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Notre Dame researcher's paper examines the biology of tumor-derived microvesicles

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Public release date: 21-Jun-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Crislyn-D'Souza-Schorey cdsouzas@nd.edu 574-631-3735 University of Notre Dame

A new paper by Crislyn D'Souza-Schorey, professor of biological sciences at the University of Notre Dame, discusses the biology of tumor-derived microvesicles and their clinical application as circulating biomarkers. Microvesicles are membrane-bound sacs released by tumor cells and can be detected in the body fluids of cancer patients.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the incidence of cancer will reach approximately 9 million deaths in 2015. The rising prevalence of the disease is a major factor that drives the growth of the oncology biomarkers market. Biomarkers can be defined as any biological, chemical or physical parameter that can be utilized as an indicator of physiological or disease status. Thus, biomarkers are useful in cancer screening and detection, drug design and also to boost the effectiveness of cancer care by allowing physicians to tailor therapies for individual patientsan approach known as personalized medicine.

The new paper discusses the potential of microvesicles to present a combination of disease and tissue-specific markers that would constitute a unique, specific and identifiable biosignature for individual cancers.

"As such, it would make their sampling over time a preferred method to monitor changes to the tumor in response to treatment, especially for tissues such as the ovary or pancreas, where repeated biopsies of these organs is impractical," D'Souza-Schorey said.

Profiling of microvesicles could form the basis of personalized, targeted cancer therapies, especially as more reliable and rapid profiling technologies become available.

"For example, certain markers like HER2/neu, in addition to being elevated in breast cancer, is also increased in a relatively smaller subset of other cancers such as ovarian cancer," D'Souza-Schorey said. "This latter group of patients would benefit from existing treatment strategies that target the HER2 receptor."

The approach could be advantageous over currently used approaches of profiling whole tissue or un-fractionated body fluid particularly if circulating microvesicles indeed concentrate molecular changes that occur in the tumor, as it would increase the sensitivity of detecting critical markers of cancer progression.

"One complicating factor, though, is the presence of shed vesicles from other non-tumor cell types also in direct contact with these body fluids," D'Souza-Schorey said. "Thus, equally significant is the development of strategies to selectively capture tumor-specific markers that separate from other shed vesicle populations."

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Notre Dame researcher's paper examines the biology of tumor-derived microvesicles

Genome Canada Launches Competition to Strengthen Canada's Leadership in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

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OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire -06/21/12)- Genome Canada with support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), today launched the 2012 Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Competition. This research fund will help create the next generation of tools needed to deal with the massive amounts of data produced by modern genomic technologies and allow researchers to better understand the biology of living things.

Bioinformatics expands the use of genomics data through the research, development or application of computational tools and approaches. It enables better ways to acquire, store, organize, archive, analyze and visualize data.

"The Harper Government is supporting Canada's research leadership in genomics, an area that has the potential for significant social and economic benefits," said the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology. "Through this investment, we are supporting the development of new tools and methods necessary to keep Canada at the leading edge of this fast-growing field."

Pierre Meulien, President and CEO, Genome Canada, said: "The genomics research community has an urgent need for efficient computational tools to collect and analyse data. Genome Canada has made it a priority to invest in this area so that key economic sectors from forestry to fisheries, agriculture to environment, energy to mining and human health have the ability to reap the full value of genomics research."

Computational biology helps make sense of genomics data through computational analysis, modelling, and prediction. New experimental, computational and theoretical tools in biology will lead to a much greater understanding of life in its molecular detail and maximize the impact of genomics research in health and life sciences, among other areas.

The competition involves $5 million from Genome Canada and $1.25 million from CIHR. Of this, $4 million will support large-scale projects by multi-disciplinary teams to develop robust, user-friendly tools needed by the genomics research community. As well, $2.25 million will support small-scale projects by individuals or groups to propose innovative ideas with the potential for significant impact. CIHR's funding preference will be in support of the smaller scale projects. The projects, in collaboration with Canada's six regional Genome Centres, are expected to secure an additional $4 million in co-funding for the large-scale applied projects.

Dr. Alain Beaudet, President, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, said: "CIHR is pleased to partner with Genome Canada on this important initiative, especially given the vast potential applications to research that could come out of new tools and methodologies in this essential field. The more effectively we can analyze and interpret genomic data, the greater our understanding of life at its most fundamental level."

Genome Canada is a catalyst for developing and applying genomic sciences that create economic wealth and social benefit for Canadians. We work in partnership to invest in and manage large-scale research and translate discoveries into commercial opportunities, new technologies, applications and solutions. We build bridges between government, academia and industry to forge a genomics-based public-private innovation focused on key life science sectors. For more information, visit http://www.genomecanada.ca.

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is the Government of Canada's health research investment agency. CIHR's mission is to create new scientific knowledge and to enable its translation into improved health, more effective health services and products, and a strengthened Canadian health care system. Composed of 13 Institutes, CIHR provides leadership and support to more than 14,100 health researchers and trainees across Canada. http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca.

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Genome Canada Launches Competition to Strengthen Canada's Leadership in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

A new model to understand the supertasting phenomenon

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Public release date: 21-Jun-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Angela Hopp ahopp@asbmb.org 240-283-6600 American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Supertasting describes the ability to strongly detect food flavors such as bitter and sweet, and it can affect a person's food preferences. For example, supertasters are often averse to green vegetables because their bitter taste is amplified. Supertasters may also prefer foods lower in sugar and fat. Approximately one out of four people is a supertaster, and a supertaster's avoidance of sweet and fatty foods may have protective cardiovascular effects.

Christopher Nosrat and colleagues at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Pennsylvania have developed a new mouse model that may be useful to study supertasting. The team's work was reported in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.

Nosrat's group developed mice whose taste buds overexpress brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a growth factor for neurons and a protein that is important for the distribution of nerves to sensory organs, such as taste buds. These mice had larger taste buds, an increased number of taste cells per taste bud, and a greater supply of nerves in the taste buds compared with the control mice. These features suggest that the mice could be a model for supertasters, whose tongues have an increased number of fungiform taste buds (a specific kind of taste bud on the front and sides of the tongue that detects the five basic tastes).

