Edward Palonek ™

GSA Helps Government Go Green

2008-05-01T13:21:00.001-07:00

GSA Helps Government Go Green

Agency Leaders Highlight Green Initiatives

Los Angeles (Vocus/PRWEB ) April 23, 2008 -- The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), is utilizing its unique position as the government’s premier procurement agency to help client agencies meet their environmental mandates, Administrator Lurita Doan and other GSA officials said Wednesday.

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Whether it’s telework, hybrid cars and trucks, or sustainable design, GSA is perfectly positioned to help federal agencies fulfill their missions and help the environment at the same time.
“As the annual suppliers of billions of dollars worth of goods, services and workspace, GSA can – and should – play an enormous role in preserving our nation’s precious natural resources,” Doan said at a press conference at the 2008 GSA Expo.

Flanked by Jim Williams, Commissioner of the Federal Acquisition Service and David Winstead, Commissioner of the Public Buildings Service, Doan noted that GSA offers thousands of “green” offerings, including alternative fuel vehicles and telework centers in the Washington, D.C. Metro region that save hundreds of thousands of gallons of gasoline annually.

“’Going Green’ is an important theme at this year’s Expo,” Doan said. “Whether it’s telework, hybrid cars and trucks, or sustainable design, GSA is perfectly positioned to help federal agencies fulfill their missions and help the environment at the same time.”

After remarks, Administrator Doan and Commissioners Williams and Winstead showed reporters some of the Green Initiatives on display, including flexible fuel vehicles, solar collectors and telecommuting initiatives. A groundbreaking solar park in Denver, Colo. is generating clean, renewable energy, while nearly 20 percent of GSA’s 12,000 workers are telecommuting, reducing fuel consumption and pressure on parking and road congestion.

GSA provides a centralized delivery system of products and services to the federal government, leveraging its enormous buying power to get the best value for taxpayers.

* Founded in 1949, GSA manages more than one-fourth of the government’s total procurement dollars and influences the management of $500 billion in federal assets, including 8,600 government-owned or leased buildings and 208,000 vehicles.
* GSA helps preserve our past and define our future, as a steward of more than 425 historic properties, and as manager of USA.gov, the official portal to federal government information and services.
* GSA’s mission to provide superior workplaces, expert technology solutions, acquisition services, purchasing and E-Gov travel solutions and management policies, at best value, allows federal agencies to focus on their core missions.

Did You Know? GSA’s main Web site, www.gsa.gov, receives roughly 20 million visits each year.

InventHelp® Client Invents "Broiler Grate Cleaner" -- An Invention That Could Provide Deep, Thorough Cleaning For Grills

2008-05-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Client Invents "Broiler Grate Cleaner" -- An Invention That Could Provide Deep, Thorough Cleaning For Grills

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 25, 2008 -- InventHelp®, America's largest inventor service company, announces that one of its clients, an inventor from Hudson, N.H.., has designed a tool for cleaning broiler grates. This invention is patented and a prototype is available.

The "Broiler Grate Cleaner" could scrub the top surface of a commercial broiler grate thoroughly while cleaning out hard-to-remove particles stuck deep in gaps. The invention would feature a pivoting construction, as well as tines that could "pinch" the sides of each grate stem for added effectiveness. The tool could improve quality and flavor of food by preventing soot contamination. The device requires no "breaking in." The unit would be a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver tool that would feature durable construction.

The Broiler Grate Cleaner would consist of a rake-shaped device made from steel. The invention would measure 38 inches long, three and a half inches wide and one fourth inch thick. The middle of the tool would be fitted with a six inch long handle that could be extended upward. The rake head would measure two and a half inches long and 3/8 inches thick and would be bent at a 135-degree angle. The rake head would measure three and a half inches wide and would be composed of five 3/8-inch tines. A 3/8-inch gap would exist between each pair of tines.

To use the tool, an individual would grip the vertical handle and the handle at the tip, place the tines atop the grate and move the tool in a back-and-forth motion across the grates. The user could tilt the rake sideways slightly, which would cause the tines to pinch the grate sections. A wet towel could be wrapped around the rake head to remove soot. Rubber grips could be featured on both handles.

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review. If substantial interest is expressed, the company will attempt to negotiate for a sale or royalties for the inventor. For more information, telephone Dept. 05-BMA-2282 at (800) 851-6030. Learn more about InventHelp® and their Invention Submission services at http://press.inventhelp.com.

"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," announces search for exciting inventions!

2008-04-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," announces search for exciting inventions!

