Friday, January 6, 2017

Panasonic Booth Overview at CES 2017

LAS VEGAS - Friday, January 6th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Panasonic Corporation showcases its latest B2B and consumer technologies at CES 2017 from January 5 to 8 in Las Vegas.

The Panasonic booth has three zones - Smart Mobility, Smart Entertainment and Smart Home - to highlight future towns and lifestyles enabled through the company’s unique technologies and collaborations with partner companies. In addition to the three zones, Panasonic’s innovation initiatives are on display at the Future Tech Lab. Visitors can also experience the latest Technics audio products in a dedicated section. Finally, Panasonic is hosting Panasonic Live @ CES2017, which features social influencers live from the show floor providing exclusive looks at the company’s latest technologies and ideas (http://www.panasonic.com/CES; #PanasonicCES).

CES 2017 Press kit
Download press releases, photos and videos at
http://news.panasonic.com/global/presskits/ces2017

[Main Exhibits at the Panasonic Booth]

1. Smart Mobility

Panasonic introduces initiatives from its CityNOW project launched in Denver, Colorado. It includes a Smart Mobility section that highlights Panasonic’s unique technologies connecting people, towns, road and air transport using the latest and prototype in-car infotainment systems and in-flight entertainment systems. Also on display: Panasonic innovations that reduce the environmental impact of transportation.

CityNOW

V2X (Vehicle-to-Vehicle and Vehicle-to-Road Communication)
V2X communication systems aim to establish an efficient traffic management system and prevent accidents by connecting vehicles to everything (X) including other vehicles and infrastructure including traffic signals and road signs. Using videos and dioramas, Panasonic illustrates its V2X technologies to prevent accidents and reduce traffic congestion.

Smart LED Streetlights
Smart LED Streetlights are WiFi-connected lamp posts mounted with security cameras, sensors or other devices. Panasonic takes advantage of its Internet of Things (IoT) platform to ensure safe and secure living as well as expanding the potential for new services that a smart town can offer by utilizing data collected through lamp post sensors.

Smart Bus Stops
Panasonic’s Smart Bus Stop technology combines solar power generation, security cameras and an LCD screen supporting LinkRay light communication technology. Demonstrations show examples of information on display at a Smart Bus Stop, such as a bus’s proximity and transfer options.

Smart Parking Meters
Panasonic’s image analysis tech helps a Smart Parking Meter recognize license plates, detect vacant parking spaces, give directions to a driver seeking an open spot and handle parking fee charging.

Command & Control platform
This solution envisions a centralized control center that manages all data from security systems equipped with a 360-degree view surveillance camera, Smart LED Streetlights, Smart Bus Stops and Smart Parking Meters.

Green Mobility
This corner offers a glimpse at Panasonic’s collaboration on lithium-ion batteries with partners promoting the use of sustainable energy. Examples include tie-ups with Tesla Motors and Taiwanese electric scooter manufacturer Gogoro.

Connected Vehicles

Next-Generation Cockpit (Concept)
Here, visitors can see projects Panasonic is developing with auto manufacturers. Looking to the future, video presentations introduce concepts and technologies focused on smart mobility and next-generation in-car technologies such as facial recognition, vehicle-to-vehicle communication and vehicle-to-store connectivity.

Driverless Car Interior (Concept)
Panasonic proposes the interior design ideal for driverless cars for around 2025, when the era of fully-autonomous vehicles is anticipated. The interior technology of the future car includes one that allows for face-to-face seating, like a moving lounge.

Premium Audio
Panasonic presents examples of its high-quality in-car audio solutions including the Fender Premium Audio System, developed jointly with Fender Musical Instrument Corp., and the ELS Studio Premium Audio System, developed jointly with music producer Elliot Scheiner.

4th Generation Uconnect Infotainment System
This is Panasonic’s latest Uconnect-compatible infotainment system capable of connecting with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto. The system boasts quick start-up and a responsive 8.4-inch touchscreen.

Android In-Car Infotainment System
Panasonic unveils its next-gen infotainment system based on Android. It offers optimum display and operation of many different apps regardless of screen size and resolution. The booth demonstration shows how the next-gen system controls air conditioning.

Connected Aircraft

First Class Cabin (Concept)
In this section, visitors can check out concept models of comfortable aircraft cabins of the near future, including in-flight entertainment systems equipped with 4K display screens, table decorations using projection technology, touch-controllable menus, and seats designed for flexible use.

Connected Flight Operations
Panasonic is also exhibiting services enabled by connecting aircraft with the ground via the Internet. Examples include flight monitoring, maintenance reports and in-flight entertainment system updates.

Connected Passenger Experience
Panasonic introduces its app for airline passengers, which is developed using an open application programming interface (API) to make it customizable for each airline. The app allows a passenger’s mobile device to sync with the in-flight network, enabling passengers to select movies using the dedicated app.

