Panasonic and Coronal Group Complete Nine Solar Projects to Provide Clean, Renewable Energy to Southern California Edison Customers

ME NewsWire/Business Wire

NEWARK, N.J. - Thursday, October 2nd 2014

Panasonic Enterprise Solutions Company (Panasonic) and Coronal Group LLC (Coronal) announce the completion of nine solar projects in Tulare and Kings Counties in Central California. The projects provide 16.2 MW of energy to Southern California Edison’s grid to power approximately 14,500 homes annually.

“Significant solar projects are beneficial to the economy and how we produce and consume energy, but their financial and structural complexities are a big challenge for companies interested in adopting clean, sustainable energy,” said Panasonic Eco Solutions Managing Director Jamie Evans. “The Panasonic-Coronal platform is a proven integrated business model that removes those obstacles, and helps to deliver affordable, reliable, clean energy.”

Panasonic and Coronal acquired the California Renewable Energy Small Tariff projects from Macquarie Capital in 2013. A $50 million funding commitment by Ullico Inc., a labor-union owned insurance and investment company, also contributed to the acquisition and completion of the projects. The projects were built by Panasonic and ImMODO Energy Services Corporation.

“The completion of these nine projects, the first commercial projects to be finished under the Panasonic-Coronal platform, marks an important milestone and there are more in the pipeline,” said Jonathan Jaffrey, CEO of Coronal. “Our total joint project development with Panasonic, now more than 100 MWs, is an indicator of both the success of our platform and the rising interest in solar projects.”

Coronal’s exclusive relationship with Panasonic allows it the flexibility to acquire operating solar assets or partner with developers and engineering, procurement and construction providers in North America.

“We are delighted with the successful completion of these Central California projects and look forward to others as our relationship with Panasonic and Coronal continues to develop. The Panasonic-Coronal team’s ability to close this transaction quickly and without financial contingencies sets their platform apart,” said Don Watson, President of ImMODO Energy Services.

About Panasonic Enterprise Solutions Company http://www.panasonic.com/business/pesna/av-solutions/

Panasonic Enterprise Solutions Company, a division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, develops, installs and maintains large-scale Eco Solutions and Audio-Visual Solutions for business and municipal customers. Serving customers across a wide range of industries, Panasonic Enterprise Solutions engineers custom-built applications using the latest technology, experience in end-to-end management of complex projects and unparalleled onsite support services. Eco Solutions offers expertise in end-to-end solar energy projects while also delivering technological and financial solutions to the rapidly expanding commercial and industrial renewable energy markets. An industry leader in Audio-Visual Solutions, the company has installed some of the largest high-definition LED video boards in the world at many well-known sports and entertainment venues in the U.S. In Interbrand’s 2014 annual “Best Global Green Brands” report, Panasonic ranked number five overall and the top electronics brand in the report. Learn more: panasonic.com/pressroom

About Coronal Group LLC

Coronal Group is an alternative energy firm that finances and operates solar PV projects for institutions, municipalities, corporations and non-profit organizations throughout the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and South America. The Coronal team, which brings more than 80 collective years of successful asset and investment management experience, and a strong record of solar project development, has been recognized by the White House Office of Innovation and Civic Participation as thought leaders in the solar industry.

Coronal and Panasonic have established a strategic relationship to deliver a comprehensive end-to-end solution to facilitate the development and commercialization of solar PV projects in the commercial, industrial, municipal and small utility markets from inception to commercial operation. Services include construction and equity financing, to engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) and the operations and maintenance (O&M) of the systems. For additional information, please visit www.CoronalGroup.com.

About ImMODO Energy Services Corporation

ImMODO Energy Services Corporation is a member of the ImMODO Group, a leading global developer of solar projects and one of the ten largest producers of photovoltaic energy in Spain. Since 2005, ImMODO has installed more than 125 MW of solar capacity globally and currently assures the performance of 185 GWh annually through 110 MW of O&M contracts. In California ImMODO develops distributed utility and commercial projects and has completed construction of 24 projects totaling 38 MW, each of them being managed by ImMODO under a long-term O&M Agreement. www.immodoenergy.com

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50953019&lang=en

Contacts

Panasonic Corporation

Global Communication Group

Public Relations Office

+81-3-3574-5729

presscontact@ml.jp.panasonic.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/12305/en

Hilton Worldwide Opens First DoubleTree by Hilton in Queensland

Cairns Hotel Marks 400th DoubleTree Location

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hilton Worldwide today announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns. The 237-room Cairns hotel, formerly a Holiday Inn, occupies an exceptional waterfront location on the Coral Sea in the vibrant city of Cairns. The hotel also marks the fourth DoubleTree by Hilton in Australia and the 400th hotel in the brand’s global portfolio.

“Guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns can look forward to experiencing the brand’s signature service in the tropical surrounds of Far North Queensland,” said John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton. “The opening of this hotel further cements our commitment to the Australian market. We know that the little things mean everything when it comes to a rewarding travel experience and strive to bring each guest the special comforts and acts of kindness that are unique to the brand - starting with a warm chocolate chip cookie welcome at check-in and continuing throughout every aspect of a guest’s stay.”

DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns is located at 121 The Esplanade, approximately six kilometers from Cairns International Airport and half a kilometer from Cairns’ CBD center. Cairns itself is the gateway to some of Australia’s greatest tourism experiences including the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

The hotel incorporates a unique open air rainforest garden with a barramundi pond, providing an excellent space for guests to relax. Each of the 237 Cairns hotel rooms are modern and spacious and offer stunning floor-to-ceiling city, mountain or water views. Guests have a choice of 161 double-double rooms, 75 king rooms and one king one-bedroom suite.

At the heart of DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns, The Atrium restaurant serves a wide variety of cuisine that incorporates local ingredients with inspired presentation and flavors. Dishes such as barramundi with a lemon myrtle and macadamia crust served on a saffron pea risotto with wild rosella chutney and leek exemplify the restaurant’s commitment to unique local produce. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Atrium also offers 24-hour room service.

In addition to The Atrium restaurant, the Lobby Bar is an ideal place for guests to unwind after a day exploring Cairns or some of the region’s incredible natural wonders.

Guests can enjoy a range of complimentary services and amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness and business centers and dedicated tour desk providing information on local attractions and activities. The Cairns hotel also offers meeting and event space that can facilitate meetings for up to 160 guests theatre-style.

As participants in the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program, the property will offer guests the ability to earn and redeem Hilton HHonors points and all Hilton HHonors members will earn double Hilton HHonors points for eligible stays until 31 December 2014.

“Australia has really embraced the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. We are pleased to provide another exemplary upscale, full-service hotel option in the Australian market with DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns,” said Ashley Spencer, vice president, operations, Australasia. “Cairns has long been a desirable leisure location for Australian and international travelers and we know DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns will deliver exceptional service and easy access to Far North Queensland’s iconic attractions.”

Among the amenities that guests will enjoy are the invigorating array of CITRON body care products by Crabtree & Evelyn, 24-hour business and fitness centers, outdoor swimming pools, a range of food and drink offerings to meet every guest's need, complimentary high-speed internet access in public areas, and an industry-recognized service culture which is built around the idea of CARE, or Create A Rewarding Experience for guests, team members and the community.

Recognized worldwide for its warm, hospitable service, DoubleTree by Hilton is Hilton Worldwide’s fastest growing full service brand and offers 400 properties in 33 countries and territories. Along with three existing DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in Australia, DoubleTree by Hilton Darwin, DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade-Darwin and DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, two new DoubleTree by Hilton hotels are planned in Perth and Fremantle in Western Australia. The DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns is owned by the BG Hotels group (Mr and Mrs Ludwig Berger), and is the sixth hotel within the group’s portfolio to be managed by Hilton Worldwide.

In celebration of its opening, Hilton by DoubleTree Cairns is offering guests a discount of up to 20 percent for advance purchase bookings (made at least seven days in advance of arrival) for all bookings made up until October 31, 2014. Bookings can made directly with the hotel on +61 7 4050 6070 or at www.cairns.doubletree.com.

Media can access additional information and download high resolution images at http://news.doubletree.com.

About DoubleTree By Hilton

With a fast-growing, global collection of 400 upscale hotels in gateway cities, metropolitan areas and vacation destinations across six continents, every little thing we do at DoubleTree by Hilton inspires us to create a rewarding experience for our hotel guests, our team members and the communities we proudly serve. Our hospitality begins with a warm chocolate chip cookie welcome upon arrival and continues with the award-winning Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program, an array of fine services and amenities and our longstanding CARE Culture tradition that empowers more than 45,000 team members to provide the special comforts and acts of kindness that make the traveler feel human again. To make reservations at any DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, travelers may visit our brand website at www.doubletree.com. Social media users may connect with us at www.facebook.com/doubletree, www.twitter.com/doubletree andwww.youtube.com/doubletreehotels. For the latest news, story starters and fact sheets about our brand, reporters and bloggers may visit our DoubleTree by Hilton Global Media Center atnews.doubletree.com.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) 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 95 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of eleven world-class global brands is comprised of more than 4,200 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties, with more than 690,000 rooms in 93 countries and territories, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, 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®. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide at www.facebook.com/hiltonworldwide, www.twitter.com/hiltonworldwide,www.youtube.com/hiltonworldwide, www.flickr.com/hiltonworldwide and www.linkedin.com/company/hilton-worldwide