"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," an internet publication located in Albany, Oregon announces its search for inventions that are ready for public exposure.

INVENTIONS AND DISCOVERIES
528 Ellsworth St. SW
Albany, OR 97321
Phone 541-917-0484

Contact: Lindy Batdorf
email: discoveries@myfavoritelists.com

Contact: Steve Shultz
Contact email: inventions1955@earthlink.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," an internet publication located in Albany, Oregon announces its search for inventions that are ready for
public exposure.

Steve Shultz, the owner of several internet publications including "The Health List" which goes to 60,000 subscribers, has recently launced
"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," which already goes to 13,000 subscribers. "I've always loved reading about the newest gadgets, machines, and
discoveries," Shultz said. "Since I enjoy growing publications, I thought I'd give more exposure to those inventions that really catch my
interest, and at the same time help a lot of people get the word out about their newest creations."

Shultz seems confident that this will be one of his fastest growing publications yet. "At the current rate of growth, I expect there to be as many as 100,000 subscribers within six months, " he said. "This is going to allow me to not just promote those creative inventions, but it will even help to bring together the parties to make those inventions marketable, including venture capitalists, manufacturers, and product
development teams," who Shultz says he expects to also subscribe to DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS in large numbers.

The publication is currently soliciting press releases, with photos and other information on inventions that are ready to be publicized. There is not current a limit of how many or of what type of invention that can be submitted. To submit an invention for publication in DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS, email a press release as a Word attachment or as text to: inventions1955@earthlink.net.
The same email can be used to subscribe to DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS, or contact:
Lindy Batdorf, email:discoveries@myfavoiritelists.com

Karaoke (Kah-rah-oh-kay) Somebody Really Invented it - by Boye Lafayette De Mente

2008-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Karaoke (Kah-rah-oh-kay) Somebody Really Invented it - by Boye Lafayette De Mente

Karaoke (kah-rah-oh-kay) has been one of Japan's most successful exports. How it was invented, and why it became so successful, first in Japan and then internationally, is an amazing story!

Tokyo, (PRWEB) April 20, 2005 -- Most people who have sung and heard karaoke probably believe it was something that grew of its own accord, like crab grass! But that is not the case. It was invented…by a guy who could not possible have dreamed that it would spread around the world like some kind of Asian flu.

Singing in Japan goes back to ancient times, when it became an integral part of Japanese culture. It began with shamans and priests chanting their ritual prayers to the gods

Then fishermen, boatmen, carpenters, geisha, samurai warriors, shoguns, cooks, you name it, got into the act. Everybody sang, in groups and individually, to enhance work camaraderie, for self-gratification, as well as to entertain others.

Virtually every category of personal and public activity had its own collection of songs. The practice of singing became such an important part of Japanese culture that it survived into modern times.

Still today, singing is a significant part of the business and social life of the Japanese. It is perfectly common for reserved, elderly businessmen and politicians to burst out in song at public events—something that generally surprises—and invokes envy—from their Western counterparts.

And it was because of this imperative that everyone sing—for both business and pleasure and to relieve stress and bond with co-workers and new friends—that Daisuke Inoue invented karaoke.

In 1970 Daisuke Inoue was a club musician who earned his keep by playing sing-along tunes in cabarets in Kobe, Japan. It was painfully obvious to Daisuke that many of his businessmen customers” had been so consumed by work that unlike other Japanese they had never had time to polish their singing skills.

This prompted Daisuke to tape a number of the more popular tunes (like Frank Sinatras I Did It My Way!”), changing the pitches to suit off-key singers, and making it possible for the cabaret customers to sing along with the taped tunes and not sound like screeching banshees.

Over the next several months, Daisuke integrated the singer friendly” tunes into a tape recorder that became the first karaoke (kah-rah-oh-kay) machine that played only accompaniments. Kara (kah-rah) means empty and oke (oh-kay) is the Japanese abbreviation of orchestra. In other words, empty orchestra.”

In 1971 Daisuke made 12 karaoke machines and leased them to bars in Kobe. And as the saying goes, the rest is history…but not the kind of history most inventors dream of.

Following the incredible success of his first karaoke machines, Daisukes intuition and ingenuity failed him. He didnt patent the new device, and before you could say Dohshimashita ka? (doh-she-mah-ssh-tah kah?)—which you might translate as What the Hell happened!”—a whole stream of karaoke machines poured into Japans huge number of bars and cabarets.

The new device was so popular that thousands of new karaoke bars” were opened to take advantage of it. Hotels and other public buildings in the country opened karaoke rooms” for their guests and employees.

