Genetherapy

Archive for October, 2009

Cynosure Enhances Industry-Leading Smartlipo Family with 1440 nm Wavelength

New Smartlipo Triplex(TM) Laser Lipolysis Workstation Delivers Higher Absorption of Fatty Tissue with Same Powerful Tissue Coagulation and Tightening Effect

Cynosure, Inc. (Nasdaq: CYNO), a leading developer and manufacturer of a broad array of light-based aesthetic treatment systems, today announced the introduction of Smartlipo Triplex(TM), the world’s first laser lipolysis solution featuring three wavelengths that combine to deliver high-powered fat absorption and tissue tightening through tissue coagulation. Smartlipo Triplex was formally launched at Plastic Surgery 2009, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Annual Meeting, held October 23-27 in Seattle.

Smartlipo Triplex adds a 1440 nm wavelength to the MPX generation of the product, and employs Cynosure’s patented MultiPlex technology to combine the benefits of three wavelengths in one laser output. MultiPlex technology enables two wavelengths to be fired sequentially, creating a blended thermal and photomechanical effect that efficiently liquefies fat and tightens skin through collagen remodeling.

“With 20 times greater absorption in fatty tissue than any other single wavelength on the market, the 1440 nm wavelength puts Smartlipo in a new class,” said Barry DiBernardo, M.D., Medical Director of New Jersey Plastic Surgery & MedNet Technologies, Inc. in Montclair, NJ. “Combining the photomechanical effects of the 1440 nm with the 1064 nm wavelength results in even greater disruption of fatty tissue for faster and deeper treatments than the 1064 wavelength alone. At the same time, the Smartlipo Triplex continues to deliver unmatched tissue tightening through tissue coagulation by blending the 1064 and 1320 nm wavelengths.”

“We continue to advance our Smartlipo family of products to address the demands of the marketplace: faster and greater absorption of fat, high-definition body sculpting capabilities and tissue tightening through tissue coagulation,” said Cynosure President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Davin. “We believe that Smartlipo Triplex enables medical professionals to deliver the most accurate combination therapy available today by providing a superior mix of energy levels and wavelengths. Whether treating a small well-defined area or removing larger amounts of fatty tissue, Smartlipo Triplex offers doctors the ability to customize the treatment to achieve maximum results. At the same time, we believe our safety features are unmatched in the industry.”

Smartlipo Triplex is equipped with SmartSense with ThermaGuide, the latest in Cynosure’s proprietary family of intelligent energy delivery systems. SmartSense with ThermaGuide is designed to work in harmony with the laser. It continually detects the temperature under the skin and controls the output of energy. This helps to ensure that the treatment area remains within a safe and optimal temperature range for fat removal and tissue tightening through tissue coagulation.

“Smartlipo Triplex is the technology of choice for my body sculpting procedures,” said John Millard, M.D., a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Denver. “It allows for quick and efficient removal of fat without excess heat – a requirement for high-definition results.”

About Cynosure, Inc.
Cynosure, Inc. develops and markets aesthetic treatment systems that are used by physicians and other practitioners to perform non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures to remove hair, treat vascular and pigmented lesions, rejuvenate the skin, liquefy and remove unwanted fat through laser lipolysis and temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite. Cynosure’s products include a broad range of laser and other light-based energy sources, including Alexandrite, pulse dye, Nd:YAG and diode lasers, as well as intense pulsed light.

Cynosure
800.886.2966
www.cynosure.com

Source: Cynosure

Syneron Medical Ltd. to Acquire Primaeva Medical, Inc.

Syneron Medical Ltd. (NASDAQ: ELOS) today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Primaeva Medical, Inc., an aesthetic technology firm based in Pleasanton, CA. Primaeva developed a minimally invasive RF aesthetic device for the treatment of skin wrinkles and laxity. The proposed acquisition is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close before the end of calendar year 2009. Syneron expects to introduce the non-surgical skin tightening Primaeva technology in 2010.

The Primaeva product, which has already received FDA clearance for wrinkle treatment, employs an innovative micro-needle electrode array housed in an advanced single-patient use applicator tip to deliver bipolar fractional radiofrequency (RF) energy directly within the reticular dermis. Its fractional treatment patterns and unique energy delivery mechanism have demonstrated noticeable skin tightening, with minimal downtime, in a multi site clinical study which included more than 100 patients.

“The Primaeva system is a leap forward, utilizing fractionated RF energy to target the dermis in a selective and predictable manner. It has undergone rigorous scientific studies, with consistent physician and patient satisfaction,” said Syneron CEO Lou Scafuri. “The team at Primaeva is developing a non-ablative application for dermal remodeling and skin laxity improvement that we expect will complement our other aesthetic technologies such as the recently introduced eMatrix system for Sublative Rejuvenation and Vela Shape II body shaping technology. The Primaeva acquisition adds to our platform of innovative products and is well suited for our dermatologist and plastic surgeon customers,” added Scafuri.

“The Primaeva technology has been studied by key opinion leaders in the aesthetic medical area, and is the subject of three published papers and one paper pending publication in a leading peer-reviewed aesthetic journal,” said Scafuri. New York dermatologist Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, M.D., Ph.D., P.C., presented the findings of the Primaeva clinical trials at this year’s American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting. According to Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas, Primaeva’s results on the face “surpass any other device I’ve seen in terms of tightening for a single treatment. And there’s no reason it could not potentially be used elsewhere on the body, like the jowls or the abdomen.”

With the Primaeva system, treatment temperature is preselected and energy is delivered directly within the dermis using proprietary, patented technology that seeks to eliminate the uncertainty previously associated with the location of energy delivery and tissue temperature control. Its Intelligent Feedback System (IFS) is designed to ensure precise dermal targeting, via sensors embedded in the applicator to provide real-time feedback of skin temperature and tissue impedance within the treatment zone.