2. Smart Entertainment

In this area, Panasonic introduces solutions that take the stadium experience to a new level of enjoyment and interaction.

Connected Stadium

Check out a stadium’s concession stands, corridor and VIP box with next-gen ways of interacting. The demonstration here shows how digital signage displays in the stadium can work in sync to add excitement to the games. When the home team scores a goal, for example, images of the winning moment appear on the all displays. Operators can use the system to promote a limited-time sale on all screens, and give guests a chance to obtain and redeem coupons using their smartphones.

Ballooncam
Panasonic’s Ballooncam combines a drone with a large balloon for a unique video platform. The Ballooncam can be used to enhance the experience at sports games and other stadium events. In the booth demonstration, videos shot by a 360-degree camera at the bottom of the balloon are projected to the floating Ballooncam in real time.

Concessions
LinkRay-equipped LCD Displays
These LCD displays support Panasonic’s LinkRay light ID communication technology. Users can download a range of info instantaneously by pointing their mobile device at the screens.

Transparent Screens
This technology turns a clear shop window into high-quality digital signage showing images and information. Visitors can experience how this transparent screen technology can be used to send shoppers data about products relevant to the information they downloaded using Panasonic’s LinkRay light ID tool.

Refrigerated Display Cases
Hussmann refrigerated display cases, designed to give food retailers new ways to gain a competitive edge, are a visual representation of Panasonic’s strategy to expand its products and services in the food retail industry. Panasonic acquired Hussmann in 2016.

Corridors
Flag Mapping
Projection mapping tech is used to project images onto flags and ceiling-hung banners. The dynamic effect of visuals on moving fabric provides an exciting new signage option.

VIP Boxes
Window Augmented Reality Projection
See how transparent film attached to a windowpane can serve as signage to show images. At stadiums, Window Augmented Reality Projection can be used to enhance the viewing experience by showing player stats and high-impact video footage.

3. Smart Home

Panasonic showcases “future lifestyles with connected appliances,” in a kitchen packed with state-of-the-art appliances and demonstrations of its latest home appliances.

Better Living Tomorrow

The concept here is “lifestyles we all desire” three to five years in the future. Panasonic reveals an interactive living environment to reflect individual preferences and catering to individual needs and tastes. The area shows a lifestyle enriched by connected appliances and services.

In/Visible Library, Glass Curtain
See how transparent displays at first invisible as part of the home’s interior, can turn into a visible display with useful information. A glass door of a closet or a large window overlooking the garden becomes a screen showing images. Booth demonstrations show how this transparent display can be used at the kitchen, when a chef appears on the display to give cooking instructions to a user in need of help.

Sake & Wine Cellar
Ideal storage conditions for wine and sake are different. Panasonic’s Sake & Wine Cellar has independent temperature and humidity settings for individual shelves, making it possible to store different drinks in their ideal conditions in the same unit. Moreover, the door with a transparent display shows details of each bottle stored inside and reveals complementary food recipes.

New-Concept Flat-Top Cooker
The Flat-Top Cooker represents a new concept in household appliances. It is a tabletop cooker, adapting microwave technology. Preparation is easy: Arrange the ingredients on a plate, and put the plate on the cooker embedded in the table. There is no need for pots or pans. Food is prepared in front of those gathered, and served fresh and hot.

Freestyle Induction Heating Cooker
This new built-in induction-heating cooker looks like an ordinary counter top. The cooker detects the presence of the pots anywhere on the counter top and automatically heats up only the areas under the pots, freeing up space for other uses. Working in sync with other connected devices, the cooker automatically adjusts heat and cooking time.

Range Hood with Sensor and Camera
This range hood uses image recognition technology to monitor cooking progress. Data from the camera is used to regulate the Induction Heating cooker. It also can keep records of meals and amass data for health management purposes.

Smart & Healthy Lifestyle

Domestic Appliances
NU-HX100S Counter Top Induction Oven
With the induction heater able to rapidly raise food temperature, this oven prepares foods that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Eliminating the need for pre-heating, the Counter Top Induction Oven comes with pre-programmed auto menus that ensure optimal results at the touch of a button. Cooking demonstrations are taking place at the Panasonic booth.

DV-SJCX Soft Down Kitchen Cabinet System
From its line-up of household storage products sold in Canada, Panasonic exhibits this easy-down and easy-up kitchen storage system that allows you to reach items in high places with ease.

Personal Care
Visitors can try out Panasonic’s personal care products available in North America, including the EH-NA65 Nanoe Hair Dryer, the EH-XC10 Facial Cleansing Device, the EH-SA31 Facial Steamer, the ES-LV9N Five-blade Shaver.

