Cardiac Support

Medical TextilesATI Special Report Cardiac Support
Acorn knits polyester medical device to improve the quality of life for heart-failure
patients.
 What will they think of next Knitted and woven textiles have been showing up in
innovative medical devices that are correcting life-threatening conditions of the heart and
vascular system. Implantation of the new devices requires less invasive surgical procedures and
involves less risk than traditional procedures, while also causing fewer complications and
necessitating shorter hospital stays and recoveries. 

In the knitted category, Acorn Cardiovascular Inc. (acorn), St. Paul, Minn., has developed a
new textile device that will potentially help more than 23 million people worldwide fight the
progressive effects of heart failure.Heart failure is a chronic syndrome caused by a number of
conditions that, in the end, impair the ability of the heart to move the correct amount of blood
through the body. To compensate, the heart enlarges (dilates), stressing the heart muscle. Other
changes due to dilation, such as the initial valve leakage, cause additional stress. Unfortunately,
50 percent of those diagnosed with heart failure pass away within five years.According to the
American Heart Association, 550,000 new cases of heart failure are diagnosed in the United States
every year. Most treatments for the condition, including extensive drug therapies and surgical
correction of the underlying causes, relieve symptoms or temporarily improve the patients
condition, but they are not effective long-term cures. Only a heart transplant will prevent
progression of the condition and eventual death due to heart failure, but unfortunately, many
heart-failure patients will not qualify for a heart transplant. In addition, the number of hearts
available for transplant is quite limited. acorn has developed the Cardiac Support Device (CSD),
which is intended to halt the progression of heart failure. The CSD FabricExtensive research
was conducted by acorn to determine the best material, yarn configuration, knit pattern and
processing to use in producing the CSD fabric. The mesh-like, warp-knitted proprietary fabric is
made using machinery manufactured by Germany-based Karl Mayer Textilmaschinenfabrik GmbH. Michael
J. Girard, director of product development, describes the device: The acorn Cardiac Support Device
(CSD) is a warp-knitted textile substrate. The fabric is fabricated from multifilament textured
polyethylene terephthalate (commonly known as polyester) yarns. Polyester was the material of
choice due to its biological tissue response and compatibility with the epicardial surface of the
heart.The polyester yarns are warp knitted into a mesh configuration using a variation of an atlas
stitch. After knitting, the fabric is conditioned to ease its handling during the processing to
manufacture the CSD.Manufacture of the CSD includes cutting the fabric to pattern, sewing, scouring
and heat-forming. The result of these proprietary processes is a device with specific mechanical
characteristics and a shape that closely resembles a diseased heart.Key mechanical characteristics
of the CSD design and manufacturing include a device that gently conforms to the surface of the
heart and provides mechanical support by uniformly distributing stresses. To accommodate a wide
range of diseased heart sizes and shapes, the CSD is manufactured and offered in multiple clinical
sizes. How The CSD WorksThe CSD has been designed to conform to the heart, while at the same
time providing strength, compliance to varying degrees, tear-resistance and compatibility with
heart tissue. The device is slipped easily over the heart, adjusted to provide proper support and
stitched into place. It is less compliant in its circumference and more so in its vertical
direction, thus facilitating reshaping of the heart from the sphere-like shape associated with
heart failure into the more ellipsoidal shape of a healthy heart.By conforming to the shape of the
heart and supporting it, the CSD resists further dilation, while the devices compliance allows the
heart to maintain a normal beat. It is thought that the support given by the CSD may also prevent
further stretching of the mature muscle cells and allow relaxation and recovery of the affected
cells. Advantages Over Other DevicesThe procedure used to implant the CSD is considerably less
complicated than other cardiothoracic surgical procedures for heart failure. Furthermore, it is
anticipated that the implantation will require a shorter hospital stay than other procedures. Other
advantages include: compatibility with other cardiovascular surgeries and minimally invasive
surgical techniques; a minimal potential for complications, such as blood clots, that are
associated with vascular devices; and lower cost to the patient than other heart-failure
devices.The CSD has been evaluated in a clinical safety study conducted in Germany, and in
extensive pre-clinical studies, with promising results. The new device has received CE (European
Conformity) mark approval in Europe, and acorn recently earned ISO 9001/EN46001 certification as
well.The CSD is now classified as an investigational device. A randomized clinical trial underway
in the United States eventually will involve up to 170 patients in approximately 15 centers, and
studies are also being conducted in Germany and Australia.The CSD is acorns first product developed
to improve the quality of life for heart-failure patients. The company is investigating other
possible textile applications for future products. 

