2007'02.02.Fri
The9 Obtains Exclusive License to Operate Hellgate: London(R) in Mainland China
May 30, 2006
SHANGHAI, China, May 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-/ -- The9
Limited (Nasdaq: NCTY), a leading online game operator in
China, yesterday announced that it has, through its
subsidiary, entered into an agreement with HanbitSoft,
Inc., one of the world leading developer and publisher of
online games, for an exclusive license to operate the
Hellgate: London(R) game, an action role-playing game
("RPG") in mainland China. The term of the
license is three years from the date of commercial launch
of Hellgate: London(R) in mainland China. Under the
agreement, The9 has agreed to, among other things, pay a
total of US$5 million in license fees as well as guaranteed
royalties equal to the greater of 21% of the retail value of
the prepaid game cards produced for use or a total of US$30
million over the 3-year license period.
Hellgate: London(R) is a highly randomized action 3D
game, combining the features of both massively multiplayer
online role playing games ("MMORPG") and first
person shooting ("FPS") games that caters to the
tastes and preferences of many online game players. It is
the first RPG developed by Flagship Studios, whose key
members are former executives and developers of Blizzard
North(R) and the creators of the globally best-selling
Diablo(R) game series. Mr. Bill Roper, the "Godfather
of Diablo" and one of the founders of Blizzard
North(R), is the Executive Producer of the Hellgate:
London(R) game. HanbitSoft, Inc. is the authorized
publisher of Hellgate: London(R). Given the exceptional
reputation and proven track record of the development team
of Hellgate: London(R), this game is highly anticipated by
online game players worldwide.
Mr. Jun Zhu, The9's Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, commented: "We are very pleased that The9
obtained the exclusive license to operate Hellgate:
London(R) in mainland China. This once again proves that
The9 is the partner
of choice in China for renowned overseas game developers.
We remain dedicated to our core strategy of offering best
quality games to Chinese gamers. The addition of Hellgate:
London(R), the franchise product of Flagship Studios, to
The9's game pipeline, will further strengthen and diversify
The9's game portfolio. We will further leverage our
operating experience and strong market position in China
and will work closely with HanbitSoft and Flagship Studios
to offer the Chinese players the most fantastic game play
experience."
Mr. Alex Kim, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
HanbitSoft, Inc., said: "It is very exciting to join
hands with China's leading game operator The9 to bring
Hellgate: London(R) to the mainland China online game
market. I truly believe that Hellgate: London(R)'s great
content and quality, together with The9's strong operating
capabilities will eventually lead this game to a huge
success in China. HanbitSoft, Inc., of course, will
provide our full-scale support."
Mr. Bill Roper, Chief Executive Officer of Flagship
Studios, added: "Hellgate: London(R) is a dream
project for all of us here at Flagship Studios. We are
pleased to see The9 obtained the exclusive license to
operate the Hellgate: London(R) game in mainland China, as
we have always thought very highly of The9's operational
expertise in China. We believe that through
close cooperation among Flagship Studios, HanbitSoft, Inc.,
and The9, Hellgate: London(R) will achieve a high level of
operational success in China."
About The9 Limited
The9 Limited is a leading online game operator in
China. The9's business is primarily focused on operating
and developing MMORPGs for the Chinese online game players
market. The9 directly or through affiliates operates
licensed MMORPGs, consisting of Blizzard Entertainment's
World of Warcraft(R), MU(R) and Mystina Online(R), in
China. It has also obtained exclusive licenses to operate
additional MMORPGs in China, including Granado Espada(R),
Soul of The Ultimate Nation(R), Guild Wars(R), and
Hellgate: London(R). In addition, The9 has developed its
first proprietary MMORPG titled "Joyful Journey
West", which entered all-access public open beta
testing in August 2005.
About HanbitSoft, Inc.
HanbitSoft, Inc. was established in 1999 and its focus
is heading to on fastly increasing online game industry.
Currently, six competitive online game titles are
introduced to global gamers all over the world, and four
more
potentially big hits are on their ways. In the meantime,
HanbitSoft is continuously investing on prominent games
under development process in an effort to leverage the game
industry in general, which includes: developing MMOG through
in-house studio, investing potential Korean and oversea
studios such as IMC GAMES, FLAGSHIP STUDIOS, and STUDIO
MARS. And as a global publisher, publishing various genre
of MMOG such as: Granado Espada, Neo Steam, Neo Baseball,
Hellgate: London, Tantra, PangYa, Survival Project and WYD.
HanbitSoft is moving forward to become a global leading
entertainment corporation with distinguished publishing as
well as marketing capacity.
About Flagship Studios
Flagship Studios is a creator of innovative
entertainment software, designing games that focus on ease
of play, replayablility and fun. The studio was formed in
2003 by former executives and developers from Blizzard
North(R) and represents the creators of the worldwide,
best-selling Diablo(R) franchise. With members that are
renowned within the gaming industry, Flagship Studios
embodies a team that has worked together for over a decade
and have numerous #1-selling games and multiple Game of the
Year awards to their credit. For more information about
Flagship Studios, log onto
http://www.flagshipstudios.com .
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements.
These statements are made under the "safe harbor"
provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be
identified by terminology such as "will,"
"expects," "anticipates,"
"future," "intends," "plans,"
"believes," "estimates" and similar
statements. Among other things, the business outlook and
quotations from management in this press release contain
forward-looking statements. The9 may also make written or
oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 20-F
and 6-K, etc., in its annual report to shareholders, in
press releases and other written materials and in oral
statements made by its officers, directors or employees to
third parties. Statements that are not historical facts,
including statements about The9's beliefs and expectations,
are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements
involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of
important factors could cause actual results to differ
materially from those contained in any forward-looking
statement. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but
are not limited to, The9's limited operating history as an
online game operator, political and economic policies of
the Chinese government, the laws and regulations governing
the online game industry and information disseminated over
the Internet in China, intensified government regulation of
online game operators and Internet cafes in China, The9's
ability to retain existing players and attract new players,
license, develop or acquire additional online games that are
appealing to users, anticipate and adapt to changing
consumer preferences and respond to competitive market
conditions, and other risks and uncertainties outlined in
The9's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission, including its registration statement on Form
F-1, as amended, and annual reports on Form 20-F. The9
does not undertake any obligation to update any
forward-looking statement, except as required under
applicable law.
For further information, please contact:
Ms. Dahlia Wei
Senior Manager, Investor Relations
The9 Limited
Tel: +86-21-5172-9990
Email: IR@corp.the9.com
Website: http://www.corp.the9.com
SOURCE The9 Limited
PR
2007'02.01.Thu
Corning Tropel Introduces the FlatMaster(R) 1400
May 29, 2006
A New Optical Metrology System for Large LCD Image Mask Manufacturers
FAIRPORT, N.Y., MAY 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Corning
Tropel Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Corning
Incorporated (NYSE: GLW), announced on May 25 the
introduction of the FlatMaster(R) 1400 Liquid Crystal
Display (LCD) Image Mask Flatness Metrology System. Corning
Tropel is an industry leader in providing flatness
measurement technology and has expanded its capabilities to
include the measurement of large LCD image masks. The
FlatMaster 1400 provides full-surface flatness measurements
for LCD image masks with superior speed, repeatability and
accuracy to meet next generation flatness requirements.
With its non-contact, grazing incidence, stitching
interferometer based on Corning Tropel's existing
FlatMaster technology, the FlatMaster 1400 rasters the
surface of the image mask and stitches together a series of
200 mm x 200 mm measurements. The result is complete surface
analysis for image masks up to 1220 mm x 1400 mm and
larger.
Designed for LCD image mask manufacturers, the
FlatMaster 1400 enables manufacturers to monitor and
improve their manufacturing processes from grinding through
final polish. "The FlatMaster 1400 is a clear enabler
of process improvements," stated Erik Jensen, sales
manager, Corning Tropel Metrology Instruments. He
continued, "This system allows an image mask to be
quickly measured to determine if the manufacturing process
is under control, and then to make adjustments to the
process if necessary."
The demand for higher resolution and larger physical
sizes of today's electronics, such as flat panel
televisions and computer displays, requires larger and
flatter image masks. An LCD image mask is a substrate that
contains a pattern that is projected onto flat glass
panels, which become the circuitry for the display. When
printing or exposing small images, the depth of focus is
narrow. In order to produce sharp, in-focus images in a
narrow depth of focus, the image mask must be extremely
flat.
"If it cannot be measured, it cannot be
manufactured, especially if the flatness specification is
less than ten micrometers over the entire surface of the
image mask," said Tom Dunn, engineering manager for
Corning Tropel. "The flatness of the entire surface
must be known, as the information received from a custom
line scan profiler or a small sample of points from a
coordinate measuring machine is not sufficient. Corning
Tropel's FlatMaster 1400 quickly provides an accurate
measurement of the flatness for the complete surface with
superior repeatability and accuracy."
Corning will be demonstrating its FlatMaster 1400
technology in booth #330 at the 2006 SID International
Symposium, Seminar and Exhibition from June 4-9 in San
Francisco.
About Corning Incorporated
Corning Incorporated ( http://www.corning.com ) is a
diversified Technology company that concentrates its
efforts on high-impact growth opportunities. Corning
combines its expertise in specialty glass, ceramic
materials, polymers and the manipulation of the properties
of light, with strong process and manufacturing
capabilities to develop, engineer and commercialize
significant innovative products for the telecommunications,
flat panel display, environmental, semiconductor, and life
sciences industries.
For more information, please contact:
Media Relations Contacts:
Elijah A. Baity
Tel: +1-607-974-8908
Email: baityea@corning.com
Lisa A. Burns
Tel: +1-607-974-4897
Email: burnsla@corning.com
Dave J. Young
Tel: +1-585-388-3474
Email: youngdj@corning.com
SOURCE Corning Incorporated
2007'02.01.Thu
'Vertical Gifts E-Sample Store' Extends Trade Show Values
May 29, 2006
HONG KONG, May 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Working with Hong Kong PCCW Yellow Pages and eBay, Vertical Gifts (vertical trade show for gifts and premium industry) is proud to introduce the most powerful B2B solution to its exhibitors: "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" ( http://estores.verticalgifts.com ). It not only prolongs the benefits of exhibiting, but also opens up an effective channel for the exhibitors to meet overseas buyers. Upon signing up an exhibition booth in Vertical Gifts, eligible exhibitors immediately enjoy the use of "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" commenced in July, which allows them to display 35 product entries. Added to that, their products are also able to list on YP.COM.HK, the largest online business directory in Hong Kong. Unlike other virtual exhibition, "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" is not an online exhibition booth that only helps exhibitors display products, but allows real commercial transaction handled completely on the Web. From catalog, communications, ordering, payment, shipping to logistics, thanks to eBay technology, "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" is equipped with full commercial features for doing business with overseas customers. Mr. Eddie Choi, the CEO of Vertical Expo Services Company Limited (the organizer of Vertical Gifts) said, "Since sampling is a standard procedure to start a commercial deal, "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" makes perfect sense for buyers to order small quantity merchandises through the world's most proven online store front hosted by eBay," He added, "we truly understand that our exhibitors, being the gifts manufacturers and exporters, aim for reaching overseas market. To join trade show, of course, is to fulfill this goal. Now with this exhibition booth + e-Sample Store + online directory listing solution, their opportunity is tripled. What else would be better? There is one -- a six-month free of charge -- a great gift for Vertical Gifts' exhibitors!" As the launch of "Vertical Gifts e-Sample Store" is to facilitate Vertical Gifts' exhibitors promoting their products to overseas, the e-Sample Store will be presented in English; however, exhibitors can enjoy Chinese-English translation for their products and company introduction without charge. For more information, please log onto www.verticalgifts.com . For more information, please contact: Iris Fung Blackink Marketing Communications Tel: +852-3518-2576 Email: iris.fung@blackinkservice.com SOURCE Vertical Expo Services Company Limited
2007'02.01.Thu
Texas Instruments Reveals First Integrated 1394b OHCI Link/PHY at Microsoft WinHEC 2006
May 29, 2006
-- 1394b Performance Increase Benefits Windows Vista Users
WinHEC, SEATTLE, WA, May 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The
leader in 1394 (FireWire(R)) technology, Texas Instruments
Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today announced two new 1394b
devices at WinHEC in Seattle (May 23-25, 2006). Providing
faster speeds with fewer design challenges, the new TI
integrated Link/PHY device and the single-chip physical
(PHY) layer device improve 1394b performance in notebook
and personal computers. Live demonstrations of these new
devices will be featured in TI booth 113.
Further expanding the largest 1394b portfolio in the
industry, the introduction of the TSB83AA22ZAJ open-host
controller interface (OHCI) 1394b Link/PHY will give
designers the ability to build devices using a 1394b Link
and PHY layer on the same chip. The smallest 1394b device
on the market in a 7x7 mm u*BGA package, the TSB83AA22ZAJ,
is ideal for implementing high-performance 1394b in any
size notebook computer. In addition to complying with the
established 1394b standards requirements, the Link/PHY
product provides system advantages such as enhanced
compatibility with legacy digital video equipment (i.e. DV
camcorder), special power-down features and low-power
modes, and extra-large FIFOs for improved performance. The
TSB83AA22ZAJ also has two bilingual 1394b cable ports for
system configuration flexibility.
"Video editing is becoming easier and easier, and
having super-fast 1394b storage matched with a 1394b
enabled computer gives the user a much more enjoyable
experience," said Zeph Freeman, worldwide 1394
business development manager for TI. "We are excited
to see other major market players expand their 1394b
offerings. Microsoft's announcement of future 1394b
support in Windows Vista and Apple's recent announcement of
the 17" MacBook Pro with 1394b will give consumers new
high-performance options."
