Algae-Based Biofuels to be Discussed at UNLV Energy Symposium

Algae as biofuel can be 20 times as productive as corn or soy, growing year round and harvested daily. Large algae ponds can be grown in Nevada because they need land and a lot of sun but not agricultural land or clean water. In a number of areas in the country they are using coal fired smoke stacks to feed the algae and clean the smoke. It has been estimated that by 2020, algae could be producing as much pollution-free transportation fuel as Saudi Arabia delivers in fossil fuel. Honeywell and several airlines are researching the use of biofuels for commercial aircraft. DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is also funding research in to biofuels. UNR has several projects on algae as a biofuel. A large-scale algae-based biofuels project would be a good for the state.

Over 70 Attended May's NevBio Meeting on the Brain Institute

Dr. Zaven Khachaturian gave an exceptional presentation on the goals and mission of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute. Dr. Kachaturian is looking for new ways to fight brain diseases. He is bringing the best minds in the field to discuss and share their ideas on a regular basis to Las Vegas. He is looking for new ways to treat brain disorders that are not yet part of the orthodox thinking on treatment. He is looking for ways to prevent and delay the onset of Alzheimer's and dementia. He wants to see clinical trials in Las Vegas. He was an inspiring speaker.

UNLV's 2nd Annual Renewable Energy Symposium Receives Support from Senator Reid

US Senator Harry Reid and his staff are strongly supporting UNLV's Renewable Energy Symposium. Senator Reid has a keen interest in renewable energy and his office sees this event as an pivotal opportunity to help shape America's alternative energy policy.

The Symposium will be held on August 20, 2008 at the UNLV's Stan Fulton Building. The program will cover Solar, Wind, Hydrogen and Biofuels. The event is open to researchers, educators, students, policy makers, the private-sector and the public. This symposium is one of several events that will take place at UNLV during the week of August 18 to 22. More details can be found at http://osep.unlv.edu/Esy2008

Hiba Risheg-UNLV College of Sciences’ Alumna of the Year Made Important Gene Discovery

Dr. Hiba Risheg graduated from UNLV's College of Science in 1997 and later earned her PhD in Genetics. Hiba has been credited with discovering the gene that causes a form of mental retardation. Researchers have been searching 40 years for this gene.

It was the birth of Hiba Risheg's cousin, Zied which led to a breakthrough career in genetics. Zied was born with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder characterized by developmental delay or mental retardation, seizures, and lesions of the skin and nervous system. Hiba wanted to understand the genetics behind the disorder. Years later, she had her answer. TSC can be inherited, but most often results from a spontaneous genetic mutation. "It's something that just happens. Just by chance," Risheg says. With the causative gene isolated, the syndrome can be better defined and diagnostic testing can be offered. UNLV's College of Sciences has awarded Hiba Risheg its 2008 Alumna of the Year Award.

University of Nevada, Reno Holds Their 4th Annual Biotech Symposium

University of Nevada, Reno College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources held its 4th annual Biotech Symposium on May 14, 2008. The event is set up to allow students to showcase their research. UNR's five year BS/MS program for Biotechnology is being run by Dr. David Shintani.

This year seven students competed with posters and presentation. The students were also judged on the Best Research Presentation. In addition, the symposium also had speakers from Sierra Sciences, Charles River Laboratories and AFG Biosolutions. John Laub and Judith Rebholz from NevBio attended this year's event. "It's an impressive event. The students are the stars of the program and they have done some incredible, cutting edge research. Dr. Shintani is to be commended for putting on this program," said John Laub.

Father of Alzheimer’s Research to Speak at NevBio May Mtg

Dr. Zaven Khachaturian is widely recognized around the world as the father of Alzheimer’s research in the United States. Dr. Khachaturian is speaking at the May 8, 2008 lunch meeting of the Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium (NevBio) at the Panevino Restaurant on Sunset and Via Antonio Rd (246 Via Antonio).

Dr. Khachaturian is also President and CEO of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute and Keep Memory Alive, Inc., a Nevada based not-for-profit organization dedicated to finding cures for memory, mood and movement disorders associated with diseases related to dementia, including such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and other neurodegenerative conditions.

He is responsible for planning, staffing and developing the medical and scientific programs of the Institute, which will be housed in the Frank Gehry-designed building in Las Vegas.

