Monthly Archives: July 2012

Two If By T: Best MBTA-Accessible Beaches Around Boston

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(photo credit: Thinkstock)

So, sitting in Cape Cod traffic isnt your thing? Good news. There are some great beaches around Boston you can get to without even having to set foot in a car. Paul Revere never had to pay for parking, so why should you? (Theres your tie-in to the title.) Thats why we came up with the list of best beaches accessible by MBTA.

Singing Beach in Manchester-By-The-Sea (credit: singingbeach.com)

119 Beach Street Manchester By The Sea, MA 01944 Line: Rockport Stop: Manchester Distance To Beach: 0.5 miles Cost: $8.75 for a one way ticket. $5 beach walk on fee.

Non-resident parking can be almost impossible to come by at Singing Beach. When you set foot on the soft white sands, youll understand why. The sands do actually sing (learn about it here). The beach is immaculate, the views are breathtaking, and the amenities (changing rooms, restrooms, etc.) make life a little bit easier.

The North Shore cycling option: The MBTA runs a special bike train on weekends in the summer. Its a short ride (but a long walk) to a number of gorgeous beaches in Gloucester, Rockport, or Newburyport.

(Photo Credit: Mass.gov)

Hull Shore Drive Hull, MA 02045 Line: Greenbush Line Stop: Nantasket Distance to beach: 2-3 miles

The South Shore is tough if you want to walk to the beach. Everything is about a couple miles away. So why not ride? Bikes are allowed on all commuter rail trains during off-peak hours. And the Greenbush Line has a special cycle train running on weekends. Nantasket is one of the South Shores most popular beaches. Its great for activities. Nantasket is close to mini golfing, a carousel, an arcade, ice cream places, restaurants, and plenty more. You can also lock up the bike, rent a kayak and do a little cross-training.

(Photo: Carson Beach) credit: Elizabeth Evans

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Two If By T: Best MBTA-Accessible Beaches Around Boston

All Evanston Beaches Closed Due To High Bacteria Levels

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(credit: Scott Olson/Getty Images)

EVANSTON, Ill. (CBS) The City of Evanston has closed all of its lakefront beaches for the day, after water tests showed dangerous levels of E. coli bacteria.

The five public beaches in Evanston at South Boulevard, Lee Street, Greenwood Street, Clark Street and Lighthouse beaches are all closed. Only the dog beach at Church Street remains open.

Northwestern University also operates a private beach, which is also closed.

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The City of Evanston tests the water daily at all the beaches daily. When E. coli counts exceed 235 CFU, or chloroform forming units, it is likely that bacteria are forming colonies in the water.

On Wednesday, the samples showed counts to between 238 and 800 CFU at Evanston beaches.

E. coli occur naturally in the fecal waste of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Some strains can be harmful, and they can indicate the presence of other disease-causing bacteria.

A variety of factors can cause E. coli pollution, including illegal sewer connections or discharges, malfunctioning sewer systems, storm runoff after rainfall, or even swimmers pooping in the lake, the City of Evanston said.

The bacteria will dissipate as a result of natural die-off, wind and wave action, or ultraviolet light from the sun. It usually takes 24 hours, but the timeframe is unpredictable, the City of Evanston said.

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All Evanston Beaches Closed Due To High Bacteria Levels

Blue-Green Algae Closes Some Texoma Beaches

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flickr/Robert Nunnally

Eisenhower State Park, near Lake Texoma on the Texas-Oklahoma border.

Visitors are no longer allowed on the sand at some Lake Texoma beaches.

Beaches on the Bryan County, Okla., side of Lake Texoma are closed due to an advisory about blue-green algae bloom.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers detected the bloom around the Burns Run East and West areas and closed the associated beaches. The closure only pertains to the designated swim beaches.

The algae blooms are more likely to occur when water levels are low and temperatures are high.

The blue-green algae can cause skin irritation and intestinal or respiratory problems in humans. Additionally, it can prove deadly to pets if they drink too much of the water where the algae is present.