TI is also introducing the TSB81BA3D single-chip PHY
which contains three bilingual 1394b cable ports and is
fully-compatible with 1394a-2000. With data transfers of
up to 800 Mbps - nearly twice the transfer rate of USB2.0 -
TI's 1394b devices meet a growing demand for faster speeds
due to larger capacity hard-disk drive (HDD) storage and
high-definition video transfers.
Fully-interoperable with FireWire, i.LINK(TM) and
SB1394 implementations of IEEE standard 1394, the TSB81BA3D
is also used in computers, add-in cards, consumer and
industrial applications. "Microsoft plans to include
support for the IEEE standard 1394b in Windows Vista
shortly after the release of the new operating
system," said Mark Slezak, program manager, Windows
Device Experience Group at Microsoft. "Building on
the existing support in Windows XP for 1394a, the 800 Mbps
transfer rates in the IEEE 1394b standard (and the
specified rates of 1.6-Gbs, and 3.2-Gbs) will further
expand the bandwidth available in Windows for scenarios
such as high-definition audio and video transfers and
external storage solutions."
In addition to developing 1394b for the personal
computing space, TI is designing 1394b products to support
consumer electronics applications such as what is defined
by HANA (High Definition Audio Video Network Alliance).
HANA uses 1394 to enable single-cable connections,
ease-of-use and secure networks. The transition to
high-definition television (HDTV) and HD services, HANA's
goal is to address the growing consumer demand to easily
distribute content protected and non-content protected
material within the home. More information about TI's 1394
product line can be found at interface.ti.com
About Texas Instruments:
Texas Instruments Incorporated provides innovative DSP
and analog technologies to meet our customers' real world
signal processing requirements. In addition to
Semiconductor, the company includes the Educational &
Productivity Solutions business. TI is headquartered in
Dallas, Texas, and has manufacturing, design or sales
operations in more than 25 countries.
Texas Instruments is traded on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol TXN. More information is located
on the World Wide Web at http://www.ti.com .
Trademarks
All trademarks are property of their respective owners.
FireWire and the FireWire symbol are trademarks of Apple
Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
For more information, please contact:
Maureen "Mo" Sepulveda
Texas Instruments
Tel: +1-214-480-1117
Email: msepulveda@ti.com
Heather Mills
GolinHarris
Tel: +1-972-341-2512
Email: hmills@golinharris.com
SOURCE Texas Instruments Incorporated
2007'02.01.Thu
Kenfair International Launches 2nd Asia Expo - Poland
May 29, 2006
Poland's Only Trade Fair for Asian-made Toys, Gifts, Premium and Houseware
HONG KONG, May 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Kenfair
International (Overseas) Limited -- a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Hong Kong-based trade fair organizer, Kenfair
International (Holdings) Limited ("Kenfair
International" or the "Group") (SEHK Code:
223) -- today announced that the 2nd Asia Expo - Poland
will be held between 6 and 8 June 2006 at the Warszawskie
Centrum Expo XXI in Warsaw, Poland. The only trade fair
for Asian-made toys, gifts, premium and household products
in Poland, Asia Expo - Poland continues its mission to
facilitate trade amongst Asian manufacturers and European
buyers, especially those buyers from Eastern Europe.
Mr. Herbert Ip, Chairman of Kenfair International,
said, "The upcoming show will gather over 440
suppliers from Asian countries and regions such as China,
Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Korea, India and Pakistan,
featuring their wide arrays of products in more than 480
booths. The majority of the exhibitors are from China and
Hong Kong, who will set up 186 booths and 177 booths
respectively."
Mr. Duncan Cheung, Managing Director of Kenfair
International, said, "Since their accession to the
European Union, many Eastern European countries have
experienced rapid economic growth. It boosts the region's
demand for all types of light-industry products and in turn
presents endless business opportunities to Asian
manufacturers. That is why we selected Poland as the host
country for the fair."
To help exhibitors and buyers find their right business
partners, Kenfair International will introduce a new
business matching service in the upcoming edition, where
possible business discussions with suppliers can be
arranged for buyers sourcing for specific products.
Moreover, the organizer will also set up a customer service
centre and buyer hotline in Poland to handle buyer
enquiries.
About Kenfair International (Holdings) Limited
Established in 1991, Kenfair International (Holdings)
Limited is a leading trade fair organizer in Hong Kong.
Its flagship trade exhibitions include Hong Kong
International Toys & Gifts Show and Asian Gifts Premium
and Household Products Show ("Mega Show Part 1"),
Mega Show Part 2, Table Object Asia, Hong Kong Spring Fair,
Hong Kong International Furniture Fair in Hong Kong, Asia
Expo in London, Kenfair Asian expo in Las Vegas and Asia
Expo - Poland in Warsaw.
For more information, please contact:
Liz Liu / Sarah Leung
Public Relations Officer
Tel: +852-2311-8216
Fax: +852-2311-6629
Email: liz.liu@kenfair.com / sarah.leung@kenfair.com
Website: http://www.kenfair.com
SOURCE Kenfair International
2007'02.01.Thu
Disneyland Autopia Cars Race for Charity at the Indy 500
May 29, 2006
Futuristic Cars Set to Cruise to Hong Kong Disneyland this Summer
HONG KONG, May 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Checkered
flags waved, crowds cheered and engines roared as two
American traditions teamed up to celebrate special
milestones.
(Photos:
http://xprnnews.xfn.info/hkdisney/20060529/Indy5001.htm
http://xprnnews.xfn.info/hkdisney/20060529/Indy5002.htm )
In honor of Disneyland's 50th anniversary and the 90th
running of the Indianapolis 500, "The Happiest Place
on Earth" and "The Greatest Spectacle in
Racing" teamed up for the "Minnie Indy Charity
Race" on Wednesday, May 24 (Thursday, May 25 HK Time)
at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Minnie Mouse herself was on hand to wave in the likes
of Danica Patrick, Dan Wheldon, Eddie Cheever, Jr., and
Dario Franchitti who were among the 31 IndyCar Series
drivers who participated in the whimsical race. They were
driving miniature cars taken directly from one of
Disneyland's original opening day attractions -- the
ever-popular Autopia.
Instead of racing along the highways of Disneyland's
Tomorrowland, the Autopia cars and their speed-loving
IndyCar Series drivers traversed a comical obstacle race
course (at top speeds of 10 mph!) that took place on a
specially designed "Minnie" roadway created on
the famous Brickyard.
"The fun of Disneyland and the spectacle of the
Indy 500 are two great American traditions," said Matt
Ouimet, president of the Disneyland Resort. "As the
50th anniversary celebration enters its finale this summer
we are proud that our Autopia cars will be on hand to
commemorate 90 years of racing excellence at the Indy
500."
The Autopia tradition will continue this summer as a
new generation of futuristic cars cruise over to Hong Kong
Disneyland where they will make their new home in
Tomorrowland and immerse guests in a cosmic environment.
Guests of all ages will whiz down the highway of Tomorrow
in their electric space cars and encounter all sorts of
alien landscapes, promising a fun adventure for the entire
family.
"This summer Hong Kong Disneyland will welcome
its very own version of Autopia," said Bill Ernest,
executive vice president and managing director Hong Kong
Disneyland Resort. "This will be a very exciting
moment for all our guests as they experience for themselves
the classic Disney Autopia attraction -- with a futuristic
twist!"
About Hong Kong Disneyland
Opened on September 12, 2005 and located on lush Lantau
Island overlooking Penny's Bay, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
is a brand-new, world-class family entertainment and
recreation centre consisting of a magical, Disneyland-style
theme park of shows and attractions, Hong Kong Disneyland
Hotel (400 guestrooms), Disney's Hollywood Hotel (600
guestrooms) and Inspiration Lake, a public area featuring
boat rentals and a 3.5 hectare arboretum.
Offering guests of all ages a full day immersed in
imagination and creativity uniquely Disney, Hong Kong
Disneyland is home to Mickey Mouse, Snow White, Mulan and
other Disney characters beloved the world over.
About 500 Festival
The 500 Festival was created in 1957 to organize civic
events celebrating the Indianapolis 500. It is a
not-for-profit organization supported by corporate
sponsorships, memberships and ticket sales. More than
7,000 volunteers help produce 500 Festival events. With
annual participation of more than 425,000 people from
around Indiana and the world, it has grown to be one of the
largest festivals in the nation.
About Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been the worldwide
leader in motorsports entertainment since it opened in
1909. The facility has played host to the Indianapolis
500, the world's largest single-day annual sporting event,
since 1911 and also is the site of the United States Grand
Prix Formula One race and the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard
for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series.
Celebrating with the Indianapolis 500 is just one of
the highlights of 2006 as the global 50th anniversary
celebration of Disneyland continues around the world.
Throughout the year each Disney resort will showcase more
new innovative attractions and spectacular entertainment
designed to appeal to guests of all ages with immersive
experiences that only Disney can provide.
More information about the 50th anniversary
celebration, plus vacations at the Disneyland Resort are
available at http://www.disneyland.com , or by visiting
local travel agents.
http://www.hongkongdisneyland.com
For further inquiries please contact:
Anita Lai
Manager, Publicity
Hong Kong Disneyland
Tel: +852-3550-3316 / +852-9622-2962
Email: anita.lai@disney.com
Zoey Tsang
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide
Tel: +852-2884-8575 / +852-9550-1503
Email: zoey.tsang@ogilvy.com
SOURCE Hong Kong Disneyland
2007'02.01.Thu
J.LINDEBERG Re-Acquires USA Distribution
May 29, 2006
LONDON, May 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- 21st Century
Lifestyle brand J.LINDEBERG, is re-acquiring the US
distribution from Triluxe, their present North American
distributor and business partner. The acquisition will take
effect as of 1 July 2006.
J.LINDEBERG will establish a wholly owned subsidiary in
the USA with headquarters in New York. This will mean a new
focus for J.LINDEBERG and the commitment of greater
resources and investment in order to fully exploit the
global momentum of the brand within the US market. The
brand's complete modern lifestyle offering will be launched
in the US market, and the company is committed to providing
the resources and organizational structure required to
support the success of each of the collections:
-- J.LINDEBERG CONCEPT MEN'S AND WOMEN'S -- the main
line fashion
collections;
-- J.LINDEBERG DENIM -- the progressive jeans line;
-- JL -- the essential modern casual wear range;
-- JL SKI and JL GOLF -- the two line extensions of
technical sportswear.
The J.LINDEBERG flagship stores in New York and LA will
undergo facelifts and the company will commence a roll-out
of new retail stores beginning with the opening of a JL
store in Dallas in September 2006.
Creative Director Johan Lindeberg says: "The next
steps for J.LINDEBERG in the USA will be to expand the
distribution of each of the collections individually, and
at the same time fully package the brand as THE new
generation lifestyle brand in the USA. After our spring
summer 2007 men's wear fashion show in June in Milan this
year, my wife and I will be spending as much time as
possible in the US to make sure we get the J.LINDEBERG
culture fully established."
During the last 5 years, Triluxe has successfully
increased the distribution of J.LINDEBERG in the USA to an
annual wholesale turnover of
USD 10 million. The CEO of Triluxe, Al Israel, will
continue as a consultant and advisor to J.LINDEBERG USA.
Triluxe has simultaneously been granted an extension of
their distribution contract for the Canadian market. This
will enable them to focus all their efforts on developing
the distribution of J.LINDEBERG in Canada.
Arnt Jakobsen, CEO of J. LINDEBERG, says: "The US
team has done a superb job in building our brand in North
America, enabling us to concentrate our efforts in Europe.
Now, when Scandinavia is a maturing market and the UK is
fully established, we are ready to concentrate our efforts
on developing the USA. The US market is the number one
priority for us during the coming five years. The first
crucial steps will be to get the new organizational
structure in place by recruiting a new US Manager, and to
establish closer relationships with key majors and
retailers. We are also exploring opportunities with US
retail partners that will enable us to move even more
aggressively with our plans for a fully segmented
distribution, retail expansion, and strategic communication
of the J.LINDEBERG lifestyle."
Established in 1996 by Johan Lindeberg in New York and
Stockholm -- J.LINDEBERG includes J.LINDEBERG CONCEPT,
J.LINDEBERG DENIM and JL. With 10 flagship stores and
distribution in over 25 countries, Johan's vision to create
THE 21st Century Lifestyle brand for the modern consumer is
fast becoming a reality. For more information, please visit
http://www.jlindeberg.com .
For more information, please contact:
Nicks Ericsson
Email: nicks@jlindeberg.com
Alexandra Nelke
Tel: +44-(0)20-7841-5890
Email: alexandra@jlindeberg.co.uk
SOURCE J.LINDEBERG
2007'02.01.Thu
The Tempus International Awards for Lung Cancer Journalism
May 26, 2006
- The Global Lung Cancer Coalition (GLCC) is Excited to Launch the Tempus Journalism Awards, a Global Initiative to Recognize Excellence in Lung Cancer Reporting
LONDON, May 26 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Lung cancer is
the leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and
women and every year more than 1.2 million new cases of
lung and bronchial cancer are diagnosed worldwide.
Sufferers of lung cancer are often stigmatized for their
disease, which is seen as a `smoker's' disease. Through the
Tempus Journalism Award, we aim to raise the profile of lung
cancer in the media, increase worldwide disease awareness
and help remove the stigma associated with the disease.