"By generating the supertaster rodent model," Nosrat reports, "we are able to study the supertasting phenomenon in detail." Furthermore, brain-derived neurotrophic factor is important for proper development of the nervous system, Nosrat explains, and this mouse model can facilitate the development of therapies for nerve injuries in which taste signaling to the brain has been damaged.

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From the article: "Targeted taste cell-specific overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in adult taste buds elevates phosphorylated TrkB protein levels in taste cells, increases taste bud size, and promotes gustatory innervation" by Irina V. Nosrat, Robert F. Margolskee, and Christopher A. Nosrat. See it online: http://www.jbc.org/content/287/20/16791.

Corresponding author: Christopher A. Nosrat, Center for Adult Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis; email: canosrat@gmail.com.

About the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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A new model to understand the supertasting phenomenon

Autism Speaks provides strategies to help a child with autism shows difficult behaviors

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Public release date: 21-Jun-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Jane E. Rubinstein jrubinstein@rubenstein.com 212-843-8287 Autism Speaks

NEW YORK, N.Y. (June 21, 2012) Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, today released An Introduction to Behavioral Health Treatments, Applied Behavior Analysis and Toilet Training parent's guides. These latest tool kits, all developed as part of the work of the Autism Treatment Network through its participation as the HRSA-funded Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P), are available for free download on Autism Speaks Tool Kits webpage.

Behavioral challenges are a common problem for children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Many children with ASD have challenges managing certain behaviors such as aggression or not following directions in addition to experiencing limitations in communication or social skills.

The experts of the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network (ATN) and the AIR-P have addressed how parents and families can help improve their child's behavior with The Introduction to Behavioral Health Treatment which provides an overview of in-home strategies as well as tips to teach and increase desirable behaviors and decrease behavior problems. This tool kit also provides an overview of professional behavioral treatments families can seek out from qualified professionals.

The accompanying Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) tool kit, also released today, is an informational guide designed to provide parents with a better understanding of ABA, how their child can benefit, and where and how they can find ABA services. The U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association both state that evidence-based ABA is a "best practice" in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder.

Behavioral treatments for children with ASD require a high degree of repetition and reinforcement in both home and therapeutic settings. Parents are provided concrete tips on reinforcing positive behaviors, opportunities to recognize and reward appropriate behavior and guidance on implementing strategies such as time outs. These tool kits give parents proven strategies to manage the ABCs of their child's behavior, including what (A) antecedes or comes before the adverse behavior, (B) what the behavior is that you'd like to change, and (C) consequences of that behavior.

With supports from ATN/AIR-P experts, parents can become effective partners in helping their children to learn skills to replace problem behaviors, increase their positive behaviors and maintain them over time, and generalize or transfer positive behaviors from one situation to another as they improve their cognitive, academic, social and self-help skills

Toilet training can be challenging for any parent, however for many children with ASD, toileting skills can be further complicated by physical or medical difficulties associated with toileting. Children with ASD may lack the language skills to understand or communicate, may lack gross or fine motor skills required to facilitate toileting from undressing to navigating a toilet, and may not be aware of typical body cues to recognize when they need to use the toilet, among other possible issues. Toilet Training: A Parent's Guide, provides tools on how to best integrate routines, rewards and the use of visual schedules.

"If your child with ASD presents with challenging behaviors, or has difficulty acquiring new skills know that you are not alone," said Autism Speaks Vice President of Clinical Programs Clara Lajonchere, Ph.D. "The goal of these latest behavioral tool kits is to empower families with effective strategies to create more positive behaviors and increase a child's ability to better participate in their therapeutic programs and family life. Consistent behaviors can significantly improve quality of life for both the child with autism and their families and improve quality of life for everyone."

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Autism Speaks provides strategies to help a child with autism shows difficult behaviors

ProtoKinetix Creates Subsidiaries for AAGP™ Applications to Maximize Shareholder Value

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

ProtoKinetix (PKTX) (www.protokinetix.com) announces the formation of a new structure that allows the Company the flexibility of financing through a subsidiary, partnering through a subsidiary or selling the subsidiary. These new entities will contain rights to clearly defined AAGP applications that can easily be segregated from the overall asset base.

Due to recent discussions and testing, the first subsidiary to be formed will be for the large (estimated to be $40 to $50-Billion annually worldwide and growing) monoclonal antibody production market. Those rights will have significant value in increasing the productivity of hybridoma cells which make monoclonal antibodies. In one test AAGP increased the production of antibodies by 300% and in another test by 500%.

AAGP bio assays (which can be viewed at our revised web site) show that AAGP has an important role in Regenerative Medicine. Regenerative Medicine is the process of replacing or regenerating human cells, tissues or organs to restore or establish normal function and is becoming one of the largest growth industries in healthcare.

ProtoKinetix anticipates the requirement to establish several subsidiaries to maximize the financial returns for its shareholders.

About ProtoKinetix

ProtoKinetix, Inc. is a biotechnology company that has developed and patented a family of synthetic anti-aging glycopeptides (AAGP) for medicine and the biotechnology and cosmetic industries. PKTXs primary focus is on the therapeutic potential for AAGP in the treatment of Diabetes, inflammatory diseases, skin protection and anti-aging.

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements. Some information included in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking. Such forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties that could affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, these results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. For a description of additional risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Ross L. Senior President and CEO

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ProtoKinetix Creates Subsidiaries for AAGP™ Applications to Maximize Shareholder Value

Makucell Unveils Renewnt™, a Revolutionary, Science-driven Skin Care Brand

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. & LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Makucell, Inc., a pioneering regenerative biotechnology company dedicated to the development, manufacture and distribution of non-prescription products formulated to address the impact of aging and photo-damaged skin unveils the Renewnt (pronounced Re-new-int) brand, a revolutionary science-driven product line. Renewnts proprietary ingredient, Asymmtate, is a new approach to cellular aging, optimizing signals in the Wnt (pronounced wint) pathway to energize the skins stem cells, encouraging youthful cell behavior. The result is younger-looking skin which appears firmer and smoother. This molecular process is the key to our proprietary technology developed at USCs Keck School of Medicine and transferred to Makucells Renewnt skin care line.

