Sunday, February 7, 2010

TANDBERG First to Demonstrate Immersive Three-Screen Telepresence Interoperability with Cisco TelePresence

TANDBERG Total Telepresence solution delivers additional immersive third-party telepresence interoperability capabilities for expanded company-to-company collaboration.


TANDBERG (OSLO: TAA.OL) announced it has successfully demonstrated telepresence interoperability between TANDBERG Telepresence and the Cisco CTS 3000. This demonstration, the first of its kind, was enabled by integrating Cisco's new Telepresence Interoperability Protocol (TIP) into the award-winning TANDBERG Telepresence Server. With this integration, TANDBERG now adds Cisco TelePresence solutions to the list of third-party telepresence solutions it can seamlessly interoperate with while maintaining the three-screen, high-definition telepresence experience.

"As we build a global video community, it is imperative that organizations are not locked in by technology," said Fredrik Halvorsen, TANDBERG CEO. "Our Total Telepresence solution is interoperable with a broad range of third-party solutions, including those from Polycom and Microsoft. We are very happy to now deliver even greater value to our customers by bringing participants on TANDBERG Telepresence and Cisco TelePresence together with an immersive, three-screen experience. Today's demonstration reflects TANDBERG's continued commitment to open standards, providing scalable solutions and protecting our customers' video investments for the future."

According to Frost & Sullivan, although many companies initially think of telepresence as a substitute for the corporate jet, the technology holds even more value when it can seamlessly link to other video conferencing solutions - within and outside of an organization - to ensure all necessary participants can attend any meeting. TANDBERG customers have seen the exponential value of interoperability between third-party telepresence and video conferencing for company-to-company collaboration while maintaining the best experience possible. TANDBERG is consistently the first to deliver the most advanced interoperability solutions to the market, demonstrated by:

* TANDBERG first to demonstrate a multi-screen, high-definition telepresence call with Cisco TelePresence CTS 3000 (see video).

* TANDBERG first to deliver a telepresence solution that can interoperate with third-party telepresence systems while maintaining the immersive telepresence experience.

* TANDBERG first to enable high definition video between Microsoft Office Communicator and immersive multi-screen telepresence.

* TANDBERG first to deliver a complete portfolio of HD telepresence and video conferencing solutions that can interoperate with any other standards compliant systems both within an organization and company-to-company.

Interoperability with Cisco CTS 3000 and other Cisco systems will be available through a software upgrade to the TANDBERG Telepresence Server later this year. For more information about the TANDBERG Total Telepresence solution, visit http://www.tandberg.com or call or contact moreinfo@TANDBERG.com .
About TANDBERG

TANDBERG is the leading global provider of telepresence, high-definition video conferencing and mobile video products and services with dual headquarters in New York and Norway. TANDBERG designs, develops and markets systems and software for video, voice and data. The company provides sales, support and value-added services in more than 90 countries worldwide. TANDBERG is publicly traded on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker TAA.OL. Please visit http://www.tandberg.com for more information.

TANDBERG is a trademark or registered trademark in the U.S. and other countries. All other product and company names here in may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Friday, January 29, 2010

One Global Corporate Default This Week Brings The 2010 Tally To Eight Defaults, Article Says

One global corporate issuer defaulted this week, bringing the 2010 year-to-date tally to eight defaults, said an article published today by Standard & Poor's, titled "Global Corporate Default Update (Jan. 15 - 21, 2010) (Premium)."


This week's default, Air Jamaica Ltd., is based in the emerging markets, bringing the year-to-date default tallies by region to five defaults in the U.S., two in the emerging markets, and one in the other developed region (Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand).

"This week's default resulted from a distressed exchange," said Diane Vazza, head of Standard & Poor's Global Fixed Income Research Group. "So far this year, three issuers defaulted because of distressed exchanges and another three defaulted as a result of missed interest or principal payments. The remaining two defaulted issuers were confidential."

Of the global corporate defaulters in 2010, 17% of issues with available recovery ratings had recovery ratings of '6' (indicating our expectation for negligible recovery of 0%-10%), none of the issues had recovery ratings of '5' (modest recovery prospects of 10%-30%), 33% had recovery ratings of '4' (average recovery prospects of 30%-50%), and 33% had recovery ratings of '3' (meaningful recovery prospects of 50%-70%). And for the remaining two rating categories, none of the issues had recovery ratings of '2' (substantial recovery prospects of 70%-90%) and 17% of issues had recovery ratings of '1' (very high recovery prospects of 90%-100%).