As heart failure progresses, the shape of the heart changesfrom its normal ellipsoidal shape
to a sphere-like shape.
Editor In Chief James M. Borneman and Assistant Editor Janet Bealer Rodie contributed to this
article.

February 2001

Unifi Receives Distribution From Parkdale America LLC

GREENSBORO, N.C., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Unifi, Inc., (NYSE: UFI)(“Unifi”) and Parkdale Mills Inc.
(“Mills”) have completed a restructuring of the balance sheet of their jointly owned company,
Parkdale America, LLC(“America”). As a result of the restructuring, a distribution in the form of a
return of capital has been made by America to Unifi and Mills in amounts proportionate to their
respective percentage ownership interests in America.The distribution received by Unifi of $49.2
million will be applied to the retirement of outstanding debt. Following completion of the
restructuring and distribution, Unifi will retain a 34% ownership interest in America. Unifi is the
largest producer and processor of textured yarns in the world. Its primary business is the
texturing, dyeing, twisting, covering, and beaming of multi-filament polyester and nylon yarns.
Unifi’s textured yarnsare found in home furnishings, apparel and industrial fabrics,
automotive,upholstery, hosiery, and sewing thread. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS Certain statements included herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning
of the federal securities laws. Management cautions that forward-looking statements are not
guarantees and that actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the
forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the actual results of operations or
financial condition of the Company to differ include, but are not necessarily limited to, sourcing
and pricing of raw materials, pressures on sales prices and volumes due to competition and economic
conditions,reliance on and financial viability of significant customers, technological
advancements, employee relations, changes in construction spending and capital expenditures
(including those related to unforeseen acquisition opportunities), continued availability of
financial resources through financing arrangements and operations, negotiation of new or
modifications of existing contracts for asset management and for property and equipment
construction and acquisition, regulations governing tax laws, other governmental and authoritative
bodies’ policies and legislation, the continuation and the magnitude of the Company’s common stock
repurchase program and proceeds received from the sale of assets held for disposal. In addition to
these representative factors, forward-looking statements could be impacted by general domestic and
international economic and industry conditions in the markets where the Company competes, such as
changes incurrency exchange rates, interest and inflation rates, recession and other economic and
political factors over which the Company has no control.Investors are also directed to consider the
risks and uncertainties discussed in documents filed by the Company with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.SOURCE Unifi, Inc.Web Site: http://www.unifi-inc.com Copyright 2001 PR Newswire

Burlington Completes Credit Facility Refinancing

Burlington Completes Credit Facility Refinancing Burlington Industries Inc., Greensboro, N.C.,
announced that it has entered into an amended and restated bank credit facility with its existing
lenders, which extends the maturity of the facility for up to two and a half years. The facility
provides for revolving and overnight loans and letters of credit aggregating $600 million. Under
the amended facility, the company has unused capacity of $175 million.George W. Henderson III,
chairman and CEO, said, We are pleased to have concluded these financial agreements. This credit
facility is visible evidence of the strong continuing support from our lenders. The liquidity and
financial flexibility provided by this financing will enable us to move forward with confidence as
we work to improve operations and reduce debt.
February 2001

BBA Filtration Introduces SuperPleat

BBA Filtration, Old Hickory, Tenn., has introduced SuperPleat, a new media specifically for use in
pulse-jet dust-collection systems. SuperPleat is easily pleated to form very rigid pleats that hold
their shape. It is made of 100-percent polyester, continuous, trilobal fibers to provide
exceptionally high strength, as well as additional surface area, according to the company. The new
media will withstand temperatures of up to 270°F and can also be used in very demanding liquid
applications.