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Blue-Green Algae Closes Some Texoma Beaches

On sweltering day, high bacteria levels close all Evanston beaches

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SUN-TIMES MEDIA July 25, 2012 11:40AM

Updated: July 25, 2012 8:16PM

Evanston health officials have closed all five city public beaches to swimming for Wednesday as a result of high bacterial counts, the city said.

The city tests on the water from the five beaches, one dog beach and Northwestern Universitys beach on a daily basis. The samples take 18 hours in an incubator to test. When E. coli counts exceed 235 chloroform forming units, an indicator of bacterial colonies in the water, the Evanston Health Department closes the beach.

Sample results for Wednesday indicated a count of 238 to about 800 CFU at Evanston beaches, the city said.

Factors such as natural die-off, wind and wave action, and ultraviolet light from the sun will help to reduce the level of bacteria. The length of time this takes is unpredictable, but it is usually less than 24 hours, the city said.

The water needs to be resampled before the beaches will be allowed to reopen.

Residents who want to check beach status for Evanston beaches in advance have several options. They can call the lakefront operations recorded message at (847) 859-7822 or check the citys beach status page at http://www.cityofevanston.org. Starting this season, beach patrons also are able to sign up for text or email alerts from that page.

Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria live in the digestive systems of humans and other warm-blooded animals, so they are found in sewage and other wastewater. Most strains are not harmful, but some are, and they can indicate the presence of other disease-causing bacteria, the city said.

E. coli can cause gastroenteritis-type illnesses that come with symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache and low-grade fever. Skin rashes and earaches also may be experienced.

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On sweltering day, high bacteria levels close all Evanston beaches

17-Year-Old Google Science Fair Winner Builds Artificial Brain to Diagnose Breast Cancer

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Innovation sometimes comes from strange places, even the unexpectedly young. Wenger is a 17-year-old who has won the grand prize at Google Science Fair 2012, for an amazing use of artificial intelligence. The whiz kid from Florida has created an artificial brain for assessing signs of breast cancer, providing more confidence to a minimally invasive procedure.

I came across artificial intelligence and was just enthralled. I went home the next day and bought a programming book and decided that was what I was going to teach myself to do, Wenger said.

Thousands of entries were received in the Google online science fair from around 100 countries, out of which Google picked 15 finalists. Wengers project uses artificial intelligence and neural networks to allow doctors use the minimally invasive procedure, called Fine Needle Aspirate and simplify the process of examining tissues or lumps. What motivated Wenger to develop this technology is her keen interest in artificial intelligence and a zeal to help cure breast cancer patients in a timely manner, especially because one of her family members also suffers from this affliction.

I taught the computer how to diagnose breast cancer. And this is really important because currently the least invasive form of biopsy is actually the least conclusive, so a lot of doctors cant use them. Early detection is really important. And that is what Im trying to do with my neural network, noted Wenger.

Wenger created a neural network with Java and deployed it to the cloud. She ran 7.6 million trials and discovered 99.1 percent sensitivity to malignancy. According to her, the project is ready to be used by hospitals. With minor coding and some data trials, it can be used for other medical problems and cancer types as well. For this accomplishment, Google has awarded the little whiz with $50,000 in scholarship money, an internship with a fair sponsor and a 10-day trip to the Galapagos Islands.

[Image Credit: Google.]

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17-Year-Old Google Science Fair Winner Builds Artificial Brain to Diagnose Breast Cancer

Park Electrochemical Corp. Announces Appointment of Steve Pittari as Vice President-Aerospace

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MELVILLE, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Park Electrochemical Corp. (NYSE-PKE) announced the appointment of Steve Pittari as Vice President-Aerospace of the Company. In this new position, Mr. Pittari will be responsible for the Companys aerospace activities globally. Mr. Pittari will continue to serve as President of the Companys Park Aerospace Technologies Corp. aerospace advanced composite materials, parts and assemblies manufacturing and design business unit located in Newton, Kansas. Mr. Pittari will continue to report to Brian Shore, the President and CEO of Park Electrochemical Corp.

