards. In addition, HHonors members can use points to purchase unique experience rewards, merchandise and vacation packages, make charitable contributions and more. HHonors is also the only guest-loyalty program to offer ‘No Blackout Dates’ and ‘Points & Miles’ for the same stay at its properties worldwide, including participating Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels& Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. Membership in HHonors is free, and travelers may enroll online by visiting www.HiltonHHonors.com or connect with Hilton HHonors at news.hiltonhhonors.com. Members can now also book reservations, manage their accounts and redeem special offers with the new Hilton HHonors mobile app for iPhone.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide is a leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxury and full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and focused-service hotels. For 94 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company’s portfolio of ten world-class global brands is comprised of more than 4,000 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties, with nearly 672,000 rooms in 90 countries and territories, including Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®.

Contacts
Dasha Ross
Hilton Worldwide
+1 703 883 5805
dasha.ross@hilton.com
news.hiltonhhonors.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9850/en

Patton Announces SmartNode VoIP Gateways Microsoft-Qualified for Lync 2013

Tested and qualified with Lync Server 2013, SmartNode—the industry’s “most interoperable” VoIP gateway—makes Microsoft Lync unified communications (UC) server accessible for enterprises with non-qualified legacy and SIP phone systems.


GAITHERSBURG, Md. - Tuesday, January 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

SmartNode™…More than just talk!

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Patton Electronics Company announced today that SmartNode™ VoIP media gateways have been tested and qualified for interoperability with Lync® Server 2013 through Microsoft's Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program (UCOIP).

>>Learn more about the benefits of SmartNode VoIP gateways for Lync solutions by watching Patton’s on-demand educational webinar: SmartNode: the Gateway to Lync

SmartNode eliminates the interoperability obstacles for companies that want to keep their legacy PBXs, phones, speakers, pagers, and fax equipment, existing FXS/FXO POTS service or ISDN BRI/PRI lines when implementing a unified communications solution based on Lync.

Enterprises operating otherwise non-compatible voice equipment and telephony network elements—including non-qualified SIP telephony systems—can use Lync-qualified SmartNode VoIP gateways to connect and interoperate with the Lync unified communications server.

By interconnecting Lync software with legacy voice technologies and the PSTN, SmartNode preserves investment in operational equipment while adding such rich benefits as voice-and-data survivability and least-cost call routing—all with the set-it-and-forget-it reliability of SmartNode.

The 2013 re-qualification assures customers that SmartNode interoperates seamlessly and reliably with Microsoft's Unified Communications software.

“When it comes to solving interop challenges, Patton’s history is long and strong,” said Burton A. Patton, EVP, “not only with Microsoft and Lync, but in the VoIP industry overall. SmartNode was the world’s first VoIP gateway that could actually get VoIP working in some extra-tricky ISDN environments.”

In May 2011 Patton announced Microsoft OCS certification for SmartNode VoIP Gateways.

In June 2012 Patton announced Microsoft Lync certification for SmartNode.

Swiss-engineered and US-manufactured at Patton world headquarters, SmartNode was the first Microsoft Lync-Certified VoIP solution to offer BRI interfaces.

Microsoft is a Patton-Certified Enterprise Communication Partner for Lync and OCS.

In 2008, Patton solved VoIP interop challenges for DECT, PBX, and FAX in ISDN environments by incorporating a high-precision clock in digital SmartNode™ VoIP IADs.

Last month, Patton announced a new Element Management System that offers Telecom carriers touch-less provisioning with centralized monitoring, control and troubleshooting for SmartNode and third-party VoIP CPE.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50791011&lang=en

Contacts

Media:

Patton Electronics

Glendon Flowers, +1 301-975-1000

press@patton.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9851/en

Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan Attends Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between ADP and UNODC

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Sunday, January 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

Lieutenant General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, attended a memorandum of understanding signing event between Abu Dhabi Police and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The event was held at the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters.

Based on the above mentioned memorandum, UNODC certified the UAE, represented by the Forensic Evidence Department at the Directorate General of Security and Ports Affairs of Abu Dhabi Police, as a regional office for the MENA region. The Forensic Evidence Department will be responsible for providing forensic evidence services in: drugs and chemical precursor analysis, guns and ammunition testing, documents and forged documents certification.

UNODC also certified forensic evidence experts at Abu Dhabi Police as international experts for the specified services.

Colonel Abdurrahman Al Hammadi, Head of the Forensic Evidence Department at the Directorate General of Security and Ports Affairs at Abu Dhabi Police, signed the memorandum on behalf of the UAE, while Dr. Hatem Ali, Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, signed it on behalf of the office in the presence of Yuri Fedotov, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Director-General of the United Nations Office in Vienna “UNOV”, and Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

This memorandum shows the desire that both sides have to provide technical and technological services while meeting certain standards. It also specifies a sustainable framework to develop the officers’ capabilities in the various forensic fields. This development has the ability to foster forensic justice through laboratorial knowledge that meets international standards.

The memorandum of understanding aims to enhance and develop Abu Dhabi Police’s abilities to become the center of excellence for forensic evidence services among the GCC countries and the MENA region. Abu Dhabi Police will provide high-quality technical services that match international standards and methods for forensic evidence.

Furthermore, the memorandum acknowledges Abu Dhabi Police experts as internationally certified experts and regional experts to refer to in this specialization. It also initiates the basis for a strategic partnership between both parties.