Dr. Khachaturian is best known as the architect of most scientific programs of research on brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease supported by the U.S. Government.

Dr. Khachaturian maintains a full schedule as an author and public speaker on such topics as: Aging, Alzheimer’s disease, Politics of Science, Prospects of Preventing Disabilities of Aging, Barriers to the Development of Effective Treatments, and Revolutions in Models of Care and Future trends in Research.

He is also the ‘Senior Science Advisor’ to the Alzheimer’s Association and serves as the Editor-in-chief of Alzheimer’s Dementia: Journal of the Alzheimer’s
Association

He serves on the editorial boards of several publications and the advisory committees of many organizations. He provides guidance to universities, foundations, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and nursing homes in formulating strategies for: program evaluation, planning, legislative initiatives, development/fund raising and media relations.

Formerly, he was Director of the Ronald & Nancy Reagan Research Institute of the Alzheimer’s Association. He was also the former Director of the Office of Alzheimer’s Disease Research, which coordinated all Alzheimer’s disease-related activities at the National Institutes of Heal in Bethesda, Maryland. During the same period he also served as the Associate Director of the Neuroscience and Neuropsychology of Aging Program at the National Institution on Aging at NIH. During nearly twenty years of government service, he occupied progressively more responsible positions dealing with a broad range of national scientific and technical issues concerning the development and funding of national research programs/initiatives on: brain aging, neurological disorders, diagnostic criteria and standards, research infrastructure for clinical trials, drug discovery programs, intellectual property rights, regulatory issues and cultivation of human resources.

The Thursday, May 8th NevBio meeting will be at the Panevino Italian Restaurant at 246 Via Antonio. Check-in and networking start at 11:30 AM and the meeting will start at 12 PM. The cost is $30. Pay at the door or online at nevbio.org. Credit cards, cash, checks accepted. Please RSVP to Judith Rebholz 839-7201 or jrebholz@cvbt.com

UNLV has new Technology Transfer Director

Dr. Robert Sweitzer is the new Director of the Office of Technology Transfer at UNLV and will be focusing on increasing UNLV’s patents and licensing opportunities. This is an area that can generate big revenue for UNLV. Dr. Sweitzer will help faculty and students with patent and copyright procedures, licensing, venture capital, business incubation and starting companies.

Dr.Swietzer told Linda Rubinson, Director of Development for NevBio, that he is especially exited about UNLV’s Genome Center. He believes that it has great promise for new research and patenting opportunities.

Dr. Stan Smith, Associate Vice President for Research said that UNLV is firmly behind technology transfer at UNLV. He said in press release, “President Ashley’s desire [is] to advance UNLV’s research agenda, we are committed to taking technology transfer to a new level of activity.” UNLV College of Sciences has been doing their part by pushing new research and hiring new talented researchers.

Sweitzer had worked with Technology Ventures Corporation in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where from 2005 to 2007 he was Director of Project Development and Business Assistance and concurrently served on the marketing faculty at New Mexico State University. From 1993 to 2005 he was founder and president of The Matrix Group in Redlands, Calif., where he developed marketing strategies and business development programs for southern California companies. He also served on the faculty of Pepperdine University in 2004-2005 and Claremont Graduate University from 1989 to 2004. He holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial management from Purdue University and an MBA and Ph.D. from Michigan State University.


1. “UNLV Appoints Technology Transfer Director.” Press Release. UNLV’s Division of Research and Graduate Studies. January 30, 2008.

NevBio Goes to Washington DC

Seven members of Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium traveled to Washington DC to promote Biotechnology in the State of Nevada. See more at NevBio in DC

Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) sponsored seven members of the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium to be in Washington DC on April 15th and 16th to attend several briefings on issues concerning the industry and to provide an opportunity to discuss biotechnology with the Nevada Congressional Delegation

The industry is concerned about proposed changes in patenting, the need to increase funding to the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), opening up the Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) programs to companies that have taken venture capital funding and to provide broader support of Biofuels initiatives.

The Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium group included: John Laub, Nev Bio Executive Director; Linda Rubinson, Nev Bio Development Director; Ron Yasbin, Dean of the College of Sciences at UNLV; Carl Reiber, Associate Dean of the College of Sciences at UNLV; Oliver Hemmers, Director of Strategic Energy Programs at UNLV; Jennifer Von Tobel, Executive Director of the Von Tobel Bio-Medical Institute and Trish Williamson, Marketing Director of the Von Tobel Bio-Medical Institute.