Prior to his appointment as President of Park Aerospace Technologies Corp. in March 2012, Mr. Pittari had been Senior Director of Manufacturing Engineering of Park Electrochemical Corp. since January 2011. He joined Park Electrochemical Corp. in December 2010 as Director of OEM Program Management. Prior to joining Park, Mr. Pittari was Chief Operating Officer of Sonostics, Inc., an early stage medical device manufacturing company, located in Binghamton, New York since April 2009. Prior to April 2009, Mr. Pittari held management positions with Sanmina-SCI Corporation, a leading electronics contract manufacturing services company. From June 2001 to April 2009, Mr. Pittari was Vice President and General Manager of Sanmina-SCI Owego; from January 1999 to June 2001, he was Managing Director of Sanmina Kuching; and from October 1996 to January 1999, he was Director of Operations of Sanmina Kuching. During the twelve years prior to 1996, Mr. Pittari held several positions with AMP-AKZO, Zycon Corporation and Photocircuits Corporation. Mr. Pittari received a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Polytechnic Institute of New York and a Master of Business Administration degree from San Jose State University.

Park Electrochemical Corp. is a global advanced materials company which develops and manufactures high-technology digital and RF/microwave printed circuit materials principally for the telecommunications and internet infrastructure and high-end computing markets and advanced composite materials, parts and assemblies for the aerospace markets. Parks core capabilities are in the areas of polymer chemistry formulation and coating technology. The Companys manufacturing facilities are located in Singapore, France, Connecticut, Kansas, Arizona and California. The Company also maintains R & D facilities in Arizona, Kansas and Singapore.

Additional corporate information is available on the Companys web site at http://www.parkelectro.com

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Park Electrochemical Corp. Announces Appointment of Steve Pittari as Vice President-Aerospace

Physicians join Lee Memorial Health System medical staff

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Lee Memorial Health System is pleased to announce the following physicians joined our medical staff during the month of June:

- Amanda J. Avila, M.D. Neurology obtained her medical degree at the University of Vermont College of Medicine. She completed an Internal Medicine Internship and Neurology Residency at Rhode Island Hospital and a Movement Disorder Fellowship at the University of Florida. She is certified in Neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has joined Florida Neurology Group.

- Alfonso Garcia-Bello, M.D. Internal Medicine obtained his medical degree at The Higher Institute of Medical Sciences of Havana. He completed an Internal Medicine Residency at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center. Dr. Garcia-Bello has joined Cape Coral Hospitalists.

- Douglas J. Gottschalk, D.O. Pediatric Otolaryngology obtained his degree at Des Moines University of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a General Surgery Internship at Via Christi Riverside Medical Center, A Surgery Residency at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center, Lackland AFB and a Pediatric Otolaryngology Fellowship at Arkansas Children's Hospital. Dr. Gottschalk is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and has joined Lee Physician Group.

- Cindy J. Harris, D.O. Family Practice obtained her degree at the University of New England. She completed a Rotating Internship and Family Medicine Residency at Wilson Memorial Regional Medical Center. She is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and has joined Hope HealthCare.

- Alejandro J. Miranda-Sousa, M.D. Urology obtained his medical degree at the University Peruana Cayetano Heredia. He completed a General Surgery Internship, Urology Residency and Neurourology & Urodynamics Fellowship at the University of South Florida. Dr. Miranda-Sousa is certified by the American Board of Urology and has joined Gulfstream Urology.

- Houtan Sareh, M.D. Pulmonary Medicine obtained his medical degree at the University of Miami School of Medicine. He completed an Internal Medicine/Pediatric Internship and Internal Medicine Residency at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Hospital; a Sleep Medicine Fellowship at Mount Sinai medical Center and a Pulmonary Medicine/Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dr. Sareh is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease and Sleep Medicine and has joined LPG Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine.

- Jennifer A. Springer, M.D. Emergency Medicine obtained her medical degree at Temple University School of Medicine. She completed an Emergency Medicine Residency at the Medical College of Pennsylvania. She is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine and has joined Lee Convenient Care.