Colonel Al Hammadi said that certifying the Forensic Evidence Department as a regional force that has the international support to strengthen national forensic justice systems, and supports international juridical system, asserts that the Abu Dhabi Police is still on the right track on the journey to excellence paved by the Ministry of Interior.

Colonel Al Hammadi also praised the esteemed efforts of UNODC in certifying the Forensic Evidence Department at Abu Dhabi Police as a regional office for the MENA region for providing forensic evidence services and laboratory testing. He also emphasized the ongoing work that Abu Dhabi Police is doing to achieve more accomplishments and advance police work in the UAE.

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

Follow us and check our Social Media feeds on: YouTube, Facebook and Twitter

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-987-1317

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9831/en

Quantum Biosystems Demonstrates First Reads Using Quantum Single Molecule Sequencing

OSAKA, Japan - Tuesday, January 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

Results Give Glimpse of Future Low Cost, High-throughput Personal DNA Sequencing Chip

New Sequencing Technology Data release, Lays Groundwork for Bacterial and Human Sequencing

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Quantum Biosystems today announced the release of raw data access to its first reads. The company released reads showing an accuracy of more than 99% in non-homopolymer regions and homopolymer indels at a rate of ~10%. This release allows researchers to evaluate the platform and engage in its validation and development. It marks a major milestone in the single molecule electrical sequencing of DNA.

Reagent Free, Silicon Sequencer Has Potential To Be Ultra-low cost

The work reported today by Quantum Biosystems was completed using its breakthrough novel Quantum Sequencing platform. The platform allows the direct sequencing of single stranded DNA and RNA without labelling or modification, on silicon devices which can be produced on the same production lines as consumer grade integrated circuits. As the system uses no proteins or other reagents it is potentially ultra-low cost, enabling consumer level genome sequencing.

A Fundamental Advance in DNA Sensing Technology

Based on basic research at the University of Osaka, the QB platform uses sub-nanometer gaps and picoamp level currents to directly detect the conductance of single DNA and RNA molecules. This breakthrough in molecular sensing promises to bring to about a fundamentally new class of sensors.

About Quantum Biosystems

Quantum Biosystems was formed in January of 2013 and is developing 4th Generation DNA and RNA sequencing systems for the low cost and high throughput analysis of whole genomes. While present systems require complicated sample preparation, and costly instruments, the QB platform has no such barriers to entry and is well positioned to bring about what some have called "the Democratization of DNA sequencing".

Contacts

For further information on this release please contact:

Quantum Biosystems Inc.

Toshihiko Honkura, +81 6-6476-7425

CEO

info@quantumbiosystems.com

Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9842/en

Toshiba Launches Low-height SO6L Package Gate-drive Photocouplers

TOKYO - Tuesday, January 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO:6502) today announced the launch of low-height SO6L package gate-drive photocouplers for use in driving small- to medium-power IGBTs and power MOSFETs. Mass production is scheduled for the end of January.

The new products, “TLP5701” for driving small-power IGBTs and “TLP5702” for driving middle-power IGBTs, are the first Toshiba photocouplers to use the low-height SO6L package. At only 54% of Toshiba products that use the SDIP6 package, the new devices will contribute to development of thinner sets. In spite of their low height, the devices guarantee a creepage distance of 8mm, making them suitable for applications requiring higher isolation specs.

“TLP5701” and “TLP5702” achieve low supply current of 2.0mA (max) and low power consumption by utilizing BiCMOS process technology. Combined with an original high-power, high-reliability infrared LED, they can be used in a wide range of applications, including those that require high thermo-stability, such as factory automation and home photovoltaic power systems, digital home appliances and control equipment. Maximum propagation delay time and propagation delay skew are guaranteed within the defined operation temperature range (up to 110 degrees Centigrade), making it possible to reduce dead time in the inverter circuit, which can secure higher operating efficiency.

To view the Key Specifications of New Products kindly click here

Follow this link for more on Toshiba photocouplers. http://www.semicon.toshiba.co.jp/eng/product/opto/coupler/index.html

Customer Inquiries: Optoelectronic Device Sales & Marketing Department Tel: +81-3-3457-3431

Information in this document, including product prices and specifications, content of services and contact information, is current on the date of the announcement but is subject to change without prior notice.

About Toshiba

Toshiba is a world-leading diversified manufacturer, solutions provider and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products and systems. Toshiba Group brings innovation and imagination to a wide range of businesses: digital products, including LCD TVs, notebook PCs, retail solutions and MFPs; electronic devices, including semiconductors, storage products and materials; industrial and social infrastructure systems, including power generation systems, smart community solutions, medical systems and escalators & elevators; and home appliances.

Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than 590 consolidated companies, with 206,000 employees worldwide and annual sales surpassing 5.8 trillion yen (US$61 billion). Visit Toshiba's web site at www.toshiba.co.jp/index.htm

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/multimedia/home/20140127006549/en/

To view the full release including the table, please click here

Contacts
Media Inquiries:
Toshiba Corporation
Semiconductor & Storage Products Company
Koji Takahata, +81-3-3457-4963
semicon-NR-mailbox@ml.toshiba.co.jp









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9847/en

Rimini Street Expands Board and Appoints Three New Directors

Veteran Software Industry Leaders from BEA Systems and HP, Sybase and PeopleSoft Join Board

ME NewsWire / Business Wire

LAS VEGAS - Monday, January 27th 2014

Rimini Street, Inc., the leading independent provider of enterprise software support for SAP AG’s (NYSE:SAP) Business Suite and BusinessObjects software and Oracle Corporation’s (NYSE:ORCL) Siebel, PeopleSoft, JD Edwards, E-Business Suite, Oracle Database, Hyperion and Oracle Retail software, today announced that it has expanded its Board of Directors and appointed three new Directors - Thomas Ashburn, former President of Worldwide Field Operations at BEA Systems, Inc. (acquired by Oracle), Steve Capelli, former President of Worldwide Field Operations at Sybase, Inc. (acquired by SAP) and Margaret "Peggy" Taylor, former Senior Vice President of Corporate Operations at PeopleSoft, Inc. (acquired by Oracle). All three board members are veteran, accomplished leaders in the enterprise software industry with decades of board and operations experience.

Ashburn, 69, held senior executive positions at both BEA Systems and Hewlett Packard. His most recent operational role was as president of Worldwide Field Operations at BEA Systems. In this role, he oversaw sales, annual maintenance renewals, services and marketing across all regions, including the Americas, Europe and Asia. Prior to joining BEA Systems, Ashburn spent more than three decades with Hewlett Packard, most recently serving as vice president and general manager of Hewlett Packard Services. In this role, he was responsible for more than 23,000 employees and HP’s global software and hardware maintenance revenue and consulting services. During his tenure at HP, Ashburn held positions of increasing global operational responsibility, including general manager of Worldwide Logistics and general manager of Hewlett Packard’s Customer Support Organization. Ashburn currently serves on several company boards. Ashburn holds a B.A. in Industrial Technology from California State University in Long Beach.

Capelli, 56, held executive positions at Sybase for 14 years, most recently serving as president of Worldwide Field Operations. Capelli was responsible for global license sales, consulting, software maintenance renewals and education. Before joining Sybase, Capelli was vice president and chief financial officer at Siemens-Pyramid, a subsidiary of Siemens Nixdorf. Prior to his roles with Siemens Nixdorf, he held executive leadership positions at several premier technology companies, including Digital Equipment Corporation, Unisys Corporation, Burroughs Corporation and a subsidiary of W.R. Grace & Company. Capelli currently serves on several company boards. Capelli holds an M.B.A. from Rutgers University and received a B.S. in Accounting from The College of New Jersey.

Taylor, 62, spent 16 years with PeopleSoft, Inc., most recently serving as president of subsidiary PeopleSoft Investments, Inc. Previously, Taylor served as senior vice president of Corporate Operations at PeopleSoft, where she was responsible for all corporate operations, including technology, product development, release management and customer and professional services. Prior to joining PeopleSoft, Taylor held executive management positions at Hibernia Bank and Bank of California, most recently as a vice president of Trust and Investment Management and vice president of Organization, Planning and Development, respectively. Taylor has been an active investor, advisor and public company director for several technology companies. Taylor holds a B.A. in Communications from Lone Mountain College and has completed the Corporate Governance Program at Stanford Business School and the Compensation Committees Program at Harvard Business School.

“We are pleased to expand the Rimini Street Board of Directors and welcome these three highly respected and accomplished technology industry leaders to the Rimini Street Board,” said Seth Ravin, Rimini Street CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Our new directors join an experienced Rimini Street Board that remains focused on executing our global growth strategy.”

About Rimini Street, Inc.

Rimini Street is the leading independent provider of enterprise software support services. The company is redefining enterprise support services with an innovative, award-winning program that enables Oracle and SAP licensees to save up to 90 percent on total support costs over a decade, including saving 50 percent on their annual support fees. Clients can remain on their current software release without any required upgrades or migrations for at least 10 years. Hundreds of clients, including global, Fortune 500, midmarket, and public sector organizations from virtually all industries have selected Rimini Street as their trusted, independent support provider. To learn more, please visit www.riministreet.com or call within the USA 888-870-9692 or internationally +1 702-839-9671.

Rimini Street and the Rimini Street logo are trademarks of Rimini Street, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. Copyright © 2014. All rights reserved.

Contacts

Rimini Street, Inc.

Alma Park, +1 323-229-7282

apark@riministreet.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9841/en

Monday, January 27, 2014

AstraZeneca, DKFZ and EORTC Join WIN Consortium

PARIS - Monday, January 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

WIN 2014 Symposium

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Worldwide Innovative Network (WIN) Consortium in personalized cancer medicine is proud to announce that AstraZeneca, DKFZ and EORTC have joined the Consortium. WIN is a unique global network of leading academics, industries, payors and patient advocacy organizations working to make cancer precision medicine a reality for patients worldwide. “It was formed on the premise that WIN members can accomplish together what no single institution can do alone” said Vladimir Lazar founder and Chief Operating Officer. WIN’s goal is to significantly improve survival and quality of life of cancer patients in the next three years. Today WIN counts 32 members in 5 continents.

“We are thrilled that AstraZeneca, DKFZ and EORTC have become members of WIN,” stated Dr. John Mendelsohn, Chairman. “With their advanced portfolios, innovations, technical capabilities and talented scientists, the new members will significantly enhance WIN’s ability to bring the latest advances in precision cancer medicine to patients”.