The delegation met with the following:

Senator Reid’s office included Jason Unger, Brittany Blanchard, Neil Kornze, Carolyn Gluck, Michael Castellano and Mark Wetjen.

Senator John Ensign’s office included Jason D. Mulvihill, Andrew Shaw, Brooke Allmon and John Lopez

Congresswoman’s Shelley Berkeley’s office included Congresswoman Shelly Berkeley, Matthew R. Coffron and Jeremy Kadden.

Congressman’s Jon Porter office included Congressman Jon Porter, Stan Olsen and John Minn.

Congressman Dean Heller office included Congressman Dean Heller, Leeann Walker and Stewart "Mac" Bybee.

NevBio President is Health Care Headliner

By Danielle Birkin, Contributing writer In-Business

John Laub believes the transition from the information age to the biotech age is afoot, and as executive director of the Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium (NevBio) — a volunteer, nonprofit organization comprised of companies, institutes, academia, researchers, scientists and individuals interested in biotech and life sciences — Laub is poised to disseminate information, encourage business development and promote scientific investigation and education. Laub is a native Nevadan who has a background in accounting finance and is also executive director of the Regenerative Medicine Organization. He said NevBio was founded a year ago when he and a group of colleagues attended the Regenerative Medicine Conference. Impressed with new research and opportunities, they decided to create an organization to bring a focus and create a synergy to the advancements made in life sciences. “The mission of the group is awareness,
education and partnership,” said Laub, one of the four co-founders. “We need to make Nevadans aware that we are entering the biotech century,” he said, adding that our kids need to learn and understand biology because it will be as important to the younger generation as knowing computers and the Internet was to the previous generation. “And
it takes education and business to work together. … This will help Nevada by providing
economic development, new treatments and an increased number of clinical trials for Nevadans and better health care as doctors in Nevada are exposed to new treatments and more resources.” “In one short year, we’ve had a tremendous impact because Las Vegas and Nevada are ready for this,” Laub said.

“The advances that are occurring in science and medicine are exciting and I feel like I have a front-row seat to some of the greatest discoveries that are going to change mankind. Craig Venter, who helped bring about the making of the first synthetic bacterial genome, said that the science is important, but getting the word out about the science is just as important, so we all have a role.”

Laub said science and math education are strongly emphasized in Southern Nevada
— thanks, in part, to a push from parents, teachers and the Clark County School District — which will help prepare young people for the biotechnology revolution.

“But we need to make people aware of what’s going on in biotechnology so we can start attracting developing companies and encouraging research,” he said. “Right now, we have students graduating from the college of sciences at UNLV who can’t find jobs here and we want to change that. We’d like to keep them here … because this is our best and our brightest. We can become more than a tourist destination. We can become a center for biotechnology and I think we will because people in Las Vegas think out of the box and they are risk-takers, and that’s what’s going to make a difference in becoming a biotech center.”

Health Care Headliners
SUPPLEMENT TO IN BUSINESS LAS VEGAS April 11, 2008

BioProspecting Nevada’s Geothermal Ecosystems: Dr. Hedlund's Talk at March Mtg

Brian Hedlund, Ph.D, a microbiologist and Associate Professor at the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, spoke at the March 12, 2008 Nev Bio Meeting.

Five years ago, UNLV had a vision to build a world class Microbiology Department. According to Carl Reiber, Ph.D., Associate Dean of the College of Sciences this department’s second hire was Brian Hedlund, Ph.D. Brian is a remarkable teacher and researcher, who according to Dr Reiber produced leading edge microbial studies coupled with extraordinary discoveries of new species. Brian’s innovation and accomplishment contributed to his wining the First NSF Career Award. This 5 year, $800,000 award has supported the development and continued studies of microbes found in the hot springs peppered across the state of Nevada. Since many of these hot springs are found on sacred American Indian sites, a natural extension of the projects became the collaboration with tribal schools to study the integration of cultures, ecological development, geochemistry and environmental impact.

The State of Nevada has hundreds of hot springs, each with diversified chemical composition. These hot springs are the result of a very active tectonically active zone where rifting plates cause the hot springs closer to the surface. In the northwest corner of our state there are three areas that are especially active: Surprise Valley, Great Boiling Springs and Long Valley Caldera. Long Valley is the second largest caldera in the country, with Yellowstone being the first.

