Monthly Archives: March 2012

Medical school graduates getting jobs

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University of Connecticut School of Medicine fourth-year students celebrated a successful Match Day on March 16, as 98.8 percent of students secured residencies around the country through the National Residency Match Program.

Only one student out of 88 failed to attain a residency, putting UConn well above the national match average of 95.1 percent. Dr. David Henderson, associate dean of medical student affairs, was said to have told the students in a UConn Today press release, This is, from an institutional perspective, a most excellent March Day. With nearly a 99 percent match rate, its about as close to perfect as you can get.

There was a 15 percent increase in students matched in primary care residency programs including internal medicine, family medicine and pediatrics. Compared to last years total of 35 percent, this year 50 percent of students attained matches.

The remaining 50 percent of students receiving residencies through Match Day entered such programs as emergency medicine, obstetrics/gynecology, orthopedic surgery and general surgery.

For current students, prospective medical students and faculty, this Match Day was very impressive. Thats a huge statistic; thats something huge for UConn, not just for the faculty and administration but for the students. Its good for current students but its also something good for future students to see, because it eases concerns about the work. Students can know theres an incentive at the end and their hard work will pay off. said Orest Paslavski, a 4th-semester biomedical engineering major and prospective medical student.

Fifty-six of the 88 students received placements in the Northeast, and 27 students will remain in Connecticut. Henderson said in UConn Today, The students worked really hard and accomplished a lot these past several years and were very pleased with the results.

Match Day is a yearly practice at medical schools across the nation that matches students with residency programs and fills available training positions at teaching hospitals around the country. This Match Day marks the 60th anniversary of the National Resident Matching Program, which was started in 1952. The next step for matched students? Working for their matched hospital after graduation.

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Saskatchewan's only medical school gets probation warning to shape up

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SASKATOON - Saskatchewan's medical school is being warned to shape up or be put on probation.

The committee that accredits Canada's medical schools has sent a warning letter to the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine.

"This action indicates that there are areas of non-compliance that will, if not corrected promptly, seriously compromise the ability of the faculty to deliver a quality medical education program," wrote the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools.

The letter was dated July 2011, but was only now made public on the CBC Saskatchewan news website.

It notes that the warning of probation is confidential and said the school is not required to notify students.

Dr. William Albritton, dean of the college, said in an interview Thursday that faculty and students were told about the letter.

There are 130 standards applied to medical schools. Albritton said a fact-finding visit last year found the college is "weak or deficient" on 10 standards.

"The weaknesses were that our faculty didn't provide timely feedback to the students. You're expected to do this within a couple of weeks of the ending of the rotation," said Albritton.

"And busy people in a busy practice tend to delay those kinds of things. They don't see them as being quite as important as they actually are."

Albritton said instructors getting written standardized teaching and grading objectives is a problem. There's also concern around adequate student space for study, lounge and lockers at the Regina campus.

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Saskatchewan's only medical school gets probation warning to shape up

Integrative Medicine Classes Help Breast Cancer Survivors Recover at UCSF’s Osher Center – Video

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21-03-2012 01:03 UCSF's Osher Center for Integrative Medicine combines conventional medicine with evidence-based practices from other healing traditions, including meditation, yoga, tai chi and qigong. This approach has become a popular way for cancer survivors and others who are recovering from debilitating illnesses to regain strength and balance after chemotherapy and surgery.

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Integrative Medicine Classes Help Breast Cancer Survivors Recover at UCSF's Osher Center - Video

New Study Points to Blood Testing for Food Intolerance as Important Tool in Obesity Fight

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University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Report Supports Value of Food Intolerance Testing

TORONTO , March 22, 2012 /CNW/ - Gemoscan Canada , Inc. (TSXV: GES.V - News) (MUN: 1GE.MU - News) welcomes a new study published in the Journal of Obesity & Weight Loss Therapy that points to food sensitivity as a key culprit in obesity. The study, led by John E. Lewis, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Associate Director of the Medical Wellness Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and co-authored by Judi M. Woolger, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, and Janet Konefal , Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Assistant Dean for Complementary and Integrative Medicine assessed the impact of a food sensitivity test "in combination with a food elimination diet - on weight, body mass index, and quality of life in people who wanted to lose weight and/or were overweight," according to published reports.

Significantly, the study suggests that a person's food intolerances can be identified by a simple blood test.

The HEMOCODETM Food Intolerance System, available at Rexalltm/md and Pharma Plus stores across Canada , as well as online and via medical professionals, is a comprehensive naturopathic nutrition program to help Canadians identify and manage food sensitivities.

The process begins with a simple non-invasive finger stick test. Using a drop of blood, the system scans the blood for immuno-based reactions to common foods and additives.

"According to the study from the University of Miami , subjects lost approximately one pound per week after eliminating foods that they reacted to," said Dr. Mubina Jiwa , Assistant Professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. "In my practice, I find that patients with identified food intolerances via a system such as HEMOCODETM not only lose weight, but can manage a series of health issues ranging from migraines to digestive discomfort. There is no question that certain foods cause immuno-based responses in a large percentage of the population."