- Leonid B. Trost, M.D. Dermatology obtained his medical degree at Ohio State University. He completed a Dermatology Residency and Mohs Surgery Fellowship at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Trost is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a solo practitioner.

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Tracing the nano-landscape

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Mumbai, July 25:

How big is small? Nano technologies are igniting innovations across the world. And tracing this nanoscape the complex pathways from nanoventing to the commercialisation of nanovations is the book Nanotechnology Intellectual Property Rights: Research, Design, and Commercialization.

The inclusive nature of nanotechnology gives it a very special status as it mothers innovations to deliver inventions in nanobiotechnology, nanostructures, nanocomposites, nanomedicine, nanotaggants for security systems, nanoelectronics, nanodevices etc, according to excerpts from the book written by intellectual property experts Dr Prabuddha Ganguli and Dr Siddharth Jabade. The book is slated for launch in Hyderabad this week.

Nanotechnology allows scientists to dabble at the small, building-block atomic or molecular level. And while the technology is not without its sceptics, a section of the scientific community believes that nanotechnology would help develop break-through newer applications in several fields.

Illustrating this nano-inclusiveness, the authors say, the protection of intellectual property is important to the nanotechnology industry because of its complex knowledge matrix.

Driving the nano to success will require cross-disciplinary expertise to contemplate, foresee and address as many social, legal including intellectual property rights, cultural, ethical, religious, philosophical and political implications of the nanoworld, tomorrow and the days after, the book says.

The book caters to a diverse readership that may not have an insight into the legal nuances of IP rights, and it seeks to articulate techno-legal aspects of nano-related innovations, illustrated with case-studies, to aid integration into businesses, says Dr Ganguli.

The book is published by the CRC Press (Taylor and Francis Group), USA, and priced in India at Rs 2,943.

jyothi@thehindu.co.in

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Tracing the nano-landscape

Government resists calls for nano-materials register

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The ABC's revelations that some sunscreen brands are inaccurately promoting themselves as nanotechnology-free have prompted calls for better regulation of nano-materials.

But the push for a mandatory register has suffered a blow, with a Federal Government report labelling it questionable.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is among those calling for a register, saying the potential risks posed by nano-particles are still unknown.

Nanotechnology is the science of reducing the size of particles to just billionths of a metre.

Nano-particles can be found in many products and materials such as sunscreen, cosmetics, food and clothing.

The Federal Government recently released a study it commissioned to look at the feasibility of a mandatory nanotechnology product register.

The study concluded: "It is clear that some nano-materials behave differently to bulk-form materials and there are associated health, safety and environmental risks."

"However the challenge presented by nanotechnology can be met through existing regulatory frameworks.

"It is therefore difficult to see a nano-products register delivering a net benefit to the community. The feasibility of a nano-product registry is questionable."

But groups pushing for a register disagree.

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Government resists calls for nano-materials register

W&M, Eastern Virginia Medical School may join forces

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WILLIAMSBURG Pre-med students at the College of William & Mary might be able to stay with their alma matter for medical school.

The college will consider merging with Eastern Virginia Medical School to create the W&M School of Medicine, the schools announced in a joint statement Wednesday.

Any action would require approval of the university's board of visitors, the governor and the General Assembly, President Taylor Reveley said in a letter to the campus community.

A group led by the provost will explore the possible merger with the Norfolk-based medical school, which Reveley said is "worth careful consideration."

"EVMS is an institution we know and respect," he said. "Many W&M graduates have gone to medical school there. And there has been productive research collaboration between the two schools."

W&M currently offers an early-assurance program that allows pre-med students to apply to EVMS the spring of their sophomore year.

The provost-led group tasked with exploring the merger will include faculty and administrators, said W&M spokesman Brian Whitson.

Wednesday's statement noted that the talks are exclusive, which Whitson said is standard practice in such situations.

That drew disappointment from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, where President John Broderick sent a letter to campus saying the discussion should be broadened to include ODU and others.

ODU was already eyeing a union with EVMS, he said, noting that a study about the two schools possibly merging was proposed but tabled at this year's General Assembly session.