Contacts

Audrey Wong

Hilton Worldwide – Asia Pacific

+65 6833 9763

audrey.wong@hilton.com



Maggie Giddens

Hilton Worldwide

+1 703 883 5346

maggie.giddens@hilton.com







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/12248/en

P&G Applies Latest Research in Cognitive Science to Boost Fabric Care Innovation

-The world’s leading Fabric Care company reveals how human psychology and cognitive behavioural analysis is helping to fuel its product innovation-

LONDON - Wednesday, October 1st 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- P&G Fabric Care – whose global brands include Ariel, Tide, Dash, Downy and Lenor - is applying cognitive science to understand why people fall out of love with their wardrobe, leading to many of us only using 20 percent of our wardrobe, 80 percent of the time.1 P&G will utilise this knowledge to create products that can help to unleash and prolong the longevity and beauty of clothes people love. In fact, a recent survey conducted on behalf of P&G, revealed that 84 percent of women would like to reinvigorate the clothes inside of their wardrobe.

P&G’s latest research reveals that people are affected by multi-sensory influences even more than they realize, and at some point they stop wearing clothes because they lose the multi-sensorial properties that originally drew them in – their specific look, feel and handle. These cognitive – but for the most part unconscious -responses our brain makes to the sensorial properties of fabrics can mean that a garment is relegated to the back of the wardrobe and not worn again. Combining this cognitive knowledge of our multi-sensory brains with an unrivalled expertise in the science of the beauty and care of clothes, P&G Fibre Scientists have been exploring fabric care innovations to help maintain the desirable sensorial attributes of clothes, so we can wear and love them for longer.

Cognitive Science meets Fibre Science

The link between the senses and fashion choices isn’t new but what is, is the explosion of sensorial fabrics seen on catwalks and in mainstream fashion retailers. As sensorial fabrics become an even bigger part of consumers’ wardrobes, P&G has identified a need to respond; taking its 3-Step Fibre Science approach – to Clean, Protect and Enhance the clothes that people love –and applying it to benefit the multi-sensorial fabric properties that influence people’s relationship with their clothes.

The P&G vision

Vice President of P&G Fabric Care Europe, Robert van Pappelendam comments:

“It is P&G Fabric Care’s belief that people are increasingly looking to the clothing industry, as well as fabric care experts, to make fashion more accessible and easier to clean and care for. This is why we’ve been working with fashion designer Giles Deacon and respected fabric trends forecaster Première Vision, to forge a link between fabric care and fashion so we can develop products that respond to macro trends in the fashion and fabric industry. At the same time, we’ve also been working with the leading cognitive science professor, Dr Lawrence Rosenblum, to better understand how people’s perception and relationship with their clothes is unconsciously influenced by the multi-sensory properties of fabrics. This knowledge is at the very heart of our latest innovations to help us reinvigorate and lengthen the relationship consumers can have with their favourite garments.”

Working with experts

Dr. Lawrence Rosenblum, cognitive psychologist comments:

“Fabrics can evoke a range of sensations and perceptions affecting our memories, mood and even self-esteem. Human perception not only plays a part in the clothing we choose to buy, but if we still select it from our wardrobe twelve months on, we may change how we feel towards the fabric due to multi-sensorial influences. It’s fascinating to be involved in P&G Fabric Care’s response to this challenge.”

Giles Deacon, Fabric Care Global Fashion Consultant said:

“For me, designing clothes is not simply about creating an impact on a catwalk; I want my designs to be clothes that people love, feel good wearing and also last, which is why the 3-Step Fibre Science innovation led by P&G is so important. Knowing that fabrics can receive the quality of care they need to keep their shape, colour and texture is critical. P&G’s constant innovations in Fabric Care inspired my first ever machine washable designs amongst my AW14 London Fashion Week collection and the exclusive range I’ve created for Ariel and Lenor that will be unveiled this November.”

P&G Future Fabrics

P&G Fabric Care will be revealing how its 3-Step Fibre Science approach has influenced its new products at the P&G Future Fabrics event in Berlin. Now in its second year, the P&G Future Fabrics event will focus on the theme of Fabric of the Senses – the desire to experience fabric and fashion in multi-sensory dimensions. Guests will explore the revolutionary new approach to fabric care innovation that is inspired and informed by the cognitive science of human multi-sensory perception.

-ENDS-

About Procter & Gamble

P&G serves approximately 4.8 billion people around the world with its brands. The Company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Ace®, Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Duracell®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Fusion®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Iams®, Lenor®, Mach3®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, Prestobarba®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, Wella®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

About Giles Deacon

Giles Deacon is a celebrated fashion designer renowned the world over for his playful, show-stopping designs.

After graduating from London’s Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in 1992, Giles chose to travel and gain experiences at different fashion houses. He spent two years working with French fashion designer Jean Charles De Castelbajac before returning to London to work for a number of High Street fashion houses. It was during this time that Giles met the owner of Bottega Veneta, and from 1998 until 2002 Giles was the head designer at Bottega Veneta and the Gucci Group.