Digital AV
TX-65EZ1000 65-inch 4K OLED TV
Panasonic unveils its new HDR-capable 4K OLED TV due for European release in June 2017. The TH-EZ1000 is around twice as bright as previous OLED models and covers virtually the entire spectrum of colors specified by the Digital Cinema Initiatives for its DCI Color Space. Driven by a Studio Color HCX2 processor, the latest high-spec image processing engine, this model offers high-fidelity image color. It also features Technics Dynamic Blade speakers for incredible sound.

Ultra HD Blu-Ray Player
Panasonic' exhibits the DMP-UB900 and DMP-UB700 premium Ultra HD Blu-ray players, which have received rave reviews in Japan and Europe, alongside two new volume-market models slated for European release in April 2017: the DMP-UB400 and UB300, which feature the 4K high-quality playback and high-resolution audio functionality of the UB900. These models offer easy operation to enjoy 4K VOD content.

Home Monitoring System
Panasonic uses the 1.9GHz DECT standard for communication between its HUB unit and security cameras, window and motion sensors. These home monitoring devices require no complicated wiring or settings to install, and the operating costs are affordable. New HUB units for the North American market can be connected to a ventilation fan to maintain air quality.

LUMIX Station

Digital Imaging
Step into a NYC subway scene--in line with a LUMIX campaign in U.S.—and see new LUMIX products and a range of other devices and lenses.

LUMIX DC-GH5 Mirrorless Single-Lens Camera
The flagship model of the LUMIX line, the DC-GH5 offers remarkable best picture quality. The first mirrorless single-lens camera in the world with 4K/60p, 4:2:2 10bit recording, the GH5 offers video capture capabilities to rival any professional model. Its ultra-fast continuous mode enables it to take 4K-quality still photos (approximately eight megapixels) at up to 60 frames per second, and it can handle 6K images (approximately 18 megapixels) at up to 30 frames per second—incredible detail at incredible speed to help you get the perfect shot at just the right moment. The Dual I.S.2 5-axis stabilization system coordinates the correction functions of the camera and the lens, while advances in DFD technology have greatly improved the autofocus field recognition capabilities.

LUMIX DC-GX850 Mirrorless Single-Lens Camera
The ideal mirrorless single-lens camera for taking stylish selfies, the LUMIX DC-GX850 has 4K/30p capture capability and is able to take 4K photos at up to 30 frames per second. The tilting monitor makes taking selfies easy, while the built-in WiFi connectivity allows users with the Panasonic Image App installed on their smartphones and tablets to take photos remotely. This is the camera that makes photography fun. For example, the Focus Select function allows the focus point to be adjusted after a photo has been taken, while multiple photos with different focus points can be combined to create a single image with a broader area of sharp focus.

LUMIX DC-FZ80 Fixed Lens Camera
With a super-wide-angle, 20mm, optical 60x zoom lens, the LUMIX DC-FZ80 has 4K/30p video capture and can take 4K photos. With an autofocus function backed by DFD depth sensing technology, this is the camera for those dynamic shots, breathtaking vistas, and far-off wildlife photographs.

Leica DG Vario-Elmar 12-60 mm/F2.8-4.0 ASPH./Power O.I.S. Interchangeable Lens
The new series of Leica zoom lenses feature a maximum aperture of between F2.8 and F4.0, and comprises 14 elements in 12 groups, including four aspherical lenses and two ED lenses. Leveraging the advantages of the Micro Four Thirds system, this lens is able to achieve wide-angle and close-up into a compact unit, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of scenes in still and video.

4. Future Tech Lab

Panasonic introduces seven new technologies on a fast-track to development and commercialization in collaboration with partners.

Desktop Companion Robot
This proof of concept desktop “companion robot” uses servo control technology for smooth, human-like dexterity. Its ability to learn new movements, as well as an artificial intelligence-based natural language processing technology, make this robot a delightful communicator.

Smart Table
This information terminal concept uses IoT technology to show data from networked home appliances and devices in an attractive LED display built into the table.

Head-Mounted Display
This wearable device allows you to immerse yourself in the virtual reality environment with a wide 220-degree field of view.

Voice-Based Multi-Language Translation System
Tablet type automatic translation system can collect sound even under noisy conditions using Panasonic’s proprietary sound unidirectional collecting technology is the featured attraction in this section of the booth. Demonstrations center on tablet translations from English into Japanese and Chinese.

Compact Secondary Batteries for IoT and Wearable Devices
Panasonic will exhibit its flexible lithium-ion battery, which maintains its performance even after repeated bending and twisting. Also on display: Panasonic’s ultra-compact pin-type lithium-ion battery, which provides greater freedom for the design of wearable devices.