As part of the agreement, Primaeva founder and CEO Bankim Mehta will join the Syneron management team. Mehta brings broad experience in the medical aesthetic industry. “I am excited to join Lou Scafuri and the Syneron management team that is establishing itself as a leader in aesthetic technology,” said Mehta. “Syneron with its expanding distribution network will ensure that the Primaeva technology is rapidly introduced to the broadest possible customer base.”

Syneron recently announced its agreement to acquire Candela Corporation. With the acquisition of Primaeva, Syneron continues to develop and broaden its industry-leading portfolio of superior technologies and applications for the aesthetic physician.

Syneron will acquire Primaeva for $7 million in cash, with potential additional consideration of up to $23 million in cash contingent on the achievement of commercial milestones.

About Primaeva Medical, Inc.
Based in Pleasanton, CA, Primaeva was founded in 2005. The company has developed a patented, minimally invasive technology for aesthetic application. Their development of the company’s first product is complete and it is intended to improve aesthetic results by increasing the efficiency and control of sub-dermal RF energy. Previous investors include Frazier Healthcare Ventures, Delphi Ventures and Affinity Capital Management.

About Syneron Medical Ltd.
Syneron Medical Ltd. (NASDAQ: ELOS) manufactures and distributes medical aesthetic devices that are powered by the proprietary, patented elos combined-energy technology of Bi-Polar Radio Frequency and Light. The Company’s innovative elos technology provides the foundation for highly effective, safe and cost-effective systems that enable physicians to provide advanced solutions for a broad range of medical-aesthetic applications including hair removal, wrinkle reduction, rejuvenating the skin’s appearance through the treatment of superficial benign vascular and pigmented lesions, and the treatment of acne, leg veins and cellulite. Founded in 2000, the corporate, R&D, and manufacturing headquarters for Syneron Medical Ltd. are located in Israel. Syneron has offices and distributors throughout the world, including North American headquarters in Irvine, CA, and Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong, which provide sales, service and support.

Syneron
866.259.6661
www.syneron.com

Source: Syneron

Palomar to Commercialize FDA Cleared Over-The-Counter Home Use Wrinkle Treatment Laser Device Without Johnson & Johnson

Palomar Medical Technologies Inc. (Nasdaq: PMTI), a leading researcher and developer of light-based systems for cosmetic treatments, today announced the termination of its agreement with Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies Inc (”JJCC”), a Johnson & Johnson company, to develop, clinically test and commercialize home-use, light-based devices for (i) reducing or reshaping body fat including cellulite; (ii) reducing appearance of skin aging; and (iii) reducing or preventing acne. Despite Palomar having met all of its deliverables under the agreement, JJCC terminated the agreement referencing the current unfavorable economic conditions as the reason for its decision. With this decision, JJCC avoids having to make a large commercialization payment to Palomar and avoids having to commit to the significant level of funding required to successfully launch a new product into the mass market. Upon termination of the agreement, JJCC’s license to Palomar technology was terminated and all technology and intellectual property rights related to light-based devices developed under the agreement were assigned to Palomar. JJCC is also precluded from further development or commercialization of the light-based devices developed under the agreement.

Palomar will continue with the commercialization of the light-based devices developed under the agreement. In June 2009, Palomar was the first company to receive a 510(k) over-the-counter (OTC) clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a new, patented, home-use, laser device for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles. OTC clearance allows this wrinkle treatment device to be marketed and sold directly to consumers without a prescription. This consumer wrinkle treatment device was developed by Palomar and completed together with JJCC. Designed specifically for use in the home and based on years of research and clinical testing, this consumer device represents a major breakthrough in the aesthetic device industry.

In order to achieve FDA clearance, numerous clinical studies with hundreds of subjects and thousands of treatments were conducted. These studies demonstrated that the laser-based device delivers comfortable, effective, skin and eye safe wrinkle treatment around the eyes.

Commenting on this development, Palomar Chief Executive Officer Joseph P. Caruso said, “We have developed game changing technology in the consumer area. Over the past few years we have developed advanced patented technology that allows us to penetrate the home market. Wrinkle treatments using OTC products are a multi-billion dollar market opportunity and we plan on entering that market with our products during the second half of next year. The current economic climate does not warrant a large scale investment in a mass market launch at this time. Therefore, we have adjusted our launch plans to be more in line with current economic conditions. In the short-term, our goal is to establish our consumer products in the market using certain specialty channels and gather the valuable information needed to fully execute our long-term strategy of a full mass market launch. Our long-term goal remains the same; to tap into the mass market using our patented technology in a number of key areas with multiple product offerings and multiple channels worldwide”.

Mr. Caruso continued, “We believe that light-based anti-aging applications will one day be an ordinary and necessary part of maintaining a healthy appearance done in the privacy and convenience of the home. We were fortunate to have advanced this technology with the help of a partner who invested significant resources along the way in research, development, clinical testing, consumer testing, and patent protection that will make this a reality and ensure that Palomar maintains a leadership position in this innovative technology. We envision a strong market for this OTC device and an increase in consumer awareness that will help drive growth in our professional business.”

For more information, please see Exhibit 99.1 to a Current Report on Form 8-K filed.

About Palomar Medical Technologies Inc
Palomar is a leading researcher and developer of light-based systems for cosmetic treatments. Palomar pioneered the optical hair removal field, when, in 1997, it introduced the first high-powered laser hair removal system. Since then, many of the major advances in light-based hair removal have been based on Palomar technology. In December 2006, Palomar became the first company to receive a 510(k) over-the-counter (OTC) clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a new, patented, home use, light-based hair removal device. In June 2009, Palomar became the first company to receive a 510(k) over-the-counter (OTC) clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a new, patented, home use, laser device for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles. OTC clearance allows the product to be marketed and sold directly to consumers without a prescription. There are now millions of light-based cosmetic procedures performed around the world every year in physician offices, clinics, spas and salons. Palomar is testing many new and exciting applications to further advance the hair removal market and other cosmetic applications. Palomar is focused on developing proprietary light-based technology for introduction to the mass markets.