We conducted standard industry safety tests, and the results were universally positive; Renewnt products were well tolerated with no adverse effects or safety issues. A combination of clinical trials and in vitro gene expression studies from treated biopsied skin continues to corroborate the aesthetic effects noted in the clinic.

The Makucell Science

The bodys signals govern skin stem cells, controlling the decision to remain dormant, divide or differentiate (become normal, active tissue cells). Signals flow in pathways and multiple paths converge into one the Wnt pathway. Makucells proprietary molecule Asymmtate encourages optimal signaling in the Wnt pathway. Optimal signaling stimulates the skin stem cells to begin the process leading to keratinocytes, fibroblasts and other dermal cells which produce collagen, elastic tissue and substances in the supporting skin matrix. This essential regenerative process is the key differentiator in Makucells Renewnt skin care products.

Michael Kahn, Ph.D. and his team of gifted research scientists at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California developed the revolutionary ingredient, Asymmtate, Makucells core technology. Dr. Mark V. Dahl, Makucell Chief Medical Officer and former President of the American Academy of Dermatology as well as Professor Emeritus at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, developed the formulations designed to target a specific skin type on a particular area of the body. Makucell has tested all the Renewnt products for safety and efficacy. The products:

Makucell is committed to supporting our claims with results from controlled, blinded studies, explains Dr. Dahl. We conducted standard industry safety tests, and the results were universally positive; Renewnt products were well tolerated with no adverse effects or safety issues. A combination of clinical trials and in vitro gene expression studies from treated biopsied skin continues to corroborate the aesthetic effects noted in the clinic.

Dr. Lawrence Rheins, President and Chief Executive Officer of Makucell, commented, Renewnt delivers extraordinary regenerative ability in a hydrating cream, providing an advanced anti-aging option. Asymmtate in Renewnt wakes-up the skins stem cells which have become sluggish with age, to begin rebuilding the underlying supporting skin matrix. As a result, skin looks plumper and has a rejuvenated, youthful appearance.

Makucells current Renewnt skin care product line includes:

Renewnt for Hydration, a day and night facial moisturizer for a more youthful-looking appearance.

Renewnt for Strength, for the dry, thinning skin on hands and forearms to seal in moisture, repair the signs of aging and restore the essential skin barrier.

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Makucell Unveils Renewnt™, a Revolutionary, Science-driven Skin Care Brand

‘Master molecule’ may improve stem cell treatment of heart attacks

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Public release date: 20-Jun-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Phil Sneiderman prs@jhu.edu 443-287-9960 Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins researchers have discovered that a single protein molecule may hold the key to turning cardiac stem cells into blood vessels or muscle tissue, a finding that may lead to better ways to treat heart attack patients.

Human heart tissue does not heal well after a heart attack, instead forming debilitating scars. For reasons not completely understood, however, stem cells can assist in this repair process by turning into the cells that make up healthy heart tissue, including heart muscle and blood vessels. Recently, doctors elsewhere have reported promising early results in the use of cardiac stem cells to curb the formation of unhealthy scar tissue after a heart attack. But the discovery of a "master molecule" that guides the destiny of these stem cells could result in even more effective treatments for heart patients, the Johns Hopkins researchers say.

In a study published in the June 5 online edition of the journal Science Signaling, the team reported that tinkering with a protein molecule called p190RhoGAP shaped the development of cardiac stem cells, prodding them to become the building blocks for either blood vessels or heart muscle. The team members said that by altering levels of this protein, they were able to affect the future of these stem cells.

"In biology, finding a central regulator like this is like finding a pot of gold," said Andre Levchenko, a biomedical engineering professor and member of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Cell Engineering, who supervised the research effort.

The lead author of the journal article, Kshitiz, a postdoctoral fellow who uses only his first name, said, "Our findings greatly enhance our understanding of stem cell biology and suggest innovative new ways to control the behavior of cardiac stem cells before and after they are transplanted into a patient. This discovery could significantly change the way stem cell therapy is administered in heart patients."

Earlier this year, a medical team at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles reported initial success in reducing scar tissue in heart attack patients after harvesting some of the patient's own cardiac stem cells, growing more of these cells in a lab and transfusing them back into the patient.

Using the stem cells from the patient's own heart prevented the rejection problems that often occur when tissue is transplanted from another person.

Levchenko's team wanted to figure out what, at the molecular level, causes the stem cells to change into helpful heart tissue. If they could solve this mystery, the researchers hoped the cardiac stem cell technique used by the Los Angeles doctors could be altered to yield even better results.

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'Master molecule' may improve stem cell treatment of heart attacks

LIFE Focuses on Stem Cell Research

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Given the recent flurry of activities, it seems that Life Technologies Corporation (LIFE) is focused on strengthening its foothold in the field of stem cell research. The company recently signed a non-exclusive agreement with iPS Academia of Japan for its induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell patent portfolio. Based on this agreement, the company will be able to expand its portfolio for the iPS cell research community.

Besides, it is well placed to create iPS cells and differentiate them into various cell types to be used in drug discovery and pre-clinical research. The license also enables Life Technologies to provide creation, differentiation and screening services of iPS cell to scientists globally. We consider the agreement to be a significant achievement for the company in the field of stem cell research as iPS cells are gaining attention for use in the areas of drug discovery, disease research and other areas of biotechnology.

The agreement with iPS Academia of Japan comes on the heels of the partnership with Cellular Dynamics International, the world's largest producer of human cells derived from iPS cells. The partnership will aim at commercializing a set of three new products optimized to consistently develop and grow human iPS cells for both research and bioproduction.

