森永乳業、ボリュームたっぷりのプリン「ぷるっプリン」など2品を発売
ボリュームたっぷりのプリン
「ぷるっプリン」「ぷるっプリンココア」新発売のお知らせ
森永乳業ではこのたび、「ぷるっプリン」「ぷるっプリンココア」を9月26日(火)より全国にて新発売いたします。
1.商品特長
200gの大容量で、ボリュームたっぷりのプリンです。「ぷるっ」としたプリンの食感を連想させるパッケージで、楽しくお召し上がりいただけます。
《 ぷるっプリン 》
なめらかな舌触りで、スタンダードなおいしさのカスタードプリンです。
《 ぷるっプリンココア 》
ミルク感のある、さっぱりとした味わいのココアプリンです。ほろ苦いチョコソースがアクセントとなった程よい甘さに仕上げました。
2.商品概要
(1)商品名:「ぷるっプリン」/「ぷるっプリンココア」
(2)種類別:生菓子
(3)包装形態:プラカップ、アルミフタ
(4)内容量:200g
(5)カロリー:(ぷるっプリン)266Kcal
(ぷるっプリンココア)206Kcal
(6)保存方法:要冷蔵10℃以下
(7)賞味期限:70日間
(8)主要ターゲット:ヤング男女、独身男性
(9)主要売場:CVS、量販店、一般小売店
(10)希望小売価格:100円(税別)
(11)発売日・地区:9月26日(火)・全国
※JANコード:(ぷるっプリン)49410624
(ぷるっプリンココア)49410716
3.お問い合わせ先
< お客さまからのお問い合わせ先 >
お客さま相談室 フリーダイヤル 0120-369-744
以上
● 関連リンク
ソネット・エムスリー、シャープの「AQUOS」インターネットメニューに「AskDoctors」を提供
SHARP「AQUOS」新インターネットメニューに「AskDoctors」を提供
~リビングのテレビからいつでも医師に相談~
ソネット・エムスリー株式会社(本社:東京都港区 代表取締役:谷村 格 URL: http://www.so-netM3.co.jp 以下: エムスリー)は、シャープ株式会社(本社:大阪市阿倍野区 代表取締役 社長:町田 勝彦 以下:シャープ)が提供するパソコンテレビ「インターネットAQUOS」( http://www.sharp.co.jp/i-aquos/ )のインターネットメニュー(チャンネルUIソフト)に、医師に相談できるQ&Aサイト「AskDoctors」を9月下旬より提供することを決定いたしました。
この度エムスリーは、医師に相談できるQ&Aサイト「AskDoctors」をより多くのユーザーが"いつでも""気軽に"利用することを可能にするため、シャープが提供するテレビ・インターネット・録画の機能を併せ持つパソコンテレビ「インターネットAQUOS」上での展開を決定いたしました。インターネットAQUOSはテレビと同様のリモコン操作でブロードバンドコンテンツが楽しめるチャンネルUIソフトを搭載、新インターネットメニューでは12カテゴリ120チャンネル以上のインターネットサービスを提供する予定です。
この度、「AskDoctors」をより多くのユーザーに提供していきたいエムスリーと、ニーズの高い医療・健康分野において質の高いサービスを拡充し、リビングでのインターネット活用を更に積極化させたいシャープとの目的が合致し、今回のサービス連携が決まりました。両社の連携により、リビングのパソコンテレビから、いつでもリモコンやワイヤレスキーボードだけで「AskDoctors」が利用できる環境がスタートします。
・本格稼動から8ヶ月で利用会員12万人突破
医師に相談できるQ&Aサイト「AskDoctors」はユーザーの皆様からの反響をいただき、05年12月の本格稼動から8ヶ月でPC版、モバイル版あわせて、利用会員数12万人を突破しました。質問に対する24時間以内の回答率も約90%とサイト開設当初から継続して活発なやりとりがなされています。一般利用者から「回答の正確性・信頼性」がサイトの満足点として挙げられているだけでなく、回答者である医師のうち9割以上が「患者の知りたい点が深く理解できる」としてサイトの存在意義を評価しており、両者がそれぞれにメリットを感じていることが、サイトが活発化している要因と考えられます。
・いつでもどこからでも利用できるサービスへ
4月にKDDIのEZweb公式サイト、5月にVodafone公式サイトとして開始した「AskDoctorsMobile」サービスに加え、今回のパソコンテレビ"インターネットAQUOS"との連携など、今後、「AskDoctors」を、いつでもどこからでも医師に相談できるサービスとして、より多くの方に提供していきたいと考えています。
エムスリーは13万1000人という医師会員数の規模を活かし、「AskDoctors」が今後ますます医師と一般の人々とのコミュニケーションスペースとして活用され、医師がより身近な存在となることで信頼関係を醸成し、適切な医療を適切なタイミングで受けられる社会の実現に向けて努力して参ります。
メモリーテックと東芝、ディスクの片面からHD DVDとDVDが再生できる3層ツインフォーマットディスクを開発
ディスクの片面からHD DVDとDVDが再生できる3層ツインフォーマットディスクの開発
メモリーテック株式会社(本社 東京都港区 代表取締役社長 川崎代治)と株式会社 東芝(東京都港区、代表執行役社長 西田厚聰)は、共同で、ディスクの片面からHD DVDとDVDを再生できる3層再生専用ディスク(ROMディスク)を開発しました。
今回開発したディスクは、一枚のディスクに2層のHD DVD(30GB)と1層のDVD(4.7GB)が形成された3層構造のツインフォーマットで、光ヘッドに近い方がDVD層、遠い方がHD DVD層です(図参照)。さらに、今回開発した技術を用いることで、一枚のディスクに、2層のDVD(8.5GB)と1層のHD DVD(15GB)を形成することもできます。このように、今回の3層構造のツインフォーマット技術と、すでに商品化されている2層構造のツインフォーマット技術を合わせ持つことで、コンテンツプロバイダーの様々なニーズに対応でき、ソフトビジネスの多様な展開が可能になると考えられます。
今回開発した3層構造のツインフォーマットディスクのDVD層は、DVD規格に適合しており、市販されているDVDプレーヤーでそのまま再生することができます。
この3層ディスクは、現在量産がスタートしているHD DVD製造ライン(2層HD DVD及び2層構造のツインフォーマット用)に対し、若干の装置とプロセスを追加することで製造することが可能です。このため、同一製造ラインで、従来の2層構造ディスクと今回開発した3層構造ツインフォーマットディスクを製造でき、3層ツインフォーマットの早期市場導入が可能と考えています。
開発の背景
HD DVDは、今年3月末から、日本及び北米市場で、プレーヤー、再生機能付きパソコン、ハリウッド映画ソフトを含む多くのコンテンツがリリースされ、市場普及が始まっています。HD DVD 規格の一つとして、メモリーテックは、東芝と共同でDVDとHD DVDの両フォーマットが記録できるツインフォーマットディスク技術を開発し、今年4月から、実際のコンテンツのリリースのためにディスクを提供してきました。ツインフォーマットディスク は、HD DVDプレーヤーだけではなく、既存のDVDプレーヤーでも再生が可能なことから、順調に販売実績を伸ばしています。ツインフォーマットディスクは、片面から二つのフォーマットにアクセスできるため、ディスクレーベル印刷も通常DVDと同じように可能で、ソフト商品価値を高め、消費者にもわかりやすいソフト商品作りを可能としています。
現行ツインフォーマットディスクは、1層の HD DVD(15GB)と1層のDVD(4.7GB)しか記録できないため、長時間映画ソフト作りには限界がありました。日米の大手コンテンツメーカーからは、さらに長時間のソフトが記録できるツインフォーマットが欲しいとの強い要望が出されてきました。
業界の反応
業界も、この新開発のフォーマットについて、歓迎の意を表明しています。
"4月より、ツインフォーマットを使ったソフトリリースを行ってきましたが、市場反応もよく、売れ行きも、予想より順調です。メモリーテックが東芝と開発した新技術は、さらに柔軟なソフト商品作りを可能にし、HD DVD フォーマット市場普及を加速するでしょう。新技術が、HD DVD フォーマットの中に組み込まれることを期待し、歓迎します。"(株式会社ポニーキャニオン第1映像事業本部 本部長 大柳英樹氏)
"3層構造 ツインフォーマットディスク開発の発表、誠におめでとうございます。3層構造 ツインフォーマットディスクは、より良いコンテンツ作りの可能性を広げるとともに、消費者に新しい価値提供の敷居を下げるとことが可能なフォーマットとして期待しております。"(マイクロソフト株式会社デジタルエンターテイメントパートナー統括本部 執行役常務 堺和夫氏)
今後の予定
今後、東芝とメモリーテックは、このディスク規格をDVDフォーラムに提案していく予定です。また、安定したディスク量産プロセスを、並行して開発していきます。
さらに、国内外の映画会社やコンテンツプロバイダーに今回開発したディスクの紹介を行い、新しい応用に向けた市場開拓を行って行きます。
以 上
アクセンス・テクノロジー、簡単に導入・使用できる新型VPN「ミエルリンク」2種類を発売
他には何もいらない新型VPN「ミエルリンク」シリーズ2種を今秋から相次ぎリリース
今あるインターネット環境はそのまま、箱を開けて10分ですぐに導入・使用できる新型VPN「ミエルリンク」が、今秋から登場します。この「ミエルリンク」は中小企業のVPN導入を強力に推進可能とするもので、用途に合わせて2種類がリリースされ、今後さらなるラインナップの強化が予定されています。
株式会社アクセンス・テクノロジー(本社:東京都新宿区、代表:金本茂)は、先に発表したVPN「ミエルリンク」に関する発表内容を一部変更のうえラインナップを追加して2種類とし、以下のとおり販売を開始いたします。
■「ミエルリンク Personal(仮称)」
販売開始 2006年10月末
販売形態 ソフトウェア
価 格 未定
使用方法等 モバイルPCから職場のPCなどへVPN接続を行い、そこを経由してLAN内へアクセスする。
(※ 添付画像をご参照ください)
■「ミエルリンク Unit(仮称)」
販売開始 2006年12月末
販売形態 ハードウェア
(専用VPNサーバ1台と、クライアント用USBメモリ複数本のセット)
価 格 未定
使用方法等 モバイルPCなどから、VPNサーバを経由して企業などのLAN内へアクセスを行う。VPNサーバをLAN内に設置して使用する。
(※ 添付画像をご参照ください)
一般にVPNサーバを導入する場合、その設置場所はDMZ(ファイアウオールで守られていないセグメント)など、通常の社内LAN環境とは異なる場所にする必要があります。また、プロバイダとの契約では、固定のグローバルIPアドレスが付与されるインターネット接続環境を選ぶ必要があります。
ところがミエルリンクでは、VPNサーバをNATによってプライベートIPアドレスで運用されているLAN内にそのまま設置できます。また、固定IPアドレスではなく動的IPアドレスが付与される通常のインターネット接続環境が利用できます。
第三者の設備でVPNトラフィックを中継する必要がないことも、セキュリティの観点での大きな魅力のひとつです。
ミエルリンクは、このような利用形態を可能とするために、当社が独自に開発したNATトラバーサル技術を応用しています。
なお、内部で「ミエルリンク」が許可なく使われることを懸念される企業等の管理者向けに、専用の監視ツールを、販売開始に先立って10月中旬から配布することも決定しました。これはLAN内にある「ミエルリンク」のクライアントおよびサーバを検知し、管理者へ通知するソフトウェアで、ウェブサイトから無料でダウンロード可能となります。
以上
【 参考情報 】
■用語解説■
● VPN(Virtual Private Network)
仮想的な専用線をインターネット上に生じさせることにより、安全な相互通信を可能にするセキュリティ技術。SSL-VPNやインターネットVPNなどいくつかのカテゴリがあり、それぞれに応じた機器類や接続サービスが提供されている。
ただし、利用回線の変更や高価な機器、複雑な構成・設定が必要となること等から、導入は大企業中心であり、100人未満の小規模企業においては普及率20%、50人未満では11%にとどまっている(『インターネット白書2006』より)。
● NAT(Network Address Translation)、NATトラバーサル
NATはルータに実装されている機能で、グローバルIPアドレスとローカルアドレスを相互変換することにより1個または少数のグローバルIPアドレスを複数の機器で共有することができる。LAN構築の際には一般的に利用されている。
しかし外部からLAN内の機器に直接アクセスすることが非常に難しくなってしまうため、これを解決するための技術が必要とされており、その技術や解決策を一般に「NATトラバーサル」や「NAT越え」と呼ぶ。
■株式会社アクセンス・テクノロジーについて■ http://accense.com/
2001年8月、RADIUSを中心とした研究・開発を行うR&D会社として設立。その後、主力製品であるRADIUSサーバソフトウェア「fullflex」シリーズを拡充して自社開発・販売を行うとともに、新商品のVPNサービス「ミエルリンク」を新たに開発し今秋リリースする。従業員数14名。
「fullflex」シリーズは、これまでに累計5,500万ユーザ以上をカバーし、国内随一の導入実績をもつ国産RADIUSサーバソフトウェアであり、KDDI、イー・アクセス、旧パワードコム、その他主要大手通信事業者等のサービス50例以上に基幹認証システムとして採用されている。また、企業内などで使用する小~中規模向けパッケージ製品も、業種を問わず多くのユーザを得ており、これまでに約700ライセンスが販売された。安心して導入・運用できるRADIUSサーバとして、官公庁や自治体・公共団体への導入も増加している。
● 関連リンク
プレスリリース 2003年8月4日
ソラン九州株式会社
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メディアシステムが開発した電話・FAXを使ったアウトソーシング
「プロモーションダイヤル」をリニューアルして販売開始!
http://www.media-system.co.jp/home/outsoursing/st_200308.html
――――――→ まだまだ使える、電話・FAXで、顧客を増やし売上UPへ!