The HEMOCODETM Food Intolerance System is more than a test; it delivers a personalized program to insure food sensitivity results are not simply left to the individual for interpretation and implementation. Pharmacists and health care practitioners, under supervision of licensed Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine, will explain and guide each person through the various elements of the HEMOCODETMsystem. Following the laboratory blood evaluation, personalized reports detailing potentially offending foods and suggestions for their elimination and substitution are returned to the pharmacist or practitioner within 7-10 business days, for review and discussion with each individual. Personalized recipes, as well as specific vitamin and supplement recommendations form part of HEMOCODETM's unique, comprehensive and balanced approach to diet and food sensitivity management.

Understanding the cause and effect of food intolerances and making the necessary dietary adjustments, can make it easier to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

The Miller School study tested 115 foods on 120 subjects aged 18 and over. Study subjects who were administered a blood test to determine potential food intolerances were then asked to eliminate the offending foods from their diets for varying periods of time over the course of 3 months.

The study found that in addition to "positive changes associated with body composition, participants noted substantial subjective improvements in both physical and mental quality of life."

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New Study Points to Blood Testing for Food Intolerance as Important Tool in Obesity Fight

Gemoscan Canada, Inc.: New Study Points to Blood Testing for Food Intolerance as Important Tool in Obesity Fight

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TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire -03/22/12)- Gemoscan Canada, Inc. (TSX-V: GES.V - News) (Munich: 1GE.MU - News) welcomes a new study published in the Journal of Obesity & Weight Loss Therapy that points to food sensitivity as a key culprit in obesity. The study, led by John E. Lewis, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Associate Director of the Medical Wellness Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and co-authored by Judi M. Woolger, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, and Janet Konefal, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Assistant Dean for Complementary and Integrative Medicine assessed the impact of a food sensitivity test "in combination with a food elimination diet - on weight, body mass index, and quality of life in people who wanted to lose weight and/or were overweight," according to published reports.

Significantly, the study suggests that a person's food intolerances can be identified by a simple blood test.

The HEMOCODE Food Intolerance System, available at Rexall(TM/MD) and Pharma Plus stores across Canada, as well as online and via medical professionals, is a comprehensive naturopathic nutrition program to help Canadians identify and manage food sensitivities.

The process begins with a simple non-invasive finger stick test. Using a drop of blood, the system scans the blood for immuno-based reactions to common foods and additives.

"According to the study from the University of Miami, subjects lost approximately one pound per week after eliminating foods that they reacted to," said Dr. Mubina Jiwa, Assistant Professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. "In my practice, I find that patients with identified food intolerances via a system such as HEMOCODE not only lose weight, but can manage a series of health issues ranging from migraines to digestive discomfort. There is no question that certain foods cause immuno-based responses in a large percentage of the population."

The HEMOCODE Food Intolerance System is more than a test; it delivers a personalized program to insure food sensitivity results are not simply left to the individual for interpretation and implementation. Pharmacists and health care practitioners, under supervision of licensed Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine, will explain and guide each person through the various elements of the HEMOCODEsystem. Following the laboratory blood evaluation, personalized reports detailing potentially offending foods and suggestions for their elimination and substitution are returned to the pharmacist or practitioner within 7-10 business days, for review and discussion with each individual. Personalized recipes, as well as specific vitamin and supplement recommendations form part of HEMOCODE's unique, comprehensive and balanced approach to diet and food sensitivity management.

Understanding the cause and effect of food intolerances and making the necessary dietary adjustments, can make it easier to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

The Miller School study tested 115 foods on 120 subjects aged 18 and over. Study subjects who were administered a blood test to determine potential food intolerances were then asked to eliminate the offending foods from their diets for varying periods of time over the course of 3 months.

The study found that in addition to "positive changes associated with body composition, participants noted substantial subjective improvements in both physical and mental quality of life."

Dr. Jiwa added, "These findings are consistent with what I've seen in my practice, and thousands of people who use food intolerance analysis as a way to manage overall wellness. Often, people can re-introduce the foods that they are intolerant to after the body has a chance to recover. I'm pleased that there are more studies being done to promote this important wellness tool."

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Gemoscan Canada, Inc.: New Study Points to Blood Testing for Food Intolerance as Important Tool in Obesity Fight

Integrative Medicine: Hopes developing for Alzheimer's treatment

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If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, there are some additional unusual therapeutic holistic regimens that may be of benefit in improving cognition. Two new scientific studies in the past couple of months have shown some benefit in helping brain functioning amid Alzheimer's: one on meditation, the other on rosemary oil aromatherapy.

For the study on meditation and Alzheimer's, researchers enrolled 15 older adults with memory problems that ranged from mild age-associated memory impairment to mild impairment, on a Kirtan Kriya mantra-based meditation course. Participants meditated 12 minutes per day for eight weeks. The control group listened to classical music for the same amount of time over eight weeks.