Major manufacturers got into the act, using the latest technology to continuously upgrade the quality of karaoke machines. By the late 1980s karaoke had spread around the world, and went on to become one of Japans most popular exports.

In 1999 Time magazine named Daisuke Inoue one of the 20 most influential Asians of the Century, along with Chinas Mao Tse-tung and Indias Gandhi. I dont remember the Time piece, but naming the inventor of the karaoke machine in the company of such luminaries was surely not a tongue-in-cheek thing.

In 2004 Harvard University students awarded Daiskuke one of their annual Ig Nobel Prizes for contributing to world piece though his invention…the Ig being short for ignoble, and the annual Ig Nobel Prize is a parody of the real Nobel Prize.

Daisuke was invited to Harvard to receive the award in person, and sang a song before an appreciative audience. He was awarded the Ig Noble Prize for Peace for the contributions his invention made to world harmony.

This belated recognition is all that Daisukes gets from his innovative invention. He could not compete with the big companies that jumped into manufacturing and marketing karaoke machines. His business failed. He now lives in Nishinomiya, just outside of Kobe, and sells rat repellant devices.

Some of the millions of people around the world who have had their peace and quiet disturbed by home karaoke singing may wish that Daisuke had come up with his rat repellant business first.

Boyé Lafayette De Mente is the author of more than 30 pioneer and provocative books on Japan, ranging from Japanese Etiquette & Ethics in Business and Japanese Secrets of Graceful Living to Mistress-Keeping in Japan. See his personal website phoenixbookspublishers.com.

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InventHelp® Announces New Health and Beauty Inventions

2008-04-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Announces New Health and Beauty Inventions

These inventions are currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) March 11, 2008 -- From tan-enhancing colors to healthy hair tips and eye-popping eye shadows, people choose from a variety of different beauty regimens. Some people even opt to try their hand at inventing their own lotions and elixirs. Featured below are some health and beauty-related inventions. The inventors of the following items are attempting to submit their ideas to industry.

PUBLIC DEFENDER AMC-4857
Accessory invented to minimize risk of disease transmission via public telephone use; prototype available

CORRECT-MED MMP-104
Medication accessory invented to prevent missed, doubled or incorrect doses; could be ideal for the elderly, the disabled or individuals who take oral medications regularly

PERM FAST BTM-217
Hair salon tool invented to facilitate the fast, efficient application and distribution of permanent cream; could reduce the risk of clients receiving chemical burns to the scalp

KWIK TIP FLA-1365
Accessory invented to enable user to apply nail polish in an easily manageable manner; would eliminate the mess associated with traditional nail polish applicators

FOOT AND HAND MASSAGER FLA-1376
Portable massage device invented to enable the user to massage his or her hands and feet while working at a desk or watching TV

EASY EXTENSIONS HLW-105
Hairdresser's accessory invented to enable user to attach hair extensions quickly and easily; would eliminate the mess associated with applying extensions and would prevent extensions from sliding

THE GREEN STUFF LGI-223
All-natural topical ointment invented for the treatment of skin disorders; could alleviate the itching and discomfort of skin irritations and fungal infections as well as alleviate eczema, acne, herpes, open skin sores and cold sores, according to inventor, samples available

INSTANT HAIR WEAVE MTN-343
Women's hairpieces and extensions invented to blend more naturally with existing hair; also would enable wearers to change styles quickly and easily at any time; prototype available

PERFECT FLOSS NWK-4626
Accessory invented to enable user to floss more effectively in a one-handed fashion; would reduce the hassle involved in flossing and could encourage user to floss more frequently

MASQUE PERFUME AND MASQUE COLOGNE SAM-3272
Fragrance packaging invented to eliminate breakage and spillage concerns associated with typical methods; would meet airport security regulations; would be convenient for "on-the-go" men and women; prototype available

DUALITY RAZOR SAM-3279
Restyled men's and women's razor invented to make shaving faster, smoother and more convenient

TOOTH MATE TOR-7933
Accessory invented to improve user's oral hygiene while on-the-go; would encourage user to take proper care of his or her teeth, and it would help to ensure that user has fresh breath and clean teeth

EASY SHAVE UK-9091
System invented to enable the user to maintain his or her shaving habits while traveling; would be adaptable for home use

TRUE VINE WGH-3329
Natural tonic invented as an alternative to health drinks and products that contain herbal substances; could improve health and well-being by boosting the immune system

These ideas were submitted to INVENTHELP®, America's leading inventor service company. These inventions are currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Visit our web site at www.inventhelp.com.