In 2004 Deacon launched his own label GILES at London Fashion week to international acclaim. His collection received numerous awards including “British Designer of the Year” at the British Fashion Awards in 2006 and the prestigious French ANDAM Fashion Award in 2009. GILES celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2014.

About Dr. Lawrence Rosenblum

Dr. Lawrence Rosenblum is an award winning Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside. He is the author of the book See What I’m Saying: The Extraordinary Powers of Our Five Senses. His research has been published widely in scientific journals and has been featured in Scientific American, The Economist, and The New York Times. He has appeared on numerous radio and television programs including Through the Wormhole with Morgan Freeman and BBC Horizon.

About Première Vision

Première Vision S.A. is a leading French company that has been organizing textile and fashion trade fairs since 1973. Initially local, the company has skilfully evolved to acquire a global dimension. Première Vision is today at the heart of a comprehensive international network. With twelve subsidiaries and foreign offices throughout the world, the company now organizes 32 events a year in France and in key locations such as New York, Shanghai, Sao Paulo, Moscow or Brussels. Its shows are known for skillfully combining a selective, creative and complementary product offer – high-quality fabrics, accessories, yarns, fibres, and textile designs – with original, forward-looking and cutting edge fashion information.

1 Oprah Fall Shopping Guide, 2009, http://www.oprah.com/style/Fall-Shopping-Guide_1

Contacts

For further information and high resolution photography, contact:

Ketchum:

Susannah Lee

Susannah.Lee@ketchum.com

+44 207 611 3592



P&G:

Andrés Franco

Associate Director Communications, Fabric Care Europe

Franco.a@pg.com

+41 58004 7086







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/12301/en

Seattle Genetics and Takeda Announce Positive Data from Phase 3 AETHERA Clinical Trial of ADCETRIS