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W&M, Eastern Virginia Medical School may join forces

EDITORIAL: W&M Medical School

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That certainly has a nice ring to it, if it comes to pass. The news broke Wednesday that the College of William & Mary is in preliminary talks with Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk for some sort of merger that would rename the school.

The undergraduate and graduate science programs compel the college as a logical choice over other universities. For years, W&M has had a famous pre-med program that placed applicants at med schools all over the nation. Indeed, an early-admit program lets sophomores commit to EVMS as they continue toward their undergraduate degree. W&M President Taylor Reveley talked about a productive research collaboration between both institutions.

Wednesdays announcement had a big surprise element, as if to head off objections from Old Dominion University and Hampton University for missing the thrown bouquet. A merger by ODU came up last winter at the General Assembly, to no avail. Merger would seem to make more sense for ODU since the proximity is much greater.

This raises several questions.

What are the local implications? If all they do is rename the place, it would seem greater Williamsburg would miss out on substantial educational and economic benefits. If, however, a remote campus develops, the vacated land in back of Eastern State Hospital would be the obvious choice. The community group Crossroads identified the acreage for mixed use and research, so it would be perfect.

What are the state implications? The General Assembly has famously stripped state funding from William & Mary to a point where it comprises around 12% of the operating budget. If the Commonwealth underwrites a medical school, that percentage would go up, but only artificially so. The upshot is a wash for the rest of the college, except for prestige.

Is that all there is, prestige? ODU was once an extension school of William & Mary, and that worked out well. The prestige of a medical school connection would enhance the already-vaunted reputation of the college.

What are the cost implications? Medical schools are expensive to operate, so much so that they can drain a university. Close to home, Georgetown was lucky to sell its medical school some years ago and get out from under. William & Mary does not need a millstone, especially if it comes with operating deficits of millions or tens of millions.

Who decides? The legislature and the governor will make the call. This could become the next political football in the 2013 session, a major distraction just when Virginias public universities need more state funding for undergraduate schools. If a medical school sucks up all the oxygen (and money!), it will not serve us well.

Is this a done deal? Not hardly, according to official statements. But its fair to say things are pretty far along if the college is going public with the idea. It doesnt seem like the faculty have been consulted as a formal group, but surely the science profs are in the loop.

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EDITORIAL: W&M Medical School

EVMS may become W&M School of Medicine

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WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (WAVY) - The Eastern Virginia Medical School is exploring the option of becoming the William & Mary School of Medicine, according to the college.

In a statement issued by both the College of William & Mary and the Easter Virginia Medical School, the possible change must be carefully investigated before a decision is made. The length of the process is unknown.

William & Mary President Taylor Reveley sent the following message Tuesday:

Later today we will issue a joint statement with Eastern Virginia Medical School saying that both institutions will take a long, hard look at whether EVMS should become the William & Mary School of Medicine.

There are miles to go and much information to be developed and studied before either W&M or EVMS will be ready to make a decision, one way or the other. Any such combination would require approval by the College's Board of Visitors as well as the Governor and General Assembly.

It will be important to engage the W&M community in consideration of this possibility. To that end,I will ask a group, led by the Provost, to pull the laboring oar on our due diligence.

In my view, the EVMS possibility is worth careful consideration. EVMS is an institution we know and respect. Many W&M graduates have gone to medical school there. And there has been productive research collaboration between the two schools.

Whether asking for state approval of this combination will ultimately prove to be in our best interests, all factors considered, is what we must now carefully determine. The same, obviously, is true of EVMS from its perspective.

If the choice is made to proceed, the General Assembly and Governor will have to approve.

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EVMS may become W&M School of Medicine

This Is Why People Join The Church Of Scientology

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Since Katie Holmes filed for a divorce against Tom Cruise, we've run a series of stories on life inside the Church of Scientology, including its real estate empire and the remote location where church leader David Miscavige's wife may be living in secret.

But we haven't examined why people join the secretive church in the first place, and why they stay (even after they've been kept in one of Scientology's informal prisons).