InventHelp® Client Invents "E R-7" - An Invention That Could Enhance Golfing Skills

2008-04-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Client Invents "E R-7" - An Invention That Could Enhance Golfing Skills

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 16, 2008 -- InventHelp®, America's largest inventor service company, announces that one of its clients, an inventor from Sterling, Ill., has designed a modified golf club. This invention is patented and a prototype is available.

The "E R-7" golf club could help a golfer improve his or her chipping or putting strokes. The club could make it easier for a golfer to keep their upper hand still so a putt could roll on the desired line. Also, the invention could improve the chances of a putt going in the hole, which would help a golfer hole more putts and could reduce the score.

The E R-7 would feature a modification of a shaft that is produced in two sections that are joined together by a hinge located below the upper grip. The shaft is 45 to 50 inches long like a "long" putter and could be customized to a clients specifications. To use, the golfer would hold the upper grip in his or her top hand and anchor their hand against his or her sternum so that the upper portion of the shaft does not move. The golfer's lower hand would hold the lower grip and would swing the club back and forth like a pendulum. For a chipping club, the club would be used when the ball is a few feet off the green and a few yards in the fairway so it could fly onto the green and then roll like a putt. The long, hinged shaft could help the golfer make a smooth swing and contact the ball so that it would be easier to control the distance and direction of the shot.

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review. If substantial interest is expressed, the company will attempt to negotiate for a sale or royalties for the inventor. For more information, telephone Dept. 03-LOA-913 at (800) 851-6030. Learn more about InventHelp® and their Invention Submission services at http://press.inventhelp.com.

InventHelp Client Invents Yard Care Device

2008-04-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

InventHelp Client Invents Yard Care Device

Two InventHelp Clients have invented a device that could offer convenience to homeowners.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 11, 2008 -- InventHelp announces that two of its clients, inventors from Port Arthur, Texas, has designed a device that could offer convenience to homeowners. The inventors have created a prototype.

The MOTY'S MULTI-LAWN TASKER is designed to enable an individual to control both mosquito populations and weeds. This device would offer an alternative to standard methods of insect or weed control, and it would save time and effort. The MOTY'S MULTI-LAWN TASKER would be designed to prevent mosquito eggs and weeds from surviving in the lawn. Additionally, this device would feature a battery-operated design.

The inventors came up with their idea for the MOTY'S MULTI-LAWN TASKER after dealing with frustrating insects and weeds. One of them said, "I designed this device because I wanted to cut down on the mosquitoes that were laying eggs in my yard. I thought it would be best to tackle this problem while controlling the weeds."

The original design was submitted to the Houston office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 07-HHT-347, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

InventHelp® Client Invents "Guitar Music Mask" -- An Invention That Could Help to Improve Guitar Playing Skills

2008-04-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Client Invents "Guitar Music Mask" -- An Invention That Could Help to Improve Guitar Playing Skills

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 9, 2008 -- InventHelp®, America's largest inventor service company, announces that one of its clients, an inventor from Palmdale, Calif., has designed a device that uses LEDs to teach proper finger positioning. This invention is patented and a prototype is available.

The "Guitar Music Mask" could display chord positions on a guitar in any key. The device could enable novice guitar players to improve their technique quickly and easily. The unit could enable players to accompany any song in any key that utilizes harmonic scales. The invention would be easy to set up and use.

The Guitar Music Mask would consist of a strip of molded plastic measuring 24-inches long, ¼-inch wide and ¼-inch thick, a control box and a power cord. A plastic strip would house a series of two-color light emitting diodes (LEDs). A user would affix the strip to the top edge of a guitar's fretboard. The control box would attach to the lower body of the guitar and contain circuitry that would be programmed to outline the five pentatonic patterns. The circuitry activates the LEDs in groups, with one red light that would indicate the key; the rest of the activated lights would be green and show the remaining groups before and after the red LEDs. Once the device is in place, a user would index the system so that the red LED is at the key note position on the sixth string. The red LED could be moved to any fret and the remaining patterns follow. The unit would include a simplified six-page instruction manual and interactive DVD to expedite the learning process. The unit could be offered as an accessory for existing guitars or incorporated into the design of new models.

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review. If substantial interest is expressed, the company will attempt to negotiate for a sale or royalties for the inventor. For more information, telephone Dept. 04-GDA-2672 at (800) 851-6030. Learn more about InventHelp® and their Invention Submission services at http://press.inventhelp.com.

"DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS," announces search for exciting inventions!