Early findings showed a surprising, substantial increase in cerebral blood flow in the patients' prefrontal, superior frontal and superior parietal cortices, and also better cognitive function in the group that performed regular meditation.

In the rosemary oil aromatherapy study, the investigators tested cognitive performance and mood of 20 people, who were exposed to varying levels of the rosemary aroma. Using blood samples to detect the amount of 1,8-cineole (a measure of the aromatherapy rosemary oil in the bloodstream) the researchers applied speed and accuracy tests, and mood assessments to judge the rosemary oil's effects.

Results indicate for the first time in human subjects that concentration of 1,8- cineole in the blood is related to an individual's cognitive performance with higher concentrations resulting in improved performance. Both speed and accuracy were improved in the study in cognitive functioning.

What do these two studies tell us about Alzheimer's? The brain is a complex organism, with many complex mechanisms that lead to optimum functioning. Early trials show that aromatherapy and meditation improve blood supply and enhance cognitive skills. Ongoing data are showing us that we have much power to help treat Alzheimer's integratively, keeping in mind that environment, exercise, health, lifestyle, meditation, music and smells can be all be beneficial in improving brain function.

Copyright The Sacramento Bee. All rights reserved.

Drs. Kay Judge and Maxine Barish-Wreden are medical directors of Sutter Downtown Integrative Medicine program. Have a question related to alternative medicine? Email adrenaline@sacbee.com.

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Gene Expression Abnormalities in Autism Identified

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Genetic studies find dysregulation in pathways that govern development of the prefrontal cortex in young patients with autism

Newswise A study led by Eric Courchesne, PhD, director of the Autism Center of Excellence at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine has, for the first time, identified in young autism patients genetic mechanisms involved in abnormal early brain development and overgrowth that occurs in the disorder. The findings suggest novel genetic and molecular targets that could lead to discoveries of new prevention strategies and treatment for the disorder.

The study to be published on March 22 in PLoS Genetics uncovered differences in gene expression between brain tissue from young (2 to14 years old) and adult individuals with autism syndrome disorder, providing important clues why brain growth and development is abnormal in this disorder.

Courchesne first identified the link between early brain overgrowth and autism in a landmark study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2003. Next, he tested the possibility that brain overgrowth might result from an abnormal excess of brain cells. In November 2011, his study, also published in JAMA, discovered a 67 percent excess of brain cells in a major region of the brain, the prefrontal cortex a part of the brain associated with social, communication and cognitive development.

Our next step was to see whether there might be abnormalities of genetic functioning in that same region that might give us insight into why there are too many cells and why that specific region does not develop normally in autism, said Courchesne.

In the new study, the researchers looked towards genes for answers, and showed that genetic mechanisms that normally regulate the number of cortical neurons are abnormal. The genes that control the number of brain cells did not have the normal functional expression, and the level of gene expression that governs the pattern of neural organization across the prefrontal cortex is turned down. There are abnormal numbers and patterns of brain cells, and subsequently the pattern is disturbed, Courchesne said. This probably leads to too many brain cells in some locations, such as prefrontal cortex, but perhaps too few in other regions of cortex as well.

In addition, the scientists discovered a turning down of the genetic mechanisms responsible for detecting DNA defects and correcting or removing affected cells during periods of rapid prenatal development.

Autism is a highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder, yet the genetic underpinnings in the brain at young ages have remained largely unknown. Until now, few studies have been able to investigate whole-genome gene expression and genotype variation in the brains of young patients with autism, especially in regions such as the prefrontal cortex that display the greatest growth abnormality.

Scientists including co-first authors Maggie Chow, PhD, and Tiziano Pramparo, PhD, at UC San Diego identified abnormal brain gene expression patterns using whole-genome analysis of mRNA levels and copy number variations from 33 autistic and control postmortem brain samples. They found evidence of dysregulation in the pathways that govern cell number, cortical patterning and cell differentiation in the young autistic prefrontal cortex. In contrast, in adult patients with autism, the study found that this area of the brain shows dysregulation of signaling and repair pathways.

Our results indicate that gene expression abnormalities change across the lifespan in autism, and that dysregulated processes in the developing brain of autistic patients differ from those detected at adult ages, said Courchesne. The dysregulated genetic pathways we found at young ages in autism may underlie the excess of neurons and early brain overgrowth associated with this disorder.

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Gene Expression Abnormalities in Autism Identified

Neurodegenerative Disorders In Humans And Fruit Flies Caused By Same Gene Mutations

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Editor's Choice Academic Journal Main Category: Genetics Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience Article Date: 22 Mar 2012 - 6:00 PDT

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During an examination of various mutant fruit flies for defects leading to progressive degeneration of photoreceptors in the flies' eye, Vafa Bayat, a recent graduate from the Program in Developmental Biology at BCM and his team discovered mutations in the fruit fly gene that encode a mitochondrial enzyme called the mitochondrial methionyl-tRNA synthetase (Aats-met) that decreases life span and causes other problems, such as lower cell proliferation.