The core award categories are:
-- Best Medical Article
-- Best Consumer Article
-- Best Broadcast Piece
The winner of each award category will receive a
EUR7000 research grant to further reporting of the disease,
as well as receiving the chance to speak during Lung Cancer
Awareness Month during November and/or at an international
lung cancer congress.
The awards are open to all global media and entries are
invited on all issues relating to lung cancer. The entry
must have been published or broadcast between 1 September
2005 and 1 September 2006. All entries will be judged by an
independent international panel comprising; the Global Lung
Cancer Coalition, leading editors and a lung cancer
specialist. The winners will be announced during Lung
Cancer Awareness Month, November 2006.
For more information including full application
details, visit http://www.tempusawards.com or e-mail
tempusawards@resolutecommunications.com
CLOSING DATE: 28 September 2006
For more information, please contact:
Ann Blumenstock
Resolute Communications
Tel: +44-207-357-8187
Email: ann.blumenstock@resolutecommunications.com
SOURCE GLCC, London
2007'02.01.Thu
Freestar Technology Reports Revenue Rises 19% In Third Quarter Of 2006, Ended March 31
May 26, 2006
Transactions Processed Climbs 18% to 4.07 Million
Highlights of Third Quarter, Ended March 31
-- Revenue rose more than 19% to $494,296 from
third-quarter 2005
-- Transactions processed climbed 18% to 4.07 million
from 3.45 million a year ago
Highlights of Nine Months, Ended March 31
-- Revenue increased more than 39% to $1.67 million
from $1.20 million in the same period a year ago
-- Transactions processed advanced more than 15% to
13.3 million from 11.5 million in the prior nine-month
period
SHANGHAI, China, May 26, /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
FreeStar Technology Corp. (OTC Bulletin Board: FSRT), an
international card payments processor and technology
company, reported earlier this week its financial results
for the third quarter of its 2006 fiscal year, ended March
31, 2006.
Revenue in the period rose more than 19% to $494,296
from $412,778 in the comparable period of fiscal 2005. The
company explained that the revenue gains reflect an increase
in fees obtained from development and consulting services as
well as processing fees generated by the company's
subsidiary Rahaxi Processing Oy.
The number of transactions processed increased 18% to
4.07 million during the quarter from 3.45 million during
the comparable period of the prior year.
Net loss for the period narrowed 65% to $2,216,696, or
$0.01 per share from $6,413,501 or $0.08 per share a year
ago.
FreeStar Technology President and CEO Paul Egan said,
"We are pleased to report another quarter of steady
progress in operations and in executing our business
strategy. Operationally, sales and volume continue to
grow, and we reduced our quarterly losses by 65% compared
to the comparable quarter of last year."
"Strategically," he added, "we
strengthened our balance sheet significantly during the
quarter. Moreover, we achieved a significant technological
advance, when Rahaxi Processing obtained EMV-Certification
for its Rahaxi-OTM(TM) software."
"To maintain our strong technological advantages,
we invested 29% more in product development in the quarter,
spending $457,000 on software development and acquisition,
up from $326,000 during the comparable quarter of the prior
year," he said.
For the nine months, ended March 31, 2006, revenue
increased more than 39% to $1.67 million from $1.20 million
reported for the nine months ended March 31, 2005. The
number of transactions processed gained more than 15% to
13.3 million from 11.5 million recorded in the nine months
ended March 31, 2005.
Egan said, "We are excited about the coming fiscal
year, believing that we are very well positioned to continue
to execute our business plan."
Other significant developments during the quarter:
-- The Company agreed to terms for $9.2 million in
financing with a group of European investors;
-- The Company signed a private placement agreement to
secure $10 million in financing from Svensk Kredit och
Finans AB, based in Stockholm, Sweden; and
-- The company's Rahaxi Processing Subsidiary achieved
EMV-Certification for its Rahaxi-OTI(TM) (Open Terminal
Interface) Middleware Solution.
About Freestar Technology Corp.
FreeStar Technology Corp. is a payment processing
company. Its wholly owned subsidiary Rahaxi Processing Oy.,
based in Helsinki, has a robust Northern European BASE24
credit card processing platform. Rahaxi currently processes
in excess of 1.35 million card payments per month for such
companies as Finnair, Ikea and Stockman. The company, based
in Dublin, Ireland, maintains satellite offices in Santo
Domingo, Dominican Republic, Helsinki and Geneva. For more
information, please visit http://www.freestartech.com
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this news release may contain
forward-looking information within the meaning of Rule 175
under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 3b-6 under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and are subject to the
safe harbor created by those rules. All statements, other
than statements of fact, included in this release,
including, without limitation, statements regarding
potential future plans and objectives of the companies, are
forward-looking statements that involve risks and
uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such
statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and
future events could differ materially from those anticipated
in such statements. Technical complications that may arise
could prevent the prompt implementation of any
strategically significant plan(s) outlined above. The
companies caution that these forward-looking statements are
further qualified by other factors including, but not
limited to, those set forth in FreeStar's Form 10-KSB
filing and other filings with the U S. Securities and
Exchange Commission (available at www.sec.gov). FreeStar
undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any
statements in this release, whether as a result of new
information, future events, or otherwise.
For more information, please contact:
Investor Relations:
Arun Chakraborty
Stern & Co.
Tel: +1-212-888-0044
Email: achakrab@sternco.com
Paul Egan
FreeStar Technology Corporation
Tel: +1-809-368-2001
Email: pegan@freestartech.com
SOURCE Freestar Technology Corp.
2007'02.01.Thu
MEDIA ADVISORY: First Silk Road Investment Forum -- New Business Frontiers
May 26, 2006
A press conference will be held on 1 June (Thursday)
from 10.00 -- 11.00 in the Large Conference meeting room in
the UNDP to publicize the launch of the first Silk Road
Investment Forum to be held 7-9 June in Xi'an.
The forum is organised under the Silk Road Initiative
(UNDP, UNCTAD, UN WTO) in cooperation with the
CICETE/Minitry of Commerce, City of Xi'an and BOAO Forum
for Asia.
The Silk Road Investment Forum will raise awareness
about investment opportunities, facilitate business
partnerships, and create public-private sector partnerships
for an improved business environment in the new business
frontiers of the Silk Road region.
The aim is to help the region reclaim its historic
position as a strategic crossroads between east and west
and stimulate investment opportunities based on
partnership, complementarity, and diversity. The forum's
regional approach will complement individual country
strategies and enable them to compete more effectively with
other economies and regions throughout the world.
-- WHAT: Investment opportunities and barriers to
trade along the Silk
Road (Discussion topics at the forum)
Participation from China and Central Asia
(Who's coming)
Benefits and expected results for China and
Central Asia
-- WHERE: Large Conference Meeting Room, UNDP
building
Address: No. 2 Liangmahe Nanlu, 100600
Beijing,
Tel: 010-6532-3892
-- WHEN: 10:00-11:00, 1 June 2006 (Thursday)
-- WHO: The panel will consist of:
* Mr. Khalid Malik, UN Resident Coordinator
and UNDP Resident
Representative in China
* Mr. Wojciech H¨¹bner, CTA, Silk Road
Inititaive
* Mr. Wang Yue, DG of CICETE
* Mr. Yao Shenhong, MD of Institute of BOAO
Forum For Asia
* Mr. Ma Yuliang, Vice President of China
Group Companies Promotions
Association
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Line Konstad,
Silk Road Initiative
Tel: +86-10-6532-3892
Email: line.konstad@public.un.org.cn
SOURCE United Nations Development Programme
2007'02.01.Thu
2006 China Oil/Gas Pipelines Summit to be Held Soon
May 26, 2006
SHANGHAI, China, May 26 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- 2006
China Oil/Gas Pipelines Summit is to be held in Beijing
from June 15th to 16th. It is organized by Avail
Corporation and has received warm support from Guangdong
Oil & Gas Association, China Petroleum Pipeline Bureau
(CPP), TGRC, Siemens and other companies and organizations
in China.
Senior representatives and leaders from the oil &
gas industry have been invited to the conference. Having
evaluated the capacity and preparation work, they will give
the presentation & lectures from different angles on how
China Oil & Gas Pipeline industry is developing.
Specifically, they will give the real case study and panel
discussion with their experience.
Many honored guests will be invited to the conference.
Official guests include: Gao Shixian, Director of Centre of
Energy Economics & Development Strategy, Energy
Research Institute, NDRC; Pan Jiahua, President of
Petroleum Storage & Transportation Committee of China
Petroleum Society, Former Chief Engineer of CPP; Liang
Chengyu, President of Guangdong Oil and Gas Association.
Corporate leaders include: Derek C Fothergill, Head of
M&S for PGI, Siemens; Tang Yali, Vice President of
Natural Gas & Pipeline Company, PetroChina Company; Sam
Shum, Gas Supply Planning Manager, The Hong Kong and China
Gas Company. Li Helin, Director & Academician of
Pipeline Research Center of CNPC and Liu Hequn, Chief
Engineer of Pipeline Institute, CNPC Planning Center are
also invited to the conference. In a word, guests from
different fields and of various backgrounds will gather
together and give lectures on the development of the Oil
and Gas Pipelines Industry. The conference will certainly
be a great business conference of 2006.
Tremendous economic growth has pushed China's domestic
capacity to its limits. While China's per capita oil
consumption still trails behind those of Europe and the
U.S., A Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman, revealed in his
statement just last year, that energy has become the single
most important issue for China on the world stage. Since
its entry in the WTO, China has evolved into an important
player that affects the international oil market. Relying
on its state-owned oil companies, China has assets and
interests in more than 20 countries, and has recently
overtaken Japan to settle in second place for the world's
biggest oil importer, after the U.S.
China's Gas Pipelines and Storage industry is a rapidly
developing dynamic industry. There are major projects that
have been planned or are already under construction such
West-East Pipelines, Russia-China Pipelines and many
provinces in China are speeding up their construction of
gas pipeline.
With this development, comes opportunity for both local
and foreign firms to be involved in this highly profitable
industry but there are also risks to minimize and pitfalls
to avoid. China Oil/Gas Pipelines and Storage Summit 2006
will provide an excellent networking platform for local and
international oil and gas companies, pipeline operators,
technology & equipments providers and other industry
players to discuss the latest & future development
trends in this industry.
For more information, please contact:
Josy Wei,
Avail Corporation Ltd.
Tel£º +86-21-6229-1717
Fax£º +86-21-6229-1718
Email: jwei@availcorp.com
Web: http://www.availcorp.com
SOURCE Avail Corporation Ltd.
2007'02.01.Thu
Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. Signs Leasing Agency Contract with Jones Lang Lasalle
May 26, 2006
SHANGHAI, China, May 26 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: SRRE; Website: http://www.sunrise.sh ), through its subsidiary company, Suzhou Gao Feng Hui Property Management Co. Ltd., has signed an agreement with Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. on May 16th, 2006. Under this agreement, Jones Lang LaSalle is appointed the exclusive leasing agent for the Sovereign Building in Suzhou, China. Jones Lang LaSalle is the world's leading real estate services and money management firm. Sunrise has a current co-investment project in the Sovereign Building in Suzhou; the project is a 31-storey office and commercial structure located in the Suzhou Industrial Park. According to Jones Lang LaSalle, 107 of the world's 500 leading manufacturing companies have operations in Suzhou. Lin Chi-Jung, President & CEO of Sunrise, stated, "We have confidence in the growth potential of the Suzhou market. It is rapidly becoming one of the world's leading manufacturing centers." Forward Looking Statements The common stock of Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. is quoted and traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the trading symbol "SRRE". This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of section 29A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forwarding-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performances and underlying assumption and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. Certain statements contained herein are forward-looking statements and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results, or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. The Company's expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and are believed by the Company to have a reasonable basis, including without limitations, management's examination of historical operating trends, data contained in the Company's records and other data available from third parties, but there can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs or projections will result, or be achieved, or accomplished. For more information, please contact: Vivian Zhang, Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. Tel: +86-21-6422-0505 x840 Email: ir@sunrise-sh.net Web: http://www.sunrise.sh SOURCE Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc
2007'02.01.Thu
Sunrise Real Estate Development Group, Inc. Changes Name to Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc.
May 25, 2006
SHANGHAI, China, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Sunrise
Real Estate Development Group, Inc. has changed its
corporate name to Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. as of May
23, 2006. The new name was adopted to more accurately
describe the business operations of the Company.
Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. has its common stock
traded and quoted on the United States OTC Bulletin Board
and it operates exclusively in the China. The Company has
primary marketing agency sales operations and co-investment
operations, and it sells both residential and commercial
projects.
In its co-investment operations, the Company obtains
exclusive marketing rights by paying a deposit to a real
estate developer for a specific project. In return, the
company controls all marketing and sales aspects of the
project, and it keeps all of the profit margin between the
ultimate sales price and the pre-arranged contractual price
paid to the developer. The Company's current co-investment
project is the Sovereign Building in Suzhou; it is a
31-storey office and commercial structure located in the
Suzhou Industrial Park.
Forward Looking Statements
The common stock of Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc. is
quoted and traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the
trading symbol "SRRE". This press release
contains forward-looking information within the meaning of
section 29A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forwarding-looking
statements include statements concerning plans, objectives,
goals, strategies, future events or performances and
underlying assumption and other statements, which are other
than statements of historical facts. Certain statements
contained herein are forward-looking statements and,
accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties, which could
cause actual results, or outcomes to differ materially from
those expressed in the forward-looking statements. The
Company's expectations, beliefs and projections are
expressed in good faith and are believed by the Company to
have a reasonable basis, including without limitations,
management's examination of historical operating trends,
data contained in the Company's records and other data
available from third parties, but there can be no assurance
that management's expectations, beliefs or projections will
result, or be achieved, or accomplished.