2008-04-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Client Invents 'True Love' -- Jewelry Invention with Faith-Based Message

2008-04-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

InventHelp® Client Invents 'True Love' -- Jewelry Invention with Faith-Based Message

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) March 28, 2008 -- InventHelp®, America's largest inventor service company, announces that one of its clients, an inventor from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., has designed jewelry for the Christian faith. This invention is patented and a prototype is available.

"True Love" jewelry would display a message that could enable the wearer to display their faith and belief in the resurrection of Jesus proudly. The jewelry could encourage conversation and remind onlookers of God's love for them. The invention could provide Christians with an alternative means for proclaiming their faith.

True Love jewelry would consist of a sterling silver or gold cross-shaped necklace measuring two inches high and 1/16 inch wide. The jewelry would display the words "I DIED 4 U" in the form of a cross, with "I DIED" arranged vertically and the "4" and "U" on either side to form crossbars. The jewelry could be made from a variety of materials including wood, stone and various metals. True Love could be producible as a necklace, bracelet, pair of earrings or statue.

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review. If substantial interest is expressed, the company will attempt to negotiate for a sale or royalties for the inventor. For more information, telephone Dept. 04-FLA-511 at (800) 851-6030. Learn more about InventHelp® and their Invention Submission services at http://press.inventhelp.com.

Innovation Direct™ Company on Two Inventions

2008-03-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

ITT Licensing Secures Exclusive Developmental Agreements with New York-based Innovation Direct™ Company on Two Inventions

ITT Licensing announces it has secured exclusive developmental agreements on two inventions from its roster with a company that is an integral part of ITT's Innovation Direct™ program.

Miami, FL, March 23, 2008 --(PR.com)-- ITT Licensing, a South Florida-based leader in product licensing for a decade, is pleased to report that it has entered into exclusive developmental agreements for two of its inventor clients' inventions with a New York-based company that is part of ITT's dynamic new product subscription service for manufacturers, Innovation Direct™.

The New York-based company displaying the advanced level of interest in these two items has been considered a leader in product development and commercialization for a decade, and boasts over 300 product success stories to date according to their official company website.

The company took an interest in the two concepts after receiving preliminary information on them in the latest Innovation Direct™ package of innovations sent to them by ITT Licensing. Innovation Direct™ is a dynamic new product idea subscription service for manufacturers, wherein ITT Licensing delivers information on new product ideas tailored specifically to a company's stated needs in one convenient e-mail communication.

The agreements signify that the company will be performing their due diligence over the next several weeks on the potential of the two inventions and will evaluate their possible long-term fit with their product lines. If the product ideas are deemed worthy of commercialization by the company, then ITT Licensing will enter into negotiations on a licensing agreement for each with the manufacturer.

About ITT Licensing: ITT Licensing is the trade name for International Technology Transfer, Inc., a South Florida based leader in the field of new product licensing and intellectual property transfer for more than a decade.

Contact:
Juan C. Blanco, Director of Product Licensing
International Technology Transfer, Inc.
(786) 232-6133 Voice
(305) 238-5647 Fax
press@ittlicensing.com
www.ITTLicensing.com

Brown goes Green at 7th annual Tech in the City at George Brown College

2008-03-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

Media Advisory/Photo Opportunity - Brown goes Green at 7th annual Tech in the City at George Brown College

Electric Vespa, portable wind turbine and solar tracker among students'
green inventions

TORONTO, March 25 /CNW/ -

<<
WHAT: George Brown College's Tech in the City

WHEN: Wednesday, March 26

8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Secondary school student
competitions
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Keynote speech by Lisa Glithero,
environmental educator
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. George Brown technology student
inventions

WHERE: George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus - Main Entrance
146 Kendal Avenue (south of Davenport Rd. west of Spadina
Ave.)

WHO: - Keynote speaker
- Lisa Glithero, award-winning environmental
educator, youth advocate and community innovator
- Current and prospective George Brown technology students
- Toronto-area high school students interested in careers
in construction and engineering technologies
>>

Green is gold in the construction and engineering sectors, according to a
survey of students and employers to be released at George Brown College's 7th
annual Technology in the City event. The event will showcase the important
role that construction and engineering sectors will play in our economy,
society and environment. It highlights the growing demand for graduates in
these fields and will demonstrate how environmentally conscious students
entering these fields today can become catalysts for environmental change in
the future.
George Brown College is addressing the growing demand for environmental
training in this sector by integrating an environmental perspective into its
curriculum to better prepare graduates with the skills and knowledge sought by
employers. The green theme of this year's Technology in the City supports this
focus and is highlighted by current students' green inventions, high school
student tech competitions and a speech by renowned environmental educator Lisa
Glithero on moving to a green society.