Mitochondria are sometimes described as "cellular power plants", due to the fact that they produce most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is used as a source of chemical energy. However, they are also involved in processes, such as signaling, cellular differentiation, cell death and regulating cell cycles and cell growth.

Defective genes that encode mitochondrial proteins are also known to implicate human metabolic and neurological disorders.

Dr. Bayat, and his team checked medical literature for genetic neurological disorders, which scientists thought were caused by defects in the region of the genome that contains the human version of the Aats-met gene, MARS2.

Dr. Bernard Brais and team had already mapped one such disease to this region of the genome, i.e. Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia with frequent Leukoencephalopathy (ARSAL). However they failed to identify the precise gene responsible. Ataxias, like ARSAL, are progressive neurodegenerative diseases, which amongst other problems cause coordination difficulties that result in modified gait and speech.

The Montreal team, led by Dr. Isabelle Thiffault, discovered that in ARSAL patients the genetic material of the MARS2 gene is comprehensively rearranged, which resulted in reduced levels of the MARS2 enzyme, reduced synthesis of proteins by the mitochondria, and impaired mitochondrial function. Similar to the fruit fly mutants, the patients' cells also displayed higher levels of reactive oxygen species that can cause damage to cells and their genetic material, as well as slow cell proliferation.

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Neurodegenerative Disorders In Humans And Fruit Flies Caused By Same Gene Mutations

Tweaking Samples for High-Speed Chemistry

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Tweaking Samples for High-Speed Chemistry

A nanoprinting technique can be used to modify millions of samples.

A new way to print, and modify, nanoscale molecular samples could mean faster drug discovery and scientific experimentation. Combinatorial chemistryexposing a huge array of slightly different molecules to samples in parallelis an extremely fast way to screen drug molecules, or to test the way certain molecules affect biological cells.

Researchers at the International Institute for Nanotechnology at Northwestern University, in Chicago, led by director Chad Mirkin, have devised a way to rapidly prepare the smallest type of combinatorial chemistry array. They tested the approach by exposing stem cells to different-sized samples of fibronectin, a protein that plays an important role in cell adhesion, growth, and differentiation. The researchers used a nanoprinting technique previously developed by Mirkin's group, called polymer pen lithography, that delivers samples to a substrate in parallel via the tips of millions of pyramid-shaped "pens."

The innovation was to tilt the array slightly as these molecules were deposited, so that the pyramids closest to the surface make more contact and leave more material, while those farthest away leave less. Mirkin and colleagues found that, by tilting an array just 0.01 degrees, they could create 25 million fibronectin deposits of different size and structure.

When they applied stem cells to the array, they found that the size of the fibronectin molecules controlled the differentiation of these cells. "In the experiment, we only adjusted the size," says Mirkin, whose group published their results in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science earlier this month

It may eventually be possible to change other features of samples, such as composition or shape, using the same technique. These are common features explored by drug companies, Mirkin says.

"The technique they developed is extremely powerful with the generation of a large number of features in parallel," says Bing Yan, director of the High-Throughput Analytical Chemistry Facility at St Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, who was not involved with the research. "The number alone is very impressive."

Along with drug testing, Yan says the approach could be used to test the reactivity of catalysts and the properties of new materials.

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Chemistry professor to speak on ionic liquids

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Dr. Keven Miller, Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Murray State University, addressed a talk on Adventures in Ionic Liquids: From Reactions to Solvents to Macromolecular Architectures to students, faculty, and members of the UT Martins Student Members of the American Chemical Society (SMACS) last Thursday.

Dr. Miller says, Ionic liquids are salts that exist in the liquids state. Typical salts (like sodium chloride - table salt) are highly crystalline and require extremely high temperatures to melt. Ionic liquids are poorly coordinated and the melting point is below 100 degrees Celcius, so they are not fully crystalline. Although ionic liquids have been around for nearly a century, the term ionic liquid has been accepted only within the last 15-20 years. Ionic liquids are used in a number of industrial processes such as acid scavenging and cellulose processing. More recently (last 10-15 years) ILs (ionic liquids) have been used more as greener replacements for volatile organic solvents in common organic reactions. Ionic liquids have negligible volatility, flammability and a lower toxicity profile. Some ionic liquids have even been shown to be biodegradable.

Dr. Miller goes on to name the four main classes of ionic liquids cations. They include ammonium, imidazolium, pyridinium, and phosphinium. Anions are not mentioned because they can vary widely.

Dr. Miller then explained the Michael Addition. The Michael Addition is a versatile, efficient method of forming new carbon-carbon bonds. According to Dr. Miller, base catalysts such as carbonate and bicarbonate can range from weak, to moderate, the amine group, to strong, the amides and hydrides groups.