Listnr
Panasonic teams up with Cerevo Co. Ltd. to present Listnr, a compact IoT device, developed from the concept of “emotions become colors.” When a baby’s voice is picked up by the microphone, Listnr is able to differentiate four different categories of sound - crying, laughing, growling and babbling - visualize them with colors and send notifications to designated smartphones.

Motion Sensing Unit
Combining a 6-axis sensor (a 3-axis gyro-sensor and a 3-axis speed sensor) and micro-processor with pre-programmed algorithms, this unit can control a robot’s orientation and autonomous movement.

5. Technics

Here visitors can find the expanded line-up of the Technics Grand Class audio products delivering uncompromising sound quality and listenability. New Technics speakers, amplifiers and turntables are scheduled for release in 2017. Panasonic is also announcing its partnership with the world-famous Abbey Road Studios of London. In addition, visitors can sample the sound of Technics technology in Panasonic’s listening suite at the Venetian Hotel (29th floor, 111/115).

New Products

SL-1200GR Direct-Drive Turntable System
The SL-1200G has revived the legendary SL-1200 turntable with a new design that has redefined the direct-drive mechanism. While respecting the original design principles, the SL-1200GR has a newly developed coreless direct motor, with every component and material re-examined. This is a remarkable turntable that delivers the rich tones of analog records.

SB-G90 Speaker System
Adopting the Balanced Driver Mounting Architecture (BDMA) to remove unnecessary vibration, the SB-G90 not only minimizes distortion but also provides the benefits of a point-source system with linear-phase from the midrange to higher frequencies in succeeding the design concept of the Technics Reference Class. Also with a newly designed Long Stroke Woofer, the SB-G90 reproduces low frequencies with powerful and dynamic bass response.

SU-G700 Stereo Integrated Amp
The SU-G700 incorporates the technical concepts of the Reference Class such as fully digital JENO Engine amps and LAPC for optimal impulse response. Featuring a three-section structure with separate circuits for signals according to their strength, and minimal inter-circuit interference, this amp offers rich, clear sound. Furthermore, it was designed paying attention to every detail, including the iconic Technics volume unit meters and machined aluminum volume knobs.

Panasonic Booth
Period: January 5 (Thu.) - 8 (Sun.)
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall (#12908)
Booth size: 1,576 m2 (16,963 ft2)
Exhibits: B2B technologies, consumer electronics, automotive and avionics solutions

About Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development of diverse electronics technologies and solutions for customers in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, enterprise solutions and device industries. Since its founding in 1918, the company has expanded globally and now operates 474 subsidiaries and 94 associated companies worldwide, recording consolidated net sales of 7.553 trillion yen for the year ended March 31, 2016. Committed to pursuing new value through innovation across divisional lines, the company uses its technologies to create a better life and a better world for its customers. To learn more about Panasonic: http://www.panasonic.com/global.    

Contacts

Media Contact:

Panasonic Corporation

Global Communications Department

Media Promotion Office

+81-3-3574-5729

presscontact@ml.jp.panasonic.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/19306/en

Takeda and PvP Biologics Announce Development Agreement around Novel Therapeutic for Celiac Disease

OSAKA, Japan & SAN DIEGO & SEATTLE - Friday, January 6th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) (TOKYO:4502) and PvP Biologics, Inc. (“PvP”) today announced a global agreement for the development of KumaMax, a novel enzyme designed to break down the immune-reactive parts of gluten in the stomach, thereby avoiding the painful symptoms and damage done in the small intestine from accidental gluten ingestion.

Under the terms of the development agreement, PvP will conduct all research and development through phase 1 proof-of-principle studies per a pre-defined development plan. Takeda will fund $35 million for PvP’s expenses related to the plan in exchange for an exclusive option to acquire PvP following receipt of a pre-defined data package. Upon PvP’s successful completion of the development plan, Takeda may exercise its option to acquire PvP by paying an undisclosed fee as well as development and regulatory milestones.

“This agreement with PvP Biologics reinforces Takeda’s commitment to developing therapeutics targeting celiac disease. KumaMax could address a significant unmet need for celiac patients who try, but are unable to completely avoid gluten exposure in their diets, and thus continue to experience debilitating symptoms,” said Asit Parikh, head of the gastroenterology therapeutic area for Takeda. “We are pleased to be partnering with PvP Biologics, a company whose management team has a proven track record of successfully bringing assets that target chronic inflammatory GI diseases through development.”

“Takeda’s GI experience and capabilities are a great fit with our goal of developing a novel oral enzyme therapy to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people with celiac disease,” said Adam Simpson, president and CEO of PvP Biologics. “In addition, the significant non-dilutive financing provided by Takeda will accelerate therapeutic development of KumaMax.”