Palomar Medical
800.PALOMAR (725-6627)
www.palomarmedical.com

Source: Palomar

PhotoMedex Offers Free Seminar for Psoriasis Patients: “A Win for Your Skin in the Daily Fight Against Psoriasis”

Featuring the newest XTRAC Velocity Excimer Laser therapies

PhotoMedex, Inc. (Nasdaq: PHMD) a leading provider of advanced dermatology, clinical skincare and medical laser products, is hosting a free seminar in Indianapolis, IN on November 17, 2009. The seminar, “A Win for Your Skin in the Daily Fight Against Psoriasis with XTRAC® Excimer Lasers,” is open to the public and will feature three prominent local physicians (from the Dermatology Group LLC and The Dermatology Center of Indiana, LLC) explaining the New XTRAC Velocity Laser treatments for psoriasis sufferers. The XTRAC Velocity Laser is used in the treatment of mild, moderate, AND severe psoriasis.

Guest Speakers: Kenneth Dawes, M.D., Scott Fretzin, M.D., and Scott T. Guenther, M.D.

Seminar overview: Numerous clinical studies have shown the dramatic difference that “non-surgical” laser light can make in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis. The patented XTRAC Excimer Laser from PhotoMedex targets only the affected areas, sparing healthy surrounding skin. It is clinically proven to be very safe, painless and highly effective.

Our guest speakers, all leading dermatologists, will explain the laser therapy and cover the many benefits the XTRAC excimer laser treatment system offers psoriasis sufferers, including:

* No negative systemic side effects
* No “black box” warning for cancer or serious infections
* Yes, long lasting relief, typically several months free of symptoms
* Yes, reimbursed by Medicare and most major private insurance plans

Complimentary refreshments will be provided for attendees.

Who should attend
People who suffer from mild, moderate and especially severe psoriasis should learn how the XTRAC Velocity Excimer Laser therapy system is the right treatment for them. We know the devastating effects psoriasis can have on an individual’s self esteem, which is why we also encourage attendance by family members and friends of those afflicted with psoriasis.

Date:
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Location:
Indianapolis Downtown Marriott
350 West Maryland Street
Indianapolis, IN 46225
(317) 822 – 3500

Registration: The seminar is offered free of charge by PhotoMedex and discount coupons for parking will be provided. Attendees are invited to register by calling the XTRAC TeleCare Center at (866) 404-3752. Space is limited, and this seminar is expected to fill up quickly, so early registration is strongly advised to ensure a seat.

About PhotoMedex
PhotoMedex develops proprietary excimer laser and fiber optic systems and techniques directed toward dermatological applications, with FDA 510(k) clearances to market the XTRAC® laser system for the treatment of psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis and leukoderma. The Company is a leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of medical laser products and services. PhotoMedex also develops and markets products based on DNA Repair enzymes and its patented, clinically proven Copper Peptide technology for skin health, hair care and wound care. PhotoMedex sells directly to dermatologists, plastic and cosmetic surgeons, and salons. ProCyte brands include Neova®, Ti-Silc®, VitalCopper®, Simple Solutions® and AquaSanté®.

In addition, as a result of the recent merger with PhotoTherapeutics, PhotoMedex now researches, develops and manufactures non-laser light devices for the treatment of clinical and aesthetic dermatological conditions and adds the Omnilux™ products to its portfolio. The Omnilux products incorporate a new technology based on narrowband Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) to treat a wide range of dermatological conditions including acne, photodamage, and skin rejuvenation.

PhotoMedex
215.619.3600
www.photomedex.com

American Academy of Dermatology Issues New Guidelines for the Management of Psoriasis With Ultraviolet Light Therapy

Long-standing therapy remains an essential treatment option for select patients

Based on an extensive review of the highest-quality scientific literature on psoriasis and the opinion of recognized psoriasis experts, the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) has released new guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with ultraviolet (UV) light therapy, also known as phototherapy. Recommendations for the use of the most common forms of UV light therapy, as stand-alone treatments or in conjunction with other therapies, were outlined, including patient considerations.

Published online in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, this is the Academy’s fifth of six sections of the guidelines of care for psoriasis, with four previously published sections focusing on general recommendations for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, as well as the use of biologics, topical and systemic therapies.

Dr. Pariser

“Although treatment options for psoriasis have expanded considerably in recent years, UV light therapy remains an important treatment option for many psoriasis patients,” said dermatologist David M. Pariser, MD, FAAD, president of the Academy. “Over the years, phototherapy has been shown to effectively clear psoriasis, and it is a cost-effective therapy that generally does not suppress the body’s immune response like traditional and biologic systemic therapies. However, because this therapy delivers UV light to the skin (a known carcinogen), patients need to be closely monitored by their dermatologists for the potential risk of skin cancer.”

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that usually develops before age 35 and is characterized by thick, red, scaly patches that itch and bleed. Nearly 7 million Americans are living with this skin condition. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to causing the disease. Research has determined that psoriasis is linked to multiple genes, but it is not completely understood how it is inherited. However, there are at least nine locations on different chromosomes that are associated with psoriasis but researchers have not identified the specific genes that are linked to the genetic transmission of the disease.

Types of UVB Therapy
One type of phototherapy that has been used successfully to treat psoriasis for more than 75 years is broadband (BB)-UVB therapy. As its name implies, BB-UVB is used to treat a large area of psoriasis by exposing the affected skin to a specific wavelength of UVB light.