The reactions are done in volatile toxic solvents. Dr. Millers interest on this topic of Michael Addition is how fast the reactions work and if a reaction will even occur. In model ionic liquids, changing the cation will effect the cation-anion interactions because the larger bulky anions tend to result weaker cation-anion interactions but improved organic solubility.

Dr. Miller tested the Michael Addition and found out it was successful. The reactions occurred faster than expected.

The reason for this enhanced rate is unclear but could be due to a number of different factors, says Dr. Miller.

Michael Additions proceeds well in ionic liquid solvents. Future studies for Dr. Miller in response to the Michael Addition is to pursue other anions with phosphonium cations.

Research interests include the applications of ionic liquids in organic and polymer/materials chemistry.

Senior Engineering major Jareth Embrey had this to say about Dr. Millers talk: Most people think research presentations are about a finished product, but this was really insightful for a work still in progress.

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Chemistry professor to speak on ionic liquids

Research and Markets: Supramolecular Polymer Chemistry

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DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Dublin - Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/b81e8458/supramolecular_pol) has announced the addition of John Wiley and Sons Ltd's new book "Supramolecular Polymer Chemistry" to their offering.

Presenting the work of pioneering experts in this exciting field of supramolecular polymer chemistry, this monograph covers an extensive range of applications, including drug delivery and catalysis. It focuses on new structures and phenomena of cyclodextrin-based supramolecular polymers and many other compound classes. While providing a deeper insight in macromolecular recognition and the mechanisms of living systems, this book also introduces fascinating novel phenomena beyond natural systems.

Key Topics Covered:

- Multiple Hydrogen-Bonded Supramolecular Polymers

- Cyclodextrin-Based Supramolecular Polymers

- Supra-Macromolecular Chemistry: Toward Design of New Organic Materials from Supramolecular Standpoints

- Polymerization with Ditopic Cavitand Monomers

- Polymers Containing Covalently Bonded and Supramolecularly Attached Cyclodextrins as Side Groups

- Antibody Dendrimers and DNA Catenanes

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Research and Markets: Supramolecular Polymer Chemistry

Research and Markets: Metal Chemistry of Porphyrinoids

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DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Dublin - Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/67961fb7/metal_chemistry_of) has announced the addition of John Wiley and Sons Ltd's new book "Metal Chemistry of Porphyrinoids" to their offering.

The examination of porphyrins and phthalocyanines and their metal complexes remains a pillar of the chemical sciences spanning fundamental chemistry and applications to biological chemistry and design of advanced materials. While the chemistry of the metalloporphyrins and metallophthalocyanines has been extensively explored, the metal chemistry of many of the analogs and isomers of the porphyrin macrocycle has only recently matured into a significant field.

With recent significant advances in the organic chemistry of aromatic polypyrrolic macrocycles, leading to the easy availability of porphyrin analogs and isomers, research into the metal chemistry of these compounds is allowing a deeper understanding of their role in biochemistry and the development of new molecules with exciting applications in medicine, catalysis, materials science, and sensors.

Metal Chemistry of Porphyrinoids summarizes these recent synthetic developments, particularly in respect of metallation strategies for freebase porphyrinoids, as well as progress towards applications in areas such as sensor and optical materials, catalysis and medicine. This reference summarizes those developments as well as progress towards a variety of applications which mirror the many uses of normal porphyrins and phthalocyanines.

Key Topics Covered:

- Chapter 1 Introduction

- Chapter 2 Metallation strategies for the porphryinoids

- Chapter 3 Isomeric porphyrins

- Chapter 4 Ring modified porphyrins

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Research and Markets: Metal Chemistry of Porphyrinoids

Cell Therapeutics and Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Hope for Help From the TREAT Act

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NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/22/12)- In recent years, smaller biotechnology companies have received less funding from venture capitalists than in years past. According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), roughly 61 percent of venture capitalists cite the FDA's challenging approval process as having the largest impact on their investment decisions. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Cell Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: CTIC - News) and Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: KERX - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/CTIC http://www.fivestarequities.com/KERX

A recent legislation, dubbed the TREAT Act, introduced by U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, D-N.C., accelerates the review and approval process for medicines that treat an unmet medical need or significantly advance the standard of care for people suffering from deadly diseases. The bill could bring a boost to smaller biotech firms that often struggle to bring drugs to market. But the legislation, which is now in committee, will likely meet resistance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), 61 percent of venture capitalists cite FDA regulatory challenges as having the highest impact on their investment decisions. Venture capitalists invested a total of $3.92 billion last year in biotechs of all stages. This figure was well below the $6.17 billion peak in 2007, according to VentureSource. And shares in biotechs that went public last year averaged 29% less than their expected midpoint offering price, according to investment bank Needham & Co.