We spoke to Steve Hall, a former Scientologist who wrote speeches and TV scripts for Scientology leader David Miscavige for years, about why he stayed despite the grueling nature of his experience.

Basically, he told us, Scientology is a philosophy of rational self-inquiry akin to Buddhism, in that it requires an investigation and a reckoning with one's own demons and desires.

Many people find it incredibly helpful.

Here's Hall's explanation of the benefits of Scientology, which we've edited lightly for length and clarity:

Scientology is a body of know-how that is supposed to enable a person to make rational decisions in life you review that area and come to a better direction. It's rationality, but it's a bit more codified. They're really tools that help you look at a given area and come to an understanding.

Founder L. Ron Hubbard was an investigator. He wanted to know what made people tick. What was the cause of the problems they had? He found a human being has a spiritual component and the spirit has memories of prior existences, and by all the evidence he has past lives. You were somebody in 1812 or 1740. The information is there to be mined from a person's own memory. When a person dies he's not gone. They simply go and pick up a new body and start over.

It explains deja vu. It explains talent. How can such great artists have talent from such a young age? A person is more than just flesh and bones. They're actually an immortal human spirit, so that's very good news. So Hubbard developed methods, [just like] the Buddhists ask questions. Why does the tree grow?

But it's structured and it's called auditing. It's done in a safe environment and the counselor has a code of conduct. The auditor does not tell the person what to think and does not tell them what to say. He just guides them on a path of self discovery. And once you've experienced it you want more, because it helps you become a better person. You're able to open up new lines of communications with people you were afraid to talk to before. The shy kids who can't talk to girls can suddenly get up the nerve, that's the good side.

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This Is Why People Join The Church Of Scientology

University of Utah chemist receives prestigious award

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SALT LAKE CITY University of Utah chemistry professor Peter Stang has been named as the 2013 receipient of the Priestley Medal, the highest honor given by the American Chemical Society.

In addition to receiving the medal, Stang and U. professor Henry White were inducted as fellows of the American Chemical Society the world's largest scientific group with 164,000 members.

"I am truly delighted and honored to receive this most prestigious American Chemical Society award," Stang said in a prepared statement. "It's humbling to be listed among the distinguished previous recipients."

Stang has served as a member of the U. faculty for more than 40 years, according to the university. For the past 20 years, he has pioneered the field of supramolecular chemistry.

Last year, Stang was ranked 69th on a list of the world's top 100 chemists by Times Higher Education in Britain. Also in 2011, Stang was honored by President Barack Obama at the White House as a winner of the National Medal of Science, the highest U.S. honor for a scientist or engineer.

Stang was elected to membership in the National Academy of Sciences in 2000 and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2002, according to U. officials.

"I am exceedingly proud of Peter and this is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to chemistry," U. President David Pershing said in a prepared statement. "He is absolutely committed to the highest research standards and the best education for his students."

Benjamin Wood

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University of Utah chemist receives prestigious award

U. of Utah’s Peter Stang garners nation’s top honor for chemistry

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(Courtesy photo) University of Utah professor of chemistry Peter Stang, recipient of the 2013 Priestley Medal, the American Chemical Society's highest honor.

U. of Us Peter Stang garners nations top honor for chemistry

University of Utah chemistry professor Peter Stang has earned one of the nations highest honors for a scientist, with the American Chemical Society (ACS) awarding him the 2013 Priestley Medal in recognition of his lifetime achievements in organic chemistry.

The society, the worlds largest scientific group with 164,000 members, highlighted Stangs advances in "supramolecular chemistry," which involves the spontaneous formation of large, complex molecules from pre-designed, simple molecules that Stang compares with building blocks in a Lego toy set. A 43-year faculty member, Stang draws inspiration from Utahs Bryce Canyon in his efforts to understand how organic molecules assemble themselves.

"Nature uses self-assembly because its a very efficient way to build the molecules that are essential for living organisms," he said in a video about his research. "I make small molecules so the pieces recognize each other and come together the right way to make much more complex molecules."

These molecules could lead to targeted drug delivery and improved oil refining, among other technological advances.