―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――
ソラン九州株式会社(本社:福岡県福岡市、代表取締役社長:小玉 修市)は、
株式会社メディアシステム(本社:福岡県福岡市、代表取締役:坂本 義生)
が開発した電話・FAXを使った24時間サービスのアウトソーシング「プロ
モーションダイヤル」をリニューアルして販売を開始いたしました。
「プロモーションダイヤル」は、キャンペーン、情報配信、情報受付などを
使った集客サービスとして、様々な業種および業務に対応しています。
依頼をして即日サービス開始ができ、長期でも短期でも利用期間を自由に設定
できるのが特徴です。
≪詳しくはこちら≫
http://www.media-system.co.jp/home/outsoursing/st_200308.html
近年インターネットの利用が多くなり、電話やFAXを使った集客が少なく
なってきています。たしかに、インターネットの場合、短時間で多くのデータ
を広範囲から集めるのには、大変適していますが、利用者の目的や正確なデー
タ(住所、氏名など)がつかめないため、集客する側の手間が多くかかり、販売
などへの結果につながらないことも多いようです。
その点、電話やFAXの場合、データ量は少なくても正確なデータが集まり、
目的を果たせているとの声を多くいただいております。
どうしても人手がかかると思われがちなデータの活用なども、「音声応答シス
テム(※)」を使えば手間もかからず安価にサービスを開始することが可能です。
今ではコンピュータを使った「音声応答システム」の対応でも、利用者は違和
感無くサービスを利用することが可能です。
また、この「音声応答システム」は24時間365日のサービスができるため、お
客様の満足度を更に向上することは間違いありません。
(※)「音声応答システム」:24時間自動音声による受付システム。交換機との
連動したシステムやFAX機能を持たせたシステム構築も可能。また、プッシュ
操作でのオペレーションだけでなく音声認識による操作も可能です。
あらゆるニーズをもとに「プロモーションダイヤル」は、顧客を増やす・顧客
を活かすサービスとして、インターネットと電話・FAXを統合した画期的な
サービスになりました。導入先も増えてきており、効果も上々で、お客様に継
続的にこのサービスを利用していただいており、満足度もUPしています。
また当事業部では、全国的にこのサービスを広げていくため現在販売代理店を
募集しています。
(※契約金などの負担はありません。個人は不可とさせていただきます。)
≪デモンストレーションはこちら≫
http://www.media-system.co.jp/home/outsoursing/s1.html
[会社概要]――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――
ソラン九州株式会社
本社:〒812-0036 福岡県福岡市博多区上呉服町10-1 博多三井ビル
代表取締役社長:小玉 修市
会社URL: http://www.sorun-q.co.jp/
[本件に関するお問い合わせはこちらから]━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
ソラン九州株式会社 http://www.sorun-q.co.jp/outsrc/
アウトソーシングセンター
担当:奥村 武敏 E-MAIL: info.out@sorun-q.co.jp
〒880-0805 宮崎県宮崎市橘通東2-1-1 SKビル21 4F
TEL.0985-83-3424 FAX.0985-83-3297
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
プレスリリース
2003年6月27日
きむかつ株式会社
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とんかつのニューウェーブ!「キムカツ」が恵比寿で本格始動!!
キムカツをお好みの炊きたてご飯と一緒に召し上がって頂きます!!
_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/
きむかつ株式会社(本社:渋谷区千駄ヶ谷 代表:木村義美)は、恵比寿で営業中
の「キムカツ」で、お客様のお好みに合わせて炊きあげたご飯を召し上がって頂くサ
ービスを開始しました。
炊き立てのおいしいご飯をすべてのお客様に食べてほしい!
女性の方でも抵抗無く食べられるとんかつを作りたい!
そんな願いからキムカツはスタートしました。
炊き立てのご飯は日本人にとって欠かすことが出来ないものですが、お店で出される
ご飯はほとんどが炊き置きです。そこでキムカツでは「フローズンライス」と専用の
炊飯器を開発することで、わずか15分での炊飯を可能としました。
また、女性の方が気軽に入られるとんかつ屋さんというのは、なかなかありませんで
した。脂っこくて不健康、お店も男臭くて入りづらい、そのようなイメージが強かっ
たからです。独自の製法によるキムカツ(商品名)はとても柔らかくてジューシー、
ポン酢でさっぱりと食べられ、しかも6種類のフレーバーが選べる楽しさがあります
。キムカツではこの二つの商品を従来のとんかつ屋のイメージと全く異なるおしゃれ
なお店で提供する事により女性の方でも入りやすいお店を作りました。
今回始めたサービスとは、炊きたてご飯をよりいっそう美味しく召し上がって頂くた
めに、お客様にお好みのお米(コシヒカリ・ササニシキ)を選んでもらい、柔らかめ
、かためといった炊き加減もお伺いするものです。
ふつうであれば、お客様がいらっしゃってからご飯を炊いていたのでは、とても間に
合いませんが、フローズンライスと専用炊飯器を使うことにより、カツの揚がりとほ
ぼ同じ、15分でお客様に本当の「炊きたて」をお出しすることができます。まさにキ
ムカツならではのサービスであると自負しております。
キムカツ3つの特徴!
★柔らかくてとてもジューシーなトンカツ、キムカツを6種類のフレーバーで提供。
★ご飯はいつでも炊きたて!お客様の好みに合わせて15分で炊き上げます。
★とんかつ屋のイメージと全く異なるおしゃれな内装。
-キムカツとは?
豚肉の中でも最高とされる山形県平田牧場産の三元豚のロースを超薄切りにしたもの
を丹念に25枚以上重ねて作ったカツが「キムカツ(製法特許申請中)」です。とても
柔らかな食感と小籠包を思わせるジューシーな食感が特徴です。また普通のカツの他
に、重ね合わせた肉の層の間に、がーりっくやチーズ、梅しそ、ネギ、黒胡椒などを
挟みこむことでバラエティに富んだ味わいが堪能できます。
-炊きたてへのこだわり
「全てのお客様においしい炊き立てのご飯を召し上がって頂きたい」という願いから
考案された当社独自の技術(特許申請中)により、わずか15分でお客様のお好みに合
わせてご飯を炊き上げます。お米は特A産地である長野県北佐久郡の御牧村のコシヒ
カリを契約農家から直送されたものを自家精米しています。(ササニシキは宮城県直
送)
-女性客を意識したダイニング調の内装と食器
これまで「とんかつ」というとおやじの食べ物というイメージが強く、なかなか女性
だけで食べに出かけるのに抵抗があったようです。そこでキムカツでは女性にも入り
やすいお店をと考え、内装や什器にもこだわった店作りを行い、実に4割以上が女性
客(5月実績)というお店になりました。また食器もデザイナーに依頼して、おしゃ
れなものを取り揃えお客様にも高い評価を頂いております。
本件に関するお問合せ先
■屋号:キムカツ
■所在地:〒150-0013 東京都渋谷区恵比寿4-9-5 マンションニュー恵比寿105
■連絡先:tel/fax 03-3444-1486 E-mail:BXB05112@nifty.com(担当:山根)
会社概要―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――
社名:きむかつ株式会社(代表 木村義美)
所在地:東京都渋谷区千駄ヶ谷5-14-10 ベンチャービル3F
連絡先:tel03-5366-6332 / fax03-5366-6330
設立:平成14年5月
業務内容:飲食店の経営・飲食店FCの経営・持ち帰り弁当の製造販売
プレスリリース 2003年6月9日
株式会社伊予エンジニアリング
―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――
知りたい位置情報を、パソコンですぐに確認出来る
汎用位置情報連絡システム「MAPIN GPS Mate」6月10日販売開始!!
http://www.iyoeng.co.jp/
―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――
GIS(地図情報システム)の開発・販売を行う株式会社伊予エンジニアリング
(本社:愛媛県松山市、代表取締役社長:山本 昭廣)は6月10日、汎用位置情
報連絡システム「MAPIN GPS Mate」の販売を開始します。
GPS(衛星を利用して位置を測位)を使用し、パソコンで知りたい対象の位置
情報を掌握するシステムです。従来この種の位置情報は、大手警備保障会社等
が運営するコールセンターに連絡を取って入手していましたが、このシステム
を使用すれば、インターネットに接続した手元のパソコンでいつでも、すぐに
位置情報を得ることが出来ます。しかも、この種のシステムとしては画期的な、
10万円を切る低価格を実現しました。
パソコンの画面には、複数対象の現在位置と共に、その移動の軌跡を表示する
ことが出来ます。測位した現在位置は、日付、時刻と共に、地図データ上に直
感的に分かりやすいアイコンで表示します。日時を指定して過去の移動履歴の
軌跡を再現表示することも可能です。
位置を把握したい対象には、小型軽量のGPS端末(DLP仕様)を携行してもらい
ますが、1台~複数台まで対応していますので、用途に合わせて柔軟に端末台
数を増やしていくことが出来ます。GPS携帯電話(同じくDLP仕様)を使用する
場合には、パソコン操作者との間で双方向の電話連絡が取れますので、更に便
利なシステムとしてお使いいただけます。修学旅行の班行動確認、外勤営業員
・作業者の把握、痴呆性徘徊者の救援、各種配車・配員の管理等、位置情報を
管理し、安全を確認していただく汎用の用途に使っていただけるシステムです。
地図データは、アルプス社の「プロアトラス」を使用しています。100万分の1
の広域図から最大5千分の1の都心図まで、自由に拡大・縮小することが出来ま
す。また、町丁目レベルの住所検索データを収録していますので、住所を入力
して、目的の場所を呼び出すことも可能です。
価格は、1GPS端末対応版で98,000円(地図データ、GPS端末は別売)です。
当社では、初年度1億円、次年度以降年間2億円の売上を計画しています。
[会社概要]
株式会社伊予エンジニアリング
本社:〒790-0801 愛媛県松山市歩行町1-10-13
資本金:41百万円
従業員:60名
事業内容:地図情報システムの開発・販売、自動車・産業機械の開発設計
お問い合わせ先:営業課 木山
TEL:089-941-5501 FAX:089-945-2923
URL: http://www.iyoeng.co.jp/
[本件に関するお問い合わせ先]━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
株式会社伊予エンジニアリング 東京営業所 担当:天野
TEL:03-5803-7555
FAX:03-5803-7734
E-mail: amano@iyoeng.co.jp
URL: http://www.iyoeng.co.jp/
レッドバロングループ
レッドバロン浜松本店オープンについて
年間12万台のオートバイを販売するレッドバロングループ(本部:愛知県岡崎市、
代表取締役社長:杉浦 齊)は、平成15年6月4日(水)に既存の浜松1号店を
移転し、新たに浜松市宮竹町の国道152号線沿いに「レッドバロン浜松本店」と
してオープンします。
記
1.営業開始日:平成15年6月4日(水)
2.所在地 :静岡県浜松町宮竹町699-3
3.電話番号 :053-466-6200
4.営業時間 :10:00~20:00 火曜定休
5.取扱い業務:オートバイ・パーツ・アクセサリー用品の販売・修理
保険(自賠償保険・任意保険)の取扱い業務
※本件に関する問い合わせ先
レッドバロングループ本部
担当:営業統括部
TEL:0564-24-5373
--------------------------------------
※本件に関する報道関係者からの問い合わせ先
レッドバロングループ本部
担当:広告部 松井
TEL:0564-26-1295
FAX:0564-27-2177
E-MAIL:rbg-mb20@mth.biglobe.ne.jp
対応可能時間 9時から18時(日曜日を除く)
--------------------------------------
【参考資料】
<レッドバロングループについて>
全国220余店舗のネットサービスを誇る、業界最大級のオートバイ販売グループ
です。
会社の商号 :レッドバロングループ(ヤマハオートセンター株式会社)
代表者 :杉浦 齊
資本金 :36億4,036万円 グループ法人合計
(平成14年10月末現在)
創立 :昭和47年(1972年)1月(3月16日開業)
本部所在地 :愛知県岡崎市大平町字才勝8-1
店舗数 :国内224店舗(平成15年6月1日現在)
海外12事業所・店舗
総売上高 :690億円(平成14年10月決算期)
従業員数 :計2,009名(平成14年10月末現在)
事業内容 :オートバイ・パーツ・アクセサリー用品の販売・修理
直輸入オートバイ・パーツ・アクセサリー用品卸し及び小売販売
技術情報の紹介及び物品販売
海外ディーラーへのオートバイ販売及び技術指導
海外フランチャイズチェーン出店、現地企業との合弁事業の展開
国内外のオートバイライダー専用レジャー施設の開発及び運営
レッドバロングループの詳細については http://www.redbaron.co.jp をご覧下さい
プレスリリース
2003年4月23日
合資会社 ネイルっち
===================================
ネイルをもっと身近に!好きなものだけチョイスして受講(全11コース)!