Secondary Student Competitions (8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.)

One of the most popular elements of Tech in the City, this year more than
150 Toronto high school students will participate in technology competitions
ranging from computer networking to electrical, masonry and sheet metal. The
winners of each competition will receive a year's tuition at George Brown
College in the technology division. Winners will be honoured at an awards
ceremony at 2:30 p.m.

George Brown Student Inventions in the Green Display
(12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.)

Graduating technology students unveil their green inventions including an
electric Vespa, a portable wind turbine, an electric wheelbarrow, a solar
energy tracker, and a robot wall-climber.

Keynote address (11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.)

Lisa Glithero speaks about connecting youth with the global ecosystem and
motivating groups to effect positive societal change. Through personal
stories, visuals and humour, she will discuss Education and Transformative
Learning, Youth Engagement and Sustainable Communities. Lisa is the founder of
EYES, a Canadian not-for-profit organization that brings a sustainability
focus to educational pedagogy and practice.

For further information: Alison Crocker, (416) 342-1802,
crocker@mediaprofile.com

ITT Licensing Secures Exclusive Developmental Agreements with New York-based Innovation Direct™ Company on Two Inventions

2008-03-24T14:36:00.001-07:00

Gap Funds Speed Development of Unique Inventions at Florida Atlantic University

2008-03-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Gap Funds Speed Development of Unique Inventions at Florida Atlantic University

BOCA RATON, Fla., March 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Florida Atlantic
University received a second round of funding from the Florida Atlantic
Research & Development Authority (Authority) in the amount of $50,000 to
continue to help fill the "gap" between basic research and the stage at
which commercial development can begin. FAU received initial funding of
$50,000 in late 2006 from the Authority, the operating agency for the FAU
Research Parks in Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach, Florida. The gap funds
are intended to translate university research into viable products or
services for the benefit of the public either through licensing the
inventions to existing companies or creating new companies to commercialize
the research results.

"So many vital discoveries come from universities," said Bob Swindell,
board

chair of the Authority. "We are extremely pleased that our support is

creating a strong momentum in the commercial development of FAU
technologies

and furthering the mission of the Authority by encouraging economic

development of our region."

Recipients of the FAU gap funds to date include:

* Dr. Ravi Shankar, professor, College of Engineering and Computer
Science, for a technology which reduces power dissipation in cell phones
using a novel mobile architecture and high speed scalable multiplier.

* Dr. Hari Kalva, assistant professor, College of Engineering and
Computer Science, for the development of a video transcoder to more
efficiently convert MPEG-2 videos to H.264, the latest video compression
standard. Kalva received a second gap award for a video encoder that
reduces the computing power required for high-quality video which will
improve performance of mobile devices, video telephony and H.264
high-definition video for personal computers.

* Dr. Yoshimi Shibata, associate professor, Charles E. Schmidt College
of Biomedical Science, for a unique process using micro-particles derived
from the exoskeleton of crabs, shrimp, insects and the cell wall of fungi
to enhance protective immunity against infectious agents. A Japanese-based
company which may serve as a potential commercial partner for this
patent-pending technology provided Shibata with matching funds.

* Dr. Guodong Sui, assistant professor, Charles E. Schmidt College of
Science, for an integrated microfluidic histology chip he designed to
provide real time, high throughput, highly specific detection of cancer
biomarkers for early and precise cancer diagnosis. This enabling technology
can also be used for diagnosis of other diseases from bodily fluids and
tissues.

* Dr. Herbert Weissbach, director of the Center for Molecular Biology
and Biotechnology and distinguished professor, Charles E. Schmidt College
of Science, for a compound he developed as a chemo-protective agent and to
shield skin against ultraviolet light, type B (UVB) damage. CHS Resources
LLC previously entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with FAU to
commercialize the compound for the prevention and treatment of skin, oral
and other cancers. As a result of the gap fund award, CHS and FAU are
finalizing an exclusive agreement for the chemo-protective agent that will
be targeted for use in sunscreen lotions and cosmetics. In addition to the
gap fund award, Weissbach received $25,000 in matching funds from the Hahn
Foundation and Dr. Elliott Hahn, former Andrx founder, president, CEO and
chairman of the board.

"FAU is among an elite group of universities nationally that currently
have gap funds to help increase the number of innovations that originate in
universities and enter the marketplace," said Dr. Ramaswamy Narayanan,
associate dean for research and industrial relations in the Charles E.
Schmidt College of Science at FAU and a member of the gap fund review
committee. "Commercialization of research is an integral part of a
university's increasingly important role to contribute to local economic
development."