BOTHELL, Wash. & OSAKA, Japan - Wednesday, October 1st 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Randomized Phase 3 Clinical Trial with ADCETRIS Demonstrates Statistically Significant Improvement in Progression-Free Survival
Abstract Submitted to ASH for Presentation at the 2014 Annual Meeting; Regulatory Submissions Anticipated in 2015
Seattle Genetics to Host Conference Call and Webcast Today at 8:30 a.m. ET
ASH 2014
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Seattle Genetics, Inc. (Nasdaq: SGEN) and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE:4502) today announced that patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) who received ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) as consolidation therapy immediately following an autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) lived significantly longer without disease progression compared to patients who received placebo. The phase 3 clinical trial, known as AETHERA, compared the use of single agent ADCETRIS to placebo in 329 patients with HL who were at risk of relapse. ADCETRIS is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) directed to CD30, a defining marker of classical HL. ADCETRIS has been approved in more than 45 countries for the treatment of relapsed HL and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). ADCETRIS is not approved in the AETHERA treatment setting.
The AETHERA trial met its primary endpoint with ADCETRIS treatment resulting in a statistically significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo as assessed by an independent central review committee (hazard ratio=0.57; p-value=0.001), which equates to a 75 percent improvement in PFS. PFS was assessed after a minimum of two years post initiation of treatment for all study patients. A pre-specified interim analysis of overall survival showed no statistically significant difference between the treatment arms. Patients on both study arms with progression of HL received a variety of subsequent therapies. Notably, most patients on the placebo arm received ADCETRIS after progression. A further analysis of overall survival is planned in 2016. The safety profile of ADCETRIS in the AETHERA trial was generally consistent with the existing prescribing information. An abstract was previously submitted for data presentation at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual meeting, December 6-9, 2014, in San Francisco, CA.
“Patients with Hodgkin lymphoma who relapse or are refractory to frontline therapy represent a significant unmet medical need. We believe the positive top-line results of the AETHERA trial demonstrate the ability of ADCETRIS to consolidate remissions and extend progression-free survival in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma who are at risk of relapse following an autologous transplant while having an acceptable safety profile,” said Clay B. Siegall, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Seattle Genetics. “We anticipate reporting more complete AETHERA data at the ASH annual meeting in December and intend to submit a supplemental Biologics License Application to the FDA in 2015 for approval in this setting.”
“The AETHERA clinical trial results may support a new treatment paradigm for certain patients with Hodgkin lymphoma post autologous stem cell transplant,” said Michael Vasconcelles, M.D., Global Head, Oncology Therapeutic Area Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. “As the first randomized clinical trial of a comprehensive clinical development program with ADCETRIS, these data also provide important information to inform the entire ADCETRIS program. For these reasons, we are particularly grateful to the patients, in partnership with their families and the study investigators, for their participation in AETHERA. We look forward to submitting these data to regulatory agencies in our territories.”
Phase 3 AETHERA Clinical Trial Design The AETHERA trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study designed to evaluate the potential of ADCETRIS to extend PFS post-ASCT in patients with HL who have at least one risk factor for progression. In addition to the primary endpoint of PFS, secondary endpoints included overall survival, safety and tolerability. Patients must have risk factors for residual HL, defined as a history of refractory HL, those who relapse or progress within one year from receiving frontline chemotherapy and/or those who have disease outside of the lymph nodes at the time of pre-ASCT relapse. Patients received ADCETRIS or placebo every three weeks for up to approximately one year. This international multi-center trial is being conducted in the United States, Eastern and Western Europe and Russia.
Submission of safety data from the AETHERA trial to the FDA is a post-marketing requirement that Seattle Genetics will fulfill in its planned supplemental BLA. Takeda will provide safety data from the trial to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) as part of periodic safety reports required by the EMA’s conditional approval of ADCETRIS.
Please see Important Safety Information at the end of this press release.
Seattle Genetics Conference Call Details Seattle Genetics' management will host a conference call and webcast to discuss this announcement. The event will be held today at 5:30 a.m. Pacific Time (PT) / 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). The live event will be available from Seattle Genetics' website at http://www.seattlegenetics.com, under the Investors and News section, or by calling 888-455-2263 (domestic) or 719-325-2464 (international). The access code is 9378967. A replay of the discussion will be available beginning at approximately 7:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m. ET today from Seattle Genetics' website or by calling 888-203-1112 (domestic) or 719-457-0820 (international), using access code 9378967. The telephone replay will be available until 8:30 a.m. PT / 11:30 a.m. ET October 1, 2014.
About ADCETRIS ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) is an ADC comprising an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody attached by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), utilizing Seattle Genetics’ proprietary technology. The ADC employs a linker system that is designed to be stable in the bloodstream but to release MMAE upon internalization into CD30-expressing tumor cells.
ADCETRIS for intravenous injection received accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approval with conditions from Health Canada for two indications: (1) the treatment of patients with HL after failure of ASCT or after failure of at least two prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimens in patients who are not ASCT candidates, and (2) the treatment of patients with sALCL after failure of at least one prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimen. The indications for ADCETRIS are based on response rate. There are no data available demonstrating improvement in patient-reported outcomes or survival with ADCETRIS.
ADCETRIS was granted conditional marketing authorization by the European Commission in October 2012 for two indications: (1) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30-positive HL following ASCT, or following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option, and (2) the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory sALCL. ADCETRIS has received marketing authorization by regulatory authorities in 45 countries. See important safety information below.
Seattle Genetics and Takeda are jointly developing ADCETRIS. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Seattle Genetics has U.S. and Canadian commercialization rights and Takeda has rights to commercialize ADCETRIS in the rest of the world. Seattle Genetics and Takeda are funding joint development costs for ADCETRIS on a 50:50 basis, except in Japan where Takeda will be solely responsible for development costs.
About Hodgkin Lymphoma Lymphoma is a general term for a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. There are two major categories of lymphoma: HL and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. HL is distinguished from other types of lymphoma by the presence of one characteristic type of cell, known as the Reed-Sternberg cell. The Reed-Sternberg cell generally expresses CD30.
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 9,200 cases of HL will be diagnosed in the United States during 2014 and more than 1,200 will die from the disease. Globally, there are more than 62,000 cases of HL diagnosed each year. Although frontline combination chemotherapy can result in durable response rates, up to 30 percent of these patients relapse or are refractory to frontline treatment and have few therapeutic options beyond ASCT.
About Seattle Genetics Seattle Genetics is a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative antibody-based therapies for the treatment of cancer. Seattle Genetics is leading the field in developing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a technology designed to harness the targeting ability of antibodies to deliver cell-killing agents directly to cancer cells. The company’s lead product, ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) is an ADC that, in collaboration with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, is commercially available for two indications in more than 45 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Japan and members of the European Union. Additionally, ADCETRIS is being evaluated broadly in more than 30 ongoing clinical trials. Seattle Genetics is also advancing a robust pipeline of clinical-stage ADC programs, including SGN-CD19A, SGN-CD33A, SGN-LIV1A, SGN-CD70A, ASG-22ME and ASG-15ME. Seattle Genetics has collaborations for its ADC technology with a number of leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including AbbVie, Agensys (an affiliate of Astellas), Bayer, Genentech, GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer. More information can be found at www.seattlegenetics.com.