A newer form of UVB therapy introduced in the United States in the 1990s that is commonly used to treat psoriasis is narrowband (NB)-UVB therapy. With this therapy, narrower bands of UVB wavelengths are administered to the affected skin, and studies have shown NB-UVB therapy to be more effective in clearing psoriasis than BB-UVB.

“Studies have shown that psoriasis patients treated with NB-UVB therapy had better results than those treated with BB-UVB, including more rapid clearing and better remission rates,” said Dr. Pariser. “While both therapies are generally well-tolerated, patients must be educated as to the potential long-term side effects of UVB – including an increased risk of skin cancer and premature aging – and protect their eyes by using goggles to decrease the risk of UVB-related cataracts that could form from prolonged exposure.”

Other minor side effects of BB-UVB therapy include redness, itching, burning and stinging. Burning also is a possible side effect of NB-UVB, and Dr. Pariser noted that, although not commonly reported, there have been instances of skin blistering after exposure to NB-UVB. In addition, neither BB-UVB nor NB-UVB therapy are known to cause birth defects or disrupt a pregnancy and can be prescribed to women during pregnancy or while attempting to conceive.

Studies examining the use of and long-term safety of UVB therapy in children are limited, but Dr. Pariser explained that this therapy could be considered as a second option in selected children whose psoriasis does not respond to topical therapy as long as the light therapy is closely monitored by a dermatologist.

In some cases, UVB therapy is effective when used by itself to clear psoriasis, but dermatologists commonly use this therapy in combination with topical or systemic medications. Dr. Pariser emphasized that the decision to use combination therapy should be made on a case-by-case basis and should be tailored to meet individual patients’ needs.

PUVA Photochemotherapy
“PUVA” is a term applied to a group of therapeutic techniques that use psoralens – a group of photosensitizing compounds – to sensitize cells to the effects of UVA light. Psoralens are available as oral or topical medications that patients must use before being exposed to UVA light, or in a bath formula that patients soak in prior to UVA exposure (this form of PUVA is not as widely used). Two large, multicenter studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PUVA in the treatment of psoriasis, and Dr. Pariser noted that PUVA treatment often leads to the clearing of psoriasis typically within 24 treatments with remissions lasting between three and six months.

“The introduction of PUVA for the treatment of psoriasis was a major advance for patients with severe psoriasis, as it offered them an outpatient therapy rather than other treatments that required hospitalization,” said Dr. Pariser. “However, studies show that high cumulative exposure to oral PUVA is associated with an increase in the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma, which is why dermatologists often reserve PUVA for psoriasis patients who have not responded favorably to other treatments.”

In an effort to minimize the total dosage of PUVA, dermatologists often combine PUVA treatments with other therapies (such as retinoids) or in rotation with other treatments. In addition to the increased risk of skin cancer and skin aging with long-term use, other common side effects of PUVA include redness, itching, dryness, irregular pigmentation, nausea and vomiting. PUVA also is not recommended for use in children or in patients with certain medical conditions, which is why dermatologists closely evaluate patients before PUVA is considered as a treatment option for psoriasis.

Targeted Phototherapy (Excimer Laser)
With the introduction of the 308 nm monochromatic xenon-chloride laser for psoriasis in 1997, the use of phototherapy to treat localized lesions became more practical and more widely available. Excimer lasers selectively target affected lesions without treating unaffected skin – therefore minimizing the potential risk of exposing uninvolved skin to UV radiation. Another advantage is that because only the affected areas are treated, higher doses can be administered in fewer treatment sessions.

Although numerous studies have demonstrated that treatment with the excimer laser can clear psoriasis, there is limited information about the duration of remission and the recommended dosage and scheduling of therapy. Dr. Pariser explained that most patients experience long-term improvement following treatment with the excimer laser, and currently the dose of energy delivered is guided by the patients’ skin type and thickness of the psoriasis plaques.

“Typically, patients receive treatment with the excimer laser two to three times a week, with a minimum of 48 hours between treatments,” said Dr. Pariser. “Side effects are minimal and are limited to the treatment area, with redness, burning and darkening of the skin being the most common. There have been cases where blistering has occurred with the use of higher doses of energy, but for the most part treatments are well-tolerated – even in children.”

Patient Considerations for UV Light Therapy
Like all treatments for psoriasis, some patients make better candidates for UV light therapy than others. Dr. Pariser added that before UV light therapy is considered, all patients must have a complete history and physical examination and be made aware of the potential long-term risks of this treatment.

“Patients with a known history of lupus (a chronic inflammatory disease) or xeroderma pigmentosum (a genetic disease characterized by extraordinary sensitivity to sunlight) should not be treated with phototherapy,” said Dr. Pariser. “In addition, patients with atypical nevi, multiple non-melanoma skin cancers, multiple risk factors for melanoma, a history of melanoma, a history of photosensitivity disorder, or who are taking photosensitizing medications or are immunosuppressed as a result of organ transplantation should be screened carefully before starting UV light therapy.”

Recommended dosing guidelines for both BB-UVB and NB-UVB vary by skin type, with light-skinned patients receiving much smaller initial and incremental doses of UV light than darker-skinned patients.

“For the right patients and with close monitoring by a dermatologist, UV light therapy can be a safe and effective treatment for psoriasis patients who might not have responded well to other traditional therapies or for various reasons might not be good candidates for systemic medications,” said Dr. Pariser. “Dermatologists can recommend the best treatment plan for patients with mild to severe psoriasis, helping them improve their condition and overall quality of life.”

To learn more about psoriasis, visit www.skincarephysicians.com/PsoriasisNet, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information about the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.

About the American Academy of Dermatology
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.