For more information, please contact:
Vivian Zhang,
Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc.
Tel: +86-21-6422-0505 x840
Email: ir@sunrise-sh.net
Web: http://www.sunrise.sh
SOURCE Sunrise Real Estate Group, Inc
2007'02.01.Thu
Babylon 6 Now Available
May 25, 2006
New Version Includes Text Translation and Encyclopedia Content In a Single Click
OR YEHUDA, Israel, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Babylon Ltd., the leading provider of single-click
translation and dictionary software, announced the release
of the latest version of its software, further
strengthening its market presence.
The new version introduces many new features, including
text translation, encyclopedias and much more all in a
single click. The latest version continues Babylon's
strategy to constantly add valuable tools and content to
its Babylon software, in order to offer its users more
value for their money.
Alon Carmeli, VP Marketing and sales, on the new
version, "The need for communication in foreign
languages has increased significantly in the last few years
due to the high adoption rates of Computers and the
Internet. Our mission is to provide people with a powerful
translation solution that is both simple and intuitive to
use. Babylon 6 offers yet another breakthrough in helping
users to easily and efficiently translate full texts and
instantly receive valuable content from a wide range of
authoritative sources, maintaining Babylon's renowned
single click ease of use."
The Babylon 6 launch will roll out worldwide gradually
with a series of events in Germany, Spain, France, The
Netherlands, Italy, Japan and Brazil, during the month of
May.
Babylon 6 New Features highlights:
Text Translation @ a click
Now the Babylon click provides text translation in 17
Languages in addition to single word and phrase
translations. Babylon 6 saves you time, no need to open
browser windows, no need for "copy/paste," just
click on the text to get results.
Wikipedia @ a click
Babylon now offers its users access to the Wikipedia
encyclopedia with over 2 million articles in 9 languages.
Leading publishers @ a click
Babylon 6 offers a wide range of leading dictionaries
and encyclopedias from the world's premier publishing
houses: Britannica, Oxford, Merriam Webster, Pons,
Larousse, Langenscheidt, Taishukan, Michaelis, Van-Dale and
many more -- all in a single click (for an additional fee).
More answers @ a click
Babylon 6 offers an improved personalized results
technology that provides accurate results in a single click
from a wide range of authoritative sources.
Spelling alternatives @ a click
The improved automatic spelling feature available in
Babylon 6 provides solutions for common typos and wording
problems.
Millions of new terms @ a click
Over 3 Million new terms have been added to our
dictionaries. All the Babylon dictionaries have been
expanded and updated to include the latest terminology and
translations, including slang, technology and business
terms.
Babylon 6 is available for download and purchase from
the Babylon website: http://www.babylon.com .
About Babylon Ltd.
Babylon is the leading provider of single-click
translation and information access solutions. Babylon 6 is
desktop software that is available for private individuals
as well as corporations.
Babylon also offers add-on premium content from
world-renowned dictionary publishers, including Oxford
University Press, Britannica, Merriam-Webster, Larousse,
Vox, Langenscheidt, Pons, Van Dale, Melhoramentos, and
Taishukan.
Babylon 6 offers single click results from Wikipedia
encyclopedia in 9 languages.
The Babylon-Pro user base exceeds 35 million desktop
installations. Babylon corporate customers include industry
leaders such as Avnet, BASF, Daimler Chrysler, Ericsson,
Ernst & Young, Fujitsu Siemens, Gillette/Braun, IBM,
John Deere, Lufthansa, Motorola, Nestle France, Oce,
Petrobras, Philips, UBS, Xerox, and many more.
A major shareholder in Babylon is Reed Elsevier
Ventures, the venture arm of Reed Elsevier (LSE: REL, NYSE:
RUK), and Formula Vision Technologies, subsidiary of Formula
Systems (Nasdaq: FORTY).
For additional information, visit Babylon's website at
http://www.babylon.com .
For more information, please contact:
Tlalit Prescher,
Babylon Ltd.
Tel: +972-3-538-2102
Email: tlalit@babylon.com
SOURCE Babylon
2007'02.01.Thu
Atticus Capital Supports Euronext Management in Their Pursuit of Exchange Consolidation
May 25, 2006
NEW YORK, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- We continue to
believe that consolidation creates value in the exchange
industry. We applaud Mr. Hessels and Mr. Theodore for
carefully exploring all opportunities, and believe they are
sincerely trying to create shareholder value by working
towards a deal. Euronext's industry consolidation
experience makes them uniquely prepared to evaluate both
the Deutsche Boerse and New York Stock Exchange offers.
We support Euronext's board and management's assessment
of which deal is most beneficial to shareholders, and
believe they will fairly evaluate any new or improved
offers. In addition, we agree with management's view that a
transaction is in the best interest of all shareholders.
Atticus currently controls approximately 9% of
Euronext, 6% of NYSE, and 5% of Deutsche Boerse.
For more information, please contact:
Rob Coburn
Tel: +1-212-373-0894
SOURCE Atticus Capital LP
2007'02.01.Thu
NASDAQ Signs Memoranda of Understanding With Zhejiang Province and Jiangsu Province, China
May 25, 2006
NEW YORK, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The NASDAQ
Stock Market Inc. (NASDAQ(R); NDAQ) today announced that it
had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Zhejiang
Province Financial Affairs Office, based in Hangzhou, China
and the Jiangsu Province Economic and Trade Commission,
based in Nanjing, Jiangsu province. Both signing ceremonies
took place in New York.
The memoranda envisage promoting the development of the
financial services market in the two Chinese provinces, as
well as providing opportunities for companies from Zhejiang
and Jiangsu in the United States. NASDAQ and both provinces
have agreed to exchange information, conduct training
programs and provide capital raising opportunities to
promote the growth of Zhejiang and Jiangsu based companies
in China and overseas. Both provinces have also agreed that
NASDAQ will be the preferred stock exchange for Zhejiang and
Jiangsu companies when listing in the United States.
NASDAQ already has a strong presence in China. There
are currently 28 Chinese companies listed on NASDAQ with a
market cap of $734 million.
Charlotte Crosswell, Head of NASDAQ International said,
"The two MOUs will further enhance the links between
NASDAQ and China and will serve to provide an increasingly
effective forum for exchange of views and ideas going
forward."
NASDAQ is the largest U.S. electronic stock market.
With approximately 3,200 companies, it lists more companies
and, on average, trades more shares per day than any other
U.S. market. It is home to companies that are leaders
across all areas of business including technology, retail,
communications, financial services, transportation, media
and biotechnology. NASDAQ is the primary market for trading
NASDAQ-listed stocks. For more information about NASDAQ,
visit the NASDAQ Web site at http://www.nasdaq.com or the
NASDAQ
Newsroom at http://www.nasdaq.com/newsroom/ .
For more information, please contact:
Harriet Benson
Tel: +44-20-7825-5544
SOURCE The NASDAQ Stock Market Inc.
2007'02.01.Thu
The9 Reports First Quarter 2006 Unaudited Financial Results
May 25, 2006
SHANGHAI, China, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The9
Limited (Nasdaq: NCTY), a leading online game operator in
China, today announced its unaudited financial results for
the first quarter ended March 31, 2006.
First Quarter 2006 Financial Highlights:
- Net revenues for the first quarter of 2006 were
RMB212.1 million
(US$26.5 million), which remained stable from the
previous quarter and
grew substantially from the same period of last
year.
- Net revenues attributable to the operation of
Blizzard Entertainment's
World of Warcraft(R) ("WoW"), which include
revenues from game playing
time, merchandise sales and other related revenues,
were RMB209.9
million (US$26.2 million) in the first quarter of
2006, and remained
steady from the previous quarter.(1)
- Net income for the first quarter of 2006 was RMB58.8
million (US$7.3
million), a 14% decrease from RMB68.3 million (US$8.5
million) in the
fourth quarter of 2005. Excluding the impact of
RMB13.4 million (US$1.7
million) financial subsidy received from the local
government and the
RMB6.7 million (US$0.8 million) gain from investment
disposal of 21%
equity interest in 9Webzen in the fourth quarter of
2005, net income for
the first quarter of 2006 increased 22% sequentially
in the first
quarter of 2006.
- Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) was RMB104.1 million
(US$13.0 million) in the
first quarter, compared with adjusted EBITDA
(non-GAAP) of RMB108.9
million (US$13.6 million) in the fourth quarter of
2005.
- Fully diluted earnings per share (one American
Depositary Share "ADS"
represents one ordinary share) were RMB2.42 (US$0.30)
for the first
quarter of 2006 compared with RMB2.82 (US$0.35) for
the fourth quarter
of 2005. Fully diluted adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)
per share were
RMB4.28 (US$0.53) for the first quarter of 2006
compared with RMB4.50
(US$0.56) for the fourth quarter of 2005.
Management Comments:
Commenting on the first quarter 2006 results, Jun Zhu,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The9 Limited, said,
"We are pleased to report that we have achieved solid
financial results in the first quarter and have seen
encouraging operational matrix for our operation of
Blizzard Entertainment's World of Warcraft in China,
despite the impact of Chinese New Year holiday during the
quarter. In the first quarter, we attained peak and
average concurrent WoW users of approximately 610,000 and
290,000 in mainland China, respectively. As of March 31,
2006, approximately 4.3 million paid accounts have been
activated(2). In addition, to further diversify and expand
our game portfolio, in April 2006, we successfully obtained
the exclusive license to operate Guild Wars(R), a
Competitive Online Role-Playing Game ("CORPG"),
in mainland China. We believe that Guild Wars(R), together
with WoW, Soul of the Ultimate Nation(R) and Granado
Espada(R), constitute a very strong game pipeline."
Hannah Lee, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer,
commented, "We're pleased to see Blizzard
Entertainment's World of Warcraft continued to be very
popular amongst Chinese online game players in the first
quarter of 2006 and that we have regained user growth
momentum shortly after the Chinese New Year holiday. We
will continue to promote Blizzard Entertainment's WoW game
throughout mainland China and at the same time, be very
well-positioned to introduce and service additional
high-caliber MMORPGs from our extensive pipeline to Chinese
online game players."
Discussion of The9's Unaudited First Quarter 2006
Results
Revenues
For the first quarter of 2006, The9 reported net
revenues of RMB212.1 million (US$26.5 million), which
remained stable from the previous quarter. Net revenues
attributable to the operation of Blizzard Entertainment's
World of Warcraft, including game playing time, merchandise
sales and other related revenues, also remained steady at
RMB209.9 million (US$26.2 million). This was mainly due to
the impact of Blizzard Entertainment's WoW during the
week-long Chinese New Year holiday.
For the first quarter of 2006, online game services
gross revenues were RMB220.8 million (US$27.5 million),
remained relatively unchanged at RMB 220.7 (US$27.5
million) in the fourth quarter of 2005.
For the first quarter of 2006, gross revenues from game
operating support, website solutions and advertisement,
which principally relate to game operating services
provided to certain affiliated companies, were RMB0.8
million (US$0.1 million), a 15% decrease from RMB0.9
million (US$0.1 million) in the previous quarter. The
decrease in such revenues was mainly due to the decline in
MU revenues.
Other gross revenues mainly included sales of Blizzard
Entertainment's World of Warcraft related accessories and
merchandises as well as miscellaneous services revenues.
For the first quarter of 2006, other gross revenues
increased by 7% to RMB1.8 million (US$0.2 million) from
RMB1.6 million (US$0.2 million) in the fourth quarter of
2005. The increase was mainly due to higher miscellaneous
services revenues, partially offset by lower sales of
Blizzard Entertainment's WoW related merchandises.
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the first quarter of 2006 was RMB95.1
million (US$11.9 million), slightly down from RMB97.3
million (US$12.1 million) in the fourth quarter of 2005.
Gross profit margin remained steady at 45% for the first
quarter of 2006 compared to 46% in the previous quarter.
This was primarily because although our net revenues
remained stable compared to the previous quarter, we opened
the sixth server site for Blizzard Entertainment's World of
Warcraft in January 2006 and direct costs such as
additional server depreciation and internet data center
rentals were included in the cost of services for the first
quarter of 2006.
Operating Expenses
For the first quarter of 2006, operating expenses
decreased by 14% to RMB38.3 million (US$4.8 million) from
RMB44.7 million (US$5.6 million) in the fourth quarter of
2005. This was a combined result of more targeted and
focused use of sales and marketing expenses and certain
year-end related general and administrative expenses in the
fourth quarter of 2005, partially offset by a slight
increase of product development expenses and the inclusion
of share-based compensation expenses.
Share-based compensation expenses, which were allocated
to related expense line items pursuant to the requirement of
SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin 107, amounted to RMB4.5
million ($0.6 million) in the first quarter of 2006, due to
adoption of SFAS 123(R), Share-Based Payment, effective from
January 1, 2006. Under the SFAS 123R, companies are required
to measure compensation expense for all share-based
payments, including employee stock options, at fair value.
Profit from Operations
As a result of the aforementioned factors, for the
first quarter of 2006, profit from operations increased by
8% to RMB56.8 million (US$7.1 million) from RMB52.6 million
(US$6.6 million) in the fourth quarter of 2005.