Last year, 98 biotechs received venture funding for the first time, down from 141 in 2007, a MoneyTree report from PricewaterhouseCoopers said. The start-ups raised a total of $842 million in initial financings in 2011, down 19% from the 2007 total.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

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Cell Therapeutics and Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Hope for Help From the TREAT Act

BIO Praises Senate Passage of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act

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WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) applauds the Senate on the passage of H.R. 3606, the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act. The JOBS Act, which passed the Senate by a vote of 73-26, contains several provisions which would make the pathway to capital formation more attainable for small biotechnology companies, clearing the way for American innovation and ingenuity by removing bureaucratic hurdles and red tape to speed cures and medical breakthroughs to patients.

The JOBS Act creates an on-ramp to the public market for emerging growth companies, allowing them five years to focus on conducting critical research that can lead to cures for debilitating diseases before having to divert funds to costly regulations. Through this legislation, emerging growth companies would be exempt for their first five years on the public market from the compliance burdens of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Section 404(b), which SEC studies estimate cost companies up to $2 million per year. An on-ramp would ease certain accounting and disclosure requirements for a companys first five years. In addition, the legislation would:

BIO supports resolving the differences between the Senate- and House-passed versions of the JOBS Act and encourages lawmakers to work together to enact this important legislation into law.

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood made the following statement today:

BIO applauds passage of the JOBS Act and all efforts to incentivize and encourage capital formation for growing companies. This legislation would make capital formation easier for small, emerging biotechnology companies, speeding the development of new cures and treatments for patients living with debilitating diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinsons, and HIV/AIDS. Bringing such groundbreaking cures and treatments from bench to bedside is a long and arduous road, and biotechnology companies are at the forefront of the effort.

These reforms are especially important to innovative biotechnology companies that do not yet have product revenue and must spend investor dollars on compliance rather than the search for cures and breakthrough medicines, Greenwood explained.

It can take more than a decade to bring a new medicine from discovery, through Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III clinical trials, and on to FDA approval of a product, according to the Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development. The entire endeavor can cost more than $1.2 billion. Due to this capital-intensive process, biotech companies must cultivate a wide range of public and private investors to finance the early stages of development.

Greenwood went on to note, In addition to the R&D hurdles that biotechnology companies face on their search for cures and breakthrough medicines, biotech leaders must also deal with the day-to-day challenges of running a small business with the hopes of one day entering the public market. Of great import in the biotechnology industry is the constant struggle to find working capital.

If burdens on public financing were removed, private investors would have greater certainty that the companies they help take public will have the chance to succeed. This confidence hopefully will lead to increased investments in promising science that could lead to treatments and cures for some of the most debilitating and life-threatening diseases.

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BIO Praises Senate Passage of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act

BIO Opens Nominations for 2012 Biotech Humanitarian Award

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WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) announced today that it is accepting nominations for the fourth annual Biotech Humanitarian Award. As in years past, the Award will be given to an individual who has harnessed the potential of biotechnology to heal, fuel or feed the planet.

The individuals behind the biggest ideas in biotechnology are discovering ground-breaking technologies to address some of the most complex health, environmental and sustainability challenges facing our world today, said BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood. The Biotech Humanitarian Award is our way of saying thank you to the biotech innovators who are working on the frontlines to find cures for diseases and make peoples lives and the life of our planet better every day.

The Humanitarian Award honors work that aims to reduce human suffering significantly, enhance the human experience in a way that has a clear and direct benefit to society or improves the health of our planet Additional consideration will be given to approaches that are at a turning point and may potentially have immeasurable influence.

Last years Honoree was Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine advocate who serves as the Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases and the Director of the Vaccine Education Center at The Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Offit was presented the Humanitarian Award in recognition of his 25 years spent dedicated to developing RotaTeq, one of the main vaccines currently used to fight rotavirus, a disease that is the leading cause of severe, dehydrating diarrhea in infants and young children.

The Award and a prize of $10,000 will be presented at the 2012 BIO International Convention, in Boston, MA on June 18-21, 2012. Nominations are open to all individuals and can be accessed here. Nominees will be evaluated and judged on the following criteria: Impact on future generations; Impact on contemporary society; Contribution to the field of biotechnology; and Level of innovation exhibited.

Qualified nominees for the Biotech Humanitarian Award will be professionals in the biotechnology field including scientists, researchers, academics, entrepreneurs, financiers, philanthropists, educators, advocates and others who have added value to society through their pursuit of biotechnology processes.

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.

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BIO Opens Nominations for 2012 Biotech Humanitarian Award

TREAT Act Poised to Revolutionize the Biotechnology Industry

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NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/22/12)- In recent years, smaller biotechnology companies have received less funding from venture capitalists than in years past. According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), roughly 61 percent of venture capitalists cite the FDA's challenging approval process as having the largest impact on their investment decisions. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Avanir Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: AVNR - News) and Zalicus Inc. (NASDAQ: ZLCS - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/AVNR http://www.fivestarequities.com/ZLCS

A recent legislation, dubbed the TREAT Act, introduced by U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, D-N.C., accelerates the review and approval process for medicines that treat an unmet medical need or significantly advance the standard of care for people suffering from deadly diseases. The bill could bring a boost to smaller biotech firms that often struggle to bring drugs to market. But the legislation, which is now in committee, will likely meet resistance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), 61 percent of venture capitalists cite FDA regulatory challenges as having the highest impact on their investment decisions. Venture capitalists invested a total of $3.92 billion last year in biotechs of all stages. This figure was well below the $6.17 billion peak in 2007, according to VentureSource. And shares in biotechs that went public last year averaged 29% less than their expected midpoint offering price, according to investment bank Needham & Co.