Dr. Antoine Yver MD, Head of Oncology, AstraZeneca’s global medicines development unit, said: “Cancer is a devastating disease which has many forms, and there is still much to do in the search for new, targeted therapies to help patients. AstraZeneca has a rich heritage in oncology research and development and we can achieve a lot by joining forces with others to progress the best science and accelerate development of the next generation of medicines. At AstraZeneca, our aim is to advance our work in the area of personalized healthcare, helping to understand and address the underlying mechanisms of disease to get the right medicines to the right patients. We are delighted to join the WIN consortium and its rich global network of academic, pharmaceutical, information and translational business science partners. In doing so, it will provide access to our oncology pipeline, innovative science and our expertise to identify opportunities for combination therapies with potential to improve the lives of cancer patients everywhere.”

Prof. Otmar Wiestler, Chairman and Scientific Director of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) stated: ‘’Cooperation with the best researchers and Institutions around the world is a key objective of the international activities of DKFZ. We are pleased to join the Consortium that represents a model of worldwide cooperation including all stakeholders of cancer care, and representing diversity of cancer patients on five continents. We expect unique opportunities for individualized cancer medicine in this setting “.

Dr. Françoise Meunier, Medical Director of EORTC stated: ”EORTC joins WIN with the willingness to share its expertise of international trials and enhance communication capabilities and spread WIN’s unique assets by connecting to all EORTC members”.

‘’The strategy of WIN Consortium and the specific role of each member will be disclosed at the forthcoming WIN2014 symposium, to be held on June 23-24, 2014. Join us at an unprecedented scientific event totally dedicated to combined therapeutic approaches, and thus, representative for WIN”, stated Prof. Alexander Eggermont, Vice-Chair.

For further information, please visit www.winconsortium.org and www.winsymposium.org

Contacts

WIN Consortium

Catherine Bresson, +33(0)142114020

Director, Operational Team

Catherine.bresson@winconsortium.org









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9833/en

Sunday, January 26, 2014

K2M Submits S-1 Draft Registration Statement for Proposed IPO

LEESBURG, Va. - Saturday, January 25th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) K2M Group Holdings, Inc. today announced that it has confidentially submitted a draft registration statement on Form S-1 to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relating to the proposed initial public offering of its common stock. The number of shares of common stock to be sold and the price range for the proposed offering has not yet been determined.

The initial public offering is expected to commence after the SEC completes its review process, subject to market and other conditions.

This announcement is being made pursuant to, and in accordance with, Rule 135 under the Securities Act of 1933. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction.

Contacts

Zeno Group on behalf of K2M, Inc.

Marcie Kohenak, 202-965-7811

Marcie.Kohenak@ZenoGroup.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9828/en

Comau Joins Ford Motor Company to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Moving Assembly Line

DETROIT. - Saturday, January 25th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

    Comau to showcase its technology within Ford’s display at the North American International Auto Show
    Comau – Ford relationship dates back over 40 years
    With the use of industry software and automation technology, the U.S. automotive sector is leading a manufacturing renaissance

North American International Auto Show 2014

(BUSINESS WIRE) Comau is demonstrating the latest body assembly technology in automotive manufacturing production within the Ford Motor Company display during the 2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, January 13-26, 2014.

For more than 40 years, Comau and Ford Motor Company have worked together, leveraging innovation and technology to maximize manufacturing efficiency and apply global standards through the adoption of manufacturing engineering and production automation solutions. As a result, Ford has been able to reduce the energy needed to produce a vehicle, increase the safety for people building the vehicle and improve the flexibility of plants and processes.

“It’s an honor to be able to showcase how our technology is supporting Ford and to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ford’s moving assembly line, an innovation that has withstood the test of time,” says Maurizio Cremonini, Comau’s V.P. of Global Marketing. “As Ford’s NAIAS display makes clear, the future of manufacturing is upon us, where innovative technology, industrial integration and resource efficiency are increasing productivity and flexibility while reducing time-to-market.”

Ford’s exhibit at the NAIAS features four vehicle bodies representing different levels of the assembly process. Two elevator stations bring the four vehicle bodies down to the show floor level for public viewing. Comau has provided a complete assembly system featuring advanced manufacturing process automation technology including the ComauFlex VersaPallet system, a BIW manufacturing system with integrated in-line fast transfer, six Comau robots and a comprehensive energy monitoring system.

The Comau-Ford partnership extends across the entire lifecycle of the product:

    Ford deploys Comau technology globally to support and execute BIW manufacturing, powertrain systems, laser applications and more.
    Ford uses the ComauFlex system to optimize its assembly process and resource use.
    ComauFlex enables Ford to enhance production capabilities, reduce work-in-process, improve material logistics, save energy and minimize the floor space required for BIW manufacturing.
    ComauFlex supports high-speed transfers, high density welding, flexible parts handling, flexible logistics, complete model flexibility and random build sequence manufacturing (up to four unique models).
    Comau’s plasma transferred wire arc (PTWA) thermal spraying technology is used for the production of advanced steel-coated aluminum engine blocks.
    The longstanding relationship between Comau and Ford is built upon precision, performance and trust.