"I am exceedingly proud of Peter, and this is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to chemistry," said U. President David Pershing, a long-time chemical engineer at the university, in a statement. "He is absolutely committed to the highest research standards and the best education for his students."

Only a few months ago, President Barack Obama awarded Stang the National Medal of Science. The Priestley medal was established in 1922 in honor of 18th-century theologian Joseph Priestley, the scientist who discovered the element oxygen. It is regarded as the highest honor for U.S. chemists.

At least seven Priestley winners in the past 40 years have also won Nobel Prizes. The current Priestley honoree is MITs Robert Langer, a nanotechnology pioneer, while the U.s Henry Eyring won the honor in 1975.

This year, the ASC also inducted Stang and U. department chairman Henry White as fellows. Stang credited his students and post-doctorate students who actually carried out his experiments over the years.

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U. of Utah’s Peter Stang garners nation’s top honor for chemistry

U. of U’s Peter Stang garners nation’s top honor for chemistry

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(Courtesy photo) University of Utah professor of chemistry Peter Stang, recipient of the 2013 Priestley Medal, the American Chemical Society's highest honor.

U. of Us Peter Stang garners nations top honor for chemistry

University of Utah chemistry professor Peter Stang has earned one of the nations highest honors for a scientist, with the American Chemical Society (ACS) awarding him the 2013 Priestley Medal in recognition of his lifetime achievements in organic chemistry.

The society, the worlds largest scientific group with 164,000 members, highlighted Stangs advances in "supramolecular chemistry," which involves the spontaneous formation of large, complex molecules from pre-designed, simple molecules that Stang compares with building blocks in a Lego toy set. A 43-year faculty member, Stang draws inspiration from Utahs Bryce Canyon in his efforts to understand how organic molecules assemble themselves.

"Nature uses self-assembly because its a very efficient way to build the molecules that are essential for living organisms," he said in a video about his research. "I make small molecules so the pieces recognize each other and come together the right way to make much more complex molecules."

These molecules could lead to targeted drug delivery and improved oil refining, among other technological advances.

"I am exceedingly proud of Peter, and this is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to chemistry," said U. President David Pershing, a long-time chemical engineer at the university, in a statement. "He is absolutely committed to the highest research standards and the best education for his students."

Only a few months ago, President Barack Obama awarded Stang the National Medal of Science. The Priestley medal was established in 1922 in honor of 18th-century theologian Joseph Priestley, the scientist who discovered the element oxygen. It is regarded as the highest honor for U.S. chemists.

At least seven Priestley winners in the past 40 years have also won Nobel Prizes. The current Priestley honoree is MITs Robert Langer, a nanotechnology pioneer, while the U.s Henry Eyring won the honor in 1975.

This year, the ASC also inducted Stang and U. department chairman Henry White as fellows. Stang credited his students and post-doctorate students who actually carried out his experiments over the years.

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U. of U’s Peter Stang garners nation’s top honor for chemistry

Rice University building evacuated after ammonia leak in chemistry lab

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A building on Rice University's campus was evacuated Wednesday afternoon because of an ammonia leak, according to a campus alert.

The Rice University Police Department said that crews are repairing the leak that was on the fourth floor of Dell Butcher Hall that started this afternoon around 1 p.m.

Officials said that no one was injured, said Rice spokesman B.J. Almond.

He said that there was a valve on a tank of ammonia that did not close completely and a small amount went into the chemical exhaust.

Houston Fire department Chief Ruy Lozano said the leak was from a 200-pound cylinder that was in an organic chemistry lab in the building.

He said the firefighters could not determine a specific reason why it leaked.

Two Hazmat units and close to 80 firefighters responded to the scene. The building will reopen after investigators do a wide sweep of the area, Lozano said.

Several campus roads are closed. Campanile Road is closed between entrances 20 and 21 and Alumni Road has been closed between Lab Road and Entrance 20.