The microbes that live in these hot springs are sustained through a number of processes that assimilate carbon for nutrition in temperatures up to 73 degrees Celsius. At this excessively high temperature, no life can exist. It is not completely clear how these organisms work, survive or feed. The variety and diversity of organisms found in these sites is enormous and seasonal changes impact this diversity. There is suspicion that the many hot spring sites are fully independent, contributing to the distinct difference in species in each location. The largest challenge to identifying the many species of microbes found in the hot springs is the hundreds of contaminants from air, water, precipitation and soil.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reactions) techniques provide fundamental tool in identifying the DNA fingerprint of the hot spring microbes. Thermophilic enzymes, produced by these organisms, are very desirable. These enzymes are stable, especially at high temperatures and high pH, and work quickly to produce the desired effects.

Thermophilic enzymes are used in oil wells to make the oil easier to pump out. They are also used in feed pellets to allow cows to grow faster, building more muscle and milk. They enhance ethanol production and build biomass in plants. A significant usage is the production of alternative fuel. A five way collaboration to break down carbon in sugar is being studied. In Brazil 95% of their fuel comes from sugarcane.

In summary, “There is Gold to be found in Nevada’s Hot Springs”. Geothermal bacteria and viruses are contributing to the development of biofuels, enhanced growth of food and food products, support for ecosystems and possible biomedical usage in the treatment of disease. The opportunities are endless, the collaborations and partnerships are vital and the impact on enhanced quality of life is significant.

Linda Rubinson, Director of Market Development & Strategic Alliances for Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium

NevBio Joins BIO

The Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium announced on March 31, 2008 that it has accepted an invitation to join the Council of State Bioscience Associations (CSBA), an autonomous council of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). John Laub, Executive Director of the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium, said, “Our affiliation with BIO is very important to help us meet our goals of enhancing biotechnology education and development in Nevada. The BIO partnership will allow us to access resources for Nevada universities, organizations and companies that we would not have had before. BIO has invited the Board of Directors to attend the national conference in San Diego and waived the fee.”

BIO is the largest organization in the world in biotechnology. More than 1,200 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations are part of BIO. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO’s annual convention is the world’s largest. BIO expects 25,000 to attend the San Diego Convention from June 17th through the 20th, 2008.

UNLV Co-Sponsors Science Bowls for High School & Middle School Students

UNLV’s Office of Strategic Energy Programs (OSEP) will be a co-organizer and co-sponsor for this year’s National Science Bowl Event for Middle Schools in Las Vegas, on April 4 and 5, 2008. OSEP is involved in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Model Car Challenge. Nate Tannenbaum and Jeff Gordon will be hosting the event and the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car Race.

The following schools will participate (some schools have more than 1 team taking part): Faith Lutheran, Las Vegas Day School, Hyde Park Middle School, Bob Miller Middle School, Cortney Middle School, Garrett Middle School, Keller Middle School,Grant Sawyer Middle School, Coral Academy of Science. For more information: Middle School Science Bowl

High school students competed in the Nevada Regional Science Bowl on February 8-9, 2008. Thirty-two teams from high schools in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah competed in the seventeenth Annual Nevada Regional Science Bowl, at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Las Vegas schools that competed are: Advanced Technologies Academy, Bonanza High School (2 teams), Centennial High School, Cheyenne High School (2 teams), Clark High School (2 teams), Faith Lutheran High School (2 teams), Legacy High School, Palo Verde High School, Shadow Ridge High School, The Meadows High School, Valley High School (2 teams). Boulder City High School will also have a team in the tournament. And a team from Henderson's, Coronado High School will compete as well.

A team from The Meadows School in Las Vegas came in first, Palo Verde High School of Las Vegas placed second, followed by Coronado High School of Henderson. More than 30 schools in four states competed in the 17th Annual Nevada Regional Science Bowl.

David Lee, PhD to Discuss Biomechanics in Robotic Locomotion

David Lee, PhD, College of Sciences at UNLV will be discussing biomechanics in robotic locomotion in a talk titled, “Bio-Robotics” on April 9th, 2008 at the UNLV Foundation Room at 12 PM at the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium luncheon. The public is welcomed. Dr. Lee has been studying the mechanical principles of legs and joints in animals. His work has contributed to the mechanical design and control of BigDog, the world's most advanced, four legged robot built by Boston Dynamics. The video of the four legged mechanical robot has become one of the most-watch videos on the internet.