Other Income (Expenses)
Other expenses for the first quarter of 2006 was RMB0.5
million (US$0.06 million) compared to other income of
RMB12.2 million (US$1.5 million) in the fourth quarter of
2005. This was primarily because in the fourth quarter of
2005, we recognized a financial subsidy from the local
government amounted to RMB13.4 million (US$1.7 million),
whereas no similar financial subsidy was received in the
first quarter of 2006.
Equity in Profit (Loss) of Affiliated Companies
For the first quarter of 2006, equity in profit from
affiliated companies, net of taxes, amounted to RMB1.1
million (US$0.1 million), compared to equity in loss from
affiliated companies of RMB4.6 million (US$0.6 million) for
the fourth quarter of 2005. This was mainly because the
joint venture, of which we have 30% equity interest, that
operates Blizzard Entertainment's World of Warcraft in
other regions of Greater China, commercially launched the
WoW in November 2005 and enjoyed a full quarter of
profitable operating results in the first quarter of 2006.
Net Income
For the first quarter of 2006, net income was RMB58.8
million (US$7.3 million), a 14% decrease from RMB68.3
million (US$8.5 million) in the fourth quarter of 2005. In
addition to the cumulative effect of the foregoing factors,
this sequential decline was also because in the fourth
quarter of 2005, we recognized a RMB6.7 million (US$0.8
million) gain from investment disposal from the sale of 21%
of our equity interest in 9Webzen, the joint venture that
operates a 2.5D MMORPG game, MU, to Webzen. If excluding
such gain from investment disposal and the aforementioned
financial subsidy we received from local government in the
fourth quarter of 2005, net income for the first quarter of
2006 should have increased 22% sequentially from the
previous quarter. Fully diluted earnings per share and per
ADS for the first quarter of 2006 was RMB2.42 (US$0.30),
compared to RMB2.82 (US$0.35) in the fourth quarter of
2005.
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) is defined as earnings or
loss, respectively, before depreciation of fixed assets,
impairment and amortization of intangibles, income tax
expenses/benefits and share-based compensation expenses
relating to stock options granted to directors and
employees, as applicable. For the first quarter of 2006,
adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) was RMB104.1 million (US$13.0
million) compared to adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) of RMB108.9
million (US$13.6 million) for the previous quarter.
For the first quarter of 2006, fully diluted adjusted
EBITDA (non-GAAP) per share was RMB4.28 (US$0.53) compared
with RMB4.50 (US$0.56) for the fourth quarter of 2005.
As of March 31, 2006, the Company's total cash and cash
equivalents balance was RMB611.7 million (US$76.3 million),
compared to the total cash and cash equivalents of RMB488.2
million (US$60.9 million) as at December 31, 2005. The
increase was mainly due to the proceeds received from the
sales of prepaid cards, offset in part by prepaid royalty
payments to the licensor relating to Blizzard
Entertainment's WoW's China operations and the final
payments relating to the purchase of the remaining 31.1%
interest in the entity that operates WoW in China.
The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into U.S. dollars
(US$) in this press release is based on the noon buying
rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in
Renminbi per U.S. dollar as certified for customs purposes
by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of March 31,
2006, which was RMB8.017 to US$1.00. The percentages
stated in this press release are calculated based on the
RMB amounts.
Non-GAAP Measures
To supplement the consolidated financial statements
presented in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States ("US
GAAP"), The9 uses non-GAAP measures of adjusted
EBITDA, which are adjusted from the most directly
comparable financial measures calculated and presented in
accordance with GAAP to exclude certain expenses. These
non-GAAP financial measures are provided to enhance
investors' overall understanding of the company's financial
performance.
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) is defined as earnings and
loss, respectively, before depreciation of fixed assets,
amortization of intangibles, income tax expenses/benefits
and share-based compensation expenses relating to stock
options granted to directors and employees, as applicable.
The company believes its adjusted EBITDA provides useful
information to both management and investors as it excludes
certain expenses that are not expected to result in future
cash payments. This non-GAAP measure should be considered
in addition to results prepared in accordance with GAAP,
but should not be considered a substitute for or superior
to GAAP results. For more information on this non-GAAP
financial measure, please see the tables captioned
"Reconciliation of non-GAAP to GAAP results" set
forth at the end of this release.
Recent Developments
In April 2006, The9 announced that it has entered into
an agreement with NCsoft Corporation, a worldwide leading
developer and publisher of online games, for a three-year
exclusive license (from commercialization) to operate the
Guild Wars(R) game, a Competitive Online Role-Playing Game
("CORPG"), in mainland China. Guild Wars(R) has
been a very popular game worldwide since it was
commercially launched globally in late April, 2005. Its
second Chapter - Guild Wars: Factions was recently launched
globally on April 28, 2006 and has seen strong momentum, and
was ranked No.1 on the UK PC Chart, one of Europe's most
authoritative game ranking billboards.
In May 2006, The9 signed a cooperation agreement with
Shanghai EE Media Co., Ltd and Shanghai Sunny Advertising
Co., Ltd to develop and operate a casual game "Super
Girl Online". The9 will be responsible for operating
the game while the two partners will be responsible for the
game's licensing and promotion planning, respectively. The
"Super Girl Online" game is based on the hit
female singing contest based TV program of "Super
Girl" that enjoyed high popularity among Chinese
youth. The "Super Girl Online" game will not only
be a casual online game, but will also be a strong
communication platform and online interactive community for
its players. The9 launched the official website for the
"Super Girl Online" game on May 24, 2006.
Conference call / Webcast information
The9's management team will host a conference call on
Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at 9:00 PM, U.S. Eastern Time,
corresponding with Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 9:00 AM
Beijing Time, to present an overview of The9's financial
performance and business operations.
Investors, analysts and other interested parties will
be able to access the live conference by calling
+1-617-614-2703, password "81178862." In the
U.S., members of the financial community may also
participate in the call by dialing toll-free
+1-866-800-8649, password "81178862". A replay
of the call will be available through May 31, 2006. The
dial-in details for the replay: U.S. toll free number
+1-888-286-8010, International dial-in number
+1-617-801-6888; Password "61328951".
The9 will also provide a live webcast of the earnings
call. Participants in the webcast should log onto the
company's web site www.corp.the9.com 15 minutes prior to
the call, then click on the icon for "Q1 2006 The9
Ltd. Earnings Conference Call" and follow the
instructions.
About The9 Limited
The9 Limited is a leading online game operator in
China. The9's business is primarily focused on operating
and developing MMORPGs for the Chinese online game players
market. The9 directly or through affiliates operates
licensed MMORPGs, consisting of Blizzard Entertainment's
World of Warcraft(R), MU(R) and Mystina Online(R), in
China. It has also obtained exclusive licenses to operate
additional MMORPGs in China, including Guild Wars(R), Soul
of The Ultimate Nation(R), and Granado Espada(R). In
addition, The9 has developed its first proprietary MMORPG
titled "Joyful Journey West", which entered
all-access public open beta testing in August 2005.
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements.
These statements are made under the "safe harbor"
provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be
identified by terminology such as "will,"
"expects," "anticipates,"
"future," "intends," "plans,"
"believes," "estimates" and similar
statements. Among other things, the business outlook and
quotations from management in this press release contain
forward-looking statements. The9 may also make written or
oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 20-F
and 6-K, etc., in its annual report to shareholders, in
press releases and other written materials and in oral
statements made by its officers, directors or employees to
third parties. Statements that are not historical facts,
including statements about The9's beliefs and expectations,
are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements
involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of
important factors could cause actual results to differ
materially from those contained in any forward-looking
statement. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but
are not limited to, The9's limited operating history as an
online game operator, political and economic policies of
the Chinese government, the laws and regulations governing
the online game industry and information disseminated over
the Internet in China, intensified government regulation of
Internet cafes, The9's ability to retain existing players
and attract new players, license, develop or acquire
additional online games that are appealing to users,
anticipate and adapt to changing consumer preferences and
respond to competitive market conditions, and other risks
and uncertainties outlined in The9's filings with the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission, including its
registration statement on Form F-1, as amended, and annual
report on Form 20-F. The9 does not undertake any
obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except
as required under applicable law.
THE9 LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Expressed in Renminbi - RMB and US Dollars - US$,
except share data)
Quarter Ended
March 31, December 31, March
31, March 31,
2005 2005 2006
2006
RMB RMB RMB
US$
(unaudited) (unaudited)
(unaudited) (unaudited)
Revenues:
Online game
services 209,717 220,717,384
220,780,344 27,539,023
Game operating
support,
website
solutions and
advertisement 3,164,888 887,822
755,100 94,187
Short message
services 3,146,323 162,674
175,058 21,836
Other revenues 6,273,506 1,632,734
1,754,060 218,793
12,794,434 223,400,614
223,464,562 27,873,839
Sales Taxes (539,152) (11,164,248)
(11,317,419) (1,411,678)
Net Revenues 12,255,282 212,236,366
212,147,143 26,462,161
Cost of Services (7,624,678)(114,950,079)
(117,045,133) (14,599,617)
Gross Profit 4,630,604 97,286,287
95,102,010 11,862,544
Operating Expenses:
Product
development (8,279,103) (7,825,264)
(8,906,763) (1,110,985)
Sales and
marketing (5,060,598) (14,172,398)
(11,026,504) (1,375,390)
General and
administrative (8,592,089) (22,666,412)
(18,337,604) (2,287,340)
Total operating
expenses: (21,931,790) (44,664,074)
(38,270,871) (4,773,715)
Profit (Loss) from
operations (17,301,186) 52,622,213
56,831,139 7,088,829
Interest income,
net 3,021,368 642,082
1,208,529 150,746
Other income
(expenses), net (169,056) 12,208,696
(498,355) (62,162)
Income before
income tax
benefit (expense),
gain on investment
disposal, minority
interest and
equity in profit
(loss) of
affiliated
companies (14,448,874) 65,472,991
57,541,313 7,177,413
Income tax benefit
(expense) 1,254,558 733,186
188,891 23,561
Minority interests 3,192,464 -
- -
Income before gain
on investment
disposal and
equity in profit
(loss) of
affiliated
companies (10,001,852) 66,206,177
57,730,204 7,200,974
Gain on investment
disposal - 6,715,917
- -
Equity in profit
(loss) of
affiliated
companies, net of
taxes (495,447) (4,601,416)
1,077,589 134,413
Net Income (loss) (10,497,299) 68,320,678
58,807,793 7,335,387
Other comprehensive
income (loss):
Translation
adjustments (551) 1,115,748
37 5
Comprehensive
Income (loss) (10,497,850) 69,436,426
58,807,830 7,335,392
Earnings per share
- Basic (0.43) 2.82
2.42 0.30
- Diluted (0.43) 2.82
2.42 0.30
Weighted average
shares outstanding
- Basic 24,186,250 24,206,154
24,252,920 24,252,920
- Diluted 24,186,250 24,218,551
24,301,835 24,301,835
THE9 LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Expressed in Renminbi - RMB and US Dollars - US$)
As
at
December 31, March
31, March 31,
2005 2006
2006
RMB RMB
US$
(unaudited)
(unaudited) (unaudited)
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 488,244,667
611,690,626 76,299,192
Accounts receivable 10,593,866
7,117,876 887,848
Due from related parties 12,395,125
12,713,716 1,585,845
Advances to suppliers 4,289,443
4,432,866 552,933
Deferred costs 24,075,214
30,293,551 3,778,664
Prepayments and other
current assets 28,395,864
35,170,892 4,387,039
Prepaid royalties 42,995,946
22,953,245 2,863,072
Total current assets 610,990,125
724,372,772 90,354,593
Investments in affiliated
companies 46,835,993
47,913,581 5,976,498
Property, equipment and
software 231,436,683
221,585,026 27,639,395
Goodwill 30,199,751
30,199,751 3,766,964
Intangible assets 289,035,226
266,093,135 33,191,111
Long-term deposits 3,132,338
3,132,338 390,710
Deferred tax assets,
non- current 2,104,464
2,874,259 358,521
Total Assets 1,213,734,580
1,296,170,862 161,677,792
Liabilities and Shareholders'
Equity
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable 15,948,674
7,120,233 888,142
Due to related parties 3,181,004
2,100,894 262,055
Other taxes payable 8,123,356
8,242,817 1,028,167
Advances from customers 61,651,267
72,317,690 9,020,543
Deferred revenue 76,514,940
96,804,555 12,074,910
Other payables and accruals 26,793,070
25,854,190 3,224,921
Acquisition related liability 79,537,653
39,965,380 4,985,079
Total current liabilities 271,749,964
252,405,759 31,483,817
Minority interests -
- -
Commitments and contingencies -
- -
Shareholders' Equity
Common shares (US$0.01 par
value; 24,214,130 shares
issued and outstanding as of
December 31 2005) 2,004,033
2,026,642 252,793
Additional paid-in capital 860,068,478
903,018,526 112,637,960
Statutory reserves 54,172
20,745,422 2,587,679
Accumulated other
comprehensive income 59,346
59,383 7,407
Retained earnings 79,798,587
117,915,130 14,708,136
Total shareholders' equity 941,984,616
1,043,765,103 130,193,975
Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity 1,213,734,580
1,296,170,862 161,677,792
THE9 LIMITED
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP TO GAAP RESULTS
(Expressed in Renminbi - RMB and US Dollars - US$,
except share data)
Quarter
Ended
March 31, December 31,
March 31, March 31,
2005 2005
2006 2006
RMB RMB
RMB US$
(unaudited) (unaudited)
(unaudited) (unaudited)
GAAP net income (loss) (10,497,299) 68,320,678
58,807,793 7,335,387
Depreciation of fixed
assets 1,328,222 16,065,956
18,030,884 2,249,081
Amortization of
intangibles 379,054 25,248,349
22,942,091 2,861,680
Share-based
compensation 13,376 18,646
4,537,796 566,022
Income tax expense
(benefit) (1,254,558) (733,186)
(188,891) (23,561)
Adjusted EBITDA
(Non-GAAP) (10,031,205) 108,920,443
104,129,673 12,988,609
GAAP earnings per share
- Basic (0.43) 2.82
2.42 0.30
- Diluted (0.43) 2.82
2.42 0.30
Non-GAAP adjusted
EBITDA per share
- Basic (0.41) 4.50
4.29 0.54
- Diluted (0.41) 4.50
4.28 0.53
Weighted average shares
outstanding
- Basic 24,186,250 24,206,154
24,252,920 24,252,920
- Diluted 24,186,250 24,218,551
24,301,835 24,301,835
(1) We sell prepaid WoW playing time and recognize
revenues from such
sales based upon the actual usage of WoW playing
time by end users.