FAU faculty, researchers and students compete for gap funds through a
request for proposal (RFP) process which requires proof-of-concept,
prototype development and commercial feasibility. Awards are made
semi-annually, and funding is limited to a maximum of $15,000 per award.
The gap fund program committee composed of industry and business leaders in
various fields, including a representative from the Authority, review and
select recipients of the awards.

"The gap fund is already yielding positive results for FAU in the early
stages of this program," said Stephen Nappi, director of technology
transfer at FAU. "In addition to matching funds, this program has generated
three new inventions, contributions from individual donors and four
prospective industry partnerships to commercialize these discoveries."

FAU formed the Florida Atlantic Research & Development Authority in
1986 with the support of the Broward and Palm Beach county commissions. The
Authority serves as the governing body responsible for the establishment of
the Research Park at FAU and works closely with the university and
prospective tenants for the Park.

- FAU -

Florida Atlantic University opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth
public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 26,000
undergraduate and graduate students on seven campuses strategically located
along 150 miles of Florida's southeastern coastline. Building on its rich
tradition as a teaching university, with a world-class faculty, FAU hosts
ten colleges: College of Architecture, Urban & Public Affairs, Dorothy F.
Schmidt College of Arts & Letters, the Charles E. Schmidt College of
Biomedical Science, the Barry Kaye College of Business, the College of
Education, the College of Engineering & Computer Science, the Harriet L.
Wilkes Honors College, the Graduate College, the Christine E. Lynn College
of Nursing and the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Lawyers herald software patent victory

2008-03-19T08:52:00.001-07:00

Lawyers herald software patent victory

Symbian ruling could boost UK software development

IT Week Staff, IT Week 19 Mar 2008

Leading law firms have heralded a recent High Court ruling as a "major boost " for the UK's software industry.

Smartphone operating system maker Symbian brought the case to the High Court, after the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) reject one of its patent applications.

Following the appeal hearing, the judge upheld Symbian’s claim that the IPO was wrong to reject applications for software-based innovations.

UK lawyers have been wrangling over the contentious issue of the ability patent software development for some time. Recent rulings had suggested that software-related inventions were not patentable quite simply because they were programs for computers.

In his judgment Mr Justice Patten noted that the UK-IPO's decision in this case illustrates the divide which exists between the UK-IPO and the European Patent Office (EPO) about how the patentability of inventions involving computer programs is assessed. Although the UK-IPO refused Symbian’s patent application, the EPO has granted Symbian a patent for its invention.

"Before today’s ruling I would have been able to patent a new software algorithm which makes my kitchen toaster work better, but not an algorithm which improves how my computer works, despite the fact many people sit and use computers at work all day every day. This ruling now goes some way to help improve this situation," said Nick Wallin, patent attorney at Withers & Rogers, who acted for Symbian during the appeal.

"This ruling has begun the catch-up process for the UK’s software industry, which can now begin to capitalise on its R&D strengths," he added.

But in a statement, the IPO said it believed the judge had no applied the so-called 'Aerotel-Macrossan' test, which was established by the Court of Appeal in a previous software patent case. It will now appeal the latest judgement and seek clarification from the Court of Appeal.

“An Appeal of this judgment is welcome, should it result in a much more cohesive treatment of software patents in the UK, and one that is more in accordance with European practice," said Dr. John Collins, Partner at Marks & Clerk.

Edu: PU Bio-Forum Exhibition-2008 from 25 March

2008-03-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

Edu: PU Bio-Forum Exhibition-2008 from 25 March

LAHORE, Mar 18, 2008 (Asia Pulse Data Source via COMTEX) -- GEEN | news | PowerRating | PR Charts -- In connection with the 125 years celebrations of the Punjab University, PU Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB) is organizing Bio-Forum Exhibition 2008 from March 25-28. There will be 25 academia and 23 industry exhibits on the occasion.

The forums organizing committee met Monday with Vice-Chancellor Dr Mujahid Kamran in the chair. Among those who attended the meeting included CEMB Director Prof Sheikh Riazuddin, Faculty of Life Sciences Dean Prof Dr Shahida Hasnain, Chairperson of National Committee for Development of Science and High Technology for Economic Growth Dr Rozina Tufail, Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (LCCI) Chairman Mian Shahid Raza, Registrar Prof Dr Muhammad Naeem Khan, Farooq Amjad Mir and PCSIR Laboratories Director General Dr Muhammad Saleem.