It was his research in comparative biomechanics of running, jumping, and climbing in legged animals, primarily in quadrupeds but also in bipedal birds and humans that helped the designers of BigDog. Comparative biomechanics can show the complex dynamics that underlay animal movement in terrestrial environments.

The musculoskeletal mechanics that make animal movement possible are described by high-speed motion capture or high-speed x-ray imaging during locomotion. These force (kinetic) and movement (kinematic) data are combined to describe the dynamics of locomotion.

Dr. Lee reports, “As legged walkers and runners ourselves, the underlying dynamics are often taken for granted - yet the achievement of dynamic stability in legged robots on a smooth floor, let alone in real-world environments, has proven a formidable engineering challenge. We model the action of muscle-tendon system(s) about a given joint as a serial actuator and spring. By this technique, the experimental joint moment is imposed while the combined angular deflection of the actuator and spring are constrained to match the experimental joint angle throughout the stance duration. The same technique is applied to the radial leg (i.e., shoulder/hip-to-foot). The spring constant that minimizes total actuator work is considered optimal…” Watching the video of BigDog, one can see the complexity of a walking robot.

Dr. Lee is also interested in relating leg and joint mechanics to muscle function as a promising approach to understanding joint dysfunction in osteoarthritis. He will be speaking April 9,2008 at the next meeting of the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium at UNLV campus. For more information or to RSVP, you can eamil Jrebholz@cvbt.com or call Judy Rebholz at 702-839-7222.

UNLV Researcher’s Work Part of World’s Most Advanced Quadruped Robot

UNLV Assistant Professor, Dr. David Lee's research on comparative biomechanics of animal movements has contributed to the mechanical design and control of BigDog, the world's most advanced, four legged robot.

Boston Dynamics was the leader of a team of companies that won the bid for a $10 million grant to build a biologically inspired, multifunctional, dynamic robot which became BigDog.

In 2006 Boston Dynamics first released video of BigDog which shows a four-legged mechanical monster that can negotiate icy terrain, leap like a deer and keep its balance when kicked.

The video has become one of the most-watched on the internet; the headless BigDog picks its way across a pile of bricks, runs through snow and executes a series of nimble jumps

In 2008 Boston Dynamics has released new footage of a newer version of the BigDog which shows even more improvements. It has been viewed over 1 million times.

Dr Sam Cubero, a lecturer in robotics at the University of Southern Queensland, said that BigDog was "pretty hi-tech." Cubero went on to say, "The robot knows how to stay upright or stable because of its plethora of onboard sensors like tilt sensors, rate sensors, position sensors for each joint and foot sensors."

It is an impressive video to watch. Here is the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1czBcnX1Ww

1. “BigDog Delivers on Robotic Promise.” National Nines News. (ninemsn). Tuesday Shaun Davies. March 18, 2008

2. http://www.bostondynamics.com//

3. “Compliance, Actuation, and Work Characteristics of the Goat Foreleg and Hindleg During Level, Uphill, and Downhill Running. “ David V. Lee, M. Polly McGuigan, Edwin H. Yoo and Andrew A. Biewener. Journal of Applied Physiology. October 18, 2007.

Nevada Cancer Institute Researcher has Drug Accepted for Human Trials

Dr. Nam Hoang Dang, the Chief of Hematological Malignancies at Nevada Cancer Institute, learned that his drug, which is an antibody to CD26, was accepted by the FDA for Phase1 Human trials. The drug is a humanized monoclonal antibody which targets solid tumors and hematological cancers. During Dang’s 20 years of research, he discovered a molecule called CD26 that plays a crucial role in the development of certain cancers. He then worked on developing its antibody. He told the Las Vegas Sun that the drug has been effective in the lab and in animal tests for a variety of cancers, including kidney cancer; mesophelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs most commonly caused by asbestos; and T-cell lymphoma, a rare blood cancer.

Dang pioneered the study of CD26 over twenty years ago when he was pursuing his Ph.D. and M.D. at Harvard University. Dang was the first researcher to target CD26 to fight cancer. Dang continued his work at MD Anderson Cancer Center where he filed his patent in May 2002, “Anti-CD26 monoclonal antibodies as therapy for diseases associated with cells expressing CD26.” The patent was issued on April 3, 2007.