We are provided with data on end users' actual
usage of WoW playing
time by the licensor of WoW, from which we derive
the revenues to be
recognized in relation to the WoW game.
(2) Activated paid accounts represent the number of CD
Keys that we sold
to customers and have been activated by the
customers so as to log-on
to the World of Warcraft game in China.
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Dahlia Wei
Senior Manager, Investor Relations
The9 Limited
Tel: +86-21-5172-9990
Email: IR@corp.the9.com
Website: http://www.corp.the9.com
SOURCE The9 Limited
2007'02.01.Thu
The Beatles(TM) LOVE(TM) by Cirque du Soleil(R)
May 25, 2006
Director - Dominic Champagne, Music Directors - Sir George Martin & Giles Martin
Press Conference Featuring Sneak Preview Performance Held Today at The Mirage in Las Vegas
Press Conference Featuring Sneak Preview Performance Held Today at The Mirage in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS, May 25 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Media from
around the world experienced the first `sneak preview' of
the latest Cirque du Soleil show, LOVE, a co-production
with Apple Corps Ltd., which celebrates the musical legacy
of The Beatles. A press conference was held today in the
custom-built theatre at The Mirage in Las Vegas.
(Photo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060524/LAW002-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060524/LAW002-b
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060524/LAW002-c )
Music Directors Sir George Martin and his son Giles
Martin have been working with the entire archive of Beatles
recordings to create the musical component for LOVE. They
were present at the press conference today to describe
their unprecedented approach to the music for a stage
production. "I think we will achieve a real sense of
drama with the music, the audience will feel as though they
are actually in the theatre with the band. People are going
to be knocked out by what they are hearing!," said
Giles Martin.
Using the master tapes at Abbey Road Studios, Sir
George and Giles have created a unique soundscape of
Beatles music for LOVE. "We wanted to make sure there
are enough good, solid hit songs in the show, but we don't
want it to be a catalog of `best of's'," said Sir
George Martin. "We also wanted to put in some
interesting and not well-known Beatles music and use
fragments of songs. The show will be a unique and magical
experience."
Dominic Champagne, who directed and wrote the original
concept for the show, explained his vision for LOVE.
"I wanted to create a Beatles experience rather than a
Beatles story, taking the audience on an emotional journey
rather than a chronological one," said Dominic
Champagne.
LOVE brings the magic of Cirque du Soleil together with
the spirit and passion of The Beatles to create a vivid,
intimate and powerful entertainment experience. It
captures the essence of love that John, Paul, George and
Ringo inspired during their astonishing adventure
together.
LOVE evokes the exuberant and irreverent spirit of The
Beatles. "When we embarked on this extraordinary
adventure in 2002," said Gilles Ste-Croix, Show
Concept Creator and Director of Creation, "we set out
to create a timeless, three-dimensional evocation of The
Beatles music. Drawn from the poetry of the lyrics, we
developed a preliminary concept that explored the content
of the songs in a series of scenes inhabited by real and
imaginary people." The international cast of 60
channels a raw, youthful energy underscored by aerial
performance, extreme sports and urban, freestyle dance.
LOVE will be presented in a custom-built theatre at The
Mirage featuring 360 degree seating and advanced high
definition video projections with 100-foot digital, moving
images. The panoramic surround sound system will envelop
the audience who will experience The Beatles music like
never before ...
Apple Corps Ltd. is planning to release The LOVE album
through EMI Music later this year.
Preview performances for LOVE begin June 2. The Gala
Premiere will be held Friday, June 30, 2006. LOVE will be
presented exclusively at The Mirage in Las Vegas. This
joint artistic venture marks the first time that The
Beatles company, Apple Corps Ltd., has agreed to a major
theatrical partnership. The project was born out of a
personal friendship and mutual admiration between the late
George Harrison and Cirque du Soleil founder Guy
Laliberte.
Inspiration: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George
Harrison, Ringo Starr.
Cirque du Soleil Creative Team:
Guy Laliberte - Guide, Show Concept Creator
Dominic Champagne - Director and Writer, Show Concept
Creator
Gilles Ste-Croix - Director of Creation, Show Concept
Creator
Chantal Tremblay - Associate Director of Creation
Jean Rabasse - Theatre and Set Designer
Philippe Guillotel - Costume Designer
Jonathan Deans - Sound Designer
Yves Aucoin - Lighting Designer
Francis Laporte - Video Projection Designer
Hansel Cereza and Dave St-Pierre - Choreographers
Guy St-Amour - Acrobatic & Rigging Designer
Daniel Cola - Acrobatic Performance Designer
Nathalie Gagne - Make-up Designer
Patricia Ruel - Props Designer
Michael Curry - Puppet Designer
Guest Creators:
Andre Simard - Aerial Acrobatic Designer
Alexis Martin - Dramaturge Consultant
Francois Perusse - Comic Audio-clips Designer
For Apple Corps Ltd.:
Sir George Martin - Music Director
Giles Martin - Music Director
Neil Aspinall - Executive Producer
TICKET PRICES:
*$150, $125, $99, $69
All preview performances* will be discounted 25
percent.
*Preview performances for LOVE begin June 2 and run
through June 29. During these performances, the creative
team is in the very final stages of production. The
audience's reaction and participation is an important step
in this process. The artistic direction of LOVE reserves
the right to interrupt the performance to make adjustments
as necessary.
SHOW SCHEDULE:
Preview performances will be presented nightly at
7:00pm. In addition, there will be 10:30pm performances on
limited dates. Please consult the most current show
schedule at http://www.cirquedusoleil.com . Schedule is
subject to change without notice.
Following the preview period, LOVE will be performed
Thursday through Monday with no shows on Tuesdays or
Wednesdays. Beginning July 1, there will be two shows
nightly at 7:30pm & 10:30pm.
TO RESERVE TICKETS:
By phone: 702 792 7777 or 800 963 9634
Online: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com ,
http://www.thebeatles.com or http://www.mirage.com .
In person: At the LOVE box office at The Mirage or any
of the MGM MIRAGE
box offices in Las Vegas.
Ownership of the trademarks: Apple Corps Limited for
The Beatles (word and design), Cirque du Soleil for Cirque
du Soleil (word and design) and The Cirque Apple Creation
Partnership for LOVE (word and design).
Trademarks used under license.
For more information, please contact:
Anita Nelving
Public Relations Manager of Cirque du Soleil
Tel: +1-702-352-0224
+1-702-692-8327
Email: anita.nelving@cirquedusoleil.com
SOURCE Cirque du Soleil
2007'02.01.Thu
Microsoft and CDC Software Form Alliance to Provide Enterprise Applications as On-Site Deployments and Via Software as a Service
May 24, 2006
Relationship Offers Customers in China Integrated CRM and SaaS Solutions
ATLANTA, REDMOND, Wash. and BEIJING, May 24
/Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- CDC Software, a wholly owned
subsidiary of CDC Corp. (Nasdaq: CHINA) and provider of
enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship
management (CRM) and supply chain management (SCM) software
applications, today announced a strategic alliance with
Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) to develop, market and
deliver CRM enterprise applications to customers in China.
These applications will be designed as on-site and on-demand
deployments via the software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. In a
multiphased approach, the alliance agreement also includes
plans to explore opportunities to integrate Windows
Live(TM) Services and MSN(R) with CDC Corp.'s China.com
portal.
(Logo: NewsCom:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO )
"This agreement with Microsoft highlights the
compelling value of our Microsoft-centric applications and
our unique position as a leading provider of enterprise
applications and online services in China," said Peter
Yip, chief executive officer for CDC Corp. and executive
chairman for CDC Software.
As part of the first phase of the agreement, the
companies will offer the Microsoft Dynamics(TM) CRM
platform together with the CDC Software c360 CRM add-ons as
on-site applications in China. CDC Software's c360 CRM
add-on products and development tools for the Microsoft
Dynamics CRM platform have been delivered to more than
1,000 customers worldwide in more than eight languages
through a network of more that 450 channel partners.
"China represents a strategic growth opportunity
for our CRM business," said Brad Wilson, general
manager for Microsoft Dynamics CRM at Microsoft. "Our
alliance with CDC Software will enable us to leverage its
popular c360 CRM add-on products, its deep knowledge of
Chinese markets and channels, and its nationwide
infrastructure to accelerate delivery of innovative
products and services to this important high-growth
market."
The second phase of the agreement includes plans for
the companies to develop and deliver Microsoft Dynamics CRM
applications as hosted, on-demand services in China. The
SaaS CRM offerings, planned for December 2006, will
leverage the broad infrastructure established throughout
China by CDC Software's sister division, China.com, a
leading Internet services and online game company. The
China.com network, which took over five years to build, is
established nationwide in 30 provinces and four
municipalities, includes servers in all major Chinese
cities and serves more than 5 million unique visitors each
day. The China.com network currently supports the company's
widely used online games, thriving portal business and
hosting services for more than 1,700 enterprises in China.
"With the growing demand among enterprise and
midmarket customers for SaaS solutions, the introduction of
Microsoft Dynamics CRM applications as hosted services will
provide these customers with rapid implementation,
decreased application downtime, and overall cost
savings," said Robert Bernard, general manager of the
Global ISV group at Microsoft. "We are pleased to work
with CDC Software to further integrate our technology and
extend the value of the Microsoft(R) platform to our CRM
customers in China and abroad."
"The c360 CRM add-on applications have proven to
be very successful in North America and around the
globe," Yip said. "We are bullish on the
opportunity to work with Microsoft as its Microsoft CRM
strategy expands in China."
About CDC Software
CDC Software, The Customer-Driven Company(TM), is a
provider of enterprise software applications designed to
help organizations deliver a superior customer experience
while increasing efficiencies and profitability. CDC
Software's product suite includes the Pivotal CRM (customer
relationship management), c360 CRM add-on products, industry
solutions and development tools for the Microsoft Dynamics
CRM platform, Ross ERP (enterprise resource planning) and
SCM (supply chain management), IMI warehouse management and
order management, Platinum China HR (human resource) and
business analytics solutions.
The industry-specific solutions are used by more than
5,000 customers worldwide within the manufacturing,
financial services, health care, home building, real
estate, and wholesale and retail distribution industries.
The company completes its offerings with a full continuum
of services that span the life cycle of technology and
software applications, including implementation, project
consulting, outsourced business services, application
management and offshore development. CDC Software is the
enterprise software unit of CDC Corp. For more information,
please visit the http://www.cdcsoftware.com .
About CDC Corp.
CDC Corp. is focused on enterprise software, mobile
applications and online games. As part of its strategic
review, the company has reorganized into two primary
operating business units, CDC Software and China.com Inc.
For more information about CDC Corp., please visit the
website: http://www.cdccorporation.net .
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the
worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that
help people and businesses realize their full potential.
NOTE: Microsoft, Windows Live, MSN and Microsoft
Dynamics are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other
countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned
herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
CDC Software Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements
This press release includes "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of the United States
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and
includes statements relating to the results of the
strategic alliance with Microsoft Corporation to develop,
market and deliver CRM enterprise applications to customers
in China, the ability to offer the Microsoft Dynamics CRM
platform together with our c360 CRM add-ons as on-premise
applications in China and the ability to successfully
develop and deliver Microsoft Dynamics CRM applications as
hosted, on-demand services in China. These statements are
based on management's current expectations and are subject
to risks and uncertainties and changes in circumstances.
There are important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward
looking statements including, among others: market demand
for Microsoft Dynamics CRM platform and c360 CRM add-ons in
the China market; the ability to successfully develop the
CRM applications as a software-as-a-service offering; the
ability to use the China.com infrastructure to deliver
software-as-a-service offerings in China; and development
of competing products with enhanced functionalities which
would better serve the CRM or software-as-a-service markets
in China. Further information on risks or other factors that
could cause results to differ are detailed in filings or
submissions with the United States Securities and Exchange
Commission made by our parent, CDC Corporation, including
its Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2004 on
Form 20-F/A filed October 11, 2005. All forward-looking
statements included in this press release are based upon
information available to management as of the date of the
press release, and you are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on any forward looking statements which speak only
as of the date of this press release. The company assumes no
obligation to update or alter the forward looking statements
whether as a result of new information, future events or
otherwise.
/NOTE TO EDITORS: If you are interested in viewing
additional information on Microsoft, please visit the
Microsoft Web page at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass on
Microsoft's corporate information pages. Web links,
telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of
publication, but may since have changed. For additional
assistance, journalists and analysts may contact
Microsoft's Rapid Response Team or other appropriate
contacts listed at
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.mspx. /
For more information, please contact:
China Media Relations
Ida Ho
China.com Inc.