The marked improvement in financial conditions has altered our expectations for corporate default rates within the one-year forecast horizon. The sharp decline in funding costs, the reopening of the bond markets (even for low-rated issuance), and the abatement of volatility are factors that will lower refinancing costs, even for low-rated issuers. As a result, our 12-month-forward baseline projection for the U.S. corporate speculative-grade default rate is now 6.9%. Our pessimistic and optimistic scenarios result in default rates of 9.9% and 5.5%, respectively. As of September 2009, the U.S. 12-month-trailing corporate speculative-grade default rate was 10.8%. Previously, we had stated our expectations for a swathe of defaults to occur in the first half of 2010. But now, we expect that many of the defaults might be postponed to later quarters beyond the 12-month forecast horizon. Our forecasts are based on quantitative and qualitative factors that we consider, including, but not limited to, Standard & Poor's proprietary default model for the U.S. corporate speculative-grade bond market.

This article is part of our premium Global Fixed Income Research content, which is available to premium subscribers to RatingsDirect on the Global Credit Portal at www.globalcreditportal.com and to RatingsDirect at www.ratingsdirect.com. Ratings information can also be found on Standard & Poor's public Web site by using the Ratings search box located in the left column at www.standardandpoors.com. Members of the media may request a copy of this report by contacting the media representative provided.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Disney Interactive Media Group (China) and 3D Gaming (Hangzhou) Release the First 'Disney 3D Ping Pong' Game Station in China

Disney Interactive Media Group (China) and 3D Gaming (Hangzhou) Ltd. have released their first product on January 20, 2010, to the arcade game market in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The product is said to be the first Disney "pop-out" 3D game station for which no glasses or other aid are


needed to experience the 3D effect. Disney Interactive Media Group (China) and 3D Group started their cooperation in China, leveraging 3D technology developed by 3D Group, to develop a 3D game station called "Disney 3D Ping Pong," and 3D Group is licensed to manufacture and sell in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau,

and Taiwan. Disney used the Chinese national ball game, ping-pong, as the theme, creating the first Disney 3D ping-pong game in China. Sport is the core of this game, allowing players to entertain themselves and exercise at the same time. It is a pioneer in healthy arcade game stations, and an innovation in China's arcade game history.

Song Ming, the Game Development Manager from Disney Interactive Media Group (China), revealed that "Disney 3D Ping Pong" combines the most popular Disney cartoon characters and the most adorable sport in China -- ping-pong. It's an integration of entertainment and sport, which is the newest and most healthy

game for young players in China. The game production team will focus on developing more games leveraging the latest techniques to bring great entertainment experiences to players.

Al Pien, the president of 3D Group, stated that 3D Group has spent five years with its technology partner in Germany in developing and providing the first 3D display and game develop kits in the world. It owns the world patent on the 3D display's intellectual property rights. 3D Gaming (Hangzhou) is the latest company of 3D Group, and is focusing on the cooperation with Disney Interactive Group (China). Meanwhile, Guangzhou Bao Hui Electronics Co., Ltd., licensed by 3D Group, becomes a national distributor of the "Disney 3D Ping

Pong" game station. Al Pien also stated that it has been a year negotiating and communicating with Disney, that it is an honor to be chosen and supported by Disney, and to become a partner of Disney in the game station market in China.
To browse photos, please click:

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About Disney Interactive Media Group

Disney Interactive Media Group (DIMG) is the division of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) responsible for the creation and delivery of Disney branded interactive entertainment and informational content across multiple platforms including online, mobile and video game consoles around the globe.

DIMG oversees several lines of business. Disney Interactive Studios, which has five internal game development studios around the world, self publishes and distributes a broad portfolio of multi-platform video games, mobile games and interactive entertainment worldwide. Disney Online produces http://www.Disney.com , the No. 1 kids entertainment and family community Web site, for multiple platforms including PCs and mobile phones, as well as the Disney Family Network of Web sites for moms. Additionally, Disney Online

develops and publishes an industry leading suite of online virtual worlds for kids and families. Disney Interactive Studios and Disney Online work together to leverage the platform-specific expertise of the collective group to create a line of interconnected, multiplatform interactive entertainment experiences.

Disney Mobile Japan includes the Disney Mobile phone service as well as the region's highly successful mobile content business. DIMG also develops new online technologies and distribution platforms and operates the online technical backbone and infrastructure that power the Web presence of The Walt Disney Company. DIMG is headquartered in North Hollywood, Calif., with content available directly or through third parties in many major markets worldwide, including the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
About 3D Gaming (Hangzhou) Ltd.

