• Aradigm (Minneapolis) presented Phase 1 trial results demonstrating that inhaling a water solution of nicotine using Aradigm's AERx Essence palm-size inhaler results in very rapid absorption of nicotine into the blood stream and appears to be associated with acute reduction of craving for cigarettes. Aradigm is an emerging specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the drugs delivered by inhalation for the treatment of severe respiratory diseases by pulmonologists.
  • Axis Three (Baltimore) reported the commercial launch of the XS-300 surgical simulation platform. The XS-300, designed in collaboration with leading U.S. plastic surgeons, is purpose-built for the cosmetic surgery marketplace and will redefine the consultation process for patients and surgeons alike. The XS-300 enbles surgeons to visually communicate and collaborate on the outcomes of various breast procedures by using the patient's own image presented in photo-realistic 3-D. Accurate volumetric and linear measurements can be taken from the patient's own 3-D model, and the results of an actual surgery — breast augmentation, lift, reduction or reconstruction — can be simulated, measured, and viewed from all angles. Axis Three makes surgical simulation tools.
  • Cardium Therapeutics (San Diego) and its operating unit InnerCool Therapies have initiated the launch of InnerCool's new CoolBlue surface temperature modulation system. InnerCool's new CoolBlue surface temperature modulation system, which includes a console and a disposable CoolBlue vest with upper thigh pads, is designed to provide a complementary tool for use in less acute patients or in clinical settings best suited to prolonged temperature management. InnerCool's CoolBlue vest and thigh pads wrap the body without requiring any adhesives to stick to the skin and produce cooling rates of around 1° C per hour, i.e. similar to those of currently-marketed surface cooling systems and endovascular systems using inflatable balloon-based catheters. InnerCool Therapies, a subsidiary of Cardium Therapeutics, specializing in the emerging field of patient temperature modulation.
  • Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (LabCorp; Burlington, North Carolina) said that it now offers integrated screening and sequential screening tests under license from Intema Limited. When integrated screening and sequential screening test results include a fetal ultrasound nuchal translucency measurement, the highest Down syndrome detection rates are achieved and fewer false positives are experienced than with current first- or second-trimester screening. LabCorp specializes in prenatal clinical laboratory testing.