KumaMax is a preclinical, uniquely engineered, recombinant enzyme that is active under acidic stomach conditions and has high specificity for the parts of gluten that cause the autoimmune reaction leading to celiac disease. Currently, the only treatment available for celiac disease patients is a strict gluten-free diet, which is challenging to maintain. For celiac patients attempting to maintain a gluten-free diet but who may accidentally ingest gluten, KumaMax has the potential to degrade the immune-reactive parts of gluten before they exit the stomach in order to decrease an immune response and reduce the symptoms and intestinal damage associated with celiac disease.

“Celiac disease is a disorder in which the ingestion of even a trace amount of gluten can damage the small intestine,” said Tadataka "Tachi" Yamada, MD, chairman of PvP Biologics. “In pre-clinical experiments, KumaMax has shown the ability to degrade gluten with sufficient efficiency and effectiveness to indicate its exciting potential as an oral therapy for a disease that impairs the lives of millions.”

It is estimated that celiac disease affects 1 in 100 people worldwide. Celiac disease causes significant health problems, including acute gastrointestinal symptoms, malnutrition, weakness, and failure to thrive. Celiac disease can develop at any age and, if left untreated, can lead to additional serious health problems.1

1 https://celiac.org/celiac-disease/understanding-celiac-disease-2/what-is-celiac-disease/. Accessed on December 7, 2016

About PvP Biologics
PvP Biologics is developing an oral enzyme for the treatment of celiac disease. Our mission is to develop a highly effective therapeutic product to reduce the burden of living with this disease. Towards this end, we are advancing a product candidate designed to break down the immuno-reactive parts of gluten in the stomach and thereby avoid the painful symptoms and damage done in the small intestine from accidental gluten ingestion. The technology was invented at the Institute for Protein Design at University of Washington and exclusively in-licensed by PvP Biologics. PvP Biologics has corporate offices in San Diego and research laboratories in Seattle. For more information, please visit www.pvpbio.com.

Takeda’s Commitment to Gastroenterology
Takeda is a global leader in gastroenterology. With expertise spanning more than 25 years, the company’s dedication to innovation continues to evolve and have a lasting impact. Beginning in the 1990’s Takeda pioneered gastroenterological breakthroughs in proton pump inhibitors. Since that time, Takeda’s global capabilities have expanded into the specialty care market in gastroenterology and biologics with a focus on ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Takeda's expertise also remains focused on therapeutic agents that work to reduce the production of acid in the stomach, and options for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and opioid-induced constipation. Through specialized and strategic in-house development, external partnerships, in-licensing and acquisitions, Takeda currently has a number of promising early stage GI assets in development, and remains committed to delivering innovative, therapeutic options for patients with gastrointestinal and liver diseases.

About Takeda Pharmaceutical Company
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a global, research and development-driven pharmaceutical company committed to bringing better health and a brighter future to patients by translating science into life-changing medicines. Takeda focuses its R&D efforts on oncology, gastroenterology and central nervous system therapeutic areas plus vaccines. Takeda conducts R&D both internally and with partners to stay at the leading edge of innovation. New innovative products, especially in oncology and gastroenterology, as well as our presence in Emerging Markets, fuel the growth of Takeda. More than 30,000 Takeda employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients, working with our partners in health care in more than 70 countries. For more information, visit http://www.takeda.com/news.

Takeda’s Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements include all statements other than statements of historical fact, including plans, strategies and expectations for the future, statements regarding the expected timing of filings and approvals relating to the transaction, the expected timing of the completion of the transaction, the ability to complete the transaction or to satisfy the various closing conditions, future revenues and profitability from or growth or any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Statements made in the future tense, and words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “project,” “continue,” “believe,” “plan,” “estimate,” “pro forma,” “intend,” “potential,” “target,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “seek,” “assume,” “will,” “may,” “should,” and similar expressions are intended to qualify as forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by management that are believed to be reasonable, though they are inherently uncertain and difficult to predict. Investors and security holders are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or experience to differ materially from that expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Some of these risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: required regulatory approvals for the transaction may not be obtained in a timely manner, if at all; the conditions to closing of the transaction may not be satisfied; competitive pressures and developments; applicable laws and regulations; the success or failure of product development programs; actions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; changes in exchange rates; and claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates in development.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release, and neither PvP Biologics nor Takeda undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances after the date of the forward-looking statement. If one or more of these statements is updated or corrected, investors and others should not conclude that additional updates or corrections will be made.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170105005656/en/

Contacts

For PvP Biologics:

Jessica Yingling, Ph.D.

jessica@litldog.com

+1.858.344.8091



or

For Takeda:

Tsuyoshi Tada – Japan

tsuyoshi.tada@takeda.com

+81-3-3278-2417

Julia Ellwanger – USA

julia.ellwanger@takeda.com

+1-224-554-7681







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/19309/en

Thursday, January 5, 2017

Call for IBC2017 Technical Papers Submission is Open!