Last year, 98 biotechs received venture funding for the first time, down from 141 in 2007, a MoneyTree report from PricewaterhouseCoopers said. The start-ups raised a total of $842 million in initial financings in 2011, down 19% from the 2007 total.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

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TREAT Act Poised to Revolutionize the Biotechnology Industry

The Hertz Foundation Nears Half-Century Milestone; Selects 50th Cadre of Hertz Fellows; Quarter Million Dollar Support …

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LIVERMORE, Calif., March 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation today announced its 2012 Hertz Fellows. From over 600 applicants, 15 were selected to receive the Hertz Fellowship, considered to be the nation's most generous support for graduate education in the applied physical, biological and engineering sciences. The Hertz Fellowship is valued at more than $250,000 per student, with support lasting up to five years. Fellows have the freedom to innovate in their doctoral studies without university or research restrictions.

"We are pleased to announce this year's selection," stated Dr. Jay Davis, Hertz Foundation President, "and we make this announcement with equal amounts of excitement and resolve. We are committed to increasing the number of Fellows we can support each year. This, our 50th cadre of Fellows, was picked from such an outstanding field of applicants that we could easily have chosen thirty, had resources been available to us. We are approaching philanthropists in education in a recapitalization initiative that will eventually allow us to support a larger fraction of our country's top one percent in these disciplines."

For nearly a half century, the Hertz Foundation has fostered the scientific and engineering strength of the nation by finding the best and brightest from those disciplines. During the past decade, there has been a major shift of the candidates towards those who apply physical and computational tools to the problems of biomedicine and health. Significantly, another shift of the Hertz Foundation has been to support the Hertz Fellows to build the Hertz Fellows Community for all ages to gather together, inspire one another and collaborate for innovation that further augments the powerful contribution they bring to society.

"We invest in young people who will solve our most daunting problems," stated Dr. Davis. "These men and women show extraordinary promise. They join the community of leaders who produce advances in science, medicine, technology, business, academia and government. Scientists and engineers are only 4% of the U.S. workforce but they account for up to 85% of the GDP. The top 1% is responsible for 90% of important discoveries. We believe their creativity and risk-taking bring forth innovation for the technical and economic security of our nation."

Hertz Fellows pursue their own ideas with complete financial independence and under the guidance of some of the country's finest professors and mentors. Fellows are chosen for their intellect, their ingenuity and their potential to bring meaningful improvement to society. The highly competitive selection process includes a comprehensive written application, four references, and two rounds of technical interviews by recognized leaders in applied science and engineering.

"The Hertz Foundation nurtures these remarkable scientists and engineers as they develop and explore their genius," continued Dr. Davis. "We help genius find itself."

Visit: http://www.hertzfoundation.org

The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation 2012 Hertz Fellows

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The Hertz Foundation Nears Half-Century Milestone; Selects 50th Cadre of Hertz Fellows; Quarter Million Dollar Support ...

Literary: Focusing on graphic novels, fantasy and horror stories

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Road to Peace (means abolishing war)

The Forum of Questioning Minds presents a lecture from Andy Schoenberg, professor of bioengineering and rehab medicine at the University of Utah. In 2002 he received the Gandhi Peace Award for his work in promoting peace and human rights. His presentation, "Road to Peace Abolish War?", will look at the causes of war and the steps individuals and nations can take to establish a more just and peaceful world.

When Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m.

Where Main Library, 210 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City

Info Free

Drawing up a story

The Orem Public Library will host a graphic-novel panel as part of the Librarys Orem Writes event series. Panelists include Nate Hale, acclaimed illustrator of Rapunzels Revenge; Jake Parker, illustrator of Missile Mouse and Michael Chabons Awesome Man; Jess Smiley, writer and illustrator of Upside Down: A Vampire Tale; and Brandon Dayton, writer/illustrator of Green Monk, one of YALSAs top 10 Great Teen Graphic Novels of 2011. They will discuss the art and writing behind some of todays hottest graphic novels.

When Wednesday, March 28, at 7 p.m.

Where Orem Library, 58 N. State St.