AAD
888.462.DERM (3376)
www.aad.org

Source: AAD

Formal vs. Informal Organizational Structure

By Francis X. Acunzo, Acara

One interesting aspect of analyzing so many cosmetic medical practices throughout the country is that we are able to observe and compare the various company cultures and their impact on the success or failure of a business.

Fran Acunzo

One important point that everyone in business needs to understand is that the leader of an organization drives the company’s culture. Interestingly enough, the leader that is identified on an organizational chart (oftentimes a physician owner) is not necessarily the real leader of the organization. I’m sure you’re wondering what I mean by that statement.winston_churchill_01

Well, it is important to realize that every company has a formal organizational structure and an informal organizational structure. The one that counts is the informal structure…that’s what drives the business. For example: just changing company policy on paper will not necessarily have any impact unless the informal leader not just the formal leader embraces the change.

Too often we see leadership abdicated to individuals that may or may not have the best interest of the practice at heart. Team members, especially in these economic times, will usually place their personal interests above those of the company and that is understandable however, it is essential that on-site ownership hold the key leadership position with the team.

It’s ok to share this leadership with a manager but never wash your hands of this one very important responsibility.

Understand that when you embrace your role as the leader of your business, you will have the impact that you want and you will dictate the company culture. It will become a reflection of who you are as a leader. This means making the tough decision along with the fun ones.

As an aside to this post: Always align your management compensation including salary, benefits, commissions, incentives and bonuses with the interests of the practice. This will insure that their personal interests are aligned with your business interests.

About Acara
Acara offers turnkey solutions to owners, operators, physicians and investors seeking to develop, manage and market their Spa, Medical Spa, or Aesthetic Practice. Acara is led by industry leader Francis X. Acunzo and his team of expert consultants with over 25 years of spa and retail healthcare experience. Our Proven track record includes:

* Successfully Doubling Medical Spa Revenues for our Clients
* Raising over $75 Million to Finance Spas & Retail Healthcare Operations
* Owning & Operating over 75 Spas and Medical Spas Nationwide

Acara
866.462.2272
www.acaramedspas.com

Source: Acara

National Survey Finds Your Smile is Your Most Attractive Feature

Expert Reveals the Secret to a Healthy Smile

The American Dental Association recently conducted a survey and found that most Americans view the smile as the most attractive attribute. Facebook fans everywhere are taking surveys such as “What attracts you most?” with one of the most popular answers being “his/her smile.” Unfortunately, with the sagging economy many people are pushing dental visits down their priority list.

Everyone wants a white, healthy smile, but Cosmetic Dentistry is an expensive luxury and do-it-yourself alternatives often cause tooth sensitivity or other problems. There is one way to safely whiten and improve the health of your teeth with over-the-counter products, says Dr. Ellie Phillips, DDS., author of Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye, from Greenleaf Book Group Press. Phillips says xylitol is the key to a healthy smile.

Dr. Ellie

“Xylitol is one of the most effective methods for removing harmful plaque and cavity-forming bacteria from the mouth,” said Phillips. “Eating two teaspoons of xylitol each day eliminates harmful mouth germs in a matter of months. Germs that feed on sugar or carbohydrates to produce mouth acidity and cause cavities will die off if you expose them to xylitol three or four times a day – preferably after meals or drinks.”
Xylitol is derived from birch wood and granular xylitol is found in most health food stores as a diabetic-safe sugar alternative. Xylitol can be purchased as candies, breath mints, tooth wipes, gels, mouth rinses and even nasal sprays. Small amounts are found in popular chewing gums, but you need sufficient xylitol for it to be effective, so check xylitol is the main ingredient in your gum or candy.

“Harmful bacteria are unable to use xylitol as an energy source, so they are starved and their numbers around teeth gradually reduce,” said
Phillips. “Bacteria absorb xylitol as they do regular sugar, but their attempt to process it is unsuccessful. The bacteria continue trying, but use up their resources in this futile effort. When these bacteria die out, less adhesive ones take their place. This second-generation of bacteria are easily removed from teeth by brushing and rinsing, which makes your oral care efforts more rewarding.”

Phillips recommends a regimen that works with xylitol to make teeth and gums healthier and stronger.

• A neutral pre-rinse before brushing
• Toothbrushing with a well-formulated toothpaste
• Two mouth rinses after brushing – the first, a well recognized antiseptic rinse, followed immediately by an alcohol-free sodium fluoride rinse

“If used every twelve hours the effects can be astonishing,” Phillips said. “Bad breath will be a thing of the past, bleeding gums heal and dull teeth become shiny and smooth. Even tooth-cleaning fanatics see improvements. I suggest people try this system between dental visits and let their dentist describe what he sees. Don’t be surprised when they demand to know what you have been doing!”

Many oral care products cause concern for Phillips; like rinses that contain harmful ingredients or toothpaste that is too abrasive. Some products are only a temporary fix for tooth sensitivity or tartar build up.

“There is an important chemistry between the pastes and rinses I recommend. This is a precise recipe and substitutions or changing the method will alter the outcome” she said.

“This regimen allows you to take charge of your oral health and experience a more beautiful, healthy smile using over-the-counter products. Why not amaze your own dentist?”

About Ellie Phillips, DDS
Dr. Ellie Phillips, author of Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye, from Greenleaf Book Group Press, is a dentist who believes in minimal intervention dentistry. Dr. Ellie has experience in pediatric and geriatric dentistry, caring for special needs children and the developmentally disabled. Dr. Ellie particularly enjoys working with nervous and phobic patients.

Dr. Ellie Phillips
www.CleanWhiteTeeth.com

Source: News and Experts

Researchers at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have shown that a highly specific intrabody (an antibody fragment that works against a target inside a cell) is capable of stalling the

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I don’t have a pun for this graphical abstract, but I can’t help thinking it disapproves of me looking at it.