 IBC to Include New Smart Media Technologies in its 2017 Papers Call

LONDON - Thursday, January 5th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- IBC is delighted to announce that submissions for its prestigious Technical Papers and Posters have now opened. The technical papers will form the framework of new and exciting topics for the IBC2017 Conference and this year, in response to changes in the industry, the session producers are broadening the categories of submission to include smart technologies which support and process user-produced media and data.

IBC’s ‘Advances in Technology’ sessions are well-known for their insightful exploration of new technologies and services across the entire media industry, and today the bounds of the industry are extending well beyond the traditional creation and distribution of audio-visual content. Increasingly, companies are exploring the potential of new concepts where users become the source of media or tracked data, and in return for access to this information, they are provided with a variety of personal benefits. With this in mind, our 2017 call for papers covers a vast range of emerging industry sectors, including: technologies which require crowd-sourced inputs, methods for gesture recognition (e.g. for adaptive advertising), eye tracking (for VR applications), processes for wearable health monitors, smart automotive media, artificial intelligence and, of course, the internet of things.

“Over the last few years, our technical papers submissions have shown us how quickly the world of media technology is diversifying”, said Dr Nick Lodge, IBC’s Executive Producer of the Advances in Technology conference stream. “The application of smart or autonomous technologies to user-generated media and data, will not only influence how we consume media, but how we interact with our friends and the world around us.”

IBC looks forward to receiving proposals for technical papers about any aspect of media technology. All submissions are peer-reviewed by a board of professional experts and those which are accepted for presentation at the IBC Conference will also be published in the citable conference proceedings and will be in with a chance of winning the world-renowned Best Conference Paper Award.

Synopses may also be submitted for IBC’s digital posters. This multimedia forum is located in the Future Zone and offers an opportunity to present ideas in person to IBC’s 55,000 attendees.

The deadline for submissions is Monday 6 February 2017 and entries at this stage require a 300-word synopsis, which can be submitted at IBC.org/technicalpapers.

About IBC

IBC is the premier annual event for professionals engaged in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment and news content worldwide. Attracting 55,000+ attendees from more than 170 countries, IBC combines a highly respected and peer-reviewed conference with an exhibition that exhibits more than 1,700 leading suppliers of state of the art electronic media technology and provides unrivalled networking opportunities.

IBC2017 Dates:
Conference:           14 - 18 September 2017
Exhibition:           15 - 19 September 2017

For more information visit IBC.org

Find out more about the IBC Conference – IBC.org/conference

Find out more about the IBC Exhibition – IBC.org/discovermore

Find out more about IBC Content Everywhere – IBCCE.org

Contacts

IBC

For further information, please contact:

Sadie Groom, Bubble & Squeak

E: Sadie.groom@bubblesqueak.agency

T: 07715 422414    









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/19305/en

DLNA Fulfills Mission, Dissolves as Non-Profit Trade Association; SpireSpark International to Continue DLNA Certification and Offer Specialized Program Support Services

PORTLAND, Ore. - Thursday, January 5th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

       News Highlights:

    DLNA has achieved its mission, changing how consumers live, work and play using products that work together seamlessly in the connected home.
    Organization will dissolve, and ongoing DLNA Certification activities will be managed by a newly formed professional services firm.

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA®) today announced that the organization has fulfilled its mission and will dissolve as a non-profit trade association. Product certification services for the multimillion-unit DLNA ecosystem will continue to be provided through a newly formed professional services firm with all required DLNA test tools, infrastructure equipment and end-to-end certification expertise.

“We are extremely proud of what the members and staff of DLNA have accomplished - creating the world’s largest connected-home product ecosystem with nearly 4 billion units certified across more than 25,000 device models during the past 13 years,” said Stephen Palm, chairman and president of DLNA. “We thank our members for their hard work and commitment to making DLNA one of the industry’s most successful examples of the power of broadly supported product interoperability initiatives for accelerating innovation, creating new markets, and transforming the user experience.”

DLNA’s world-class certification program will now be provided by SpireSpark International, which has been founded by former DLNA executives and will be located in Portland, Oregon. Staffed by the team experienced in all aspects of DLNA Certification, the firm will provide a seamless transition for companies that are currently certifying products or wish to do so in the future. DLNA Certification is now open to all companies, with no DLNA membership required. Access to the comprehensive DLNA test suite including the Conformance Test Tool (CTT), Media Capabilities Verification Tool (MCVT), Awox Golden Reference Devices and many other tools for testing media sharing, including DRM and HTML5, will be available under a new fee structure.

In addition to providing DLNA Certification services, SpireSpark International will also offer specialized program support services for organizations that are running their own programs. SpireSpark International will focus on the following areas: operationalizing certification programs, QA services, engineering services, association setup, conference management, and member marketing services. Leveraging deep experience in highly specialized areas, the organization will deliver these cost-effective services through virtual teams of experts that can be scaled as needed and deployed quickly.