These initiatives undertaken by Life Technologies should strengthen its Research Consumables segment. This segment includes molecular and cell biology reagents, endpoint PCR and other benchtop instruments and consumables. These products include RNAi, DNA synthesis, sample prep, transfection, cloning and protein expression profiling and protein analysis, cell culture media used in research, stem cells and related tools, cellular imaging products, antibodies and cell therapy related products. In the most recent quarter, this division recorded a 4% year-over-year increase in revenues to $420 million on the back of growth in cell culture workflow products, endpoint PCR products and molecular and cell biology consumables.

Life Technologies enjoys a strong position in the life sciences market, though management prefers to maintain a cautious but optimistic outlook for the remainder of the year. We are encouraged by the improvement in margins amidst the tight competitive scenario with the presence of players such as Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO), Illumina (ILMN), among others.

We have a Neutral recommendation on Life Technologies. The stock retains a Zacks #3 Rank (hold) in the short term.

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LIFE Focuses on Stem Cell Research

DNA points to link in drug beating trial

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The DNA of a man allegedly involved in a violent drug-related beating was found on a zap strap and a piece of electrical tape used to bind the victim, an expert testified at trial Monday in North Vancouver.

The victim's blood was also found on a picture frame inside another accused man's home, the expert said.

The DNA is among the physical evidence linking Robin Landrew Pryce, 42, of Surrey and Paul Joseph Defaveri, 50, of Squamish to a violent beating of Ronald Perry, 68, in a North Vancouver home almost three years ago.

Bryce and Defaveri are on trial for the attempted murder and aggravated assault of Perry before provincial court Judge Steven Merrick.

Both men have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Earlier in the trial, Perry - who was involved in the criminal underworld -described how he was attacked with hammer and had his eyes gouged out after he tried to blackmail people who ran a marijuana North Vancouver grow op. Perry described in horrific detail how he was violently beaten inside the bungalow in the 1600-block of Phillip Avenue by two men on Sept. 2, 2009.

A passerby found him early the next morning, with a bag over his head, bound with zap straps, wire and tape, inside his car, parked on Vancouver's Oxford Street.

In court, Perry identified Defaveri as one of the people he'd gone to speak to in the house on Sept. 2, 2009. Pryce, Defaveri, and Defaveri's wife Marney King were living in the rented house at the time.

One of Defaveri's fingerprints was found in blood on an interior door of the house, a police investigator testified.

On Monday, DNA expert May Clark from the RCMP's forensic lab in Edmonton identified that blood - and samples taken from several other places in the Phillip Avenue house - as matching Perry's.

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DNA points to link in drug beating trial

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UAH Named Nation’s Most ‘Crime-Rattled’ College, According to Website

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Posted on: 1:36 pm, June 20, 2012, by David Wood, updated on: 06:23pm, June 20, 2012

The February 2010 biology department shootings helped put the University of Alabama in Huntsville on top of a national websites ranking of Americas 25 Most Crime-Rattled Colleges. The unofficial ranking, based on an analysis of crime reports, wasreleased Tuesday by the website The Daily Beast.

UAH spokesman Ray Garner called the ranking skewed in an interview with WHNT News 19 news partner, The Huntsville Times:

It is no secret that we had a tragic shooting incident on our campus in 2010, and that event heavily skewed this ranking, Garner said Tuesday. If you look at our overall crime statistics, you will find outside that isolated event that our university offers a safe environment for the thousands of students, faculty and staff that travel around our campus.

Huntsville S.W.A.T. team members rush to the UAH Shelby Center February 12, 2012

While taking a UAH campus tour Wednesday, parent of a prospective 2013 freshman Julie DiLiberty told WHNT News 19 she find the report ludicrous. DiLiberti says she has no qualms about safety in considering sending her son to study computer science at the university next year.

Looking around today, absolutely not, weve seen some police presence on campus just doing patrolsand we see the emergency call boxes and you certainly dont get a feeling of apprehension when youre on campus, DiLiberti said.

Incoming fall 2012 freshman Malaysia Denton said she agrees.

Its shocking, said Denton. I dont feel Huntsville is dangerous in the least compared to Birmingham or Mobile, places like that.

The website said it based its rankings on a system it designed to compare and rank per-capita crime in certain categories as reported by colleges to the U.S. Department of Education. The reporting period was 2008-2010, which included the period of a triple homicide committed during a biology faculty meeting on the UAH campus. A former assistant biology professor, Dr. Amy Bishop, faces trial in September 2012 on those charges.

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UAH Named Nation’s Most ‘Crime-Rattled’ College, According to Website

NJ Lt. Governor and BioNJ Honor NJ Student for Top Honors at International Biology Olympiad during BIO International …

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BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

A New Jersey teen who as a high school senior earned top honors at the 2011 International Biology Olympiad was honored yesterday by New Jersey Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno and BioNJ President Debbie Hart at a special ceremony here during the worlds largest annual biotechnology conference.

Rebecca Shi, a 2011 graduate of West Windsor-Plainsboro High School South, is the first U.S. female team member to take top honors in the world in individual scores at the long-running Olympiad, where 58 other nations sent teams to compete. Team USA 2011, comprised of Rebecca and three other high school seniors from around the U.S., also placed first in the team competition and collected four gold medals in practical assessments and theory.

Its such a great honor to be recognized by such accomplished professionals in the industry, Ms. Shi said in an interview last week from Purdue University, where she was helping high school seniors from around the country prepare for this years Olympiad.

Rebecca, who goes by Becky, was presented with a BioNJ Special Achievement Award by New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Guadagno and BioNJ President Debbie Hart at the New Jersey Pavilion during Biotechnology Industry Organizations International Convention in Boston.