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Literary: Focusing on graphic novels, fantasy and horror stories

Alligator cells prevail possible human medicine

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Mark Merchant, biochemistry professor at McNeese State University, spoke with Leesville High School students Tuesday to discuss his ongoing research project investigating naturally occurring antibacterial peptides in alligators to uncover a new class of antibiotics. Merchant said he was first interested in this research when he noticed alligators who sustained serious injuries, such as a missing limb or tail, would not only heal rapidly, but also without any infections. So he set out to investigate in marshes to collect blood samples from crocodilians, which includes all alligator, crocodile and caiman species, to study their tissue and immune systems. After extracting the white blood cells, Merchant infused them with bacteria and discovered holes where it did not grow, proving there is something inside their white blood cells that kill bacteria. Merchant derived the term Zone of Inhibition to explain the area where bacteria cannot grow as well as measure the zone towards a variety of bacteria. After experimenting with different bacteria such as pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterial found in soil, and citrobacter freundii and escherichia coli, bacteria found in humans, the white blood cells attacked and killed both. The reason he found this interesting he said, was because alligators' immune systems fought off bacteria, viruses and fungi they had never been exposed to. Another remarkable discovery he said, was that the cells also killed bacteria called candida albicans, yeast infections, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), staff infections, which claim numerous lives every year. He stated since humans are dying from these infections and alligator white blood cells are killing them, then they might be able to develop antibacterial, anti-viral or anti-fungal drugs for human medicine. "The way we think it works is that the outer coat of bacteria gives off a negative charge and the white blood cells give off a positive charge," he said. "So when opposites attract, the cells tear a hole in the membrane and therefore kills the bacteria." Merchant said his is really excited now that his research team has isolated these proteins and have determined their structure and now are trying to synthesize them. Students at LHS were surprised by a certain visitor Merchant brought with him; a four-year-old alligator. As the students exited the auditorium, they had the opportunity to touch and feel the texture of the alligator. Donell Evans, head of science department at LHS, said by having Merchant speak with the students, they hope to help them understand what's being offered outside of high school in terms of science related jobs and careers. Also, they are trying to bring more awareness to the Science, Technology, Engineer and Mathematics (STEM) programs that were recently introduced to Vernon Parish. The students in her AP biology class were so captivated with Merchant's research that they asked to discuss it more in depth during Friday's class. "I just think having a Louisiana college like McNeese State University being on the forefront with new antibiotics is amazing," Evans said. Merchant's researched has been funded by several grants including a four-year Research Competitiveness Subprogram grant from the Louisiana Board of Regents, EPSCoR travel grants to speak at five national and international conferences, EPSCoR Links with Industry and National Labs (LINK) grant to travel to Argentina as well as most recently, a grant from National Geographic.

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Alligator cells prevail possible human medicine

FCX-DNA – New DNA Specific Cosmetic Line Targets the Unique 1% of DNA. FCX-DNA to Announce the Forthcoming Diet …

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FCX-DNA New DNA Specific Cosmetic Line Targets the Unique 1% of DNA. FCX-DNA to Announce the Forthcoming Diet Products. Your Skin Your Body Your Genes

FCX-DNA anti aging Cosmetics and Diet Products target that 1% uniqueness of the Human DNA. Your Skin Your Body Your Genes.

FCX-DNA has the exclusive marketing rights to market and sell the products.

Creating the vision of FCX-DNA is the newly appointed CEO, Founder and President Sandra Harshman.

Ms. Harshman, one of the first female accountants in Idaho has worked as a tax accountant and comptroller for companies such as Touche Ross & Company and Pepsi Cola Corporation. Ms. Harshman was an MSP (merchant service provider) and Credit Card Issuer for 17 years. Ms. Harshman is the recipient of the National Business Women of the Year Award in 2003 as well as a publisher and author.

These DNA products offer potent nutrient blends of vitamins, minerals and other natural extracts to delay skin aging, protect skin from DNA damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants, prevent premature skin aging, stimulate skin cell regeneration, and provide optimal skin nourishing and moisturizing.

FCX designed DNA testing called Anti-Aging DNA to detect gene mutations affecting skin aging, nutrient metabolism, and susceptibility to disease which affects both the appearance of skin and general health status. FCX learns about each persons genetic profile and can recommend appropriate preventive measures to delay the onset of aging and the formation of wrinkles. Genes tested are related to dermagenomics, collagen synthesis, skin anti-oxidation and replenishment, early hair loss, and skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and melanoma.

FCXs skin and body care is a regiment consisting of shampoo, conditioner, soaps and cleansers, as well as products for detoxifying, cell renewal and anti-aging.

The science behind these remarkable new products, developed by Burstein Ecological Laboratories - a leading research laboratory in natural cosmetics - is Bio Anti-Aging Technology. This progressive technology is the micronized process of ingredients, breaking them down to their smallest living particle for ultimate delivery allowing for the best results in skin care, hair care, and nutrition.

After years of study, research and data collection, Dr. Burstein developed a process to extract the essence from organically grown fruits and vegetables without harming its texture or genetics.

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FCX-DNA – New DNA Specific Cosmetic Line Targets the Unique 1% of DNA. FCX-DNA to Announce the Forthcoming Diet ...