Questions for DLNA can be sent to admin@dlna.org. To contact SpireSpark, visit spirespark.com or send an email to info@spirespark.com.

About SpireSpark

SpireSpark International’s mission is to partner with organizations in achieving their goals by providing virtual, customized support that allows them to remain in control of their day-to-day operations, while outsourcing high level projects to experts in the field. SpireSpark International was founded by former DLNA executives. Additional information about SpireSpark is available at spirespark.com.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=51488547&lang=en

Contacts

Digital Living Network Alliance

Megan Dahlen, 253-686-7708

Megan@global-dlna.org









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/19308/en

Panasonic Forms Strategic Alliance with Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort

 Panasonic Projection Imaging Systems become the “Official Projection Technology” of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort

LAS VEGAS - Thursday, January 5th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Panasonic and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts announced today that Panasonic Projection Imaging Systems will be the “Official Projection Technology” of Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. As part of a long-term agreement, these Disney properties will have access to the latest in Panasonic’s market-leading projectors with advanced image processing and lens solutions.

As a leader in storytelling, Disney creates innovative attractions, entertainment and magical lands which immerse guests into the worlds of the stories they love. The aim of pairing Disney’s limitless creativity with Panasonic’s leading-edge projection technology, is to provide guests of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort with even more amazing and new entertainment experiences.

“Panasonic is delighted to work with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in exploring new ways in which its high-performance projectors may be used to support the Disney storytelling that has captured the hearts of millions of guests who have visited these iconic vacation destinations,” said Panasonic AVC Networks Company President Yasuji Enokido. “The Panasonic brand has earned the trust of generations and today we have a fresh technology vision to support the creativity and innovation of the Disney theme parks in the U.S.”

Panasonic already maintains a significant technology presence at Disney theme park attractions in the U.S., including Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage at Disneyland Park; Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure Park; Haunted Mansion and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom Park; Frozen Ever After and Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros at Epcot; and the upcoming Na’vi River Journey at Walt Disney World Resort’s newest and most immersive land, Pandora – The World of Avatar, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

“Disney creates one-of-a-kind, world-class experiences which inspire guests to create unique and cherished memories at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort,” said Carlos Castro, vice president, Disney Corporate Alliances. “We are thrilled to work with Panasonic to continue to explore exciting and innovative new ways to tell our stories.”

Panasonic is the worldwide market leader in high-brightness professional projectors and has continued to hold this position for seven years in a row. Featuring advanced image processing and distinctive technologies, they yield enhanced visual quality, significantly longer product life, and reduced maintenance costs.

About Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development of diverse electronics technologies and solutions for customers in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, enterprise solutions and device industries. Since its founding in 1918, the company has expanded globally and now operates 474 subsidiaries and 94 associated companies worldwide, recording consolidated net sales of 7.553 trillion yen for the year ended March 31, 2016. Committed to pursuing new value through innovation across divisional lines, the company uses its technologies to create a better life and a better world for its customers. To learn more about Panasonic:
http://www.panasonic.com/global.

About Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort is a world-class entertainment and recreation center featuring four theme parks (Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park); two water adventure parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon); 35 resort hotels (27 owned and operated by Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, including seven Disney Vacation Club resort properties); 63 holes of golf on four courses; two full-service spas; Disney's Wedding Pavilion; ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex; and Disney Springs. Walt Disney World Resort is committed to building better futures for children; last year, the company donated more than $44 million in cash and in-kind support to non-profit organizations in Central Florida and Disney VoluntEARS contributed 200,000 hours to community service. Located at Lake Buena Vista, Fla., 20 miles southwest of Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort opened Oct. 1, 1971, and is open daily, year-round. For more information, visit www.wdwnews.com/about.

About Disneyland Resort
The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and the reimagined Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, recently renovated, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” fun. The Disneyland Resort is committed to providing opportunities for families to spend time together. Last year, the Resort donated nearly $20 million to programs benefitting children and families, and our cast members volunteered at more than 230 community events. With 29,000 cast members, the Disneyland Resort is Orange County’s largest employer and generates $5.7 billion for the Southern California economy. The Resort has welcomed more than 750 million guests since opening on July 17, 1955. For more information, please visit Disneyland.com or call (866) 43-DISNEY.

Contacts

Media Contact

Panasonic Corporation

Global Communications Department

Media Promotion Office

+81-3-3574-5729

presscontact@ml.jp.panasonic.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/19302/en

BLAST Inc. : "Get a Polar Bear" Animal Art Figures "Animals As Art" First Release: Polar Bear Parent and Cub

TOKYO - Thursday, January 5th 2017 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- BLAST Inc. (main office: Kanda KS Bldg. 8F, 6-14-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan /representative: Junya Okabe) announces the "Animals As Art" series of animal art models as display art for homes and offices.