~短時間&低価格ネイルスクール「ネイルっち」リニューアルオープン!~
===================================
----------------------------------------------------------------------
【要約】
合資会社ネイルっちは、ネイルをより身近に、趣味としても気軽に学べるよう
に、ジェルネイル(32,000円)、カラーリング(47,000円)等、学びたいものだけ
を低価格で学べるピックアップコースを11コース提供しました。
また、ネイリストコース(99,000円)、各種検定コースも短時間&低価格で提
供し、ネイリスト派遣事業の展開や講師採用で、卒業生の就業機会も提供して
いきます。
http://www.nailcchi.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------
【本文】
ネイルスクールを運営する合資会社ネイルっちは、低価格のネイルスクールを
リニューアルオープンしました。
ネイルは既にファッションとして一般的になってきてますが、まだ自分で行う
ものというよりもネイルサロンに通って実施してもらうのが当たり前の時代に
なっています。その原因として、ネイルスクールが「長時間・高価格」で敷居
が高く、ネイリストとして就業する人だけが通う場所、になっていることがあ
げられます。
当社は、今後ネイルがより身近なものとなり、趣味として、自分自身で行うも
のとして、気軽に習得できることを目指して「短時間・低価格」のコース・カ
リキュラムを実現しました。
■ピックアップコース
業界他社にない試みとして、個別の技術だけを学ぶことができるピックアッ
プコースを11コース提供します。興味あるものだけを学ぶことができるの
で、無駄なく、気軽にネイルを習得することができます。
アート 価格:16,000円(90分×2回)
カラーリング 価格:47,000円(90分×6回)
ケア 価格:63,000円(90分×7回)
リペア 価格:16,000円(90分×2回)
3Dアート 価格:21,000円(90分×2回)
エアブラシ 価格:16,000円(90分×2回)
スカルプチュア 価格:73,000円(90分×7回、120分×2回)
デザインスカルプチュア 価格:21,000円(120分×2回)
チップオーバーレイ 価格:21,000円(120分×2回)
ジェルネイル 価格:32,000円(90分×2回 120分×2回)
フットケア 価格:32,000円(90分×4回)
*上記全て教材費込み、税込み
■ネイリストコース、検定対策コース
ネイルを専門的に習得してネイリストとしてサロンワーク、講師として就業
していきたい人のために、下記の専門コースも短時間&低価格で提供いたし
ます。
ネイリストコース 価格: 99,000円(90分×全15回、全22.5時間)
3級検定コース 価格: 42,000円(全5回、7.5時間)
2級検定コース 価格: 84,000円(全10回、16時間)
1級検定コース 価格:115,000円(全13回、21.5時間)
*上記全て教材費込み、税込み
■ネイリスト就業機会の構築
ネイルっちでは、結婚式場やヘアサロンとタイアップしたネイリスト派遣事
業等さまざまな事業の展開、多店舗展開計画を進めており、卒業生の就業機
会を提供いたします。
スクールが単に学ぶ場所で終わらず、習得した技術で就業機会を得られる場
所となることで、生徒及びネイル業界の発展に寄与していきます。
http://www.nailcchi.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------
【企業概要】
会社名 :合資会社ネイルっち
代表者 :庄司篤男
創業 :2003年2月
資本金 :341万円
事業内容:ネイルスクールの運営
ネイルサロン
ネイル関連商品の販売
http://www.nailcchi.com
【本リリースに関するお問い合わせ】
〒191-0031 東京都日野市高幡17-4
萩島ビル2F
TEL 0425-92-2229 FAX 0425-92-2229
担当:古井 r-furui@nailcchi.com
プレスリリース
2003年4月14日
株式会社ユニバーサルコンツェルン
∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞
留学生向け就職支援サービス『UNIVERSAL PASSPORT』の開始
http://passport.concern.co.jp/
∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞
株式会社ユニバーサルコンツェルン(本社:東京都渋谷区幡ヶ谷、代表取締役
社長 小池 裕生)は、ロサンゼルスに本社を置くミレニア・ホールディング
ス株式会社とアライアンス提携し、NPO学生団体のJSN(Japan Student
Network)とパートナーシップ契約を結び、ロサンゼルスに留学している専門
知識を有した新卒および日本企業でキャリアを積んだ学生の就職活動をインター
ネットにより支援するサービスを始める。
■サービス概要
インターネットによるネット面接(PCにCCDカメラを接続)を実施。最終面接
のみ日本で実施。インターネット上の求職者データベースを用い、履歴・職歴
を確認しながら動画、音声による遠隔地での面接が可能。
■メリット
企業と求職者をインターネットで繋ぐ事により、双方の時間、コストを節約で
きる。
これまでは、米国で年5回開催される就職合同説明会、米国、日本における有力
求人広告サイトなどが留学生における就職活動のプラットフォームだった。卒業
時期の相違、日本で面接を受けるためのコスト、時間などの節約を考慮し、従来
の文章によるアプローチから動画、音声を伝えることが可能なネット面接は日米
学生の就職デバイドを解消する手法として、また受け入れ企業も含めたコスト、
時間の節約を可能とし、昨今問題視されている雇用ミスマッチにも効果が期待で
きると考える。
■企業情報
社名 株式会社ユニバーサルコンツェルン
http://www.concern.co.jp/
設立 平成6年10月
代表者 代表取締役社長 小池裕生
資本金 9735万円
所在地 本 社:〒151-0072 東京都渋谷区幡ヶ谷1-8-3 GSビル本館2F,6F
支 社:中部、大阪
営業所:ロサンゼルス、上海、福岡、飛騨
事業内容 ・HR事業
・モバイルソリューション事業
・システムソリューション事業
・エデュケーション事業
売上高 15億5337万円(平成14年度3月実績)
従業員数 450名(内正社員85名)
■本件に関するお問い合わせ先
担当 :常務取締役 阿部 浩昭
TEL:03-3378-9987
FAX:03-3378-9962
E-mail:up@concern.co.jp
プレスリリース 2003年4月16日
株式会社 ニューポート
===================================
日本初!リアルタイムのダイニングクラブサービスが
バイリンガルで登場
http://www.tabemo.com
===================================
株式会社ニューポート(東京)は、2003年4月10日より関東地域で、タベモダイニ
ングクラブ(www.tabemo.com)――日本初のリアルタイムのダイニングクラブサ
ービスを本格的に開始致しました。国内のすべてのインターネット仕様の携帯電
話から簡単にアクセス及び利用可能です。メンバーになると、首都圏の有名なレ
ストラン及び飲食店150件以上のお得なクーポンを受けることができます。現在
では週に5-10件のレストランが新しく加入しております。タベモは日英両サイ
ト設けており、24時間メンバー登録可能です。
<タベモダイニングクラブのコンセプト> タベモは外食する場所を探している
方と、空席を埋めたいと考えているレストランとのマッチングシステムとして開
発されました。レストランが店内の状況にあわせてリアルタイムでクーポンを提
供し、メンバーもまたリアルタイムでクーポンを“ゲット”することができるの
です。2002年12月のトライアル開始以来、5,000人以上のメンバーが登録してお
ります。いち早くメンバーとなった、東京在住のビジネスマン、ティム・ロメロ
さんは「タベモを使って新しいレストランを探したり、どのレストランに行くか
決めたりしています。英語で検索ができるので、日本語の店でも問題なく楽しめ
ます。」とコメントしています。OLの島瀬千恵美さんは、「以前はよく、友人と
外出中にどこに食べに行くか悩むことがありました。でもタベモがあると、おい
しいレストランがすぐ見つかるし、その上お得に食事ができるんですよ。」とタ
ベモを利用中です。
<タベモの使用方法> 使用方法は簡単で、セットクーポン(25クーポン、
2,500円)をお買い上げ後タベモのサイトでメンバー登録していただきます。
クーポンは、エリア、レストランのジャンル、ディスカウント内容、使用時間か
ら検索でき、また各レストランの簡単な説明、一人あたりの平均飲食代、禁煙席
の有無などの詳細も確認できます。気に入ったクーポンを“ゲット”すると、
“マイ・クーポン”の欄に保存されます。ご来店時にクリックして見せていただ
き、レストランが内容を確認すると完了です。クーポンどおりのお得なサービス
を受けることができます。
<タベモは、集客に効果的> レストランのオーナーにとってもタベモは非常に
有効な集客方法です。開始時刻、サービス時間、オファーの内容、提供クーポン
数はオーナー自身で決定することができます。しかもご自分の携帯電話、パソコ
ンから、もしくはタベモサービスセンターへ電話するだけで、簡単にサービス設
定が可能です。変更や取り消しもオーナーが簡単にリアルタイムで行うことがで
きます。TVの料理番組などでも活躍中のCARDENAS グループの取締役副社長、
長坂将志氏は、「どうしてもお客様の少ない時間帯における集客に、タベモは有
効的です。客数が少なめの時間帯、早朝、遅いディナータイム、またグループ客
のキャンセルがあった場合などに最適でしょう。深夜の集客にもタベモは効果的
です。各レストランのマネージャーがリアルタイムで、かつ必要にあわせてコン
トロールできる集客方法ですね。」と語っています。
タベモクーポンの購入は、タベモサービスセンター03-3232-6105に電話するだけ
です。タベモに興味のあるレストラン経営者様・オーナー様は、ニューポート
03-5467-4550 鈴木康文(日本語)、ロン・スタート(英語)までご連絡ください。
タベモは株式会社コンセプシが企画制作を手掛け、ニューポートが販売総代理店と
なっております。タベモダイニングクラブの詳細や、取材希望の場合は、下記まで
お問い合わせ下さい。
==========================
本件に関するお問い合わせ先
株式会社 ニューポート
〒150-0002 東京都渋谷区渋谷3-27-15 光和ビル6F
Tel:03-5467-4550 Fax:03-5467-4155
代表取締役:ケビンマコーリフ(英語)
担当:山下尚子(日本語)
Eメール:info@newportjapan.com
ホームページ:http://www.newportjapan.com
プレスリリース 2003年4月14日
株式会社マチダ
===================================
【TVゲーム販売の課題を解決!画期的支援サイト「M-マッチング」を展開開始】
http://www.m-matching.jp
===================================
株式会社マチダ(本社:東京都台東区、代表取締役:町田 博)は、TVゲーム
業界における、店頭、流通、メーカーの余剰在庫の原価割れ処分による過大な
損益に着目し、自社償却が困難な在庫を日本全国の販売店に案内出来る、イン
ターネットBtoB販売システム「M-マッチングシステム」を運営しています。
この度、4月下旬より販売チャンネルを一般ユーザーまで広げた、インターネ
ットBtoBtoCシステムを開始致します。(URL: http://ww2.m-matching.jp )
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
BtoBtoC向けM-マッチングシステム(ビジネスモデル特許申請中)は現在イン
ターネット上で見られる、モール形式・オークション形式・共同購入方式等と
は違う、販売方法を取っています。
掲載されている商品はTVゲーム各種、トレーディングカード各種(箱売り)、
DVDソフト各種、パソコンソフト各種、その他で、ユーザーは2つの形態の商品
情報より、自分に有った条件を選択し購入が可能です。
1つ目は、全国の販売店が自店の持つ余剰在庫を、各店の自由な価格と本数で
登録した物の中から比較購入出来るものです。
月・水・金のPM5:00~翌PM2:00迄の期間のみ開催し、実在庫をリアルタイムで
確認しながらどれを購入するか選ぶ事が可能です。
近くの販売店では売り切れて買い逃した商品も買えるかも知れません。
開催時間外は次回の開催分の掲載時間に当てられている為購入出来ません。
2つ目は、全国の優良問屋・メーカーの掲載している商品情報から、欲しい商
品を探すものです。流通情報なので、常に流動しており、本数の掲載は無く、
確実に取れる保証は有りません。しかしながら、常時掲載されており、24時
間何時でも注文が出来、販売店の掲載には出て来ない様々なパーツや特殊な輸
入商品、定番商品、特価商品等を手に入れらたりする事が可能です。
注文時点で借り受け付けとなり、弊社で手配作業の後、メールにて確保出来た
かの連絡が送信されます。
商品を検索すると、上記2形態で掲載されている商品を1ページでまとめて確
認する事が出来ます。商品によっては、何店舗も掲載しているものが有って、
様々な価格、条件から希望に合うものを選ぶ形となっています。
全ての商品は各店からバラバラに送られるのでは無く、弊社に一度まとまって
入荷し、検品、再梱包し発送されます。
販売店も購入ユーザーも全て弊社との取引・決済しか発生しない為、代金を払
ったのに商品が届かない、商品を発送したのに代金が支払われない等のトラブ
ルに合わずに売買が可能で、まとめ買いをした場合は送料負担が1回分ですむ
と言うメリットも有ります。
注文した商品は新作や備考に指定が無い限り、注文翌日~5日以内には、弊社
から発送可能な状態になる為、完全在庫販売店と殆ど変わらないスピードで購
入する事が可能です。
参加店・企業の共同出店の様な形式なので、販売店の店頭にて表示されている
パソコンから購入し店頭受取する事も可能です。
・利用者の本人確認の為にID・PASSを使ったログイン制を採っています。
・掲載、購入情報は全て匿名で行い、誰が販売しているかは表示されません。
・システム利用料は無料。
・支払いは佐川のeコレクト等の代金引換えか振込みから選べます。
■株式会社マチダ概要
===================================
会社名 : 株式会社マチダ
本社 : 〒111-0043 東京都台東区駒形1-2-11 ビジネスガイド社第3ビル
代表取締役 : 町田 博
設立 : 平成13年6月
資本金 : 2,000万円
従業員数 : 9名
URL : http://www.m-matching.jp
: http://ww2.m-matching.jp
Tel : 03-5827-1778
Fax : 03-5827-1779
事業内容 : インターネットを活用したBtoB、BtoBtoCサービス
: TVゲーム・トレーディングカード・DVD・パソコンゲームその他
卸売り、各種販促企画(折込チラシ他)
===================================
【本件に関するお問い合わせ先】
株式会社マチダ 広報担当:原
E-Mail: hara@m-matching.com
Tel:03-5827-1778 Fax:03-5827-1779

Z Corporation's ZPrinter 450 Makes Color Accessible to More Businesses and Schools BURLINGTON, Mass., March 5 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Z Corporation today took another giant step in its mission to make high-definition color 3D printing available to the masses with the release of the ZPrinter(R) 450. The new machine is the first color 3D printer to break the $40,000 price point, the most highly automated, and the most compatible with contemporary office environments. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040630/ZCORPLOGO ) Z Corp. is the only company that makes a full-color 3D printer, an output device that transforms electronic 3D data into handheld physical models. Color dramatically communicates the proposed look, feel and style of engineering product designs and architectural concepts, and vividly renders landscapes, electronic entertainment objects, and medical information. The ZPrinter 450, however, introduces first-ever capabilities for a color 3D printer, including: Automated operation: The ZPrinter 450 simplifies the 3D printing process with automated operation at every step. New features include automatic setup, powder loading, and self-monitoring of materials and print status. For the first time, a 3D printer automatically removes and recycles loose powder. Time saving: Automated operation and new quick-change material cartridges reduce touch time by 40 percent. The ZPrinter 450 also produces color in a new way with a single tri-color print head instead of multiple print heads, reducing cost and enabling 66 percent faster changes. Office friendly: The ZPrinter 450 is optimized for a front-office environment. It is quiet, uses safe build materials, employs "negative pressure" and a closed loop system to contain airborne particles, and produces zero liquid waste. New "no-touch" powder and binder cartridges enable clean loading of build materials. An integrated fine-powder removal chamber reduces the footprint of the system. And unlike 3D printers that attach support structures to models that later require removal with dangerous razors or chemical baths, the ZPrinter 450 supports models with loose powder that is removed automatically. These capabilities make the ZPrinter 450 as safe and unobtrusive as a standard copier. Desktop and printer control: Users can control the ZPrinter 450 from either the desktop or 3D printer itself. New ZPrint(TM) software lets users monitor powder, binder, and ink levels from their desktops, and remotely read the machine's LCD display. The expanded on-board printer display and interface enables users to perform more operations than ever at the machine. Speed, cost-effectiveness and precision: Like its predecessors, the ZPrinter 450 produces models and prototypes five to 10 times faster than competing printers at half the cost. Models cost about $3 per cubic inch - one-half to one-sixth the cost of competitors. It prints in high-quality 300 x 450 dpi. "The integrated powder removal system is a very big step forward for the technology and company," said industry consultant and analyst Terry Wohlers of Wohlers Associates. "When