In 2003 he partnered with Dr. Chikao Morimoto, a researcher in Tokyo, to start a Japan-based pharmaceutical company, Y’s Therapeutics, which has raised the investment capital to help bring the drug to market.

Dang hopes that the Phase I trials will take place at Nevada Cancer Institute. The Phase I clinical trials should start in April 2008 and the results of the trial are expected to be completed in March 2010.

Sandra Murdoch, President of the Nevada Cancer Institute, told the Las Vegas Sun that Dang’s work is a “major breakthrough” which she hopes will help attract more world-class researchers. The institute has 27 researchers on its faculty, but hopes to have 80 within five years.

Dang immigrated to the United States from Vietnam with his family as a 12-year boy in 1975 and learned to speak English while listening to sports talk radio. After spending time in refugee camps off the coast of California, he and his family moved to Dallas, Texas with the support of a church located in Highland Park. He graduated as Valedictorian from Highland Park High School and went to Harvard University and Harvard Medical School, where he graduated with top honors, earning his B.A. (magna cum laude), M.D. (magna cum laude), and Ph.D. degrees. He continued his medical education in the Harvard system with residency training at Massachusetts General Hospital, and fellowship training at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, becoming board-certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology. In 2005 he became the Chief of the Department of Hematologic Malignancies at the Nevada Cancer Institute and also in
2008, he became a Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Nevada School of Medicine.


1. “Las Vegas Doctor’s Cancer Drug Accepted for Human Testing.” Marshall Allen. The Las Vegas Sun. February 22, 2008.

2. “Y's Therapeutics Announces FDA Acceptance of IND to Conduct Phase I Clinical Trial for YSCMA in the USA.” Company Press Release. February 13, 2008.

3. “Anti-CD26 Monoclonal Antibodies as Therapy for Diseases Associated With Cells Expressing CD26.” United States Patent # 7198788.

4. http://www.nevadacancerinstitue.org/

NevBio Meeting-Dr.Brian Hedlund-March 13th-Thursday

“How Research on Thermophillic Microbes in the Great Basin Hot Springs has Biomedical Applications.”

SPEAKER: Brian Hedlund, Ph.D.; UNLV College of Sciences
DATE: March 13, Thursday
TIME: 11:30 am Check-in/Networking 12 PM Lunch & Program
PLACE: UNLV Foundation 4505 S. Maryland Parkway

COST: $20 (Pay at the door, credit cards, cash, checks accepted)
R.S.V.P. Judith Lynn Rebholz 839-7201 or jrebholz@cvbt.com

ABOUT THE TOPIC:

Photosynthesis does not occur in geothermal systems above ~73ºC, so energy for primary production within these systems must come from chemolithotrophy. Although it has been asserted that H2 is the most important reductant for these ecosystems, this has yet to be experimentally determined. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene libraries from many hot springs in the Great Basin are dominated by unknown groups of Archaea and Bacteria. Therefore, the important energy conserving metabolisms in these ecosystems are unknown.

2008 Nevada Biotech Awards Luncheon at the Wynn Hotel. February 18th, 2008.

From Left to Right: Senator Reid, John Laub & Glenn Christenson.

Next picture: Daniel Montano, Amy Gordon, Senator Reid, John Laub & Dr. William Li.

John Laub, Senator Harry Reid & Steven Zak, Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium

2008 Nevada Biotech Awards Luncheon at the Wynn Hotel, February 18th, 2008. From left to right, Judith Rebholz, John Laub, Senator Harry Reid, UNLV President David Ashley, Linda Rubinson and Dean of the College of Sciences, Dr. Ron Yasbin.

2008 Nevada Biotech Awards-February 18th

Over 250 people attended the inaugural Nevada Biotech Awards Luncheon on February 18, 2008 honoring Senator Harry Reid and UNLV’s College of Sciences at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas. Eight researchers from the College of Sciences had displays demonstrating some of the research that is taking place at UNLV. In addition, a number of biotech and life science companies had material at the luncheon. The luncheon was a sign that Las Vegas is becoming a center of biotechnology.