The "Polar Bear Parent and Cub" will be the first in the series to be released on January 5, 2017 for both Japan and overseas.

[ Animals As Art ] official site: http://www.animals-as-art.com/

"Animals As Art" is an animal art series that captures the elegance of modern modeling techniques and looks just like the real thing.

It uses modeling materials instead of conventional taxidermy to thoroughly recreate a realistic appearance, texture, and sense of life.

The sleeping form of the parent and cub looks so real it will make you think they are really there.

Its producer Junya Okabe has over 30 years of experience in the special effects modeling industry in films and commercials.

Production is headed by the special effects art modeling studio ZEPPET within Blast Inc. where Junya Okabe acts as representative.

The director for the animal models is Kaiyodo's Shinobu Matsumura who is the leader of nature figures in Japan and is known for the "Choco Egg".

In addition to his figurines, he is also in demand both domestically and overseas and is involved in the production and supervision of animal exhibitions for places such as the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

The production of one polar bear is done in a system with three expert modelers and five assistants. Each hair on its head is meticulously flocked on in addition to the gums and teeth in its mouth and its paw pads and claws, taking a period of approximately three months overall (fluctuates depending on situation of orders and production numbers).

Regular price (excluding tax) is 13,400,000 yen for the parent and cub set and 8,900,000 yen for just the parent.

1% of these proceeds will be donated to WWF Japan (World Wide Fund for Nature Japan) to support opposition against the selling of taxidermy and to protect endangered species.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=51481377&lang=en

Contacts

[Inquiries]

BLAST Inc.

Supervising: Keigo Otomo, +81-3-5761-7883

Inquiries by phone: On weekdays from 9 a.m. JST to 6 p.m. JST

info@blast.jp









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/19303/en

Wednesday, January 4, 2017

BridgeBio Pharma Launches with a Focus on Precision Medicines for Genetic Diseases

Veteran R&D team backed by KKR and Perceptive Advisors

PALO ALTO, Calif. - Wednesday, January 4th 2017 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- California-based BridgeBio Pharma has come out of stealth mode to reveal more detail about its novel approach to developing new therapies for genetic diseases. These diseases, often inherited and individually rare, collectively exact devastating effects on tens of millions of patients in the US alone, many of whom are children. The company, formed in 2015, is primarily focused on pre-commercial products, utilizing its advantages in sourcing and operating to find and build value at each stage of development.


BridgeBio Pharma combines a traditional focus on drug products with a new corporate model to tackle a big industry need – translating early stage genetic disease science into drugs that matter for patients. “There’s a lot of money and interest in new technology companies, like those focused on gene editing, and then again for late stage clinical products,” says co-founder and CEO Neil Kumar. “But if you have a small molecule for a single genetic disease that is pre-clinical, it is harder to attract interest. We started BridgeBio to focus on those single product opportunities that target well defined genetic drivers of disease. BridgeBio is set up to move those programs forward efficiently and at scale.”


The company sees itself as a drug product engine as opposed to a novel science platform – “we partner closely with academic and clinical leaders to help move insights they have already made into the clinic. We are not trying to discover new biology so much as to take what is already known and develop therapies from it,” says co-founder Frank McCormick, former co-founder of Onyx Pharmaceuticals. BridgeBio’s team members have collectively been responsible for over a dozen marketed products and include drug development veterans Charles Homcy, Frank McCormick, Philip Reilly, Hoyoung Huh, Uma Sinha, and Robert Zamboni.


BridgeBio’s novel corporate structure was designed in collaboration with MIT Sloan Professor Andrew W. Lo, who is also a founding investor and member of BridgeBio. Rather than forming large platform companies, the team forms lean and focused subsidiaries around individual assets or diseases. These subsidiaries can draw on BridgeBio’s network of world-class genetic disease expertise to complement their internal efforts. This structure is ideal for building value in product-focused investments, and allows for rapid capital reallocation should an asset fail. Lo explains: “We tried to put in place, at the outset, a corporate structure that optimized for focused R&D at the level of each asset but that still provided diversification for investors. This diversification in turn provides more predictable positive outcomes and makes these pre-commercial programs more attractive for a broader pool of capital. Ultimately, the structure also allows for liquidity in ways that are unique as compared with the traditional c-corp or fund structures seen in this industry.”

BridgeBio has seven programs to date, with two in the clinic and hopes to add to its diversified portfolio of assets based on a systematic mapping of the genetic disease landscape. It has deployed over $50 M in R&D commitments in 2016.


Contacts
BridgeBio Pharma
Michael Henderson, 650-665-7924
mh@bridgebio.com




Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/19296/en