This year marks a special anniversary for Comau, as COnsorsio MAcchine Utensili was founded in 1973 upon the shared principles of innovation and excellence. The company is proud to have celebrated this important milestone within the context of one of the largest and most historic motor shows in the world together with Ford Motor Company, a longstanding innovator in automotive manufacturing.

About Comau

Comau is the worldwide leader in manufacturing flexible, automatic systems and integrating products, processes and services that increase efficiency while lowering overall costs. Headquartered in Turin, Italy, with an international network that spans 13 countries, Comau uses the latest technology and processes to deliver advanced turnkey systems that consistently exceed the expectations of its customers. Comau specializes in Body Welding & Assembly, Powertrain Machining & Assembly, Robotics & Maintenance as well as Environmental Services for a wide range of industrial sectors. The continuous expansion and improvement of its product range enables Comau to guarantee customized assistance at all phases of a project -- from design, implementation and installation, to production start-up and maintenance services. For further information about Comau's consolidated experience and its vast portfolio of products and services supporting the automotive sector, visit www.comau.com.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/multimedia/home/20140123006118/en/

Contacts

Comau

Dick Pacini, 248-276-1970

dpacini@millerschingroup.com

press@comau.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9822/en

Africell Sierra Leone Crosses The 2 Million Active Subscribers

ME Newswire / Businesswire

BEIRUT. - Saturday, January 25th 2014

Africell Holding announces that Africell Sierra Leone crossed the two million mark with over 2,250,000 active subscribers.

The Group is expecting to end 2014 with over 11 million in total active subscriber base.

Africell Sierra Leone is positioned as an uncontestable market leader with 65% market share and is forecasted to cross the 3 million active subscribers by the end of 2014.

Contacts

Africell

Hala Haddad, +961 1 966777

HR and Admin Manager

hhaddad@africell.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9823/en

Catalent Files Registration Statement for Initial Public Offering

SOMERSET, N.J. - Saturday, January 25th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) Catalent Pharma Solutions announced today that Catalent, Inc. has publicly filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relating to a proposed initial public offering of its common stock. The number of shares to be offered and the price range for the proposed offering have not yet been determined. Catalent, Inc. is the parent company of Catalent Pharma Solutions, Inc. The company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to repay debt, with any remaining balance to be used for general corporate purposes.

A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the SEC but has not yet become effective. These securities may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. The proposed offering will be made only by means of a prospectus.

Morgan Stanley and J.P. Morgan will act as joint book-running managers for the proposed offering. When available, copies of the preliminary prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained from Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department., 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014, via telephone: +1 (866) 718-1649 or by email: prospectus@morganstanley.com; or from J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY, 11717 or via telephone: +1 (866) 803-9204.

About Catalent

Catalent Pharma Solutions is the global leader in advanced delivery technologies and development solutions, providing world-wide clinical and commercial supply capabilities for drugs, biologics and consumer health products. With over 75 years serving the industry, Catalent has proven expertise in bringing more customer products to market faster, enhancing product performance and ensuring reliable product supply. Catalent employs approximately 8,500 people, including over 1,000 scientists, at nearly 30 facilities across five continents. Catalent is headquartered in Somerset, N.J.

Contacts
Catalent, Inc.
Cornell Stamoran, 732-537-6408
cornell.stamoran@catalent.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9824/en

Education Above All Calls for New Investment to Accelerate Support for Primary Education

World Economic Forum serves as backdrop for call for new education funding

ME Newswire

DAVOS, Switzerland - Thursday, January 23rd 2014

During a private event at the 2014 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, leadership of Education Above All (EAA), a global initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, made a call for the world’s business and philanthropy leaders to accelerate the effort to provide and finance quality basic education for the world’s estimated 57 million out of school children. With fewer than 700 days before the Millennium Development Goals deadline, EAA highlighted the long-term impact of investment in primary education on GDP as the imperative for immediate and sustained action.

Current funding for basic education in low income countries covers less than 10% of the amount required, leaving a funding gap of $24 billion per year. To close the gap, EAA aims to link proven programmatic success with innovative funding mechanisms to open opportunities for new sources of funds – from philanthropists, official development assistance, investors, foundations and business.

Commenting on the need for new investment in education, Dr. Abdullah Al-Kubaisi, Special Envoy for Education Above All, said, “EAA has come to the World Economic Forum to call for new investment to support education. In the past the public and private sectors have stood up and made significant progress on issues of great social and economic importance, such as public health. We have today the same chance with primary education – to prevent lost opportunity and reduce poverty. Education can transform individual lives, and also economic outcomes for communities and nations.”

Launched in 2012, Educate A Child, a global program of Her Highness’ Education Above All Foundation aims to significantly reduce the estimated 57 million children worldwide who are denied their fundamental right to education. EAC projects reach countries that account for nearly 70 percent of all out of school children. Its focus is on replicating and scaling-up successful quality programs, promoting innovative approaches and encouraging collaboration, to ensure the best outcomes for children and their communities.

To date, EAC has supported more than 2 million out of school children via 44 co-funded projects in 24 countries with a goal of reaching 10 million by the end of the 2015/2016 school year.

“As the world emerges from the long recession, political and economic leaders are turning their attention to growth. Primary education provides an investment platform that pays dividends to societies well into the future. Today we are in the process of establishing a new fund for education; a mechanism that will bring investment from new funding sources to help us accelerate efforts to close the out of school children gap,” said Marcio Barbosa, CEO of Education Above All.