Congratulations to Becky for her significant accomplishments at the Biology Olympiad, and the inspiration she provides our state and our nations future scholars and scientists through her hard work, educational achievement and dedication to helping others, said Lt. Governor Guadagno. It is the depth of quality and committed talent from our young scholars like Becky to a host of globally renowned bio scientists that make New Jersey the innovation state and ideal place to locate and grow biotech companies.

BioNJ President Debbie Hart offered her congratulations to Rebecca and said she takes particular pride that a state known for its biocluster also produced the worlds top high school senior in biology last year.

Its terrific to see one of our own students excelling in this exciting and still-emerging field, said Hart. Biotech offers so many people so much through promise of new medicines and other advances and its heartening to see such very bright young people like Becky coming up who will continue to move our industry forward.

The McClean Va.-based non-profit Center for Excellence in Education co-sponsors the U.S. Biology Olympiad (USABO) and Team USA with Purdue University. Nearly 10,500 students from across the U.S. registered for the highly competitive USABO.

The Center is proud of the success of Team USA 2011 to honor the United States with their outstanding academic performance Number One team in the world at the IBO, said Joann DiGennaro, the Centers president. Rebecca Shi received the Number One individual score in the world at the global competition and this is a remarkable achievement for U.S. academics.

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NJ Lt. Governor and BioNJ Honor NJ Student for Top Honors at International Biology Olympiad during BIO International ...

How Protein Clumps Are Pulled Apart

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Editor's Choice Main Category: Biology / Biochemistry Article Date: 20 Jun 2012 - 11:00 PDT

Current ratings for: 'How Protein Clumps Are Pulled Apart'

In humans, amyloid fibers form biological nanostructures that house pigments and other molecules, and may also play an important role in long-term memory. These fibers are one of the most stable protein-based structures in nature, so when they are harmful in diseases, such as Parkinson's, they are extremely difficult for cells to break down.

As a result, Martin Duennwald and AnaLisa Echeverria, at the Boston Biomedical Research Institute, and James Shorter, assistant professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics at the University of Pennsylvania, set out to find ways to promote beneficial amyloid fiber assembly or to reverse its pathogenic assembly, at will. The study is published in PLoS Biology.

Yeast have a protein called Hsp104 that can quickly disassemble amyloid fibers, and this activity is significantly enhances by a group of small heat shock proteins. However, humans and other animals do not have the Hsp104 protein, thus raising the question of whether human cells are also capable of disassembling amyloid fibers?

In this study, the researchers found that when Hsp104 is absent, the yeast small heat shock proteins work together with other proteins to disassemble amyloid fibers. The proteins slowly remove each subunit one by one from the tips of the fibers. The team were surprised by this activity as these proteins are best known for their role in preventing protein clumping.

Shorter explained:

According to the researchers, the proteins of the amyloid-disaggregating machinery in yeast are also present in humans. Therefore, human small heat shock proteins are able to work together with other proteins to disassemble amyloid fibers, even without Hsp104.

They state that these findings could lead to the development of new therapies for different neurodegenerative disorders.

Their aim is to activate the machinery in humans to pull apart disease-causing amyloid fibers where and when needed by increasing the expression of heat shock proteins.

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Power Impian leads with revolutionary skin care trend

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21st June, 2012

Power Impian International Sdn. BHd., a subsidiary of Power Root Group has cooperated with Mibelle Biochemistry to launch an innovative anti-aging product, Impian SemCell at Swiss Garden Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, on 24 May 2012 and MOU signing ceremony has been held between Power Impian International Sdn. Bhd., Chemical Solutions Sdn. Bhd. and Mibelle Biochemistry for the exclusiveness agreement of latest innovative skin care formulation, DermCom Forte to Power Impian.

PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica was the result of scientific research by Dr. Fred Zulli from Mibelle Biochemistry. According to the research, Swiss Apple Stem Cell (PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica) is able to increase the vitality of body stem cell up to 92% thus is good for improving overall body health and youthfulness.

Since its launch in November last year, Power Impian have received a lot of positive feedback and testimonies for anti-aging benefit as well as health regained benefit such as reduced skin scars for allergic problem, improved skin radiance and fairer skin etc. From the testimony feedback, the consumer can have the significant changes for the skin problem and health problem within a short period time of consumption.

To answer the ever growing demand and to fit the needs of everyone, Power Impian has now cooperated again with Mibelle Biochemistry and Chemical Solutions Sdn. Bhd. to further formulate a qualitative and innovative skin care product series enhanced with DermCom Forte, one natural active ingredient formulation for skin care cosmetic which is just launched in Barcelona in last month and has been awarded silver prize. This active ingredient has been studied and came out with a lot of supportive data from Dr. Fred Zulli. With this new and unique formulation supported by the latest technology and clinical study, this upcoming skin care product series will be the superb quality choice and would perform satisfactorily in the market.

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Power Impian leads with revolutionary skin care trend

Dr. Bruce Katz Named Top Doctor By Castle Connolly

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NEW YORK, June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Bruce E. Katz, M.D., Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Director of the Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Clinic at Mount Sinai Medical Center and Director of JUVA Skin & Laser Center in New York has just been named one of the Top Doctors by Castle Connolly and featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors list.

Dr. Katz is a leading innovator of advanced laser technology and skin rejuvenation techniques. As a pioneer of the latest breakthrough in long-term cellulite treatment, Cellulaze, along with his work with anti-aging treatments such as the Madonna Lift (fractional eyelift) and body contouring breakthroughs like SmartLipo, Dr. Katz has earned this prestigious distinction for the seventh time.

At the JUVA Skin & Laser Center Dr. Katz oversees a team of skilled clinicians who treat all dermatological diseases, conditions and cosmetic imperfections with the latest laser technology. The Body Contouring Center at JUVA is a full-service retreat offering the latest technological advances in non-invasive and minimally invasive body contouring techniques treating a wide variety of body issues from unwanted body fat, skin tightening and breast enlargement. In addition to its extensive laser surgery capabilities, the JUVA Skin & Laser Center is AAAHC accredited and offers medical spa services and anti-aging skin care products designed for home use.

Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. is a New York City research and information company that publishes an annual guidebook titled Top Doctors: New York Metro Area, which lists those whom Castle Connolly has determined to be in the top 10 percent of the region's physiciansmore than 5,600 in all. For the past fifteen years, Castle Connolly has been providing New York Magazine with a shorter version of this list for the magazine's Best Doctors issue.

To request an interview with Dr. Katz please contact Alexis Tedesco of Lexamedia at 347.830.4004 / alexis@lexamediapr.com

For more information about JUVA Skin & Laser Center or the Body Contouring Center at JUVA please visit http://www.juvaskin.comor call 212.688.5882. Please visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/juvanyc to learn more about our recent media appearances and updates.

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Dr. Bruce Katz Named Top Doctor By Castle Connolly

Double the pain: RUB biologists find the cause of pain in the treatment of fair skin cancer

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Public release date: 20-Jun-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Dr. Ben Novak Ben.Novak@rub.de 49-234-322-4331 Ruhr-University Bochum

Apply the ointment, light on, light off that's how easy it is to cure various forms of non-melanoma skin cancer. However, the majority of patients suffer severe pain during the so-termed photodynamic therapy. Why the treatment with ointment and red light can be so painful has now been uncovered by researchers from the RUB. They identified the ion channels involved and signalling molecules secreted by the cancer cells. "The results may provide a starting point for suppressing the pain", says Dr. Ben Novak of the Department of Animal Physiology.

How the photodynamic therapy works

In contrast to normal cells, cancer cells are equipped with different enzymes and have a much higher metabolism. If you apply a molecule called aminolevulinic acid to the skin in the form of a gel, cancer cells take up considerably more of this substance than healthy cells. If aminolevulinic acid accumulates in the cells, the mitochondria the power plants of the cells form the molecule protoporphyrin IX. When irradiated with red light, protoporphyrin IX reacts with oxygen. This produces highly reactive oxygen species, free radicals, which destroy the cancer cells. Approximately ten minutes of red light irradiation is sufficient to successfully treat superficial forms of non-melanoma skin cancers such as actinic keratosis. Doctors also remove warts in this way.

Painful therapy

"The catch is: it's terribly painful", says Ben Novak. Forty percent of those treated experience pain during the light irradiation, which they assess on a scale of 0 to 10 (whereby 10 corresponds to an excruciating pain like a heart attack) as 7 to 8. Using injections, like at the dentist, it is possible to numb the nerves involved. "But that also always involves a risk", says the Bochum biologist. The scientists led by the RUB professor Dr. Hermann Lbbert have now solved the mystery as to why the treatment hurts at all.

Pain-sensitive cells in the skin are stimulated

The pain is generated by two mechanisms. In a cell culture experiment, the team showed that not only cancer cells but also pain-sensitive nerve cells in the skin take up aminolevulinic acid and its derivative methyl aminolevulinic acid from the ointment. Using calcium imaging, the animal physiologists followed the activity of nerve cells which they had treated with aminolevulinic acid and cells that were not exposed to the substance. Treated nerve cells fired when the researchers exposed them to light. In a living organism, this would mean that the cells would send a pain stimulus to the brain. Without the aminolevulinic acid, the pain-sensitive cells remained inactive under red light. In further experiments, the scientists showed that the activity of the nerve cells is caused by sodium channels and voltage-gated calcium channels in the cell membrane. "A drug that targets these channels would, conceivably, be able to suppress the pain but that's still in the future", says Ben Novak.

Tumour cells alert nerve cells

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Double the pain: RUB biologists find the cause of pain in the treatment of fair skin cancer

NeoFax® Neonatology Drug and Enteral Nutrition Reference Book Discontinued in Print Format as of June 2012; Now …

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GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Truven Health Analytics, formerly the healthcare business of Thomson Reuters, today announced the discontinuation of the print format of the NeoFax drug and enteral nutrition reference handbook. Previously distributed through online and retail book sellers by Physician Desk Reference Inc (PDR), the printed version of the manual available now is the Updated Twenty-Fourth Edition, NeoFax 2011. The book was last published in June 2011. As of June 2012, the print format of the manual will not be updated, reprinted or further distributed in book form. Instead, the company will focus solely on the continued enhancement and distribution of its Web-based installed and online solution, available through a subscription to individuals, and to institutions through enterprise licensing subscriptions. The Micromedex NeoFax Online and Premier subscriber-solutions include many enhancements which were not available in the printed book. For a limited time, NeoFax Online will be available to new subscribers at introductory pricing. Please visit http://www.neofax.com for more information.

NeoFax has been the trusted source of neonatal drug information for more than 20 years, covering more than 180 drugs commonly used to treat neonates. Many of these drugs and their indications for use in the neonatal population are considered off-label, making this resource invaluable for clinicians caring for this vulnerable population. The NeoFax Solution addresses the essential needs of neonatal medical professionals to appropriately prescribe, calculate dosing, formulate and administer critical drug therapy and parenteral nutrition for neonates. As a result, NeoFax is the established source of clinical decision support in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) around the world. As the foremost drug and nutrition support solution, NeoFax aids in the treatment of neonates and helps to improve patient safety. By eliminating the need to do manual calculations and providing warning messages for dosing or nutrition orders that fall outside of guidelines, NeoFax helps to reduce errors. NeoFax also improves efficiencies by decreasing the time spent calculating and ordering medication and parenteral nutrition.

The NeoFax Web-based Solution, first made available in September 2006, is currently used by more than 1,100 hospitals and health systems in the United States and internationally. This solution provides hospitals and neonatal clinicians with additional tools and more regularly updated content than the printed NeoFax manual.

NeoFax Premier is intuitive, reliable, and easily customizable to your institutions concentrations and dosing. Unlike using a printed reference book, NeoFax provides us with powerful calculator warning messages for any abnormal ranges, to help our clinicians avoid costly errors and make confident decisions. These tools provide the peace of mind we need when caring for our most vulnerable patients, said Jennifer Spiegel RNC, BSN, MAS, NICU Nurse Manager, Saint Barnabas Medical Center.