About Takeda Located in Osaka, Japan, Takeda is a research-based global company with its main focus on pharmaceuticals. As the largest pharmaceutical company in Japan and one of the global leaders of the industry, Takeda is committed to strive towards better health for people worldwide through leading innovation in medicine. Additional information about Takeda is available through its corporate website, www.takeda.com.
ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) U.S. Important Safety Information
BOXED WARNING Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML and death can occur in patients receiving ADCETRIS.
Contraindication: Concomitant use of ADCETRIS and bleomycin is contraindicated due to pulmonary toxicity.
Warnings and Precautions:
Peripheral neuropathy: ADCETRIS treatment causes a peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced peripheral neuropathy is cumulative. Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain or weakness and institute dose modifications accordingly.
Infusion reactions: Infusion-related reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If an infusion reaction occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue the infusion and administer appropriate medical therapy.
Hematologic toxicities: Grade 3 or 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia and prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Febrile neutropenia has been reported with ADCETRIS. Monitor complete blood counts prior to each dose of ADCETRIS and consider more frequent monitoring for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Closely monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, manage by G-CSF support, dose delays, reductions or discontinuation.
Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia and sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Closely monitor patients during treatment for the emergence of possible bacterial, fungal or viral infections.
Tumor lysis syndrome: Closely monitor patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML and death has been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Evaluation of PML includes, but is not limited to, consultation with a neurologist, brain MRI, and lumbar puncture or brain biopsy. Hold ADCETRIS if PML is suspected and discontinue ADCETRIS if PML is confirmed.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS): SJS has been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy.
Embryo-fetal toxicity: Fetal harm can occur. Advise pregnant women of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Adverse Reactions: ADCETRIS was studied as monotherapy in 160 patients in two Phase 2 trials. Across both trials, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%), regardless of causality, were neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, anemia, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, pyrexia, rash, thrombocytopenia, cough and vomiting.
Drug Interactions: Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, or P-gp inhibitors, has the potential to affect the exposure to MMAE.
Use in Specific Populations: MMAE exposure is increased in patients with hepatic impairment and severe renal impairment. Closely monitor these patients for adverse reactions.
For additional important safety information, including Boxed WARNING, please see the full U.S. prescribing information for ADCETRIS at www.seattlegenetics.com orwww.ADCETRIS.com.
ADCETRIS Global Important Safety Information ADCETRIS® is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma (HL):
Following autologous stem cell transplant or
Following at least 2 prior therapies when autologous stem cell transplantation is not a treatment option
ADCETRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL).
ADCETRIS is contraindicated for patients who are hypersensitive to ADCETRIS. In addition, combined use of bleomycin and ADCETRIS causes pulmonary toxicity, and is contraindicated.
ADCETRIS can cause serious side effects, including:
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): John Cunningham virus (JCV) reactivation resulting in PML and death has been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening neurological, cognitive, or behavioral signs or symptoms, which may be suggestive of PML.
Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis has been observed in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Fatal outcomes have been reported. Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening abdominal pain.
Pulmonary Toxicity: Cases of pulmonary toxicity have been reported in patients receiving ADCETRIS. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms (e.g., cough, dyspnoea), a prompt diagnostic evaluation should be performed.
Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Serious infections such as pneumonia, staphylococcal bacteraemia, sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes), and herpes zoster, and opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and oral candidiasis have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during treatment for emergence of possible serious and opportunistic infections.
Infusion-related reactions: Immediate and delayed infusion-related reactions, as well as anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during and after an infusion.
Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): TLS has been reported with ADCETRIS. Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden are at risk of TLS and should be monitored closely and managed according to best medical practice.
Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS treatment may cause PN that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of PN, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness.
Hematological toxicities: Grade 3 or Grade 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia, and prolonged (equal to or greater than one week) Grade 3 or Grade 4 neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Complete blood counts should be monitored prior to administration of each dose.
Febrile neutropenia: Febrile neutropenia has been reported. Patients should be monitored closely for fever and managed according to best medical practice.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN): SJS and TEN have been reported. Fatal outcomes have been reported.
Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia has been reported during trials in patients with an elevated body mass index (BMI) with or without a history of diabetes mellitus. Any patient who experiences an event of hyperglycemia should have their serum glucose closely monitored.
Renal and hepatic impairment: There is limited experience in patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that MMAE clearance might be affected by moderate and severe renal impairment, and by low serum albumin concentrations. Elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been reported. Liver function should be routinely monitored in patients receiving brentuximab vedotin.
Sodium content in excipients: This medicinal product contains a maximum of 2.1 mmol (or 47mg) of sodium per dose. To be taken into consideration for patients on a controlled sodium diet.
Serious adverse drug reactions were: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, pyrexia, peripheral motor neuropathy and peripheral sensory neuropathy, hyperglycemia, demyelinating polyneuropathy, tumor lysis syndrome, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
ADCETRIS was studied as monotherapy in 160 patients in two Phase 2 studies. Across both studies, adverse reactions defined as very common (≥1/10) were: infections, neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, alopecia, pruritis, myalgia, fatigue, pyrexia, and infusion-related reactions. Adverse reactions defined as common (≥1/100 to <1/10) were: upper respiratory tract infection, herpes zoster, pneumonia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycemia, peripheral motor neuropathy, dizziness, demyelinating polyneuropathy, cough, dyspnea, constipation, rash, arthralgia, back pain, and chills.
These are not all of the possible side effects with ADCETRIS. Please refer to Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) before prescribing.
For Seattle Genetics: Certain of the statements made in this press release are forward looking, such as those, among others, relating to the therapeutic potential of ADCETRIS and plans for submission for supplemental regulatory approval to and obtaining regulatory approval from the FDA. Actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause such a difference include safety and/or efficacy results of the AETHERA trial in high risk, post-ASCT Hodgkin lymphoma will not be sufficient to gain marketing approval in the United States or any other country, that we will be required to amend our submission for marketing approval or that such submission will be refused. In addition, our regulatory plans may change as a result of consultation with the FDA. More information about the risks and uncertainties faced by Seattle Genetics is contained in the company’s 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Seattle Genetics disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50951089&lang=en
Contacts
Seattle Genetics
Investors:
Peggy Pinkston, 425-527-4160
ppinkston@seagen.com