3D Gaming (Hangzhou) was established in Xiacheng District, Hangzhou. With its base in Hangzhou, it will focus on the development of Disney 3D games and the production and sale of related products.

3D Gaming will apply self-owned 3D parallax technology in developing and providing new, exciting, and pop-out cartoons and games. Its business includes producing and integrating 3D display, game station, 3D technology and hardware services, and cartoon product development.

3D Gaming will continue to use leading 3D technology to develop healthy 3D games for players and let them experience a brand new kind of entertainment.

Media Asia Distribution

With its headquarters based in Hong Kong, Media Asia is one of Asia’s largest and most successful Chinese-language film studios.


Since its establishment in 1994, Media Asia has produced or co-financed over 60 Chinese-language films, including critically acclaimed blockbusters like The Warlords (2007), The Assembly (2007), Confession of Pain (2006), The Banquet (2006), Exiled (2006), Initial D (2005), Wait ‘Til You’re Older (2005), and the Infernal Affairs trilogy (2002-2003), the latter spawning the Hollywood remake The Departed which won 4 major awards at the Academy Awards in 2007, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. Media Asia’s films have won over 140 awards out of some 350 nominations from major international film festivals (e.g. Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Tokyo, and Pusan) and award ceremonies (e.g. Golden Horse Awards and Hong Kong Film Awards).
MR. RICKY TSE

In addition to its own productions, Media Asia also handles a library of over 150 feature films. It has entered into output agreements with leading television stations in Asia, including Star TV (Hong Kong / Taiwan), CCTV 6 (China) and Celestial movies (Singapore / Malaysia / Indonesia / Brunei). It has also formed a joint-venture with China Film Group (China) for film distribution in China.

Media Asia aims to produce quality Chinese-language films with commercial viability. Together with its film library portfolio, the Group aims to bolster its position in the product and distribution of Chinese-language films in Asia and around the globe.

SHERATON HUA HIN RESORT & SPA 2ND PLACE WINNER OF “BEST SPA RESORT” AWARD BY CEI ASIA MAGAZINE

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa is delighted to announce that it has been awarded the 2nd place winner “Best Spa Resort” by CEI Asia Magazine. This honorable award is based entirely on the valuation of the readers of CEI Asia Magazine, Asia’s leading MICE magazine, reaches 12 percent ranking of the poll.


Now in its 3rd year of operations, the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa continues to be the favorite vacation retreat for business meeting groups and tourists. A new sense of welcome and comfort await at this stylish resort, where well-trained associates provide service with a smile and go out of their way to make guests feel at home.
sheraton HUA HIN
RESORT & SPA
1573 Petchkasem Road
Cha-Am, Petchburi 76120
Thailand
t — +66 32 708 000
f — +66 32 708 088
sheraton.com/huahin

The 820-square meter convention service area consists of a ballroom, 2 additional meeting rooms and is able to do 6 breakout rooms if required. The 520-square meter Grand Ballroom has advanced audio-visual technology, equipped with wired and wireless internet access and comfortably accommodates up to 500 guests. Conference facilities are immediately accessible via the driveway. Spacious private lawn area by the pool is also the venue for open-air function, elegant cocktail or sensational events.

With its distinct signature features, such as the 56 Lagoon Access Rooms that are located directly by the 560-meter circumference, lagoon style swimming pool, the “StarClub” area for kids and the “Aspadeva Spa”, the resort offers unique spaces and great attractions for its guests. The award-winning restaurant “InAzia” offers signature dishes from around Southeast Asia, while four other restaurants and bars let the guests savor a wide array of culinary delights.

Newly developed, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa has recently introduced the Sheraton initiative “Link@SheratonSM experienced with Microsoft®.” This unique virtual and physical lobby lounge space enables guests to work, relax and remain connected with the people that matter most to them during their travels.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

‘Roses of the North’ Charity Exhibition

Flowers can make everyone feel happy…. H.E.Privy Councillor Palakorn Suwanrath and Thanpuying Dhasaniya Suwanrath recently presided over at ‘Roses of the North’ charity oil painting exhibition inspired by Bhubing Palace organized by L’Occitane and Baan Saen Doi Resort in Chiang Mai. The art of mercy rose oil painting exhibition was held at Peninsula Plaza and part of sales went to support schools and hospitals where are needed in Chiang Mai. Many kind hearted celebrities attended the event including Khunying Dhipavadee Meksawan, Mr.Harald Link, Arunee Bhirombhakdi, Atchara Tejapaibul, M.L.Sirichalerm Svasti, M.L.Thongmakut and Jarujit Thongyai, Yuwadee and Nidsinee Chirathivat, Dararatana and Toey Mahadumrongkul, Chadapah Snidvongs, Captain Deuntemduang Na Chiengmai, Pimpawan Limpichart, Joy Sopitpongstorn, Panitnuj Bunnag, Piranuj T.Suwan, Sodsoi Chomthavat, Mayura Savetsila, Wanchana Sawasdee and more.