Speaking on the occasion the forums Chief Organizer Prof Dr Sheikh Riazuddin said that it is the distinction of Punjab University to organize this unique forum of its kind. He said that the forum will provide a big platform to bio academia to display their inventions and innovations. Over 25 academia and 23 industry exhibits would be showcased on the occasion besides arrangements for discussions between researchers and industrialists on the modem bio-products.

Dr Riazuddin hoped that over 10 agreements will be signed between the academics and the industrialists on the occasion. He said the forum is organized by PU CEMB after every two years and in bio-forum 2006, seven agreements were made out of which two matured and processed successfully.

He said by arranging this forum the PU has provided a big platform for universities and industry to get maximum benefits from the latest researches and inventions, and to get output from these researches at industrial level. He said that the participant universities and organizations would display their best products in the show along with their inventions profile.

Farooq Amjad Mir, a renowned lawyer and politician, who is special member of organizing committee said that varsities can generate funds at their own by organizing such forums. He said a proper media strategy should be evolved to promote such productive and developmental activities. Mir offered all out cooperation in organizing this forum and also offered free advocacy and legal services to the Punjab University administration regarding patent and intellectual rights issues.

Dr Rozina Tufail emphasized upon the need of preparing a database of Punjab University professors and researchers for their active collaboration with the industry besides professors frequent visits to the industries concerned. Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mujahid Kamran praised Dr Riazuddins services for Punjab University as well as the country and said that he had established such a wonderful and productive institution in the Punjab University which is contributing to international development.

He said the forum would help practical utilization of various bio inventions because a large number of industrialists would be present on the occasion. Forum Schedule: Governor Punjab Lt Gen (retd) Khalid Maqbool will inaugurate the forum on March 24 at 10:00 am and the launching ceremony would be followed by a forensic training course. Bio Symposium I would be held at 2:00 pm on the same day. On Tuesday March 25 exhibition and closing of forensic training course would be held and on Wednesday March 26 Molecular Biology Symposium would be held at 9:00 am.

On Thursday March 27 workshops on patents and Bt cotton and DNA for Justice would be held at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm respectively. On March 25, closing ceremony of Forensic Training Course and Biotechnology Symposium and Molecular Biology Symposium would be held.

Biotechnology Needs 21st Century Patent System, Expert Argues

2008-03-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

Biotechnology Needs 21st Century Patent System, Expert Argues

ScienceDaily (Mar. 17, 2008) — Biotechnology discoveries -- like the method for creating synthetic life forms -- are at risk of being unduly hindered or taken hostage by private corporations unless patent systems are brought into the 21st century, an expert from The Australian National University argues.

Dr Matthew Rimmer from the ANU College of Law takes a broad look at the current state of international regulation around intellectual property rights and biological inventions in his new book -- and the prognosis is far from healthy.

"Most patent systems around the world were developed during the industrial revolution, which means they're ill equipped to deal with more complex range of inventions arising out of life sciences -- things like man-made micro-organisms, GM plants, the human genome and stem cells," Dr Rimmer says.

Dr Rimmer says that patent systems provide protections around inventions provided they satisfy criteria to do with novelty, an inventive step and utility. But he argues that such legal tools are not nuanced enough for biotechnical innovation, where inventions can be at once more intellectually subtle and morally ambiguous.

"When it comes to biotechnology, our antiquated patent systems can have detrimental consequences -- either hampering the freedom of researchers to take full advantage of experimental use and the possibilities for innovation, or giving a lot of control over living things to a very small group of people."

Dr Rimmer laments the rise of 'patent trolls' -- companies that take out patents on very slight biotechnical innovations, and then hold other researchers to ransom if they attempt to make any progress in that particular area.

On the other hand, he acknowledges the legal and ethical complexities surrounding the actions of scientists like those at the J. Craig Venter Institute in the US, who are trying to patent the method for creating a synthetic life-form. While the organism involved is incredibly simple, Dr Rimmer says such moves could lead to patents being taken out on much more complex living things.

Dr Rimmer argues that in order to provide more incentives and protections for scientific innovation, there needs to be greater scope in Australia and elsewhere for challenges to patent applications. He also says there is a need for a broader legal defence of experimentation. Finally, Dr Rimmer argues that thresholds need to be raised to make it harder to get a patent, which would be a blow to 'patent trolls'.

Adapted from materials provided by Australian National University.

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Australian National University (2008, March 17). Biotechnology Needs 21st Century Patent System, Expert Argues. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 18, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2008/03/080317094855.htm

Going Green Costs Money

2008-01-24T07:47:00.000-08:00

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