Graphical abstract from: Dynamic viscoelastic behavior of individual Gram-negative bacterial cells.

Mitch

New Zealand researchers find that Vitamin D supplementation improves insulin resistance and sensitivity, key risk factors for type-2 diabetes.

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Turkish researchers discover reduced pelvic bone density in men who carry cell phones clipped to pant belts.

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A rich source of antioxidants, pomegranate fruit compounds inhibit a liver enzyme and thus may confer beneficial effects against prostate cancer development.

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Despite the rates of myocardial infarction for middle-age women rising over the past two decades, the risk of death from a heart attack has declined.

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Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (USA) researchers discover a new way to control internal bleeding, potentially saving thousands of lives at-risk due to trauma from car crashes or battlefield injuries, as well as severe infections and diabetic complications.

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Top Tips from Spa Industry Leaders

Last weekend, “How to Start a Day Spa” made its triumphant return to the Learning Annex’s stage for popular seminars. Hosted and moderated by spa PR expert Nancy Trent, the seminar offered spa industry hopefuls the opportunity to learn from and network with a panel of leading experts. From successful spa owners, to consultants and creative designers, the panelists provided a plethora of need-to-know information for aspiring spa entrepreneurs.

The course kicked off with a fact-filled presentation by Wendy Bosalavage, President of American Leisure Corporation. Bosalavage provided excellent insight on business planning, stressing the importance of conducting sufficient research and performing a proper market assessment before embarking on a spa venture.

Maria Varriano, owner of MariVar Spa Builders, followed with a riveting discussion about leading and building a staff. Varriano noted that there are three traits that will almost always inspire success: passion for the industry, an ability to inspire others and the ability to lead. Good leaders communicate confidence (even in times of uncertainty), and work hard to make their people shine.

Attendees were especially excited by the creative portion of the seminar in which Tony Galbo, Director of Business for New World Design Builders, introduced the architectural planning of day spas. Galbo emphasized the need to develop an aesthetic concept beforehand, and encouraged prospective owners to work as closely with their design team as possible.

A presentation by Sergio Mercado, Creative Director at Clodagh, was a crowd pleaser, featuring exciting photographs of Clodagh’s work at spas around the world. Mercado’s presentation demonstrated the importance of hiring creative specialists. Mercado also introduced the audience to the fundamentals of biogeometry, a new technique in which specific shapes and design are used to balance energy fields.

When it came to spa marketing, specialist Nancy Trent, shared insights about branding and marketing day spas to the media. Trent, president of the NYC-based spa and healthy lifestyle public relations firm, Trent & Company, emphasized that spa owners and their PR teams must use national media to generate credibility, while using local media to drive sales.

To cap off a day of practical business advice, attendees heard from the directors and owners of three top NYC spas. Denise Vitiello, Director of the Spa at the Mandarin Oriental, spoke about the importance of superb customer service in the spa industry. Vitiello’s cheerful demeanor at the seminar was infectious, demonstrating the significance that maintaining an upbeat attitude in a spa environment can have.

Lorraine Massey and Candida Molina, Owner and Director of the Deva Spa at the Devachan Salon in SoHo, agreed with Vitiello’s stance on customer service. Massey and Molina also discussed different strategies to attract clients, such as the customer-friendly “no tip” policy. Their unique approach to business has helped The Deva Spa flourish, despite opening its doors mid-recession.

Closing out the presentation were the knowledgeable Isabel Anton and Anna Antal, co-owners of the celebrity favorite Advanced Skin Care Day Spa. Anton and Antal focused on the often-overlooked basics of operating a spa business, such as payment options and accounting decisions. As women who began their spa business in America before they could speak English, Anton and Antal demonstrated that, with determination and skill, spa industry hopefuls can achieve anything.

The attendees, some of whom traveled from out-of-town to attend the popular seminar, expressed a deep interest in all of the presenters’ input, and repeatedly praised the Learning Annex for hosting this beneficial course.

Trent & Company
212.966.0024
www.trentandcompany.com

Source: Trent & Company

Medical journals are the prime source of information about scientific advances that can change how doctors treat patients in offices and in hospitals. And to ensure the quality of what journals publish, their editors, beginning 200 years ago, have increasingly called on scientific peers to review new findings from research in test tubes and on animals and humans. Read more…

Ayurtox for Body Detoxification

In that overweight is a major risk factor for the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis, researchers find that weight loss not only reduces the risks of disease onset, but lessens the symptoms in those who develop it as well.

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The incidence of colds can be greatly reduced by making exercise a part of daily life.

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Ability of a person’s circulatory and respiratory systems to supply oxygen during physical activity declines throughout adulthood, accelerating after age 45 and more so in those who are physically inactive, obese, or smokers.

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This Halloween, Go Naked … with Our NEW Unscented Organic Lotion

Dropwise Essentials is all about the aromatherapy. But over the years we’ve received many requests for an unscented lotion from people who are super-sensitive when it comes to scents, or who live with loved ones who can’t be around scents. This lotion is made from the same base as our aromatherapy lotions minus the hydrosols and the essential oils, and is slightly richer. It has no added scent but it does have a mild “coco-nutty” smell due to the high content of fresh unprocessed certified organic base oils and herbs.

The feedback we’ve gotten on it so far has been wonderful! Here’s what some of our happy customers shared with us

“Thank you so much for adding “Simply Naked” into your product line. I literally have tried almost every moisturizing product on the market and haven’t found one that is gentle enough for my VERY sensitive skin, doesn’t have a scent (my husband is very sensitive to scents), and has enough moisture “staying power” to keep my skin moisturized all day. Your stuff really works! I love that it’s safe, all natural, and such a pleasure to use.” – Kathryn R-Neibel, Eureka, CA

“I’ve always been a big fan of your scented lotions but my wife prefers I use an unscented moisturizer so I was really glad when you introduced me to Simply Naked. I love how it has the same silky smooth feel on my hands and face as the other scented lotions. It works great on my cuticles. And I also use it as an after-shave –it soaks right in and relieves that post shave tightness.” – Jarid Johnson, Campbell, CA

Between now and Friday you can take advantage our special pre-launch sale: Take 25% off any size (8 oz or 4 oz). Use coupon code NAKEDOCT09 at checkout to get your discount. Offer good through 10/30/09. Orders must be placed by or before 11:59 PM PST to qualify.

