AMETHYST RESEARCH INTRODUCES FIRST ONLINE INTERACTIVE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT BROCHURE

April 24, 2000– San Diego, CA– Amethyst Research, LLC, today unveiled on its web site, www.VentWorld.com, the Online Interactive Guide to the Newport Breeze E150 Ventilator. The Breeze E150 is manufactured by Newport Medical Instruments, Inc. The Guide, which was developed by Amethyst Research, allows users to learn about the Breeze E150’s functionality through an interactive format in which the users can tour the virtual machine and adjust its controls. The Guide also includes a tutorial on Newport’s unique DuoFlow System, and an interactive game in which the player must set up the breathing circuit and accessories on the virtual Breeze E150 in order to win.

"We at Amethyst Research believe in the enormous potential of graphical interactive technology on the Internet as a means of enhancing communication, marketing and training," said Jonathan Kaye, President. "The Online Interactive Guide to the Newport Breeze E150 Ventilator is one example of what can be done to realize that potential."

www.VentWorld.com, created by Amethyst Research, LLC, a San Diego, CA-based company, is the Internet's most comprehensive resource devoted to mechanical ventilators. It concentrates up-to-date information about products, news, events, and training, from suppliers, professional societies, news organizations, and community members. It enhances the presentation of such information with interactive formats to assist with product comparison, evaluation, and purchasing decisions. VentWorld results from Amethyst Research's background and experience with respiratory care equipment, bioengineering, and computer technology.

Amethyst Research, LLC, founded in 1998, has branch offices in Philadelphia, PA and Cleveland, OH. It develops software tools and realistic equipment and patient simulations for product comparisons and educational programs. Amethyst Research also produces custom software, consults on computer technology and medical equipment projects, and conducts medical equipment industry related market research.

Newport Medical Instruments, Inc., located in Newport Beach, CA, and established in 1981, is the largest privately owned ventilator company in the United States and is ranked fourth in worldwide market share. The company is committed to improving the lives of patients through the development of versatile, user-friendly ventilator systems for the healthcare professional. Newport Medical Instruments has an installed base of over 19,000 ventilators.

The Interactive Guide is available on VentWorld, at http://www.ventworld.com/newport-ibe150/ibe150.asp

Contact: Timothy P. Schepis, Vice President, Marketing, Amethyst Research, LLC, at (888) 511-2452, or tim@amethyst-research.com.
Janus Angus, Marketing Communication Manager, Newport Medical Instruments, Inc., at (800) 451- 3111, or jangus@newportnmi.com