considering it, and the easier loading of the binder and inkjet cartridges, the ZPrinter 450 becomes very compelling for under $40,000. Many organizations that before were unsure about whether to purchase a color 3D printer will now have much more motivation to get one." The new lower price tag puts high-definition 3D color printing within the range of small-to-medium engineering businesses and divisions, many of which currently spend thousands to outsource 3D physical model making to service bureaus. The price also makes 3D printing more affordable for college and university engineering departments. "The ZPrinter 450 delivers on our "3D Printing Bill of Rights," which holds that 3D printing should be fast, easy, affordable, and office-friendly, like printing on paper," said Tom Clay, Z Corp. CEO. "Just as 2D printer breakthroughs like color and print quality became commonplace, the ZPrinter 450's unique qualities will eventually permeate our entire product line, making 3D printing increasingly accessible to all." Other 3D printers in the Z Corp. product line are the ZPrinter 310 Plus, a monochrome entry-level rapid prototyping system, and the top-of-the-line Spectrum Z(R)510, which prints in 24-bit color and delivers the highest resolution, largest build size, and access to the greatest range of build materials. Pricing, Availability The ZPrinter 450 is available in early Q2 through Z Corp.'s worldwide reseller network for a United States manufacturer's suggested retail price of $39,900 USD. About Z Corporation Z Corporation makes products that enable users to capture, edit, and print 3D data with unprecedented speed, ease, versatility and affordability. These products include the world's fastest high-definition 3D printers - machines that produce physical 3D models from digital data in full color - and uniquely portable 3D scanners - handheld machines that digitize 3D surfaces in real time. Z Corp. technology is enabling a wide range of applications in manufacturing, architecture, civil engineering, reverse engineering, geographic information systems (GIS), medicine and entertainment. For the latest news and information from Z Corp., visit the company's Web site at www.zcorp.com . CONTACT: KEVIN LACH CHARNA CUMMINGS Z CORPORATION BEAUPRE & CO. PUBLIC RELATIONS +1 781-852-5086 + 1 603-559-5837 KLACH@ZCORP.COM CCUMMINGS@BEAUPRE.COM WWW.ZCORP.COM SOURCE Z Corporation

-- Wide choice offered in areas Engineering, Life Science, Automotive and Environmental Technology -- "We are proud to be able to auction more than 70 high value lots with over 300 brand rights, patents and licences from well known international companies," says Dr. Manfred Petri, spokesman for IP Auctions GmbH -- Auction 14th and 15th May in Munich MUNICH, March 5 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- On May 14th and 15th in Hotel Kempinski Airport, Munich, the first live auction will be held of patents, licences and brand rights of European origin. Leading companies such as Bayer Innovation GmbH, Merck Patent GmbH or Rolls-Royce Deutschland and research centres such as the Fraunhofer Institute are offering an international public an extensive choice of intellectual property rights. The emphasis is on the areas of engineering, Life Science, Automotive and Environmental technology. Dr. Manfred Petri, spokesman for IP Auctions GmbH, comments on this assortment: "We are delighted that not only well known companies but also individual inventors and research centres have released patents, licences and brand rights for auction. The area of protection of these intellectual property rights and licences does not only cover Europe, but for a great deal also cover the most important industrial nations such as the USA and Japan. Among the patents and licences on offer are: - A machine tool system with ultra precise magnetic, contactless bearings - A "Pay-As-You-Drive" system that evaluates the risk associated with the use of motorised vehicles and - A system of electrochromic dyes that can turn the glass facades of skyscrapers into billboards From today all Intellectual Property Rights available for auction can be viewed online on http://www.ip-auctions.eu . Registered bidders can visit a virtual Data Room from March 12th 2007 and subject the properties in which they are interested to an Online Due Diligence. Interest in the live auction is extraordinarily high, both nationally and internationally, there is great interest from Europe, the USA and South East Asia in patents in the auction's technology section. The demand for new patents generally is considerable and an auction is recognised by many companies as an efficient trading platform which presents the opportunity to reduce costs for research and development. With this live auction, IP Auctions, the legal side of which is represented by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, is setting the course for future trade with intangible assets, and thus serves the speeding up of technology transfer which is indispensable for the innovation capability of businesses. "The effectiveness of the patent system, however, depends heavily on the actual use of patent portfolios, either by the inventors or applicants themselves or by third parties. It is a challenge to bring together the inventors and users with the object of improving the rate of licensing and market exchange of intellectual property rights," says Professor Alain Pompidou, President of the European Patent Office. About IP Auctions IP Auctions GmbH (IPA), founded in August 2006, presents the Intellectual Property Auction -- an international live auction for patents, licences and trademarks -- May 14 and 15, 2007 in Munich. IPA is an independent member of an international network that specialises in patent evaluation, marketing and licensing from the areas of nanotechnology, mechanical engineering, consumer electronics, automotive technology, life science, medical technology, pharmaceutical and biotechnology and "green" technologies. IPA's objective is to market first-class IP rights via auction. IPA's sister company, IP Bewertungs AG (IPB), based in Hamburg, offers support in the run-up to this auction by ensuring that formal requirements of all submitted patents are met. Further information on: http://www.ip-auction.eu Background: Trade in patents Howard Stringer, CEO of Sony Corporation, is certain that "the battles of companies will no longer be fought on the lowlands of mass goods production, but on the heights of innovative capability." Current empirical studies show that he is not alone in this opinion. Between 1990 and 2000, the global trade volume of licence income rose from around 10 billion US$ to 100 billion US$. The European Patent Office expects that this will reach 500 billion US$ for patent licences by 2010. Despite the rising importance of intangible assets, the trade in intellectual property rights, for instance patents and brands, is still under-developed and not very transparent. This leads to substantial misallocation, both macro and micro-economically. According to a survey by the Austrian Patent Office, in Europe, between 15 and 30 per cent of research expenditure is spent on duplicate inventions. This is equivalent to an annual sum of around 50 billion Euros. A patents auction is a means of preventing duplication of inventions, of promoting trade in intellectual properties and thus saving companies considerable costs. For more information, please contact: Dr. Manfred Petri, General Agent, IP Auctions GmbH, Toelzer Strasse 5 D-82031 Gruenwald Germany Phone: +49-89-441-093-90 Fax: +49-40-87-87-90-123 Email: Petri@ip-auction.eu Web: http://www.IP-AUCTION.eu Managing Director: Jochen Kamlah Registered in: Munich - HRB: 163548 Tel: +49-89-441-093-90 Email: presse@ip-auction.de Web: http://www.ip-auction.eu SOURCE IP Auctions GmbH

THALWIL, Switzerland, March 5 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- u-blox AG, the leading Swiss provider of GPS receiver technology, will showcase u-blox 5, a Galileo-ready A-GPS chip featuring an acquisition performance of less than one second, at the 2007 CeBIT trade show in Hanover, Germany. CeBIT, which runs from March 15-21, is the world's leading ICT show and is expected to attract nearly half a million visitors and over 6000 exhibitors this year. This makes it the largest marketplace for digital IT and telecommunications solutions, providing a unique opportunity for product manufacturers, service providers and distributors to meet, exchange views and do business. u-blox will be promoting its u-blox 5 chip at the event. The new technology boasts an acquisition and tracking sensitivity of -160 dBm that enables indoor coverage, a 50-channel engine and a power consumption of less than 50 mW. Its energy efficiency and tracking sensitivity make it ideal for GPS-enabled battery-operated portable devices that operate in difficult indoor environments like shopping malls, train stations and urban canyons. "Our ultra fast u-blox 5 chip, with its low power consumption and indoor performance, enables a whole new range of innovative GPS-enabled applications, from handheld navigation devices to smart phones," said Thomas Seiler, u-blox CEO. u-blox will also showcase recent innovations like AssistNow(R), u-blox' end-to-end A-GPS solutions that enhance receiver performance, enabling instant positioning anywhere, at anytime. AssistNow services make the long waiting times usually associated with standard GPS acquisition performance a thing of the past, even in difficult signal conditions. The recently introduced AssistNow Offline provides assistance data valid for up to 14 days, which is stored in the GPS receiver. This enables the receiver to compute a position instantly without having to connect to a mobile network at start-up to download the data, as is the case with typical A-GPS services. u-blox' booth is located in Hall 11, C09. (A high-resolution picture can be downloaded from http://www.u-blox.com/news/u-blox_5.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, products and services based on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including GPS and Galileo, for the automotive and mobile communications markets. For more information, please visit http://www.u-blox.com . For more information, please contact: u-blox Contacts Georg zur Bonsen Marketing Services 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 SOURCE u-blox