The exhibition showcased of over 70 oil painting of roses flowers by artist and art lecturer Narin Phothisombat. Narin Phothisombat is a talented artist with an art degree from Chiang Mai Technology Rajchamonkol. His painting was inspired by roses from Phra Tamnak Bhubing Rajanives (Bhubing Palace). His painting reflected his pride and passions towards the beauty of nature for roses including Queen Sirikit, Eliza, Rouge Meilland, Queen Elizabeth and Royal Air Force.

In addition there was the charity auction on 2 oil painting pieces. The first one was the painting of Queen Elizabeth which won by Harald Link, CEO of B.Grimm for 120,000 Baht and the other piece on Queen Sirikit won by Arunee Bhirombhakdi for 75,000 Baht.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Accumetrics Closes 2009 with Positive Outlook

New distribution agreements, favorable clinical data, and significant capital financing position the company for continued growth in 2010 Accumetrics, Inc., developer and marketer of the VerifyNow(R) System, the first rapid and easy-to-use diagnostic system for measuring an individual's response to multiple antiplatelet agents, announced that 2009 included a doubling in the number of international and U.S. distribution agreements, as well as positive medical community support, and significant capital financing

that will take the company into 2011.

In 2009, the company continued its commitment to creating a powerful, worldwide distribution network aimed at gaining adoption of its products at end-user levels. Spanning Europe, Latin America and Asia, Accumetrics currently has partnerships with 20 leading international distributors who provide the company with local representation in over 30 countries. Latest additions to the international distribution network include Keller Medical in Germany, ZAO "Schag" in Russia and VSA Alta Complejidad S.A. in Argentina. Accumetrics continued to strengthen its U.S. presence by partnering with 10 cardiovascular specialty distributors to enhance support to the company's growing base of clinicians in the domestic hospital market. Accumetrics has

also partnered with National Distribution & Contracting, Inc. (NDC), the largest organization of independent medical supply distributors in North America, to expand its distribution network in the physician office lab
marketplace.

Increasing evidence of the clinical value of platelet reactivity testing was demonstrated in several presentations of new clinical studies including the POPular study, presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in November, and a meta-analysis presented at a symposium during the 2009 Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT ) Conference. These data also build upon the anticipation of the results of the GRAVITAS trial, which has now completed 80% enrollment.

"2009 has proven to be an outstanding year of growth for Accumetrics," said Timothy I. Still, CEO and President of Accumetrics. "We look at 2010 as a breakthrough year for the company, and are pleased to be in a position to capitalize on the growing clinical acceptance of platelet reactivity testing."

Accumetrics concluded 2009 with $17.1 million in new capital financing, which will fully support the company into 2011. Proceeds will fund a number of key 2010 milestones including expanded claims for existing products, new product development and continued expansion of commercialization efforts. About Accumetrics (www.accumetrics.com)

Accumetrics is committed to advancing medical understanding of platelet function and enhancing quality of care for patients receiving antiplatelet therapies by providing industry-leading and widely accessible diagnostic tests for rapid platelet function assessment.

Accumetrics' VerifyNow System is the first rapid and easy to use platform for measuring an individual's response to multiple antiplatelet agents. Addressing every major antiplatelet drug, including FDA-cleared products for aspirin, P2Y12 inhibitors (e.g. prasugrel (Effient(TM)) and clopidogrel (Plavix(R))), and the GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors (e.g. ReoPro(R) and Integrilin(R)), the VerifyNow System provides a valuable tool to help
physicians make more informed treatment decisions.

The Accumetrics logo and VerifyNow are registered trademarks of Accumetrics, Inc. ReoPro is a registered trademark of Centocor, Inc. Integrilin is a registered trademark of Millennium Pharmaceuticals. Plavix is a registered trademark of sanofi-aventis. Effient is a trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.