Tel: +1-852-2237-7181
Email: ida.ho@hk.china.com
North America Media Relations
Jennifer Buchhalter
Articulate Communications Inc.
Tel: +1-617-451-7788, ext. 16
Email: jbuchhalter@articulatepr.com
Rapid Response Team
Waggener Edstrom Worldwide
Tel: +1-503-443-7070
Email: rrt@waggeneredstrom.com
SOURCE Microsoft Corp.
2007'02.01.Thu
New U.S. Airline to Fly From New York to Russia
May 24, 2006
NEW YORK, May 24 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- A new U.S.
airline, Baltia Air Lines, based at the JFK Airport in New
York at Terminal 4, is getting ready to start nonstop
service to St. Petersburg, Russia with a Boeing 747.
Currently, the only other US airline operating to Russia is
Delta Air Lines which flies nonstop to Moscow.
The startup airline is publicly traded on the Nasdaq
Bulletin Board under the symbol BLTA, and is also listed on
Xetra and Frankfurt exchanges under the symbol B3A. Baltia
Air Lines will provide high quality First, Business and
Coach passenger service. It will also provide reliable
express cargo services under the Baltia name, as well as
carry containers for major overnight shippers.
After starting the JFK-St. Petersburg nonstop service,
Baltia plans to develop its initial route network, flying
nonstop from JFK to Riga, Kiev and Minsk. Baltia Air Lines'
goal is to become the leader in full-service passenger,
cargo and mail transportation between the major U.S. cities
and the capital cities of Eastern Europe.
Baltia wants to go well beyond the so called
"normal service" manifested by recent service
cutbacks on large airlines. Baltia plans services that no
other airline is presenting, including delicious meals
prepared by top chefs from outstanding restaurants in both
New York and St. Petersburg, which should make traveling
with Baltia a very comfortable and unique experience.
Current traffic between JFK and St. Petersburg is
carried by European airlines with one or two connecting
flights, because only U.S. and Russian airlines can operate
nonstop between the two nations. Analysts expect that new
U.S. airlines such as Baltia, Jet Blue, South West and
others will do well and lead the American airline industry
in the years to come.
For more information, please contact:
Bob Strom
Baltia Air Lines
Tel: +1-760-341-0132
Web: http://www.baltia.com
SOURCE Baltia Air Lines
2007'02.01.Thu
Treating Both Poles of Bipolar Disorder: Pivotal Study Confirms Potential of Quetiapine as First Atypical Antipsychotic Monotherapy
May 24, 2006
- For Healthcare and Medical Reporters (non-US and non-UK) -
TORONTO, May 24 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The results of a
pivotal study confirm the potential of quetiapine fumarate
(SEROQUEL) as a monotherapy (treatment with a single
antipsychotic medicine) for acute bipolar depression.
Quetiapine is an atypical anti-psychotic and it is already
established as an effective treatment for schizophrenia,
and the manic phases of bipolar disorder, but it is not
approved for bipolar depression.
From the first week of the BOLDER II (BipOLar
DEpRession) study, improvements in the severity of
depressive symptoms (MADRS total scores*) were
significantly greater with quetiapine 300 and 600 mg/d than
with placebo (week 1, change from baseline with quetiapine
300 and 600 mg/d: -9.42 and -9.14, respectively; both
P<0.001 vs placebo: -6.10) and the improvements
continued during the eight week study (week 8, change from
baseline with quetiapine 300 and 600 mg/d: -16.94 and
-16.00 respectively; both P<0.001 vs placebo: -11.93. In
BOLDER II 509 patients were randomized to treatment and 59%
completed the study. (1)
The data support the findings of the previously
reported BOLDER I study(2) and together these two studies
represent one of the largest placebo-controlled
investigations ever conducted for the acute treatment of
bipolar depression.
Bipolar disorder affects around 3-4 per cent of the
adult population and is characterised by recurring periods
of mania and depression.(3) Up to 56 per cent of people
with bipolar depression attempt suicide and approximately
10 to 15 per cent commit suicide.(4)
In an analysis of the BOLDER I and BOLDER II data (1045
patients)(5) suicidal thoughts (MADRS** item 10 score)
decreased significantly more with quetiapine at both doses
than with placebo (week 8 scores, 300 mg/d: -0.98;
P<0.001; 600 mg/d: -0.92; P=0.001; vs placebo: -0.64).
In a similar analysis of anxiety symptoms scores (6),
symptoms improved significantly more in patients treated
with quetiapine at both doses compared to placebo (HAM-A
total scores*** at week 1, change from baseline, 300 mg/d:
-4.59, P<0.001; 600 mg/d: -4.10, P=0.003 vs placebo:
-2.77; at week 8, change from baseline, 300 mg/d: -10.12
and 600 mg/d: -10.48; both P<0.001 vs placebo:
-6.88)(5).
In addition, a sub-group analysis of bipolar disorder
II patients from the BOLDER I and BOLDER II studies found
that improvement in severity of depressive symptoms (mean
MADRS total score*) from baseline was significantly greater
with quetiapine 300 and 600 mg/d than placebo, from the
first assessment (Week 1) through Week 8(7).
"Results from BOLDER II are remarkably similar to
those found in BOLDER I, the first large-scale study that
examined SEROQUEL treatment of depressive episodes in
bipolar I and II patients. The replication of BOLDER I by
BOLDER II adds considerable strength to the BOLDER
data," said Michael E. Thase MD, of the Department of
Psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, USA
and principal investigator of BOLDER II. "In the past,
doctors have typically treated bipolar disorder with both a
mood stabilizer and an antidepressant. Having a single
medication to treat both the manic and depressive episodes
of this condition would be a significant medical
advance."
Professor Joseph Calabrese, co-director of the National
Institute of Mental Health Bipolar Research Center at
University Hospitals of Cleveland and Case Western Reserve
University said the fact that a study on the scale of
BOLDER II replicates the findings of BOLDER I so closely is
both remarkable and exciting, offering the hope of similar
consistency in the real-world setting.
"As a clinician, when you treat someone with
bipolar depression you ask yourself -- what can I do to
reduce the chance of this person committing suicide; how
can I get symptoms under control to give them a better
quality of life; and finally, will they be satisfied with
the treatment and continue taking it? The results of the
BOLDER study suggest that medical science can
help us answer these questions better in the future."
Quetiapine was shown to be well tolerated and the rate
of serious adverse events was low and comparable in all
treatment groups in both studies. The most common adverse
events reported in the trial were constipation, dizziness,
dry mouth, sedation and somnolence. In BOLDER II rates of
discontinuation due to adverse events (AEs) were 8.1%,
11.2% and 1.2% on the 300mg and 600mg quetiapine treatment
arms, and on placebo, respectively (1).
Quetiapine (quetiapine fumarate) has a well-established
safety and efficacy profile and to date over 16 million
people have been treated with quetiapine worldwide.
Quetiapine has been licensed for the treatment of
schizophrenia since 1997 and it is available in 85
countries for the treatment of this condition. Quetiapine
is also licensed in 73 countries for the treatment of mania
associated with bipolar disorder. SEROQUEL(R) (quetiapine)
is marketed by AstraZeneca and it is the number one
prescribed atypical antipsychotic in the United States,
with global sales of $2.8 billion in 2005.
In December 2005, AstraZeneca submitted a supplemental
New Drug Application (sNDA) to the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) to seek approval for a new indication
for SEROQUEL(R) for the treatment of patients with
depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare
business engaged in the research, development, manufacture
and marketing of prescription pharmaceuticals and the
supply of healthcare services. It is one of the world's
leading pharmaceutical companies with healthcare sales of
$23.95 billion and leading positions in sales of
gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience,
respiratory, oncology and infection products. AstraZeneca
is listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (Global) as
well as the FTSE4Good Index.
For further information, please visit
http://www.astrazeneca.com or
http://www.astrazenecapressoffice.com . Further information
is also available at the psychiatry resource Internet site
http://www.psychiatry-in-practice.com .
Notes to Editors:
BOLDER I & BOLDER II are both eight week,
multi-centre, double-blind placebo-controlled studies.
Outpatients with both bipolar I and II disorder were
randomised to receive eight weeks' treatment with 300mg or
600mg SEROQUEL or placebo, administered once daily.
* Depression scores were measured by the
Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), which
measures the severity of a number of depressive symptoms
including mood and sadness, tension, sleep, appetite,
energy, concentration, suicidal ideation and restlessness.
The MADRS score decreases as depression symptoms improve.
** Suicidality was measured using MADRS item 10
("suicidal thoughts") and Hamilton Rating Scale
for Depression (HAM-D) item 3 ("suicide")
scores.
*** Anxiety was measured using the Hamilton Rating
Scale for Anxiety
(HAM-A) scores.
References
(1) Thase M, McCoy R, Chang W, Macfadden W. Efficacy of
quetiapine monotherapy in bipolar depression: a confirmatory
double-blind, placebo controlled study (the BOLDER II
Study). Presented at the American Psychiatric Association
Annual Meeting, Toronto, 2006.
(2) Calabrese JR, Keck PE, Macfadden W, et al, for the
BOLDER Study Group. A randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled trial of quetiapine in The treatment of
bipolar I or II depression. Am J Psychiatry.
2005;162;1351-1360.
(3) Hirschfeld RMA, Calabrese JR, Weissman MM, et al.
Screening for bipolar disorder in the community. J Clin
Psychiatry. 2003;64:53-59.
(4) Hawton, et al. Suicide and Attempted Suicide in
Bipolar Disorder: A Symptomatic Review of Risk Factors. J
Clin Psychiatry. 2005;66:693-704.
(5) Macfadden W, Minkwitz, Spong E. Quetiapine
monotherapy demonstrate efficacy in reducing suicidality in
bipolar depression. Poster presented at the American
Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting, Toronto, 2006.
(6) Lydiard BR, Raines S, Macfadden W. Improvement in
anxiety symptoms in bipolar depression with quetiapine
monotherapy: results from two placebo-controlled studies.
Presented at the American Psychiatric Association Annual
Meeting, Toronto, 2006.
(7) Hirschfeld RM, Suppes T, Vieta E et al. Quetiapine
monotherapy for bipolar II depression: Pooled results from
two placebo-controlled studies. Presented at the American
Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting, Toronto, 2006.
For more information, please contact:
James Read,
AstraZeneca
Tel: +1-302-885-9944
Mobile: +1-302-750-7356
Email: James.Read@astrazeneca.com
Maren Koban
Hill & Knowlton
Tel: +44-207-973-4497
Mobile: +44-7713-631-514
Email: mkoban@hillandknowlton.com
SOURCE AstraZeneca
2007'02.01.Thu
Atmel and u-blox Launch Low-power GPS Baseband IC with SuperSense(R) Weak-signal Tracking Software
May 24, 2006
HEILBRONN, Germany and THALWIL, Switzerland, May 24
/Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Atmel(R) Corporation (Nasdaq: ATML),
a global leader in the development and fabrication of
advanced semiconductor solutions, and u-blox AG, a leading
provider of innovative GPS receiver technology, announced
today the availability of the ATR0625, a baseband IC with
SuperSense(R) GPS weak-signal tracking software included in
its ROM. ATR0625 is based on the ANTARIS(R) 4 platform which
is a low-power, 16-channel GPS technology developed for
automotive, handheld and mobile applications such as OEM
car navigation, mobile phones, PDAs, smartphones, personal
navigation devices, and recreational consumer products.
Thanks to the integration of the well-proven SuperSense
software on masked ROM, an external Flash memory becomes
unnecessary. This significantly increases the benefits of
the ANTARIS 4 technology -- low power consumption and small
size. SuperSense, awarded with Frost & Sullivan's Award
for Technology Innovation in 2005, uses a combination of
coherent and incoherent tracking combined with variable
integration times for the individual satellites. A
leading-edge tracking sensitivity of -158 dBm is achieved
with a power consumption that remains low at a low signal
level.
The ATR0625 is packaged in a low-cost QFN56 package and
is pin-compatible with the ATR0622 ANTARIS 4 baseband IC
with standard ROM software. This makes it easy for
customers to enable their existing products with
weak-signal tracking technology. Like all ANTARIS 4
chipsets, the ATR0625 comes with full WAAS/EGNOS support
and incorporates state-of-the-art Assisted GPS (A-GPS) with
a TTFF as low as four seconds. Further ANTARIS 4 benefits
include a significant chipset footprint reduction and
unparalleled low power needs. The chip operates at 62 mW,
but its power saving modes, together with built-in power
management capabilities, can bring power consumption down
to as low as 5 microamps, enabling power-critical
applications like mobile devices to operate longer without
having to compromise on functionality. The on-chip USB
connectivity eliminates the need for an expensive
serial-to-RS232 or serial-to-USB converter and makes
ANTARIS 4 products plug-and-play devices for any PC. The
ATR0625 supports serial EEPROM memory, which is a cost- and
space-efficient alternative to Flash EPROMs for storage of
custom configuration settings. Using a QFN package rather
than a BGA results in a cost advantage for the IC itself
and the customer's manufacturing process, as additional
steps needed in PCB assembly like X-raying become
unnecessary.
"The ATR0625 perfectly addresses the market demand
of portable devices where smaller products lead to smaller
antennas which have inherently lower performance,"
said Frank Gruson, Atmel's GPS Product Line Manager.