Transtrack International, the Netherlands Based Market Leader in Tracking & Tracing Software Solutions for the Transport of Cash, Management & Processing of Cash, Announced a Strategic Partnership With JSC Bancomzvjazok a Leading Ukrainian System Integrator. UTRECHT, Netherlands, March 5 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- This partnership combines JSC Bancomzvjazok knowledge of the Ukrainian banking sector and their solid track record in the Ukrainian IT solutions market, with Transtrack's proven IT solutions for Cash Businesses around the world. Together they provide Ukrainian Banks and Cash businesses with new opportunities to increase the efficiency of cash management & tracking by using IT solutions. "We expand our international distribution network with this partnership and support our strategic development, which is aimed to provide best-practice cash management solutions & knowledge around the world. We highly value the experience of JSC Bancomzvjazok as the IT-market leader in Ukraine and their knowledge of the financial institutions," said Ronald van Vliet, Managing Director of Transtrack International. Vitaly Kozachenko, Manager of Business Solutions Department, states: "We choose Transtrack International as our partner because there is no other company able to offer such complete and effective cash management solutions for the Ukrainian market today. This partnership combined with our existing portfolio makes us the only supplier on the Ukrainian market able to provide such a complete approach. During fifteen years of operations, we have acquired an excellent knowledge of our customer's needs and believe that these solutions are adding value for financial organizations and institutions." Transtrack International and JSC Bancomzvjazok will launch their financial sector solutions during the "Banking Technologies 2007" Conference, which will take place on April 5th 2007 in Kiev. About Transtrack International Transtrack International is an independent software specialist with standard software packages for cash-in-transit companies and banks. The software is geared towards improving efficiency, traceability, optimal cash stocks and chain integration. Transtrack International works with distributors in Italy, Turkey, Germany, Poland, Spain, South Africa, Mexico, US & India. www.transtrack.nl About JSC Bancomzvjazok JSC Bancomzvjazok is one of the leading Ukrainian system integrators, with a wide range of product & services, like development of information-analytical systems, systems for management and accountancy, corporate electronic documentation, distributor of computer and communication equipment and supplier of corporate and operational telecommunication systems. www.bkc.com.ua For more information, please contact: Ronald van Vliet Transtrack International Tel: +31302404212 Email: r.vanvliet@transtrack.nl Vitaly Kozachenko JSC Bancomzvjazok Tel: +380444960096 Email: kozachenko@bkc.com.ua SOURCE Transtrack International

PARIS, March 5 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The house of Louis Vuitton, with Marc Jacobs as Artistic Director, closed fashion week in Paris with it's Fall Winter 2007-2008 collection under an ephemeral marquee in the prestigious surroundings of the Cour Carree du Louvre. (Photo: http://www.xprn.com.cn/xprn/sa/200703050808.jpg ) ( Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-a http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-b http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-c http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-d http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-e http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-f http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-g http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-h http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070304/CLSU016-i ) Yves Carcelle, President of Louis Vuitton received the international press and such exceptional personalities as Scarlett Johansson , Maggie Cheung, Lee Radziwill, Julie Depardieu, Ludivine Sagnier, Cecile Cassel, Audrey Marnay to name but a few. The photographs (looks and celebrities) are available on prnewswire.com . For more information, please contact: Jean-Baptiste Rougeot Louis Vuitton Press Office Tel: +33-1-55-80-37-69 SOURCE Louis Vuitton

LONDON, March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Summary 2006 2005 Change Revenue - as reported gbp9,762m gbp9,325m +5% Profit from operations - as reported gbp2,622m gbp2,420m +8% - like-for-like gbp2,797m gbp2,607m +7% Adjusted diluted earnings per share 98.12p 89.34p +10% Dividends per share 55.90p 47.00p +19% - The reported Group profit from operations was 8 per cent higher at gbp2,622 million or 7 per cent higher on a like-for-like basis, with Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Africa and Middle East regions particularly contributing to this good result. - Group volumes from subsidiaries increased by 2 per cent to 689 billion on both a reported and like-for-like basis. The reported Group revenue rose by 5 per cent to gbp9,762 million and also increased by 5 per cent on a like-for-like basis. This excellent volume and revenue growth was achieved across a broad spread of markets. The four Global Drive Brands continued their impressive performance and achieved overall volume growth of 17 per cent. - Adjusted diluted earnings per share rose by 10 per cent to 98.12p, as the higher net finance costs and minority interests were more than offset by the improvement in profit from operations, the share of associates' post-tax results, a lower tax rate and the benefit from the share buy-back programme. The basic earnings per share was higher at 92.08p (2005: 84.34p). - Following a review of the Group's capital structure, the Board has decided that there is scope to increase significantly both the dividend payout ratio and the share buy-back programme. The Board is recommending a final dividend of 40.2p, which will be paid on 3 May 2007. This, together with the interim dividend, will take dividends declared in respect of 2006 as a whole to 55.9p, an increase of 19 per cent. In addition, the level of the share buy-back will rise from around gbp500 million to some gbp750 million per year, starting in 2007. - The Chairman, Jan du Plessis commented, "2006 has been a good year and I believe we can look ahead with confidence in our ability to achieve further growth and value for shareholders. Over the past five years, British American Tobacco has delivered an average annual total shareholder return of 26 per cent, compared to 7 per cent for the FTSE 100." For more information, please contact: Investor Relations Ralph Edmondson Tel: +44-20-7845-1180 Rachael Brierley Tel: +44-20-7845-1519 Press David Betteridge, Kate Matrunola or Catherine Armstrong Tel: +44-20-7845-2888 SOURCE British American Tobacco Plc

HONG KONG, March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Arrow Asia Pac Ltd. (NYSE: ARW) announced today that Simon Yu, senior vice president, Arrow North Asia Region and Ray Leung, marketing communications director, Arrow Asia Pac, will each deliver a presentation at the 12th International IC-China Conference and Exhibition. Held in Shenzhen (March 5-6, 2007), Beijing (March 8-9, 2007) and Shanghai (March 13-14, 2007), the event is the Mainland's largest showcase of IC application technologies and high-end components. It also features a series of conferences and seminars. The event is jointly organized by Global Sources, a global provider of integrated sourcing and marketing solutions, and CMP Media LLC., one of the world's leading providers of high-tech news and information. The conference will explore a wide range of technology issues that China's electronics industry is facing. These range from technological innovations in distribution and supply chain management, to standards and quality assurance. Ray Leung will speak in Shenzhen on March 5, 2007 and Simon Yu in Shanghai on March 13, 2007. In their presentation entitled 'The Evolution of Semiconductor Distribution Value Chains', they will explore challenges and issues encountered by global, regional and local distributors in Asia, with a focus on China. They will discuss the innovations and new applications that are driving the next cycle of semiconductor growth. They will also address how OEM/ODM/EMS customers and suppliers can use distribution to enhance their supply chain, thereby reducing the ripple effect of supply chain disruption caused by demand and supply fluctuations in the industry. The event is expected to draw thousands of senior level executives from a range of industries including design and fabless firms, chip manufacturers, foundries, EMS companies, OEM factories, equipment suppliers, R&D companies and consultancies. About Arrow Asia Pac A subsidiary of Arrow Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: ARW), Arrow Asia Pac is one of Asia Pacific's leading electronic component distributors. In addition to its regional headquarters in Hong Kong, Arrow Asia Pac operates 42 sales offices, four primary distribution centers and eleven local warehousing facilities in eleven countries/territories across Asia. Providing a full range of semiconductors, passive, electromechanical and connectors products from over 60 leading international suppliers, Arrow Asia Pac serves more than 10,000 original equipment and contract manufacturers and commercial customers in Asia Pacific. Visit us at http://www.arrowasia.com . For more information, please contact: Ray Leung Marketing Communications Director Arrow Asia Pac Ltd. Tel: +852-2484-2683 Email: ray.leung@arrowasia.com Grace Kung Marketing Communications Manager Tel: +852-2484-2682 Email: grace.kung@arrowasia.com SOURCE Arrow Asia Pac Ltd.