February 2001

Burlington39 S Monticello Plant Sold To Yanoor Corp

GREENSBORO, N.C., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ — Burlington Industries, Inc. (NYSE: BUR) announced today
that it has sold its tufted bath and area rug business located in Monticello, Arkansas to the
Yanoor Corporation, a holding company owned by Saeid Korhani. The business will operate under the
name Burlington Rug Corporation. Ralph Grogan, President of Burlington House Floor Accents said,
“We are very pleased that this facility will continue as an ongoing operation serving both the
marketplace and providing employment for our associates. Burlington has a long history in
Monticello. Both the employees and the community have always shown great support and dedication. We
wish Yanoor and all its associates much success in their new company.” Commenting on the sale,
Roger Miller, President of Burlington Rug Corporation said, “We are very pleased to have concluded
this purchase. We intend to quickly diversify the product line and move the company forward.”
Burlington announced in October 2000 that it would exit the tufted area rug portion of its
Burlington House Floor Accents business. This press release contains statements that are
forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable federal securities laws and are based
upon the company’s current expectations and assumptions, which are subject to a number of risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Such
risks and uncertainties include,among other things, global economic activity, the success of the
company’s overall business strategy, the company’s relationships with its principal customers and
suppliers, the success of the company’s operations in other countries, the demand for textile
products, the cost and availability of raw materials and labor, the company’s ability to refinance
and service its existing debt and to finance its capital expenditures and working capital needs,
the level of the company’s indebtedness and the exposure to interest rate fluctuations,
governmental legislation and regulatory changes, and the long-term implications of regional trade
blocs and the effect of quota phase-out and lowering of tariffs under the WTO trade regime and of
the changes in U.S. apparel trade as a result of recently-enacted Caribbean Basin and Sub-Saharan
African trade legislation. Other risks and uncertainties may also be described from time to time in
the company’s other reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.SOURCE
Burlington Industries, Inc.Web Site: http://www.burlington-ind.comCopyright 2001 PR News wire

Relative Viscometer Model Y501 Introduced By Viscotek

Houston-based Viscotek has introduced the Relative Viscometer Model Y501 for measuring
solution viscosities. The unit simultaneously compares the viscosity of a sample solution with a
reference solvent, thereby avoiding errors due to temperature fluctuation and solvent variations.
It has been field-tested and proven for analysis of PET, PVC, EPDM, PVA, PVOH, polybutadiene,
polyolefins, cellulosics, hyaluronic acid, nylon and other polymers. Faster analysis and higher
accuracy and precision are achieved using the relative viscometer than are possible using glass
tubes, and there is a solvent saving of over 50 percent compared with traditional methods.The
Relative Viscometer Model Y501 is available with three automation levels: Manual for simplified
operation, with some automation built in; Autosampler for unattended measurement of a series of
samples; and Robotics for coupling with the Zymark laboratory robot, with the interface requiring
only the transfer of a switch closure.

February 2001

Guilford Mills Announces Exclusive Licensing Agreement

GREENSBORO, N.C., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ — Guilford Mills Inc. (NYSE: GFD) announced today that its
Home Fashions division has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Jockey International Inc.
Under the agreement, Guilford Home Fashions will create and distribute a collection of bedding and
accessories under two labels -Jockey Home and Jockey Classic – which will be introduced at the
Spring Home Textile Market week beginning on March 31, 2001. John A. Emrich, President and Chief
Executive Officer of Guilford Mills,said, “In combination with our global sourcing initiatives, we
believe that licensing and branding opportunities will drive profitability and growth in our Home
Fashions business. We could not be more pleased to be working with Jockey, owner of one of the most
recognized brands in the world, and one that is synonymous with quality, performance and value.
Together, we will be better able to capture the growing opportunities in the home textile
business,especially within the age 35+ female consumer and baby-boomer groups – the largest sources
of home decorating dollars. “Guilford Mills is the largest warp knitter in the world and one of the
largest producers of Lycra(R)-containing fabrics. Our partnership with Jockey is a natural
extension of Guilford’s commitment to innovation and expertise in knitting high quality fabrics.
For instance, we will premiere an exclusive knit fabrication for Jockey that features compact ring
spun Supima(R) cotton,blended with Lycra(R). This high performance, fashion conscious fabric is one
example of Guilford’s innovation that we can leverage with a brand like Jockey to capitalize on the
growth in the home textile business,” Mr. Emrich concluded. Bob Nolan, President of Jockey Brands
said, “Jockey has continued to seek out partners in a number of markets to broaden the scope of
Jockey product potentials. In our quest to expand into other areas, we never lose sight ofour
commitment to fashion and quality. We are therefore extremely gratifiedto have a respected company
such as Guilford Home Fashions as our partner in this area.” About Jockey International Inc. Jockey
International Inc. is a manufacturer of men’s, women’s, boys’ andgirls’ underwear, which are sold
in major department and specialty stores across the country. The products are also available
globally in over 120countries. Located in Kenosha, WI, the 125 year-old-company is committed
toquality, fashion, innovation, comfort and value. About Guilford Mills Inc. Guilford Mills is an
integrated designer and producer of value-added fabrics using a broad range of technologies. The
Company is the largest warpknitter in the world and is a leader in technological advances in
textiles,including micro denier warp knits and wide width circular knits of cotton blended with
Lycra(R). Guilford Mills serves a diversified customer base in the home furnishings, apparel,
automotive and industrial markets. Through its Guilford Home Fashions subsidiary, the Company
produces bedding products,window treatments and shower curtains for the retail market.
Additionalinformation about the Company can be obtained from its website
athttp://www.guilfordmills.com. This press release may be deemed to contain forward-looking
statements and other projections within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act andSection
21E of the Exchange Act. The Company assumes no obligations to update or revise any such
forward-looking statements. Such statements could be subject to risk and uncertainty that exist in
the operations of the Company and the business environment that could render actual outcomes and
results materially different from those predicted. These risks and uncertainties include, without
limitation, the following factors as well as risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company’s
filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission: 1. General economic factors including, but not
limited to, changes in interest rates, foreign currency translation rates, consumer confidence,
housing starts, trends in disposable income, changes in consumer demand for goods produced, and
cyclical or other downturns 2. The overall level of automotive production and the production of
specific car models 3. Fashion trends 4. Information and technological advances 5. Cost and
availability of raw materials, labor and natural and other resources 6. Domestic and foreign
competition 7. Domestic and foreign governmental regulations and trade policies 8. Reliance on
major customers 9. Success of marketing, advertising and promotional campaigns 10. Inability to
achieve cost reductions through consolidation and restructuring or 11. Inability to obtain
financing on favorable terms or to obtain amendments or waivers with respect to non-compliance with
certain covenants in loan agreements SOURCE Guilford Mills, Inc.Web Site:
http://www.guilfordmills.com Copyright 2001 PR Newswire