"End customers will enjoy excellent tracking accuracy
even in after market car applications with shielded
windows, for example, which has not been possible up to
now."
"u-blox' award-winning SuperSense weak-signal
tracking software on the chip level brings indoor
functionality to our low-power, small-sized ANTARIS 4
positioning engine. This makes the ATR0625 ideal for
GPS-enabled mass-market applications that perform reliably
and accurately, regardless of whether the user is outdoors,
indoors or in difficult signal environments such as urban
canyons," commented Georg zur Bonsen, Product Manager
at u-blox.
The ATR0625 works seamlessly together with ATR0601, a
highly integrated, low-power GPS radio in a 4 x 4 mm QFN
package. As an optional extension to the ANTARIS 4 chipset,
the ATR0610, a fully integrated low-noise amplifier
manufactured using Atmel's innovative Silicon-Germanium
(SiGe) process, is available for use in challenging
reception environments, enabling cost-effective antenna
designs.
ATR0625 samples in 8 x 8 mm 56-pin QFN packages are
available now. Example designs for a small-form factor
module and a high-performance smart antenna are available
including design guides, detailed bill of materials,
schematics and Gerber files to dramatically shorten
development cycle times.
A photograph can be downloaded from
http://www.u-blox.com/news/atr0625.jpg
About u-blox
u-blox is an international company headquartered in
Switzerland, with sales organizations in the Americas,
Europe and Asia. Founded in 1997, u-blox develops leading
positioning technology and products based on the Global
Positioning System (GPS) for the automotive and mobile
communications markets. For more information, please visit
http://www.u-blox.com .
About Atmel
Atmel is a worldwide leader in the design and
manufacture of microcontrollers, advanced logic,
mixed-signal, non-volatile memory and radio frequency (RF)
components. Leveraging one of the industry's broadest
intellectual property (IP) technology portfolios, Atmel is
able to provide the electronics industry with complete
system solutions. Focused on consumer, industrial,
security, communications, computing and automotive markets,
Atmel ICs can be found Everywhere You Are(R).
For more information, please contact:
u-blox contacts
Georg zur Bonsen,
Product Management
Tel: +41-44-722-74-44
Email: georg.zurbonsen@u-blox.com
Alicia Montoya,
Marketing Communications
Tel: +41-44-722-74-86,
Email: alicia.montoya@u-blox.com
Atmel contacts
Dr. Susanne van Clewe,
Marcom Manager Communications and Automotive Products
Tel: +49-7131-67-2081
Email: susanne.van-clewe@hno.atmel.com
Helen Perlegos,
Public Relations - USA and Asia Pacific
Tel: +1-408-487-2963
Email: hperlegos@atmel.com
Veronique Sablereau,
Corporate Communications Manager - Europe
Tel: +33-1-30-60-70-68
Fax: +49-7131-67-2423
Email: veronique.sablereau@atmel.com
SOURCE u-blox AG
2007'02.01.Thu
New Data Shed Light on The Global Incidence of Constipation
May 24, 2006
- Not For Distribution or Publication in The United States -
INGELHEIM, Germany, May 24 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- New
omnibus data from the largest global survey due to be
published, conducted on the epidemiology of constipation,
were presented today at the Digestive Disease Week congress
in Los Angeles. The survey, sponsored by Boehringer
Ingelheim, offers new insights into the incidence of
constipation and shows that sufferers are not using the
most effective treatments.
The epidemiology survey, which explored duration and
frequency of constipation in 13,879 participants from four
continents, shows 12% of people worldwide suffer from
self-defined constipation. This figure varies among
different regions; people in the Americas and Asia Pacific
suffer twice as much as their European counterparts, where
the incidence of constipation is lowest (Americas and Asia
Pacific mean 17.3% -v- European mean 8.75%).(1)
The survey also highlights that a quarter of people
suffering from constipation do nothing to alleviate their
symptoms; they would rather wait in the hope that it may go
away of its own accord. Professor Scarpignato, one of the
lead authors of the survey, commented, "Unfounded
concerns and misguided beliefs often prevent constipation
sufferers from using the best available treatments, such as
contact laxatives. If they did use a contact laxative, like
Dulcolax(R), they would be selecting a safe and effective
treatment, to relieve their condition."
Of those constipation sufferers who treat their
condition, less than a third of them actually use
laxatives, despite the fact that a recently published
review showed that laxatives are a safe and effective
treatment.(2) In Asia Pacific, which has one of the
highest frequencies of constipation (17%), laxative use is
lowest, with less than two in 10 sufferers treating
symptoms effectively with a laxative. Even in the
Americas, where laxative treatment is highest, still less
than four in 10 sufferers use laxative treatments to
alleviate their constipation.(1)
Professor Wald, the lead author of the survey, stated,
"Sufferers continue to be highly influenced and
misguided by myths surrounding constipation and it is
critical to correct and overcome these mistaken beliefs.
This survey reveals that on average, 40% of sufferers
attempt to treat their constipation by changing their
nutrition, despite extensive research showing that in fact
diet and lifestyle are not necessarily to blame for the
occurrence of constipation and increasing fluid and fibre
intake will not definitely provide effective relief from
the condition."
Professor Wald continued, "The new evidence from
the survey has revealed that there is still a considerable
unmet need in the treatment of constipation. It is our
responsibility to make people aware of, and to offer, the
best solutions for constipation, by publicising the facts
and correcting these misunderstandings."
Dulcolax(R) (bisacodyl or sodium picosulphate), offers
one such highly effective and safe solution. It is a
widely available contact laxative licensed for the
treatment of constipation and is commonly used by millions
of people worldwide. The active ingredients in Dulcolax(R)
(bisacodyl or sodium picosulphate) act only where they are
needed, in the colon,(3-18) and stimulate the natural
movements of the bowels to alleviate the symptoms of
constipation. Dulcolax(R) is clinically proven to be a
safe(16,17,19,20) and effective treatment for
constipation(20-23) even over the long-term.(24)
The epidemiology survey has led to further
investigations, specifically of frequent constipation
sufferers (those who have suffered for at least two years
and at least once every two to three months), which aims to
provide a complete and full picture of this group. Results
from this pioneering investigation are expected to be
presented at the 14th United European Gastroenterology Week
in Berlin, Germany from 21-25 October 2006.
Notes to Editors:
Digestive Disease Week (DDW)
DDW is the largest international gathering of
physicians, researchers and academics in the fields of
gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and
gastrointestinal surgery. Jointly sponsored by the American
Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, the American
Gastroenterological Association, the American Society for
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the Society for Surgery of
the Alimentary Tract, DDW takes place May 20-25, 2006, at
the Los Angeles Convention Center. The meeting showcases
approximately 5,000 abstracts and hundreds of lectures on
the latest advances in GI research, medicine and
technology. For more information on DDW, visit
http://www.ddw.org .
Boehringer Ingelheim
The Boehringer Ingelheim group is one of the world's 20
leading pharmaceutical companies. Headquartered in
Ingelheim, Germany, it operates globally with 143
affiliates in 47 countries and almost 37,500 employees.
Since it was founded in 1885, the family-owned company has
been committed to researching, developing, manufacturing
and marketing novel products of high therapeutic value for
human and veterinary medicine.
In 2005, Boehringer Ingelheim posted net sales of 9.5
billion euro while spending almost one fifth of net sales
in its largest business segment Prescription Medicines on
research and development.
The Consumer Health Care business is one of the core
businesses of the Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation and
strives to serve customers worldwide with top-quality
pharmaceuticals for self-medication and is widely known for
its products such as: Pharmaton(R), Dulcolax(R),
Bisolvon(R), Mucosolvan(R), Buscopan(R), Antistax(R) and
Mucoangin(R).
Boehringer Ingelheim Consumer Healthcare is ranked the
8th largest supplier of self-medication products. For more
information, visit http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com .
For further information, please contact:
Ute E. Schmidt,
Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH
Tel: +49-(0)-6132-77-97296
Fax: +49-(0)-6132-77-6601
SOURCE Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH
2007'02.01.Thu
TCOM China Operations Enters Agreement with moveage.com the Agent of Google, Yahoo and Baidu to Collect 30,000 SMEs to be Users of IBS v5.0
May 24, 2006
HONG KONG, May 24 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Telecom Communications, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: TCOM - News) the Total Solutions Provider, announced that its China operations, subaye.com has entered into an agreement with moveage.com ( http://www.moveage.com ), a key agent of BIDU ( http://www.baidu.com ), GOOG ( http://www.google.com ) and YHOO ( http://www.yahoo.com). to marketing and distribute its new product line, IBS v5.0 ( http://www.subaye.com ) to the 30,000 SME advertisers as customers of moveage.com, who will become users of IBS v5.0. Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Liu Yan, Director of Telecom Communications said: "We are very pleased to have this opportunity to partner with the moveage.com, 30,000 SMEs will be collected to become members of Subaye.com. We are confident this partnership will be an extremely profitable one for both organizations as a revenue sharing model." About Telecom Communications, Inc. Telecom Communications, Inc. (TCOM) is a Total Solutions Provider that offers Integrated Communications Network Solutions and Internet Content Service in universal voice, video, data web and mobile communications for interactive media applications, technology and content leaders in interactive multimedia communications. It develops, markets and sells a universal media software solution for enterprise-wide deployment of integrated voice, video, data web and mobile communications and media applications. Telecom Communications, Inc. does business in Asia via its wholly owned subsidiaries, Alpha Century Holdings Ltd. ( http://www.subaye.com ), IC Star MMS, Ltd. ( http://www.icstarmms.com ) and 3G Dynasty Inc. ( http://www.skyestar.com ). Safe Harbor The statements made in this release constitute "forward-looking" statements, usually containing the words "believe," "estimate," "project," "expect," or similar expressions. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, changing economic conditions, interest rates trends, continued acceptance of the Company's products in the marketplace, competitive factors and other risks detailed in the Company's periodic report Filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward- looking statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release. For more information, please contact: Ms. Sandy Tang Telecom Communications, Inc. Tel: +852-782-0983 Email: pr@tcom8266.com SOURCE Telecom Communications, Inc.
2007'02.01.Thu
Funeral Arrangements for Dr LEE Jong-wook, Director General of the World Health Organization
May 23, 2006
GENEVA£¬ May 24 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The funeral of
Dr LEE Jong-wook, Director-General of the World Health
Organization, will take place in Geneva on Wednesday. Dr
LEE died suddenly on Monday. The funeral will be held at
12:30 at the Basilique de Notre-Dame, Place Cornavin. It
will be open to the public.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations,
Mark Malloch Brown, will represent the Secretary-General.
Other heads of UN agencies and senior officials will also
be present.
Reporters are welcome to attend the funeral, which will
also be attended by family, friends, and WHO staff. Dr
Lee's family has requested that only one photographer take
pictures during the service. WHO will therefore provide
photographs on its website.
Tributes to Dr Lee
Since Dr Lee's death was announced on Monday morning,
tributes have been paid by many of the people who knew him
or admired his work.
The UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, called Dr Lee a
great man who "was at the forefront of the global
fight to prevent an avian flu pandemic, and was a champion
as well in the battle against a host of other public health
threats from HIV/AIDS to tuberculosis ... Not only was he a
valuable leader to WHO staff the world over, but a
cherished colleague and friend to me personally."
President George W. Bush said, "Dr. Lee worked
tirelessly to improve the health of millions of people,
from combating tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS to his aggressive
efforts to eradicate polio. He provided tremendous
leadership to the international community as it confronted
the challenges of the 21st century, including the threat of
an influenza pandemic. Dr. Lee's outreach to world leaders
and entities increased awareness of potentially devastating
public health dangers."
Mark Harrington, Executive Director of the
non-governmental organization the Treatment Action Group
(TAG) said: "People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA)
around the world should take a moment and recognize the
pivotal contributions to their lives made by Dr. LEE
Jong-wook. TAG expresses its solidarity with all those who
are mourning the loss of this transformative leader in the
world's struggle against AIDS. Unusually among global
leaders, Dr. Lee made transforming the world's response to
HIV/AIDS one of his leading priorities. Under his watch,
and with his whole support, WHO ... took a leading role in
guiding the response to the pandemic.
Nicolas Vidal, President of the Liga Peruana
Antitab¨¢quica, who met Dr Lee during an official visit to
Lima, Peru, wrote: "he was really friendly person and
told us to keep the antitobacco job up to help Peruvian
children. So we will keep fighting and we will do it much
better! We want to say: Thank you very much dear Dr. Lee.
We will remember you!"
One man wrote from Kenya to say, "Dr Jong-wook was
a man of exemplary character committed to public service. I
am one of the people who benefited from WHO vaccination
programmes in Rift Valley, Kenya. I take this opportunity
to send my condolences to the world for the loss of a
dedicated servant. Dr Jong-wook is an inspiration and role
model to the youth of today."
Dr Fouad Mojallid, WHO Representative in Syria, wrote:
"We lost a great man and a devoted fighter for the
human health rights. May he rest in peace."
Tributes can be sent to DrLee-tribute@who.int .
Dr Lee's widow has requested that donations in memory
of Dr Lee should be given to the project where she works,
Socios En Salud in Lima, Peru.
Donations can be given via the sister organization of
Socios En Salud, Partners In Health http://www.pih.org .
For more information, please contact:
Christine McNab,
Communications officer,
Director-General's office
Tel: +41-79-254-6815
Email: mcnabc@who.int
Iain Simpson,
Communications officer,
Director-General's office
Tel: +41-79-475-5534
Email: simpsoni@who.int
SOURCE World Health Organization
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