XI'AN, China, March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- ALONG Mobile Technologies Inc. (OTC Pink Sheets: AGMB), a leading provider of wireless interactive entertainment products and services in China, today announced its audited annual financial results, ending December 31, 2006. Total Revenue for fiscal 2006 was $6,427,893, an increase of 42.4% as compared with Net Revenue of $4,515,395 for fiscal 2005. Net Income for fiscal 2006 was $3,258,133, or $0.046 per share, an increase of 381.4% as compared with Net Income of $676,789 for fiscal 2005, or $0.012 per share. "The large portion of the increase in revenues in fiscal 2006 was primarily due to the success of ALONG's efforts to expand to an additional 1200 downloading terminals in five provinces of northwest part of China from the third and fourth quarters of 2006," pointed Mr. Li Jianwei, the CEO of ALONG Mobile. "Our gross profit for the year ending December 31, 2006 was $5,119,425, an increase of $2,083,610 as compared with $3,035,815 for the year ending December 31, 2005, with the corresponding overall gross profit margin increasing from 67.23% for fiscal year 2005 to 79.64% for fiscal year 2006. This was the best year we've ever seen for the overall operating performance! We ceased all the hardware products business in 2006, and our revenue is recognized from wireless application products. This along with expanding our downloading network significantly increased our revenue. Getting rid of the hardware business also significantly reduced our costs," said Mr. Wang Zhen, the CFO of ALONG Mobile. "As part of the strategic planning process we completed in the third and fourth quarters, we have committed to improving returns and maximizing value from our continual expansion in the years ahead. Accordingly, we have decided with regard to our use of cash flow going forward, to continue to demonstrate the balanced approach to investing those funds that we showed in 2006 as well as we will still focus on improving our operations and financial performance," said Mr. Wang Zhen. Financial Tables for reference: ALONG MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Stated in US Dollars) As of December 31, 2006 2005 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents $6,561,239 $6,476,651 Accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $382 in 2006, $Nil in 2005) 64,076 147,899 Inventories 32,421 54,505 Deposits paid 2,750,240 - Note receivable - 1,237,624 Other receivables 35,319 14,177 Total Current Assets 9,443,295 7,930,856 Property and equipment, net 4,186,065 1,866,865 Intangible assets, net 2,119,030 925,925 TOTAL ASSETS $15,748,390 $10,723,646 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities Accounts payable $10,726 $10,377 Receipt in advance 31,903 - Deposits received 447,713 - Other payables and accrued liabilities 752,729 533,961 Value added tax payable 788,602 633,342 Other taxes payable 163,546 44,123 Accrued dividends payable - 309,406 TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,195,219 1,531,209 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Common stock 70,600 70,000 Additional paid-in capital 8,045,085 7,409,685 Retained earnings 3,949,214 1,188,360 Statutory and other reserves 1,045,174 547,895 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 443,098 (23,503) TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 13,553,171 9,192,437 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $15,748,390 $10,723,646 ALONG MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Stated in US Dollars) Year ended December 31, 2006 2005 Revenues $6,427,893 $4,515,395 Cost of revenues (1,308,468) (1,479,580) Gross profit 5,119,425 3,035,815 Operating expenses Selling and distribution 837,404 453,673 General and administrative 900,655 534,530 Professional fees 107,080 130,000 Consultancy fees - 1,173,000 Depreciation 95,616 85,929 Total expenses 1,940,755 2,377,132 Income before the following items and taxes 3,178,670 658,683 Interest income 23,759 18,106 Other income 55,832 - Finance cost (128) - Income before income taxes 3,258,133 676,789 Income taxes - - Net income $3,258,133 $676,789 Earnings per share - basic and diluted $0.046 $0.012 Weighted average number of common stock outstanding 70,207,123 58,060,882 ALONG MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Stated in US Dollars) Year ended December 31, 2006 2005 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $3,258,133 $676,789 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: In-kind contribution - 30,927 Amortization on intangible assets 148,981 120,773 Depreciation on property and equipment 217,189 85,929 Issuance of common stock for services - 1,173,000 Changes in operating assets and liabilities Accounts receivable 86,961 (11,686) Inventories 23,422 253,383 Deposits paid (2,693,598) - Other receivables (20,241) (9,304) Accounts payable - (2,253) Receipt in advance 31,246 - Deposits received 438,493 - Other payables and accrued liabilities 200,924 264,967 Value added tax payable 131,234 282,696 Other taxes payable 115,513 19,784 Accrued dividends payable - 7,474 Net cash flows provided by operating activities 1,938,257 2,892,479 Cash flows from investing activities Payments to acquire property and equipment (2,381,535) (55,487) Payments to acquire intangible assets (627,861) - Repayments of note receivable 1,252,836 - Increase in note receivable - (512,986) Net cash flows used in investing activities (1,756,560) (568,473) Cash flows from financing activities Contribution by a stockholder - 1,281 Dividend paid (313,209) - Net cash flows (used in) provided by financing activities (313,209) 1,281 Effect of foreign currency translation on cash and cash equivalents 216,100 125,962 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 84,588 2,451,249 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 6,476,651 4,025,402 Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $6,561,239 $6,476,651 Forward looking statement Certain information contained in these materials is "forward-looking" information, such as projections, estimates, pro formas, or statements of intentions, expectations or plans. All forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of the control of the company. Consequently, actual results may, and probably will, differ materially from the results contemplated in such forward-looking information. About ALONG ALONG Mobile Technologies, Inc. is a mobile value-added services provider in the PRC. The Company designs, produces, publishes, manufactures, provides and distributes proprietary wireless entertainment applications such as ring- tones, games, images, videos and e-books to its customers. Our Wireless Applications are intended to be downloaded by our customers on a fee-basis by means of our proprietary public downloading terminals which are installed by us in strategic locations such as shopping centers, universities, entertainment centers, cinemas, hotels, airports, restaurants and parks. Interaction enriches your life. For more information about ALONG, please visit http://www.alonggame.com . Our customers will soon be able to download our games via the internet from the website http://www.whatplay.cn . For more information, please contact: ALONG Mobile Technologies Inc. Michael Wang Tel: +86-29-8836-0097 Fax: +86-29-8836-0090 Email: michaelwang@alonggame.com Web: http://www.alonggame.com SOURCE ALONG Mobile Technologies Inc.

PSC Will Become Datalogic Scanning and Datalogic Mobile Effective April 2, 2007 EUGENE, Ore., March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Datalogic, a market leader in international data collection technology and services, is pleased to announce that the Datalogic transformation integration with PSC is proceeding well and with great enthusiasm. Last December, Datalogic announced a plan to move toward an autonomous divisional operating structure. ( Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070302/SFF002LOGO ) The goal of the transformation project is for PSC and Datalogic to better serve customers through a more focused, dedicated, and specialized business unit structure. PSC customers can expect to receive the same quality products, service and support that they receive today. The transformation process currently underway is designed to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for customers, partners, and vendors. On April 2, 2007, the PSC brand name and logo will be retired. Datalogic will be re-aligned into Datalogic Scanning, Datalogic Mobile, and Datalogic Automation. Datalogic Scanning will be headquartered in Eugene, Oregon. The Mobile and Automation divisions will be headquartered near Bologna, Italy. PSC products will be re-branded under Datalogic, as Datalogic Magellan(R), Datalogic PowerScan(R), Datalogic QuickScan(R) and Datalogic Falcon(R) products. "We are very excited to implement the Datalogic transformation project," said Bill Parnell, President and CEO of PSC Inc. "Integration with Datalogic and alignment to a more autonomous structure makes good business sense; it will make the company stronger and more effective." In addition to PSC's existing position leading the market in Fixed Retail Scanners, PSC and Datalogic combined will have the most complete offering of Hand-Held Scanners in the industry. The first sign of the integration is a star added to the Datalogic logo, representing the PSC legacy; this star adds a bright light to the company's future. About PSC Inc. PSC Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Datalogic S.p.A., is a global provider of automatic data-capture technology, products and services. PSC leads the market with flexible, responsive customer service and innovative equipment. PSC products and services support multiple industries throughout the supply chain/distribution channel including retail, manufacturing, transportation, logistics and warehousing sectors. NOTE: Falcon, Magellan, PowerScan, QuickScan and the PSC logo are registered trademarks of PSC Inc. PSC headquarters and manufacturing facilities are located in Eugene, Oregon, with sales and service offices located throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia. For more information, please contact your PSC representative, or visit http://www.psc.com . About Datalogic S.p.A. Datalogic S.p.A. is the largest European manufacturer of CCD and laser-based bar code readers and mobile computers. With their advanced technology, intelligent design, and solid reliability, the vast range of Datalogic products can satisfy any application need and have been setting industry standards for over 30 years. Datalogic is present in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US with partners in over 40 countries, selected and qualified to offer the highest level of services and solutions in the industry. For more information, visit http://www.datalogic.com . For more information, please contact: Rhone Lee PSC VP of Human Resources Tel: +1-541-683-5700 SOURCE PSC Inc.

GREENWICH, Conn., March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Interactive Brokers has recently added the trading of stocks and warrants in Hong Kong to its worldwide direct access platform. Commissions for stocks and warrants are 0.088% of the trade value, with an HKD 18.00 minimum, plus any stamp duty and SFC transaction fees. Interactive Brokers continues to offer the trading of Hong Kong Futures with commissions for the Hang Seng Index and other Hong Kong futures contracts starting at HKD 9.50 and going as low as HKD 2.00 for high volume customers*. A full list of all market centers and products that IB makes available in 16 countries can be found at http://www.interactivebrokers.com/en/trading/products.php . Traders and investors with a need for direct international access to stocks, warrants, options, futures, forex, and bonds are encouraged to complete an electronic application at http://www.interactivebrokers.com . "Trading internationally is simplified at Interactive Brokers because of our Universal Account(TM), a unique industry innovation launched by IB five years ago. A customer deposits cash in one of eight currencies and is able to trade stocks, options, futures, forex, and bonds on over 60 market centers worldwide from a single screen in one single account. When trading in multiple currency products, our customers have a choice of converting at tight interbank rates or creating a margin loan with the deposited currency as collateral," said Steve Sanders, SVP Product Development. About the Interactive Brokers Group Interactive Brokers Group (IBG) provides professional traders and investors with direct access to options, futures, stocks, forex, and bonds on over 60 market centers worldwide from a single IB Universal Account(TM). With consolidated equity capital that exceeds US $2.8 billion, IBG executes in excess of 500,000 trades/day and executes 21.6% of North American options**. In 2006, Barron's awarded Interactive Brokers its top star ranking overall and for lowest cost broker. For more information, please see the Interactive Brokers website at http://www.interactivebrokers.com. Securities products and services are offered by Interactive Brokers LLC (Member NYSE/NASD/SIPC). *Plus exchange, clearing and regulatory fees. **As of 12/31/06. For more information, please contact: Violeta Petrova Interactive Brokers LLC Tel: +1-203-618-7716 Email: vpetrova@interactivebrokers.com SOURCE Interactive Brokers

BEIJING, March 2 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- KongZhong Corporation (Nasdaq: KONG), a leading provider of wireless value-added services and the operator of a leading wireless Internet portal in China, today announced its unaudited fourth quarter and fiscal year 2006 financial results. (Logo: http://www.xprn.com.cn/xprn/sa/20061108202413-56.gif ) Fourth Quarter 2006 Financial Highlights: -- Total revenues grew 7% year-over-year to $23.71 million, exceeding the Company's fourth quarter revenue guidance of $20.5 million to $21.5 million. -- Total mobile advertising revenues increased from $59,000 in the third quarter of 2006 to $104,000 in the fourth quarter of 2006. -- US GAAP net income was $ 3.66 million. Diluted earnings per ADS in the fourth quarter were $0.10. -- Non-GAAP net income in the fourth quarter of 2006 was $4.20 million. Non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS were $0.12. Non-GAAP Financial Measures are described and reconciled to the corresponding GAAP measures in the section titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures". Fiscal Year 2006 Financial Highlights: -- Total revenues in 2006 increased 37% from 2005 to reach a new record of $106.77 million, exceeding 2006 guidance of revenue between $97 million and $105 million. -- Total mobile advertising revenues in 2006 were $ 0.21 million. -- US GAAP Net income in 2006 increased 11% to $24.69 million from $22.17 million in 2005. Diluted earnings per ADS for 2006 were $0.69 compared to $0.62 for 2005. -- Non-GAAP net income in 2006 was $25.84 million. Non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS for 2006 were $0.72. Commenting on the results, Yunfan Zhou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are pleased that both of our fourth quarter revenues and fiscal year 2006 revenues exceeded the guidance, despite of the regulatory changes in 2006. In addition, we have seen continuous and steady growth of mobile advertising revenues which were mainly generated from our wireless Internet portal Kong.net. Our founders and management team's strong experiences in the wireless value-added services and Internet portal and community are very helpful to develop our wireless Internet portal business. We are confident about the future of our wireless Internet portal business and will increase our efforts to develop Kong.net in 2007." Financial Results: (Note: Unless otherwise stated, all financial statement amounts