EAA leadership highlighted the economic imperative for sustained action on education. Lack of primary education stands as a barrier to developing countries from an economic perspective as it impacts GDP. A study commissioned by Educate A Child indicates the dramatic impact primary education can have on economies. As a percentage of GDP, the economic cost of out of school children ranges from country to country: from 0.30% in India (the world’s tenth-largest economy at $1.8 trillion) to 19.2% in Nigeria (a fast-developing economy of $262 billion).

The event ended with an invitation for Davos leaders to join Her Highness Sheikha Moza in Doha for a fundraising event in late April, where new financial commitments will be made to education.

About Education Above All Foundation

Education Above All (EAA) is a global initiative founded and chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser of Qatar. Founded in 2012, EAA is the umbrella for a number of international programs, including Educate A Child, Al Fakhoora and Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) that protect, promote and facilitate access to education. EAA programs work to ensure that all children in the developing world – particularly the 57 million who are currently out of school – will be able to realize their right to education. Through capacity-building, resource mobilization, and multi-sectoral partnerships and alliances, EAA addresses educational issues with a special commitment to the most underserved populations of the world.

Contacts

Lubna Al-Attiah

Education Above All

+974-5563-8868

lalattiah@hho.gov.qa



Jeff Chertack

Memac Ogilvy PR for Education Above All

+974-6603-9328

jeff.chertack@ogilvy.com







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9801/en

MoI Discusses Cooperation with NFPA

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Friday, January 24th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

The Ministry of Interior, represented by the Federal Civil Defense Sector Development Council, discussed with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the means to enhance cooperation, mutual coordination and exchange of expertise between both parties pertaining to fire prevention and safety.

Major General Nasser Lakhrebani Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Office of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Chairman of the Federal Civil Defense Sector Development Council recently met at the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, Donald Bliss, Vice President of the National Fire Protection Association, and Drew Azzara, NFPA’s Executive Director of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The meeting was attended by Colonel Mohammed Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Federal Civil Defense Sector Development Council.

The US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is one of the prestigious organizations in the field of prevention and safety. It was established in 1896 and is headquartered in the United States.  With a membership that includes more than 70,000 individuals, NFPA has branches in nearly 100 countries around the world, including the UAE.

NFPA carries out studies and researches to issue codes and standards on fire safety and property prevention for buildings and facilities. It also offers firefighting training courses, oversees fire safety engineering planning and buildings inspection to ensure their compliance with international standards in the field of prevention and safety.

For more information about:

The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE

Abu Dhabi Police, please click HERE

Follow us and check our Social Media feeds on: YouTube, Facebook and Twitter

The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

Contacts

The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media

Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-987-1317

E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com








Saturday, January 25, 2014

SecondOpinions.com, Featuring a State-of-the-Art Teleradiology and Telemedicine Platform, Introduces a New Global Feature Second Opinions Express TM

Multispecialty Medical Panel Available 24/7 to Answer General Medical Questions in as Little as 30 Minutes


FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - Friday, January 24th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- USARAD Holdings Inc, a leading US Joint Commission Accredited teleradiology and telemedicine solutions provider recently launched SecondOpinions.com which offers a state of the art, proprietary, web-based consumer platform connecting patients globally to top U.S. physicians in any specialty and sub-specialty announced today that it will add a new feature to their services, Second Opinions ExpressTM.

Second Opinions Express™ is a new and unique offering which enables patients to ask a non-complicated general medical question and receive a quick and concise written response from a medical expert panel within as little as 30 minutes, 24/7/365. The service is affordable to all consumers at $19.95.

“We are excited to offer our new quick and affordable service to people across the globe,” said Michael Yuz, MD, MBA, CEO and Founder of SecondOpinions.com. “Statistics have shown that more than 70% of internet users search the web for health and medical information. Second Opinions ExpressTM has been developed, in part, to assist people interested in obtaining general medical information online but are not certain that the information they find is reliable. Our panel of medical experts ensures that patients receive credible, comprehensive and up-to-date medical information without spending a fortune.”

Second Opinions Express™ is not intended for diagnosis or treatment but will provide a general analysis and thoughts to be considered as a patient, doctor or caregiver moves forward.

SecondOpinions.com connects patients globally to top U.S. physicians in any specialty and sub-specialties. Within hours, patients receive a second opinion from a board certified physician. Patients simply upload their DVD images (MRI, CT etc) to a HIPAA regulated, secure, confidential platform and receive a report in the privacy of their own home or office. Obtaining a second opinion decreases medical errors, saves lives, and keeps healthcare costs down by preventing unnecessary surgeries and procedures. It gives patients the peace of mind they need and deserve. Quality assurance techniques such as second opinions will soon be mandated under The Patient Protection and the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.

Click this link to view our television interview that recently aired on WPLG-TV, ABC in Miami, Florida.

https://secondopinions.com/mediaroom/television-interviews.html

The prices for our standard radiology second opinions range from $29.00 -$99.00 per report. No appointments are needed, patients don’t have to wait days or weeks for a new consultation and the second opinion is received within hours of submission. Expert subspecialist radiologists are available 24/7/365 in all 50 states and across the globe. In addition, specialist and sub-specialist physicians in all medical fields provide second opinion consultations via telephone and video chat for as low as $49 per 5-minute consultation. This cost is less than many insurance co-payments.