NeoFax Online and Premier Solutions provide clinicians with the tools to make accurate and informed treatment decisions, while minimizing errors in this vulnerable patient population. Using the NeoFax Solutions, clinicians can safely and accurately provide patient- and indication-specific drug dosing, perform parenteral nutrition calculations, and access trusted, evidence-based, neonatal-specific drug information.

Features Available in the Web-based NeoFax Online and NeoFax Premier Include:

In addition to our NeoFax Solutions, Micromedex Pediatrics Solution is also now available. Pediatrics leverages the NeoFax application, but is for infants and children ages 29 days to 18 years. Both the NeoFax and Pediatrics Solutions can be added to an existing Micromedex subscription. For information on NeoFax or Pediatrics Online or Premier, please call 1-888-612-2964 or visit http://www.neofax.com.

About Truven Health Analytics:

Truven Health Analytics delivers unbiased information, analytic tools, benchmarks and services to the healthcare industry. Hospitals, government agencies, employers, health plans, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies have relied on its solutions for over 30 years. Truven Health Analytics combines deep clinical, financial and healthcare management expertise with innovative technology platforms and information assets to make healthcare better, collaborating with customers to uncover and realize opportunities for improving quality, efficiency, and outcomes. Truven Health Analytics employs approximately 2,200 people worldwide and has its principal offices in Ann Arbor, Chicago and Denver.

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NeoFax® Neonatology Drug and Enteral Nutrition Reference Book Discontinued in Print Format as of June 2012; Now ...

Author and Dietitian Tina Ruggiero Debuts Nutrition Column in Tampa Tribune

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TAMPA, Fla., June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Registered Dietitian, best-selling author and spokesperson Tina Ruggiero, M.S., R.D., L.D., has been appointed by the Tampa Tribune as a special correspondent, debuting a new column in the award-winning newspaper's lifestyle supplement entitled "4 You."

Ruggiero's column, The Gourmet Nutritionist, aims to empower and educate readers about ways to improve the quality of their lives through healthy eating, good nutrition and progressive science.

"I'm a scientist by trade," says Ruggiero, "but my passion is reporting about nutrition and health. I have a wealth of experience in the field of nutrition science, and my column will motivate readers with fresh insight, accurate reporting and information they can use to make confident decisions about their health."

No stranger to the media, Ruggiero is a nutrition and health correspondent for NBC's syndicated television show Daytime and has been a featured expert on CNN. Her articles have appeared in The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Men's Health, First for Women and Elegant Bride. Ruggiero has also been quoted in USA Today, iVillage, Kiwi, The New York Daily News, Details and many other traditional and new media outlets.

Ruggiero is also the author of the critically acclaimed new book The Best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet. When it comes to establishing a child's preference for healthy, nourishing foods, the must-have cookbook and nutrition guide has quickly become a trusted resource for everyone from working moms to celebrity parents.

Ruggiero is founder of her own private practice, Nutrition Dialog, where she works with both corporate and private clients.

The Gourmet Nutritionist column will appear bimonthly on Saturdays.

If you are an editor interested in acquiring Ruggiero's writing services to add editorial content to your publication or news service, please contact Amy Galvin at 847-204-4811 or amy.galvin@redjeweledmedia.com for details.

About Tina Ruggiero, M.S., R.D., L.D.

Tina Ruggiero, M.S., R.D., L.D., is a sought-after nutritionist, spokesperson and best-selling author of The Best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet. Fondly called The Gourmet Nutritionist, Ruggiero is heard on TV and radio and her writing and interviews have appeared in magazines such as Family, Men's Health and First for Women. Ruggiero is founder of her own nutrition-consulting firm where she helps both corporations and consumers achieve their wellness goals. She is a nutrition correspondent for NBC's syndicated television show Daytime and a contributor to FOX-TAMPA.

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Author and Dietitian Tina Ruggiero Debuts Nutrition Column in Tampa Tribune

Center for Productive Longevity Urges People to Shed Negative Stereotypes About Older Age

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BOULDER, CO--(Marketwire -06/20/12)- As people continue to live longer and retire earlier, the term "Third-Stage Adulthood" has more relevance than ever before. Referring to people 62-85 years old, this stage of life is chock-full of senior workers who are qualified and ready to continue working after the traditional retirement age of 65 or sooner. This means that there is a large and growing talent pool with experience, expertise, seasoned judgment, and proven performance (referred to by CPL as EESP), to meet the workforce needs of the 21st century.

The concept of "Third-Stage Adulthood" was first conceived in a paper, "The Evolution of Adulthood: A New Stage" co-authored in 2000 by Dr. Elliott Jaques, who conceived the mid-life crisis in 1965, and CPL Founder and CEO William Zinke. Zinke created CPL, which is based in Boulder, Colorado, to stimulate the substantially increased engagement of people 55 and older in productive activities, paid and volunteer, where they are qualified and ready to continue adding value.

Now in 2012, the concept of Third-Stage Adulthood is even more important than when the term was coined. CPL urges everyone to recalibrate their thinking for this new reality because the results could be dire if action isn't taken. If Baby Boomers are pushed to the sidelines, the nation's entitlement programs (e.g. Social Security and Medicare) will become unsustainable even sooner than projected. To prevent this crisis, the country should tap the talent pool of retired workers in Third-Stage Adulthood and put their knowledge, skills and abilities to use.

"Embracing 'Third-Stage Adulthood' can be a positive life-changer as people enter this next phase," says William Zinke, 85. "The concept urges society to recognize that older people can continue to add value for significantly longer periods of time and that they should be viewed as individuals, instead of all being lumped under the clichs of being 'over the hill' and 'out of the game.' The result will be that millions of older people with EESP can continue contributing to, instead of drawing from, the national economy and society."