used in this press release are based on US GAAP and denominated in US dollars.) Revenues Total revenues for the fourth quarter increased 7% from the same quarter of 2005 to $23.71 million but decreased 5% from the third quarter of 2006. Revenues from 2.5G services accounted for approximately 39% of total revenues and revenues from 2G services represented the remaining 61%. Revenues from 2.5G services, which include services delivered using wireless application protocol (WAP), multimedia messaging service (MMS), and Java technologies, decreased 38% from the same period in 2005 and decreased 16% from the third quarter of 2006 to $9.17 million. The sequential revenues decrease was primarily due to the continuing effect of the regulatory changes introduced by China Mobile during the third quarter 2006 that, among other things, imposed a one-month free trial period for new subscription users, required that new users confirm subscriptions twice and mandated the termination of WAP subscriptions that have not been active for more than four months. WAP revenues in the fourth quarter of 2006 were $4.85 million, a decrease of 44% from the same quarter of 2005 and a decrease of 16% from the third quarter of 2006. MMS revenues in the fourth quarter of 2006 were $3.97 million, a decrease of 20% from the same period of 2005, and a decrease of 17% from the third quarter of 2006. Java revenues in the fourth quarter were $0.35 million, a 70% decrease from the fourth quarter of 2005 and a 19% decrease sequentially. Revenues from 2G services, including short messaging service (SMS), interactive voice response (IVR), and color ring back tone (CRBT), grew 96% year-over-year and increased 2% quarter-over-quarter to $14.39 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Year-over-year growth in 2G revenues was primarily driven by the acquisition of Sharp Edge, which was completed in the first quarter of 2006. SMS revenues in the fourth quarter of 2006 were $11.66 million, which were 109% higher than the same period of 2005 and 7% higher than the previous quarter. IVR revenues in the fourth quarter of 2006 were $1.36 million, a 3% increase year-over-year but a 21% decrease sequentially. CRBT revenues grew by 210% year-over-year, but decreased 5% sequentially to $1.37 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. The table below sets forth the revenues breakdown by technology platforms. Q405 1Q06 2Q06 3Q06 4Q06 2.5G: 67% 64% 46% 44% 39% WAP 40% 32% 22% 23% 21% MMS 22% 28% 22% 19% 17% Java 5% 4% 2% 2% 1% 2G: 33% 36% 54% 56% 61% SMS 25% 29% 42% 43% 49% IVR 6% 4% 7% 7% 6% CRBT and others 2% 3% 5% 6% 6% Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Total revenues from China Unicom, China Telecom, and China Netcom accounted for approximately 41% of the total fourth quarter revenues, compared to 25% in the third quarter of 2006. The increase in the relative proportion of revenues coming from operators other than China Mobile is mainly the result of a decline in revenues derived through China Mobile due to the regulatory changes discussed above and better revenue confirmation results from other operators at year end. This was also a reflection of the Company's continuously increasing efforts to develop business with operators other than China Mobile after the regulatory changes discussed above. Total mobile advertising revenues, which were mainly generated from KongZhong's wireless Internet portal Kong.net, increased from $59,000 in the third quarter of 2006 to $104,000 in the fourth quarter of 2006. Expenses The cost of revenues in the fourth quarter of 2006 totaled $11.58 million, an increase of 13% from the fourth quarter of 2005 and an increase of 2% from the third quarter of 2006. Gross margin in the fourth quarter of 2006 was 51% compared to 55% in the previous quarter. The lower gross margin was primarily due to the higher percentage of revenues derived from telecommunications operators other than China Mobile, which generally were derived at a higher cost compared to revenues derived from China Mobile. Total operating expenses in the fourth quarter of 2006 were $8.71 million, an increase of 40% year-over-year but a decrease of 11% quarter-over-quarter. Product development expenses decreased by 18% quarter-over-quarter and represented 11% of revenue. General and administrative expenses decreased by 6% from the third quarter of 2006 and represented 8% of revenues. Sales and marketing expenses decreased by 8% quarter-over-quarter and represented 18% of revenues. The decrease in operating expenses was primarily due to the headcount reduction during Q3 and other cost savings realized within the Company. Total cost associated with the Company's wireless Internet portal Kong.net business in the fourth quarter of 2006 was approximately $2.2 million, slightly lower than in the previous quarter. It included $0.7 million in marketing expenses. The Company recorded $0.30 million in non-cash share-based compensation expenses in the fourth quarter, compared to $0.52 million in the third quarter of 2006. The Company's total headcount declined from 816 as of Sep 30, 2006 to 798 as of December 31, 2006. Earnings US GAAP net income totaled $3.66 million in the fourth quarter of 2006, a decrease of 42% from the same period of last year and a 24% decrease from the third quarter of 2006. Diluted US GAAP earnings per ADS were $0.10 for the fourth quarter. Non-GAAP income in the fourth quarter of 2006 was $4.20 million, a 34% decrease from the same period in 2005 and a 24% decrease from the previous quarter. Diluted Non-GAAP earnings per ADS were $0.12. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow As of December 31, 2006, the Company had $131.40 million in cash and cash equivalents. Cash flow from operating activities totaled 11.46 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Business Outlook: China Unicom informed all its wireless value-added service providers in January 2007 that effective April 1 2007, it will increase the service fees it charges service providers from the current 20% of gross revenues derived from China Unicom customers to 30%. The Company expects this to have an adverse impact on gross margins beginning in the second quarter of 2007. As a result of the continuing impact of regulatory changes introduced by telecommunication operators and the Ministry of Information Industry, and based on information available on March 2, 2007, the Company expects total revenues for the first quarter of 2007 to be between $20 million and $21 million. Conference Call: The Company's management team will conduct a conference call at 8:30 am Beijing time on March 2, (7:30 pm Eastern time and 4:30 pm Pacific time on March 1, 2007). A webcast of this conference call will be accessible on the Company's web site at http://ir.kongzhong.com . KongZhong Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (US$ thousands, except percentages, per share data, and share count) (Unaudited) For the Three For the Three For the Three Months Ended Months Ended Months Ended Dec. 31, 2005 Sep. 30, 2006 Dec. 31, 2006 (Note 1) (Note 2) (Note 3) Revenues $22,141 $25,082 $23,712 Cost of revenues 10,222 11,394 11,579 Gross profit 11,919 13,688 12,133 Operating expenses Product development 2,594 3,186 2,629 Sales & marketing 1,842 4,531 4,151 General & administrative 1,794 2,053 1,927 Subtotal 6,230 9,770 8,707 Operating income 5,689 3,918 3,426 Non-operating expenses (income) Interest expenses (income) (853) (1,036) (1,031) Other expenses (income) (9) 4 11 Subtotal (862) (1,032) (1,020) Income before tax expense 6,551 4,950 4,446 Income tax expense 287 131 782 Net income 6,264 4,819 3,664 Basic earnings per ADS $0.18 $0.14 $0.10 Diluted earnings per ADS $0.17 $0.14 $0.10 Margin Analysis: Gross margin 54% 55% 51% Operating margin 26% 16% 14% Net margin 28% 19% 15% Additional Data: 2.5G revenue $14,749 $10,974 $9,167 2G revenue 7,330 14,043 14,387 ADS outstanding (million) 34.57 35.15 35.28 ADS used in diluted EPS calculation (million) 35.85 35.66 35.71 Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for the fourth quarter of 2005 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB 8.0829 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 2: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for the third quarter of 2006 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB7.9678 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 3: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for the fourth quarter of 2006 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB 7.8641 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). KongZhong Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (US$ thousands, except percentages, per share data, and share count) (Unaudited) For the 12 For the 12 Months Ended Months Ended Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2006 (Note 1) (Note 2) Revenues $77,753 $106,769 Cost of revenues 31,323 47,665 Gross profit 46,430 59,104 Operating expenses Product development 8,531 12,026 Sales & marketing 5,390 16,755 General & administrative 7,607 9,105 Class action lawsuit settlement and legal expenses related to the issues raised in the class-action litigation commenced in August 2004 4,843 -- Subtotal 26,371 37,886 Operating income 20,059 21,218 Non-operating expenses (income) Interest expenses (income) (2,640) (3,867) Investment gain(loss) -- (1,241) Other expenses (income) (6) 50 Subtotal (2,646) (5,058) Income before tax expense 22,705 26,276 Income tax expense 530 1,584 Net income 22,175 24,692 Basic earnings per ADS $0.64 $0.71 Diluted earnings per ADS $0.62 $0.69 Margin Analysis: Gross margin 60% 55% Operating margin 26% 20% Net margin 29% 23% Additional Data: 2.5G revenue $56,318 $51,795 2G revenue 21,258 54,685 ADS outstanding (million) 34.43 34.99 ADS used in diluted EPS calculation (million) 35.62 35.67 Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for 2005 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB8.1938 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 2: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for 2006 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB7.974 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). KongZhong Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (US$ thousands) (Unaudited) For the Year For the Year Ended Ended Dec.31 2005 Dec.31, 2006 (Note 1) (Note 2) Cash Flows From Operating Activities Net Income $22,174 $24,692 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities Amortization of deferred share-based compensation 348 1,638 Depreciation and amortization 1,825 3,030 Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment (2) 17 Gain on sales of investment -- (1,241) Changes in operating assets and liabilities 5,224 (126) Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 29,569 28,010 Cash Flows From Investing Activities Proceeds from sales of investment -- 1,741 Purchase of property and equipment (2,148) (2,518) Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment 1 -- Purchases of long-term investments (500) -- Purchases of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired (1,435) (17,139) Net Cash Used in Investing Activities (4,082) (17,916) Cash Flows From Financing Activities Proceeds from exercise of employee and non-employee share options 303 2,214 Decrease(increase) in minority interest (97) (24) Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities 206 2,190 Effect of foreign exchange rate changes 735 1,976 Net increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents 26,428 14,260 Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Year 90,714 117,142 Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Year 117,142 131,402 Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for fiscal year 2005 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB 8.1938 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 2: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) for fiscal year of 2006 is based on the weighted average rate of USD 1.00=RMB 7.974 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). KongZhong Corporation Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (US$ thousands) (Unaudited) Dec.31, 2005 Sep. 30, 2006 Dec.31,2006 (Note 1) (Note 2) (Note 3) Cash and cash equivalents $117,142 $118,607 $131,402 Accounts receivable (net) 10,834 17,471 11,569 Other current assets 1,657 2,110 2,375 Total current assets 129,633 138,188 145,346 Rental deposits 404 565 461 Intangible assets 261 2,078 1,997 Property and equipment (net) 3,116 3,426 3,101 Long-term investment 500 -- -- Goodwill 1,169 15,751 15,836 Total assets $135,083 $160,008 $166,741 Accounts payable $3,995 $5,625 $6,013 Other current liabilities 7,290 4,712 4,951 Minority interest 24 24 -- Total liabilities 11,309 10,361 10,964 Shareholders' equity 123,774 149,647 155,777 Total liabilities & shareholders' equity $135,083 $160,008 $166,741 Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) is based on the exchange rate of Dec 31, 2005 USD1.00=RMB 8.0702 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 2: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) is based on the exchange rate of Sep 30, 2006 USD1.00=RMB 7.9087 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Note 3: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into US dollar (USD) is based on the exchange rate of Dec 31 , 2006 USD1.00=RMB 7.8087 (the exchange rate quoted by the People's Bank of China). Non-GAAP Financial Measures To supplement the unaudited condensed statements of income presented in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"), the Company uses non-GAAP financial measures ("Non-GAAP Financial Measures") of net income and net income per diluted ADS, which are adjusted from results based on GAAP to exclude certain infrequent or unusual or non-cash based expenses, gains and losses. The Non-GAAP Financial Measures are provided as additional information to help both management and investors compare business trends among different reporting periods on a consistent and more meaningful basis and enhance investors' overall understanding of the Company's current financial performance and prospects for the future. The Non-GAAP Financial Measures 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. In addition, our calculation of the Non-GAAP Financial Measures may be different from the calculation used by other companies, and therefore comparability may be limited. For the periods presented, the Company's non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP net income per diluted ADS exclude, as applicable, the amortization or write-off of intangibles, and non-cash share-based compensation expense. Reconciliation of the Company's Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the GAAP financial measures is set forth below. For the Three For the Three For the Three Months Ended Months Ended Months Ended Dec. 31, 2005 Sep. 30, 2006 Dec. 31, 2006 GAAP Net Income $6,264 $4,819 $3,664 Non-cash share-based compensation 77 521 301 Amortization or write-off of intangibles 27 192 230 Non-GAAP Net Income $6,368 $5,532 $4,195 Non-GAAP diluted net income per ADS 0.18 0.16 0.12 About KongZhong KongZhong Corporation is a leading provider of wireless value-added services and also operates one of the leading wireless Internet portals in China. The Company delivers wireless value-added services to consumers in China through multiple technology platforms including wireless application protocol (WAP), multimedia messaging service (MMS), JAVA, short messaging service (SMS), interactive voice response (IVR), and color ring back tone (CRBT). The Company also operates a wireless Internet portal, Kong.net, which enables users to access media and entertainment content directly from their mobile phones. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding trends in the wireless value-added services market and our future results of operations, financial condition and business prospects. Although such statements are based on our own information and information from other sources we believe to be reliable, you should not place undue reliance on them. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual market trends and our results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward looking statements for a variety of reasons. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, continued competitive pressure in China's wireless value-added services market and the effect of such pressure on prices; unpredictable changes in technology, consumer demand and usage preferences in this market; the state of and any change in our relationship with China's telecommunications operators; our dependence on the billing systems of telecommunication operators for our performance; changes in the regulations or policies of the Ministry of Information Industry and other relevant government authorities; and changes in political, economic, legal and social conditions in China, including the Chinese government's policies with respect to economic growth, foreign exchange, foreign investment and entry by foreign companies into China's telecommunications market. For additional discussion of these risks and uncertainties and other factors, please see the documents we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this press release. SOURCE KongZhong Corporation