OR
Media:
Tricia Larson, 425-527-4180
tlarson@seagen.com

OR
Takeda
Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company
Elizabeth Pingpank, +1-617-444-1495
elizabeth.pingpank@takeda.com

OR
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
Corporate Communications Department
+81-3-3278-2037

Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/12260/en

NEC Launches UNIVERGE® SV9000 Series Communications Servers

- The newest evolution of its powerful communication platforms for small, medium and enterprise class businesses -

TOKYO - Thursday, October 2nd 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- NEC Corporation (NEC) (TOKYO: 6701) announced today the launch of the UNIVERGE SV9000 series, its latest line of communications servers. The new offerings include the SV9100, SV9300, and SV9500 platforms, which serve a range of customers from small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) to large enterprise customers. Also being launched are new terminals, including the DT800 and DT400 series, as well as the UT880, an innovative new-generation desk phone integrating a traditional desktop phone and an Android tablet into one device.

“We are excited to bring this powerful line-up of solutions to our global markets,” said Osamu Noda, General Manager, Enterprise Networks Division, NEC Corporation. “The new SV9000 series continues NEC’s trend of creating a natural migration path for customers, while evolving the technology to meet the needs of today’s businesses.”

Designed for enterprise customers, the SV9500 communications server is available as virtualized software providing the first full evolution of the SV enterprise-grade telephony system. Since the SV9500 is available as both a dedicated appliance and as software, enterprise customers can choose the solution that best fits their business strategy.

The new SV9300 platform is an option suitable for mid-sized enterprises. The SV9100 offering is designed as an all-in-one unified communications (UC) platform for SMBs, with simplified installation and management.

NEC enhances its approach to vertical markets such as hospitality, healthcare and education by offering a broad set of UC applications, including mobility and web conferencing. In addition, the SV9000 series continues to support powerful customer care solutions.

For more information about the UNIVERGE SV9000 series, please visit www.necsv9000.com.

For availability of the SV9000 series and the new terminals, contact your regional NEC office.

About NEC Corporation NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.

Contacts
NEC Press Contacts (Japan):
NEC Corporation
Seiichiro Toda, +81-3-3798-6511
s-toda@cj.jp.nec.com
Joseph Jasper, +81-3-3798-6511
j-jasper@ax.jp.nec.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/12303/en

EDP Biotech Announces CE Mark Approval for ColoMarker an in Vitro Diagnostic Aid in Early Detection of Colon Cancer and Plans for Commercialization in Europe

KNOXVILLE, Tenn - Wednesday, October 1st 2014 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- EDP Biotech Corporation, (“EDP,” or the “Company”), a global in vitro diagnostic innovator of life-saving, easy-to-use cancer diagnostic tests using ELISA technology, has announced CE Mark approval for ColoMarker® , an aid in early detection of Colon Cancer. This is a critical step toward commercialization of this unique product which will initially be introduced in the thirty member states belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA).

The EDP ColoMarker® test is a quick and easy tool for clinicians as an aid in early detection of colon cancer when it is most treatable, and only requires a small sample of blood. EDP expects that ColoMarker’s® affordable cost (priced somewhere between IFOBT and FIT stool tests), effectiveness, and the convenience of a whole blood test will significantly improve compliance compared to colonoscopy-based cancer screenings and existing fecal testing options.

“We are excited to introduce our innovative, life-saving product to the European market,” said Tom Boyd, Chairman of EDP. “Our product can now bear the CE Mark, which demonstrates that the ColoMarker® test complies with the stringent requirements related to the quality, safety, and performance of in vitro diagnostic tests found in the applicable EU laws.”