-- Chronicle photographer Cody Duty contributed to this report

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Rice University building evacuated after ammonia leak in chemistry lab

Despite Facing More Challenging Regulation Process Biotech Companies Showing Impressive Growth in 2012

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NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/25/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 38 percent and 37 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. (ASTM) and Geron Corporation (GERN).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/ASTM http://www.ParagonReport.com/GERN

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process, biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report 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.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Aastrom Biosciences is dedicated to the development of stem cell treatments for critical cardiovascular diseases. Aastrom is currently evaluating its autologous cellular therapies in late-stage U.S. clinical trials in the treatment of critical limb ischemia (CLI) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). These critical diseases are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and very limited treatment options.

Geron is a biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class therapies for cancer. The company has two lead product candidates in clinical development, imetelstat and GRN1005. Imetelstat is a telomerase inhibitor that is being evaluated in four Phase 2 clinical trials. GRN1005 is a peptide-drug conjugate that is designed to transport a proven anti-cancer drug, paclitaxel.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Despite Facing More Challenging Regulation Process Biotech Companies Showing Impressive Growth in 2012

RBCC Extends Joint Venture Negotiations With Amarantus

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NOKOMIS, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Rainbow BioSciences, the biotechnology subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp. (RBCCD), announced today that the company has signed an extension of its letter of intent with emerging biotech innovator Amarantus BioSciences (AMBS).

Amarantus is on the verge of delivering startling new breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders from Parkinsons disease to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Amarantus owns the rights to a promising therapeutic protein known as MANF that prevents a type of cell death called apoptosis as well as the license to a groundbreaking diagnostic platform called NuroPro that allows neurologists to accurately diagnose and track the progression of Parkinsons disease in patients.

Amarantus is doing exciting work that we believe will change the way neurological diseases are diagnosed and treated, said RBCC CEO Patrick Brown. They have several current projects that were interested in, and an extension of the terms of our previous LOI will allow us to complete our due diligence toward choosing a direction with this life-saving company with the most potential return for our shareholders.

Once RBCC completes its due diligence, the companies will negotiate a possible deal for RBCC to provide funding and expertise toward the development and marketing of one or more of Amarantus projects.

Rainbow BioSciences is working to develop new medical and research technology innovations to compete alongside companies such as Cell Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CTIC),Biogen Idec Inc. (NASDAQ:BIIB) and Elan Corp. (NYSE:ELN).

For more information on Rainbow BioSciences, RBCCs biotechnology division, please visit http://www.rainbowbiosciences.com/investors.html.

About Rainbow BioSciences

Rainbow BioSciences, LLC, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp. (OTCBB:RBCC). The company continually seeks out new partnerships with biotechnology developers to deliver profitable new medical technologies and innovations. For more information on our growth-oriented business initiatives, please visit our website at [www.RainbowBioSciences.com]. For investment information and performance data on the company, please visit http://www.RainbowBioSciences.com/investors.html.

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RBCC Extends Joint Venture Negotiations With Amarantus

Clemson grows new class of entrepreneurs

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Photo by Nathan Gray

Clemson University graduate Riley Csernica helped invent a patented medical device and is a year away from launching her own company.

Photo by Nathan Gray

Riley Csernica works on her laptop in the Iron Yard office at the NEXT Innovation Center in Greenville where she interns. At the age of 21 she has helped invent a patented medical device and is a year away from launching her own company.

GREENVILLE Riley Csernica has at age 21 obtained a bioengineering degree, helped invent a patented shoulder brace and is a year away from launching her own company.

She is one of about 30 students taking part in Clemson University's new master's program in entrepreneurship, which pairs young people building business plans with the legal, financial, organizational and marketing expertise to get them off the ground.

"I was looking for jobs in bioengineering, and nothing was coming up," Csernica said. "Then I thought maybe I should start my own company."

To apply, students had to have an idea for a product or concept that they wanted to bring to the market.

Greg Pickett, the university's associate dean for its Greenville business campus, said he has assembled a team of instructors who have been building wealth and bringing products to the market for decades.

More than 100 business professionals in a range of fields from the Greenville area have also volunteered to serve as student mentors.

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Clemson grows new class of entrepreneurs