MADISON, N.J., March 1 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, a division of Wyeth (NYSE: WYE), has received two positive opinions recommending approval for an extension of the indication for PREVENARTM (Pneumococcal Saccharide Conjugated Vaccine, Adsorbed) to the European market by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP). The opinions recommend extending the indications of PREVENAR to include active immunization against pneumonia and acute otitis media (middle ear infection) caused by vaccine serotypes. PREVENAR is currently approved for active immunization of children from 2 months to 5 years of age against sepsis, meningitis, bacteraemic pneumonia and bacteraemia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes 4, 6B, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F and 23F. Pneumococcal disease is a significant concern to children's health, estimated to result in more than one million deaths each year in young children around the world. "S. pneumoniae is the leading cause of bacterial pneumonia in humans beyond the first few weeks of life and is a major cause of death and illness worldwide," says Peter Paradiso, Vice President, Scientific Affairs, Wyeth Vaccines. "It also is an important cause of acute otitis media, which if left untreated, may lead to more serious diseases such as mastoiditis and meningitis. We welcome the CHMP's recommendation for both new indications in the EU which, if approved, will underscore the value of PREVENAR in helping to protect infants and young children from common pediatric illnesses caused by S. pneumoniae." PREVENAR is the first and only conjugate vaccine shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of pneumococcal disease (PD) in infants and toddlers. The CHMP recommendations of PREVENAR will now be forwarded to the European Commission (EC) for final approval, which is anticipated in the second quarter of 2007. Many health authorities have recognized the importance of protecting infants and young children against pneumococcal disease. PREVENAR is a part of the routine national childhood immunization schedule in 16 countries worldwide, including Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands and the United Kingdom (UK). About Pneumonia Pneumococcal pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. There are many causes of pneumonia, including bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. When S. pneumoniae invades the lungs, the body's immune system responds, generating an inflammatory response. White blood cells, fluid and cellular debris then fill the air spaces of the lower respiratory tract causing physical symptoms such as coughing, fever and shortness of breath. In prelicensure clinical trials, PREVENAR was found to be 97.4 percent (95% CI: 82.7-99.9) efficacious in preventing serotype-specific invasive pneumococcal infections in infants who were fully vaccinated and 89.1 percent (95% CI: 73.7-95.85) efficacious for all cases of invasive pneumococcal disease regardless of serogroup. Importantly, in this clinical study, PREVENAR was effective in reducing the incidence of radiographically-confirmed pneumonia in children younger than two years of age by 23.4 percent (95% CI: 5.2-38.1). About Otitis Media Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common childhood disease with important ramifications to the overall health of infants and young children. The peak incidence of AOM occurs at 6 to 18 months of age, but it can also occur in older children. Complications of AOM include persistent middle ear effusion, chronic otitis media, transient hearing loss, or speech delays. PREVENAR has been shown to have an impact on AOM; in a clinical study, PREVENAR reduced vaccine serotype cases of AOM by 57 percent (95% CI: 44-67), cases of culture-confirmed pneumococcal AOM by 34 percent (95% CI: 21-45) and all cases of AOM by 6 percent (95% CI: -4-16). In the United States, a study found that following the introduction of PREVENAR, otitis media outpatient visit rates declined by 20 percent in children aged less than two years, representing 246 fewer otitis media visits per 1,000 children in the United States. About Pneumococcal Disease Pneumococcal disease describes a group of illnesses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus. This bacterial pathogen, which affects both children and adults, is a major cause of death and illness worldwide. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), pneumococcal disease is the number one vaccine-preventable cause of death in children younger than 5 years of age worldwide. Important Safety Information about PREVENAR In clinical trials (n=18,168), the most frequently reported adverse events included injection site reactions, fever (>/=38 degrees C/100.4 degrees F), irritability, drowsiness, restless sleep, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and rash. Risks are associated with all vaccines, including PREVENAR. Hypersensitivity to any vaccine component, including diphtheria toxoid, is a contraindication to its use. PREVENAR does not provide 100 percent protection against vaccine serotypes or protect against nonvaccine serotypes. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Wyeth Pharmaceuticals has leading products in the areas of women's health care, infectious disease, gastrointestinal health, central nervous system, inflammation, transplantation, hemophilia, oncology, vaccines and nutritional products. Wyeth is one of the world's largest research-driven pharmaceutical and health care products companies. It is a leader in the discovery, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biotechnology products and non-prescription medicines that improve the quality of life for people worldwide. The Company's major divisions include Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare and Fort Dodge Animal Health. The statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements based on current expectations of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include the inherent uncertainty of the timing and success of, and expense associated with, research, development, regulatory approval and commercialization of our products, including with respect to our pipeline products; government cost-containment initiatives; restrictions on third-party payments for our products; substantial competition in our industry, including from branded and generic products; data generated on our products; the importance of strong performance from our principal products and our anticipated new product introductions; the highly regulated nature of our business; product liability, intellectual property and other litigation risks and environmental liabilities; uncertainty regarding our intellectual property rights and those of others; difficulties associated with, and regulatory compliance with respect to, manufacturing of our products; risks associated with our strategic relationships; economic conditions including interest and currency exchange rate fluctuations; changes in generally accepted accounting principles; trade buying patterns; the impact of legislation and regulatory compliance; risks and uncertainties associated with global operations and sales; and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our current reports on Form 8-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual report on Form 10-K, particularly the discussion under the caption "Item 1A, Risk Factors." The forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified by these risk factors. We assume no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. For more information, please contact: Media Contacts: Natalie de Vane Tel: +1-484-865-5139 Gill Markham Tel: +011-44-1628-604-377 Investor Contact: Justin Victoria Tel: +1-973-660-5340 SOURCE Wyeth Pharmaceuticals

Diagnosis Often Takes a Year or More Even After Seeing a Physician LONDON, March 1 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- A new seven-country global survey reveals that effective patient-physician communication is key to earlier, accurate diagnosis and treatment for patients with neuropathic pain (NeP). NeP is a debilitating condition characterised by chronic, often severe nerve pain and is often a complication of common conditions including diabetes, herpes, cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic injury or surgery. The survey results, released today by the Neuropathic Pain Network (NPN), a coalition of patient advocacy organisations, found that in some countries patients wait up to 19 months on average and visit as many as two or more doctors before they receive an accurate diagnosis. Countries surveyed included the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Spain and Finland. Neuropathic Pain Difficult to Recognise Many patients need to visit more than one physician before their pain is recognised as neuropathic pain. Of physicians surveyed in the seven countries, the majority of whom were general practitioners, most do not find it very easy to recognise neuropathic pain. A majority of physicians in all countries report that a main factor in the delay is difficulty differentiating NeP from other pain conditions. This is important because treatments that may be effective in other types of pain often do not provide relief for NeP patients. Patient and Physician Checklist: Cover Three Key Areas According to the survey, patients wait on average between 5.7 to 19.5 months after they experience their first symptom before going to a physician; most patients believe the pain will 'go away by itself. Once patients consult a physician about their pain, limited or ineffective communication can further delay recognition of neuropathic pain. The survey found that physicians who recognise their patient's NeP are more likely to discuss the following three key areas with their patient. Physicians who do not ask questions covering these three key areas are less likely to identify their patient's condition as neuropathic pain. 1. Symptom Characteristics: Characterise the intensity and duration and describe how the pain feels with specific adjectives (e.g. "pins and needles," "burning," "stabbing," "numb," or "like electrical shocks") 2. Medical History: Share all medical history; NeP can be a complication of diabetes, herpes, cancer, HIV, traumatic injury or surgery 3. Location of Pain in the Body: Explain where on the body the pain is felt "Crippling neuropathic pain affects every aspect of patients' lives, often even limiting their ability to work, and yet it is typically under-diagnosed," said Ian Semmons, Board Member, Neuropathic Pain Network and Chairman, UK Action on Pain. "The survey suggests there are things patients can do to hasten their diagnosis and treatment. By sharing their pain symptom characteristics, medical history and location of pain in their body, patients can help their physicians more readily differentiate if their pain is neuropathic. We urge all pain patients, particularly those with diabetes, herpes, cancer or HIV to discuss these topics with their physicians." Screening Tools Not Widely Used To help physicians screen patients with pain, researchers have developed questionnaires for patients to complete in the waiting room prior to seeing the physician. Patients answer several questions about their pain experience, including questions covering the key topics uncovered in the survey. The tools can assist physicians in making a rapid, yet detailed assessment of a patient's pain experience. Of the seven countries in the survey, only in Mexico do a majority of physicians currently use available screening tools for most or all of their patients, although in all countries, there is great interest among physicians to learn more about them. "In many countries, physicians have increasingly limited time with patients, posing a particular challenge with neuropathic pain, which has been historically difficult to identify," said Michael Bennett, M.D., Senior Clinical Lecturer in Palliative Medicine and Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK. "For these physicians, screening tools may be one solution, alerting physicians to the possibility of neuropathic pain in a timely manner. Whether through the use of these tools, or by simply engaging in thorough conversations, improving communication about symptoms of neuropathic pain can help us meet the needs of these long-suffering patients." Neuropathic Pain: A Debilitating Condition Neuropathic pain is a debilitating condition that is estimated to impact between 2.8 percent and 4.7 percent of people globally. NeP can have a significant impact on patients' lives, leaving many unable to work, walk or even wear clothes, as contact with their skin can cause an unbearable burning pain. Neuropathic pain is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. NeP is initiated or caused by a lesion or dysfunction of the nervous system (either peripheral or central). Patients often describe their symptoms as burning, stabbing or shock-like sensations. In recent years, a number of screening tools (e.g., Pain DETECT, LANSS, DN4, ID Pain) have been developed to help physicians identify this often-elusive condition. About the Survey In July 2006, the Neuropathic Pain Network and Pfizer Inc commissioned Harris Interactive to conduct a multi-country survey of NeP patients and the physicians who treat them. A survey of approximately 700 diagnosed NeP patients and 700 physicians was conducted in seven countries including: Finland, Germany, Korea, Italy, Mexico, Spain and UK. Fieldwork was conducted from August 18, 2006 through January 29, 2007. The results of any survey are subject to sampling variation. For a sample of 100, maximum potential sampling variation is + or - eight percentage points at the 95% confidence level. Funding for the survey was provided by Pfizer Inc. About the Neuropathic Pain Network The Neuropathic Pain Network (NPN) is a coalition of organisations that actively support people with neuropathic pain by enabling them to cope better with their pain, to obtain the best treatment and, ultimately, to improve the quality of their lives. The NPN has developed the first website solely dedicated to providing support for people with neuropathic (nerve) pain. For more information, please contact: Sejal Sedani Resolute Communications Tel: +44-20-7397-7474 Email: Sejal.sedani@resolutecommunications.com SOURCE The Neuropathic Pain Network; Pfizer