For more information, please visit https://secondopinions.com/our-services/second-opinions-express.html

About SecondOpinions.com

SecondOpinons.com, a division of USARAD Holdings Inc is a medical consultation and second opinions leader providing second opinion consultation services in all areas of medicine including radiology. Utilizing a unique, proprietary patent- pending, cloud technology, SecondOpinions.com makes it possible to receive an expert second opinion in the privacy of one’s home or office.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50788952&lang=en

Contacts

SecondOpinions.com

Debbie Liebross, 954-436-3644

debbie@secondopinions.com



Amber Statler-Matthews, 954-649-9840

amber@secondopinions.com







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/9821/en

Arthur D. Little and the UITP identify 25 imperatives to enable cities to cope with future mobility challenges

BRUSSELS - Friday, January 24th 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Global consultancy Arthur D. Little, together with its partner the UITP – The International Association of Public Transport – identifies three strategic directions and 25 imperatives for cities to consider to better shape the future of urban mobility

December 2013 saw the release of the second edition of the Arthur D. Little Urban Mobility Index, assessing the world’s cities in terms of mobility maturity and performance and revealing that most cities are still struggling to cope with future mobility challenges.

“The Future of Urban Mobility 2.0 – Imperatives to shape extended mobility ecosystems of tomorrow,” highlights what is holding cities back, and identifies three strategic directions and 25 imperatives for cities to consider to shape their future.

“If the world fails to change its mobility habits, the future of our planet looks decidedly bleak.” noted UITP Secretary General, Alain Flausch. “By 2025, worldwide transport-related greenhouse gas emissions will be 30% higher than 2005 levels, transport energy bills will skyrocket, traffic congestion will bring cities worldwide to a standstill, and most alarmingly, half a million people will be killed in road traffic accidents every year. There is however a real window of opportunity to drive innovation in urban mobility and I hope that our joint study will inspire and help many decision-makers to step up in that direction.”

“With its Future of Urban Mobility lab, Arthur D. Little aims to support cities and nations in shaping urban mobility ecosystems of tomorrow,” said François-Joseph Van Audenhove, Partner at Arthur D. Little. “The second edition of the Future of Urban Mobility study provides cities with guidelines, adapted to their development stages, to devise sustainable urban mobility policies and evolve towards networked mobility; thereby meeting mobility challenges of today and tomorrow.”

To download the full report, please visit www.adl.com/FUM2.0

Note to Editors

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) is the international network for public transport authorities and operators, policy decision-makers, scientific institutes and the public transport supply and service industry. It is a platform for worldwide cooperation, business development and the sharing of know-how between its 3,400 members from 92 countries. UITP is the global advocate of public transport and sustainable mobility, and the promoter of innovations in the sector. www.uitp.org

Founded in 1886, Arthur D. Little is the world’s first management consulting firm, linking strategy, technology and innovation to offer its clients sustainable solutions to their most complex business problems. Arthur D. Little has a collaborative client engagement style, exceptional people and a firm-wide commitment to quality and integrity. Arthur D. Little has 26 offices worldwide and serves many of the Fortune 100 companies globally, in addition to many other leading firms and public sector organizations. www.adl.com

Contacts
Arthur D. Little
Sue Glanville / Cate Bonthuys
Say Communications
+44-(0)20-8971-6400
arthurdlittle@saycomms.co.uk



UITP
Andrew Canning
Press & Media Manager
+3226636639
andrew.canning@uitp.org
Twitter: @UITPpressoffice



Sylvie Cappaert-Blondelle
Director Communications & Publications
+3226613191
sylvie.cappaert@uitp.org





Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9819/en

Coca-Cola Installs 1 Millionth HFC-Free Cooler Globally, Preventing 5.25MM Metrics Tons of CO2

Company Working Toward 2015 Goal to Adopt More Energy-Efficient, Natural Refrigeration for All New Cold-Drink Equipment Globally

NEW YORK - Thursday, January 23rd 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Coca-Cola Company today announced that it has installed its 1 millionth hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-free cooler using natural refrigerant in the marketplace, preventing the emission of 5.25 million metric tons of CO2 over 10 years. This milestone marks significant progress in the Company’s effort to phase out the use of HFC refrigerant—a well-known contributor to climate change—in Coca-Cola dispensers, vending machines and coolers globally. Together with its bottling partners, the Coca-Cola system has established a goal that all new cold-drink equipment will be HFC-free by 2015. Achieving this goal will prevent the emission of more than 50 million metric tons of CO2 over 10 years, an amount equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 10 million passenger vehicles. Coca-Cola has improved its cooling equipment energy efficiency by 40 percent since 2000; and eliminated 75 percent of direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by transitioning to HFC-free insulation foam for new equipment.

“Over the past decade we have invested more than $100 million to make our coolers better for the environment,” said Jeff Seabright, Vice President, Environment & Water, The Coca-Cola Company. "And we have significantly reduced our overall carbon footprint. Through investment in research, development and commercialization efforts we’ve advanced the use of more energy-efficient, HFC-free cooling technologies and energy management systems. We’ve made sustainable refrigeration the cornerstone of our climate protection and energy management efforts.”