For more information or to order now, click here.

Get Naked & Tell Us About it!
We always love to hear from you so if you purchase Simply Naked, please let us know what you think of it! Share your experiences and impressions on our Facebook Fan page. Just click on the Reviews tab and write a brief review. Or send us your comments in email at feedback@dropwise.com.

About Dropwise Essentials
Dropwise Essentials is a San Francisco-based manufacturer of pure aromatherapy and organic plant-based personal care products that give people a safe and effective way to relieve stress, increase vitality, improve confidence, or manage their emotional state any time or place without popping a pill. Our products are:

* Free of synthetic chemicals and petroleum ingredients
* Made with high quality certified organic oils and pure essential oils sourced from around the world
* Packaged in re-usable or recyclable materials
* Hand-made locally in northern California

Dropwise Essentials was founded by Donya Fahmy, a writer, producer, and consultant whose avid interest in the curative powers of aromatherapy and herbs ultimately led her to design and create the seven products and seventeen unique essential oil blends that make up the current Dropwise product line. She has studied aromatherapy with Carol Schiller –a successful author of several aromatherapy books– and with Dr. Daniel Penoel –a renowned expert in the field of medical aromatherapy.

Dropwise Essentials is a proud member of the Indie Beauty Network (formerly the Handmade Beauty Network), the Green America Business Network (formerly Co-op America), Green Product Alliance, Natural Ingredient Resource Center, and a Friend of PETA. We were among the first companies to join the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics by signing their Compact for Safe Cosmetics – which simply formalizes our existing commitment to formulate products free of known or potentially toxic ingredients.

Dropwise Essentials
866.418.1682
www.dropwise.com

Source: Dropwise Essentials

National “Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award” Winners Announced

Cherokee Uniforms Recognizes Healthcare Professionals for Service, Sacrifice and Innovation

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2009 – Cherokee Uniforms announced today six winners of the 2009 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award. The recipients represent a variety of healthcare professionals, from hospital employees and visiting nurses to dental hygienists and nurse anesthetists. Each one was chosen for their exemplary service and care to those in need—going above and beyond what’s expected of them.

“The recipients of the 2009 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award illustrate the power that a single healthcare professional with a vision can have on their communities, region and on their fellow man a world away,” says Michael Singer, CEO of Cherokee Uniforms. “Each is a sparkling example of the excellence that healthcare professionals provide to countless patients across America, and we are honored to salute these recipients.”

A panel of Cherokee representatives and past Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award recipients selected the honorees. The candidates were nominated for their exceptional service, sacrifice and innovation in one of four categories: Advanced Practice Nurse, Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse, and Non-Physician Healthcare Professional.

This year’s Grand Prize, Top National and National Winners

Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs)
Grand Prize Winner – Diana Webber, MS, ARNP – Hope Medical Clinic, Atoka, OK
With precious few medical resources available for the uninsured among 3,000 local residents, Webber, a nurse practitioner, began methodically assessing her community’s health needs. Her interviews and data revealed a need for free healthcare in the community, and she realized that her experience and expertise could be the difference between families getting necessary primary care – or going without. With the support of her community, Webber founded the Hope Medical Clinic. In addition to researching, opening and operating the clinic and working three days a week in a pediatric clinic located 130 miles from home, Webber provided clinical expertise on medical missions in 2008 to Mexico, Peru, Ecuador and Nicaragua.

Top National Winner – Wallena Gould, CRNA, MSN – South Jersey Healthcare System, Vineland, NJ
Concerned by the small percentage of minorities among the nation’s registered nurse anesthetists, Gould took drastic action to create change. She began mentoring her fellow students at La Salle University, in Philadelphia, and even reached out to minority students at other universities. In 2008, balancing a successful career as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) and family obligations, the former Ernst & Young auditor launched the nonprofit Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program to inform, empower and mentor underprivileged minority students. Since her time as a student, Gould has mentored approximately 2,000 CRNAs or CRNA candidates, including high school students, resulting in an estimated 80 minority CRNAs joining the profession since 2003.

Registered Nurses (RNs)
Grand Prize Winner – Diaraye Sylla, RN, BSN – University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
After seeing the immense healthcare needs of the people in her home country of Guinea, Sylla, a clinical nurse, believed she could make a difference. On her own initiative, she found a financial supporter who agreed to fuel her vision. She helped found American Friends of Guinea (AFG), a nonprofit that she now leads as a volunteer president which has saved the lives of thousands of medically underserved Guineans by providing free medications, supplies and services to health centers and hospitals in the West African country.

Top National Winner – Andrea Parkhill, RN, BSN – Visiting Nurses Association of Central Jersey, Eatontown, NJ
Parkhill greatly improved the living conditions and emotional health of local senior citizens by devoting countless hours and personal funds to bring about dramatic change in their building. While visiting a woman, Parkhill discovered unsafe living conditions. She not only took the initiative to thoroughly clean and refurbish the apartment, she took the woman’s cats to a veterinarian and personally paid for their care and purchased clothes for the woman as a gift. While working with the patient, Parkhill noticed that other residents of the housing complex demonstrated signs of grief and depression. She collaborated with a social worker to address causes and was so successful that the approach is now being expanded.

