U.K. cost gatekeepers OK Daiichi's Lixiana; J&J Vision Care targets young females with E! partnership;

> The U.K.'s cost watchdog has recommended Daiichi Sankyo's Lixiana for treating and preventing potentially fatal blood clots. Release

> In a Phase II study, Sanofi ($SNY) and Regeneron's ($REGN) PCSK9 prospect, Praluent, produced LDL cholesterol reductions of more than 60% in Japanese patients. Release

> Johnson & Johnson ($JNJ) Vision Care has partnered up with fashion and entertainment broadcaster E! Entertainment Television to reach a young, fashion-forward, female audience with its 1-Day Acuvue Define range of products. More

> In a Phase II study, Roche's ($RHHBY) investigational immunotherapy atezolizumab shrank tumors in people with a specific type of bladder cancer. Release

> Roche ($RHHBY) has launched its FDA-cleared diabetes app with an insulin calculator in the U.S. More

And Finally... The Obama administration has issued new rules that allow closely held for-profit corporations with religious objections to opt out of providing women with insurance coverage for contraceptives. More (sub. req.)