Globe Manufacturing Files Involuntary Chapter 11

Globe Manufacturing, Fall River, Mass., announced that an involuntary petition for relief under
Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code was filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for
the Eastern District of Massachusetts by a group of holders of the companys 10-percent Senior
Subordinated Notes due August 2008.The company said that, for the last several months, it has been
in discussions with such holders, as well as its other creditor groups, regarding a restructuring
of its debt. Discussions with bank lenders are ongoing, and the company continues to explore a
number of alternatives, including the potential sale of the company and an operational
restructuring.In light of the recent filing, the company has decided to reduce its Fall River
workforce by approximately 130 persons. The staffing cuts will be made primarily from the
dry-spinning and reaction-spinning operations and include both manufacturing and administrative
positions.
February 2001

CollinsandAikman Announces Expiration Of Tender Offer

DALTON, Ga., Jan. 29 /PR Newswire/ — Collins and Aikman Floor coverings Inc.announced that it has
successfully completed its tender offer and consent solicitation for its outstanding 10% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2007 and Series B 10% Senior Subordinated Notes due2007. As of 9:00 a.m.,
New York City time, on Thursday, January 25, 2001, the scheduled expiration for the Offer,
$84,750,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Notes had been validly tendered pursuant to the
terms of the Offer to Purchase and Consent Solicitation Statement, dated December 19, 2000. The
Company has accepted for payment and promptly will pay for all Notes validly tendered in the Offer.
Credit Suisse First Boston (“CSFB”) acted as Dealer Manager and MacKenzie Partners, Inc. served as
the Information Agent in connection with the Offer. An international manufacturer and supplier of
high-performance commercial carpeting for the corporate, health care, education, government, and
retailing sectors, the Company is renowned for pioneering the development of environmentally
responsible products. The Dalton, Georgia-based company produces floor coverings that last up to
three times longer than convention al carpeting, and remains the first and only manufacturer to
make a 100 percent recycled-content vinyl backing, ER3. In June 1999, the Company merged with
Monterey Carpets, a California-based manufacturer of high-end, award winning designs in broadloom
carpet for the corporate, retail store planning, and institutional markets. This was followed by
the acquisition of Nova Scotia-based Crossley Carpet Mills, in July 1999, continuing the Company’s
international growth strategy and enabling it to better serve the Canadian market. The Company is a
leading producer of modular carpet tile and the number one producer of six-foot roll carpet.SOURCE
Collins and Aikman Floor coverings, Inc.Copyright 2001 PR News wire

Evolon Wins First Avantex Award For Innovation

Germany-based Avantex, the international forum for high-tech garment textiles and fashion
engineering, awarded Germany-based Freudenberg Nonwovens, the creator of Evolon®, its Innovation
prize for new fabrics.In making the award, Avantex recognized Freudenbergs contribution to the
apparel industry using micro-system technology to create fabrics suitable for tomorrows high-tech
garments. Evolons lifestyle fabric is ideal for active-sport garments.Freudenberg developed Evolon
using a completely new textile technolgy to create high-performance, microfiber fashion fabrics.
Evolon is constructed from numerous microfilaments and is manufactured from polymer granulate in
one continuous process. The filaments create a fabric that will not fray and that can be designed
and developed for specific end-uses.

February 2001

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