Licensed Practical Nurses/Licensed Vocational Nurses (LPNs/LVNs)
Grand Prize Winner – Rosetta White, LPN – Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC
A nurse in the maternity unit of Carolinas Medical Center for all 39 years of her career, White works tirelessly to meet the clinical and personal needs of mothers and their newborns. If a patient needs clothes for herself or her baby, White will unfailingly find them. She has even gone to patients’ homes to deliver items they have left behind, knowing they did not have transportation to return to the hospital. White sacrifices personal time to serve area residents through public service and fundraising for area charities.

Non-Physician Healthcare Professionals
Grand Prize Winner – Stacey Anderson, RDH – School District of Superior, Superior, WI
Anderson, a registered dental hygienist, is the first dental professional to have been honored in the award’s seven-year history. After providing dental hygiene services and oral health education for more than 20 years in private practice, Anderson borrowed money and used her own savings in order to be able to concentrate on more effectively preventing and reducing dental disease among underserved and uninsured children from low-income families. Now she teaches students in 17 elementary and middle schools in two states about oral hygiene and nutrition and works closely with school nurses to manage the care of children who have severe tooth decay. In 2008, her service provided mobile clinic services and education during more than 1,300 patient visits.

Since the Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award was established in 2003, more than 7,000 healthcare professionals have been nominated in the Registered Nurse, Advanced Practice Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse, Student Nurse and Non-Physician Healthcare Professional categories. A panel of Cherokee representatives and past Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award recipients evaluates nominations and grants the awards.

For every nomination, Cherokee Uniforms donated $1 to Nurse’s House, a national fund that provides short-term financial assistance to registered nurses facing serious hardship. Proceeds from Cherokee Uniforms products support healthcare professionals through initiatives such as the Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award, scholarships for students enrolled in nursing school and an inspirational film for nurses. Cherokee Uniforms will be accepting nominations for the 2010 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award beginning March 1 through May 31, 2010. For further information on the award, please visit http://inspiredcomfort.com.

About Cherokee Uniforms
Cherokee Uniforms, Tooniforms and Cherokee Footwear are leading brands in healthcare apparel, recognized for helping to foster a warmer, friendlier, more comfortable environment for healthcare workers and their patients.

Cherokee Uniforms
818.671.2100
www.CherokeeUniforms.com

Source: Cherokee Uniforms

Bold new strategies in the battle against cancer may turn forms of the disease that presently are incurable into manageable conditions that can be controlled for long periods of time, according to

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Syneron’s Total Aesthetic Point with Dr. Seltzer

December 8, 2009

Total Aesthetic Point (TAP) is a complimentary evening workshop course designed to provide practitioners valuable information by discussing the latest trends in aesthetic laser- and light-based cosmetic procedures. The lecture/patient demonstrations are led by Dr. Robert Seltzer, a world renowned laser specialty dermatologist, and clinical staff. Patient demonstrations will include some of the most sought after aesthetic procedures like VelaShape II™, triniti™ and eMatrix™.

ROBERT B. SELTZER, M.D.
Certified, American Board of Dermatology
Advanced Laser and Anti-Aging Medical Center

Robert B. Seltzer has been committed to the revolutionary benefits of laser technology from the start – owner of 40+ lasers from 20 different companies. Laser treatments are now both more effective and less invasive or painful than most traditional techniques. Dr. Seltzer’s passion for developing and applying these beneficial modalities has resulted in his pre-eminence in the field. He trains and lectures in the disciplines nationally and treats patients from around the world. laserbeauty.com

Don’t miss this unique opportunity from the “godfather” of aesthetic business marketing and practice management!

** Dinner will be catered at no cost **

Tues – December 8, 2009 – at 6:00 pm
Advanced Laser and Anti-Aging Medical Ctr.
960 E. Green St. #108
Pasadena, CA 91106

RSVP Required! Space is limited.

To RSVP, please call MARK PAWLOWSKI at (310) 619-5655, FAX (310) 372-3186 or email mpawlowski@syneron.com

Syneron
866.259.6661
www.syneron.com

Source: Syneron

FDA Approved PermaLip Permanent Silicone Lip Implant that Can be Removed

(New York, NY) Beautiful, full lips like Angelina Jolie’s are a widely coveted facial feature. To date, lip augmentation procedures have traditionally involved temporary fillers that are often unpredictable and quite costly. Good news for those lip lovers who refuse to give up their pouty pucker. The FDA has recently approved the SurgiSil PermaLip implant; a safe, permanent silicone lip implant that can be easily removed or replaced.

Dr. Schulman

Matthew R. Schulman, M.D., board-certified plastic surgeon and Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, has been using PermaLip for superior results compared to other permanent lip fillers. “Unlike other implant materials that have been used in the past for lip augmentation, PermaLip is resistant to tissue in-growth, adding a unique level of safety because it can be easily removed or replaced,” Schulman says. “This soft, solid implant cannot rupture, deflate, or degrade over time. Because of the soft and flexible design, the implant will not affect normal mouth or lip movement.”

The PermaLip implant also holds an edge over temporary lip augmentation solutions including dermal fillers and autologous fat. Whereas these fillers may produce unpredictable results with limited longevity, PermaLip achieves permanent results, so patients will not need to come in for repetitive treatments every few months. This is both time and cost effective.

The PermaLip procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, and is performed in-office with the use of local anesthesia. The implant may be used on the upper, lower or both lips.

Patients can return to normal activity by the following day.

The cost for an upper or lower lip implant is $1800, while getting both would set you back about $3000. This one-time investment is certainly a cost effective option to injectable fillers which carry a price tag of $800 every four to six months which can cost upwards of $2400 per year.

Dr. Schulman
212.289.1851
www.drschulmanplasticsurgery.com

Source: Dr. Schulman

Australian researchers discover the gene involved in vocal development and the human capacity for speech.

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