As part of its commitment to pursue more sustainable refrigeration, Coca-Cola selected CO2, a natural refrigerant that eliminates 99 percent of direct emissions, as its HFC-free, refrigerant choice for new equipment. The Company’s investment in more sustainable refrigeration has made CO2 technology a commercially viable option for the cold drink and food equipment industry.

In 2013, Coca-Cola placed approximately 230,000 units of HFC-free equipment, bringing the global total to 1 million. While HFC-free placements are scaling-up worldwide, Europe and Japan have been market leaders for Coca-Cola to date.

The Company also remains an active participant in Refrigerants Naturally!, a food and beverage industry alliance. Co-founded by The Coca-Cola Company in 2004 with support from United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this group addresses global climate change through promotion of HFC-free alternative refrigeration technologies. Currently, Antoine Azar, Sustainable Refrigeration Manager, The Coca-Cola Company, chairs Refrigerants, Naturally!

“Our climate milestones are the result of collaboration between our Company, our bottling partners, our suppliers and our customers,” said Seabright. “The sustainability of our planet depends on more than us; it requires collective action, which is why we work with governments, organizations and other companies to advance solutions for climate protection. Only together can we successfully attempt to tackle challenges of this magnitude.”

This work complements the most recent goal set by the Company to reduce the carbon footprint of "the drink in your hand” by 25 percent by 2020. This goal includes working to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions across the entire value chain of Coca-Cola’s products by making comprehensive reductions in manufacturing processes, packaging formats, delivery fleet, refrigeration equipment and ingredient sourcing.

In 2009, Coca-Cola set a goal that 100 percent of its new coolers and vending machines will be HFC-free by 2015 with support from Greenpeace. The Company also played an active role in setting the Consumer Goods Forum goal to begin phasing-out HFC refrigerants in cooling equipment across its 400-member companies starting in 2015.

To learn more about our sustainability work, visit our 2012/2013 Sustainability Report.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world's most valuable and recognizable brands, our Company's portfolio features 16 billion-dollar brands including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Georgia and Del Valle. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, ready-to-drink coffees, and juices and juice drinks. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy our beverages at a rate of 1.9 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, support active, healthy living, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world's top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates. For more information, visit Coca-Cola Journey at www.coca-colacompany.com, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo, visit our blog, Coca-Cola Unbottled, at www.coca-colablog.com or find us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/the-coca-cola-company.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50787079&lang=en

Contacts

The Coca-Cola Company

Serena Levy, +01 404.676.2683









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9802/en

Friday, January 24, 2014

Patients Get Safety Information, Pill Reminders with New Mobile App from Quintiles

MediGuard App Wins Web Health Award

ME NewsWire/ Business Wire

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. - Friday, January 24th 2014

Information about potential adverse reactions from multiple medicines and a pill reminder which can be set for hourly, daily or weekly alerts, are some of the features on a new mobile app created by Quintiles for users of its MediGuard service.

A community of 2.6 million patients use Quintiles’ MediGuard service to help monitor their medication intake and access information about research and disease-specific programs. The new app is designed specifically for iPhone and Android users.

“With nearly one third of all mobile device owners using their phones to look up healthcare information, this capability has become an imperative if MediGuard is to engage with patients at moments when they most need access to that information,” explains David Coman, senior vice president at Quintiles.

The MediGuard app allows users to print or email their entire list of medications for sharing with physicians or loved ones. A notes section enables the storing of notes, questions or next appointments during physician visits. Other features include:

    Doctor’s Visit Medicine Checks - Summary of current prescriptions for each doctor visit;
    Drug Lookup - Database of more than 4,000 drugs, activated by typing or speaking drug names.

The MediGuard database and its app provide patients with access to detailed drug data including: potential side effects; black-box warnings; safety alerts and recalls; and drug interactions between medications that may occur. The new app also allows users to see satisfaction ratings from other patients who have taken the same medications.

“At the heart of all the work we do is the goal of helping improve patient health,” adds Coman. “MediGuard is an important service that not only protects patient safety in regard to the medicines they take, but is also a means of finding and participating in clinical research, observational studies and disease management programs.”

The app has already been recognized as the recipient of a Web Health Award in the “mobile, medical and education” category. The awards were founded 15 years ago to celebrate high-quality digital heath resources for consumers and health professionals.

The primary destination site www.MediGuard.org has also been given a re-design to match the mobile app.

The MediGuard app is available for free download through Apple’s iTunes App Store, the Google Play Store and can also be downloaded at www.MediGuard.org. A brief video showcasing the features of the MediGuard app is available here.

About Quintiles

Quintiles (NYSE: Q) is the world’s largest provider of biopharmaceutical development and commercial outsourcing services with a network of more than 28,000 employees conducting business in approximately 100 countries. We have helped develop or commercialize all of the top-50 best-selling drugs on the market. Quintiles applies the breadth and depth of our service offerings along with extensive therapeutic, scientific and analytics expertise to help our customers navigate an increasingly complex healthcare environment as they seek to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of better healthcare outcomes. To learn more about Quintiles, please visit www.quintiles.com.

Click here to subscribe to Mobile Alerts for Quintiles.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50778605&lang=en

Contacts

Quintiles

Phil Bridges, Media Relations, 919-998-1653 (office); 919-457-6347 (mobile),

phil.bridges@quintiles.com



Karl Deonanan, Investor Relations, 919-998-2789

InvestorRelations@quintiles.com







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/9812/en