ColoMarker® has already been clinically tested in several U.S. institutions with thousands of patients of both known and unknown stages of cancer (stages I-IV). Test results show a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 86% for colon cancer and 48% detection of adenomatous polyps. This test provides clinicians with a tool to detect colon cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. Dr. Herbert Fritsche, retired tenured Professor of Laboratory Medicine & Chief of Clinical Chemistry; MD Anderson Cancer Center and Consultant to EDP states that “a routine colonoscopy is the best way to detect colon cancer and high risk polyps, but many people are not compliant, and a low cost blood test will be a welcomed option to the current fecal blood and DNA based assays for a directed colonoscopy.”

Bergein F. Overholt, M.D., Chairman of EDP’s Scientific Advisory Board, developer of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope which led to the colonoscopy, and past President of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy states that “ColoMarker® has the potential to literally change the way we practice medicine when it comes to the diagnosis and management of colon cancer.”

EDP’s ColoMarker® provides patients an economical, convenient, and minimally invasive way to get tested for colon cancer without the complexities of stool based tests; thus bridging the gap between compliance and accuracy. For more information about the EDP ColoMarker® test, please visit www.edpbiotech.com.

EDP is also announcing plans for an imminent product launch with already identified distribution partners. The Company plans to appoint distribution partners in European countries where the Company does not currently have representation. The European Economic Area (EEA) comprises the three member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) (Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), and the 27 member states of the European Union (EU), including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

EDP plans to initiate the process for FDA approval in the next three months.

About Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer is the third biggest cancer killer in the US and is expected to cause 50,310 deaths in 2014. However, routine testing starting at age 50 can prevent many cases of colon cancer. If found and treated early, the 5-year survival rate is about 90%. Many people are not tested due to the high cost, inconvenience, and invasiveness of current options, only about 4 out of 10 are diagnosed at this early stage when treatment is most successful. If everyone aged 50 and older had regular screening tests, at least 60% of cancer deaths could be avoided. Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before developing into cancer.

About EDP Biotech Corporation

EDP Biotech is dedicated to the development and commercialization of innovative cancer diagnostics, including simple, cost effective, and accurate technologies. EDP Biotech has research, license, or commercialization agreements with leading institutions, including GI associates and Covenant Health. For more information on EDP Biotech, visit www.edpbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts, including, without limitation, statements that relate to the Company's expectations with regard to the future impact on the Company's results from new products in development, may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects", "intends", "plans", "may", "could", "should", "anticipates", "likely", "believes", and words of similar import also identify forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are based on current facts and analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determined, and assumptions of management. Readers are urged not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. Except as may be required under applicable law, we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date of this release.

Contacts

Ackermann PR

Jeff Hooper, 865-584-0550

jhooper@ackermannpr.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/12284/en

AGCO Publishes 2013 Sustainability Report

ME NewsWire/Business Wire

DULUTH, Ga - Wednesday, October 1st 2014

AGCO (NYSE: AGCO), a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment, today announced the publication of its 2013 global Sustainability Report. “We continue to focus our business on high-tech solutions to help farmers satisfy the world’s growing need for food, fuel and fiber,” said Martin Richenhagen, Chairman, President and CEO of AGCO. “As part of this focus, we are committed to fundamental changes in our operations rather than short-term fixes as we work toward achieving our long-term sustainability targets.”

The 2013 Sustainability Report is an executive summary that provides an overview of AGCO’s progress highlights in environmental and social challenges, with a focus on:
           
           

REDUCING OUR FOOTPRINT FROM FACTORY TO FARM
           

An increase in our remanufactured parts business not only enhances our product stewardship, but also supports farmers with better parts availability.
           
           

COLLABORATING FOR CHANGE
           

Detailed action plans to continue to manage the social risks in our purchasing actions.
           
           

ENGAGING OUR CLOSEST STAKEHOLDERS
           

Continued improvement of our safety performance through a new “Focus” program.
           

AGCO’s sustainability objectives were developed to provide the biggest impact as we prioritize the pressing global economic, environmental and social issues facing AGCO’s stakeholders. Aligning with the Global Reporting Initiative™ (GRI) 3.1 reporting guidelines, the report gives a transparent update on performance to date in relation to AGCO’s sustainability goals.

AGCO’s 2013 Sustainability Report is available at http://bit.ly/AGCOsustainability2013.

ABOUT AGCO

AGCO (NYSE: AGCO) is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery. AGCO supports more productive farming through a full line of tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage equipment, grain storage and protein production systems, tillage implements and replacement parts. AGCO products are sold through five core machinery brands, Challenger®, Fendt®, GSI®, Massey Ferguson® and Valtra® and are distributed globally through approximately 3,100 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. Founded in 1990, AGCO is headquartered in Duluth, GA, USA. In 2013, AGCO had net sales of $10.8 billion. www.AGCOcorp.com

Contacts

AGCO

Press contact:

Rebecca Fabian, +1-646-415-8518

Rebecca.Fabian@instinctif.com



or

Investor contact:

Greg Peterson, 770-232-8229

greg.peterson@agcocorp.com







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/12288/en