CPL subscribes to a concept of adulthood that falls into three stages, described as follows:

First stage of early adulthood (18-40) - the time to build experience and expertise; to decide whether to work in the private, public, or non-profit sectors and perhaps even gain some cross-sector experience; to decide whether to develop a career in a company or to become an entrepreneur; to focus on the development of particular skills and abilities; to build a solid foundation for the next two adult stages.

Second stage of mid-adulthood (40-62) - the time when experience and expertise produce problem-solving capabilities and sound judgment (CPL likes the saying that good judgment comes from experience and experience comes from bad judgment) and perhaps even the beginnings of wisdom. Any mid-life crises have been traversed and assurance and self-confidence have become more firmly established as a result of learning how to function more effectively. There is also continuing growth and development during this stage.

New-stage of mature adulthood (62-85) - the time when many individuals, although not all (e.g. people who have been engaged primarily in physical labor, who have not maintained a commitment to physical fitness, or who have debilities or disabilities), can continue to be significant contributors. They have had about 40 years to gain experience and expertise, to develop seasoned judgment and proven records of performance and to build their intellectual and social capital. While documented research indicates that cognitive capability may have plateaued for some, the intellectual growth curve continues to move upward for people who have continued to remain productively engaged.

CPL launched the Later-Life Story Contest on June 1 to solicit empowering stories from people 55 and older. The competition has two separate categories: Entrepreneur Success Stories and Inspirational Later-Life Stories. A panel of three independent judges will select one winner from each category who will receive $1,000 and a specially designed trophy. CPL will post the best stories on its website (ctrpl.org) throughout the contest under "Success Stories." The contest runs through August 31, and winners will be announced on October 1, 2012.

To submit a story, visit http://www.ctrpl.org/laterlifestorycontest and complete a submission form. Entrants must be at least 55, have a compelling story to share, and be willing to have it posted on the CPL website for viewing and for possible publication. Stories may also be emailed to James Hooks, CPL's Director of Marketing and Technology, at jhooks@ctrpl.org.

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Center for Productive Longevity Urges People to Shed Negative Stereotypes About Older Age

Paper, Blog Heats Up GMO Discussion

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There's an interesting exchange on genetic engineering at the Food Politics blog, http://tinyurl.com/, featuring a review by industry critic Marion estle of an anti-GE paper, GMO Myths and Truths. I've skimmed the paper, which you can find at http://tinyurl.com/, and I confess to lacking the expertise to evaluate the claims. It would take more time than I have at the moment to dig into the claims, although I hope to do so in the future.

Nestle says the authors of the paper, who find nothing to like in genetic engineering, "have put a great deal of time and effort into reviewing the evidence for the claims. This is the best-researched and most comprehensive review I've seen of the criticisms of GM foods." She asks whether the pro camp can "produce something equally well researched, comprehensive, and compelling?" and concludes, "I doubt it but I'd like to see them try." She says there's enough evidence in the paper to justify labeling, at the very least.

It is, of course, the position you'd expect her to take, and several of the comments following her post challenge both her and the paper. One claims there are indeed well-researched, comprehensive and compelling pro papers. Others say the paper she cites cherry-picks evidence and relies on papers that have been debunked. An example cited in one of these critical comments asserts that it relies on a study of Bt found in human blood that used a test that couldn't detect blood at the levels the study's authors said they found.

My suspicion is most won't read these papers and will continue to think what they already think about the issue. An even worse fear is that reading the papers on both sides wouldn't convert anyone on either side. Still, I may give it a try at some point.

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.Twitter.comurbanize

Copyright 2012 DTN/The Progressive Farmer, A Telvent Brand. All rights reserved.

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Paper, Blog Heats Up GMO Discussion

DNA Evidence Ties Griffin to Murder Victim, Her Son

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With a rare possibility of exceptions, the DNA of Stanley Griffin was found under the fingernails of Jennifer Hailey, according to a DPS Crime Lab analyst.

Griffin is on trial for the September 2010 murder of Hailey in her College Station apartment. Griffin faces a capital murder charge, and the State of Texas is seeking the death penalty if they secure a conviction.

On Wednesday, the third day of testimony in the trial, analyst Allison Heard also told the jury a garden trowel found in an outdoor trash can near the Hailey home the morning of the murder was covered in the blood of Hailey's son. Heard could match any DNA on the handle.

- Click Here for Live Updates from the Courtroom from Steve Fullhart - Click Here for a Recap of Day 2 of the Trial - Click Here for a Recap of Day 1 of the Trial - Click Here for the Preview of the Trial

Authorities allege Griffin attacked the then-nine-year-old shortly after he saw his mother being strangled in her bedroom. Monday, the child testified that he saw Griffin on his mother's back choking her out, then ordered him to go back to his room. When he reemerged 15 minutes later, the boy said Griffin choked him and struck him in the head and neck with the trowel.

Again with a rare possibility of exceptions, the blood of the child was found on the shoes Griffin was wearing when he was arrested hours after the murder, this according to Emma Becker, a second crime lab analyst who testified Wednesday morning.

Prosecutors contend Hailey used her right hand to try and rip Griffin's left arm from around her neck. When authorities found Griffin later the day of the murder, he had fresh scratch marks on his left arm. He said they were caused two days earlier from riding his bike through brush.

A baseball cap found in the Pedernales Drive home of Hailey and her son was also tested for DNA. Hailey's DNA almost certainly was found on it, Heard testified. With other DNA found on the cap, Griffin could not be excluded as a possibility, but it was not as conclusive.

Shortly before the murder, Griffin was seen in surveillance video at a Navasota convenience store with a friend, who testified to dropping Griffin off near Hailey's home. He was wearing a similar hat.

Prosecutors elevated a murder charge against Griffin to capital because they allege he kidnapped Hailey's son. By the letter of the law, they claim the kidnapping was by virtue of Griffin's order to the boy to go back to his room as Griffin attack the boy's mother.

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DNA Evidence Ties Griffin to Murder Victim, Her Son

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