Senator Harry Reid arrived at noon and promptly introduced himself to the volunteers checking in the attendees. Later, John Laub, President of Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium (NevBio) escorted Senator Reid around the room and introduced him to each table. Reid had enough time to meet roughly half of the attendees before he had to sit down for his lunch.

The luncheon honored Senator Harry Reid and UNLV’s College of Sciences for their contributions to biotechnology in Nevada. Senator Harry Reid has secured more than $100 million for Nevada Universities. He is arguably the State’s leading supporter of higher education. UNLV's College of Sciences was selected because they have become on par with any school in the country in biotechnology and life sciences. They have increased the number of research grants, published papers, programs, awards, laboratories and students in just a few short years.

John Laub, President of NevBio opened and chaired the meeting. He brought up Daniel Montano, Chairman of the Board of the Regenerative Medicine Organization, the joint sponsor of the luncheon. Glenn Christenson of Velstand Investments, LLC spoke on behalf of the Nevada Development Authority. Linda Rubinson, Board Member of NevBio, gave the reasons that the NevBio Board selected UNLV's College of Sciences for the award. Jennifer Von Tobel of the Von Tobel BioMedical Institute presented the award. Dr.David Ashley and Dr. Ron Yasbin of UNLV accepted the award. NevBio Board Member, Judith Rebholz gave the reasons the board selected Senator Harry Reid. Dr. Maurizio Trevisan presented the award to Senator Reid. Senator Reid thanked the organization for the award and promised to continue to work hard for Nevada and to fund medical research.

In attendance from education were Michael Wixom, Chairman of the University Board of Regents, Dr. Maurizio Trevisan, CEO of University of Nevada Health Sciences System, UNLV President Dr. David Ashley, UNLV Dean of the College of Sciences Dr. Ron Yasbin, Dr. Michael Richards, President of the College of Southern Nevada, Judi Steel, Public Education Foundation and Ms. Jhone M. Ebert, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Clark County School District.

In attendance from industry and institutes, Dr. Thomas Stegmann, Co-Founder of CardioVascular BioTherapeutics, Inc., Daniel Montano, Co-founder & President of CardioVascular BioTherapeuetics, Inc., Sandra Murdock, President and COO of the Nevada Cancer Institute, Dr. Nicholas Vogelzang, Executive Director of the Nevada Cancer Institute, Dr. David Ward, Deputy Director of the Nevada Cancer Institute and
Dr. Wilson Xu and Dr. Hui Zhang.

In attendance were several politicians, Jim Gibson, Mayor of Henderson, State Controller Kim Wallin and assemblyperson Valerie Weber.

In attendance from the community were Jennifer Von Tobel, Von Tobel Bio-Medical Institute; Dave Archer, Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology and Claudine Williams of the UNLV Foundation.

Also, in attendance were ten UNLV students.

The event was a tremendous success and a sign that Las Vegas has become a center for biotechnology and life sciences.

Senator Harry Reid’s Support for Higher Education to be Recognized at the Nevada Biotech Awards Luncheon

“Having secured more than $100 million for Nevada universities, Senator Reid has arguably been the State’s leading supporter of higher education in Nevada,” said John Laub, President of the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium.

Laub said, “Biotechnology and bioscience are very research dependent. They require highly trained employees and obviously, higher education is crucial to the growth and expansion of biotechnology. Senator Reid’s strong belief in finding cures has been invaluable to the biotechnology discipline in Nevada and we are pleased to honor one of our State’s and one of the nation’s great leaders who has done so much to advance the biotechnology sector. It is for that reason that we have chosen to name this honor “The Harry Reid Biotechnology Award” and to present the Senator with the first award. U.S. Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) is the recipient of the 2008 inaugural Harry Reid Award for Biotechnology in Nevada.

Additionally, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas’s College of Sciences will receive the organization award for Biotechnology in Nevada.

Thomas A. Thomas to Present Nevada Biotech Award

Thomas A. Thomas, son of E. Parry Thomas, an early supporter of the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, has agreed to help present the 2008 Nevada Biotech Awards. Mr. Thomas will be presenting the award to UNLV’s College of Sciences which is receiving the award for the Organization that has Advanced Biotechnology in Nevada. Mr. Thomas’s father, E. Parry Thomas and Jerry Mack helped secure a portion of the land that UNLV now occupies. The Thomas and Mack Center is named after E. Parry Thomas and Jerry Mack. The Thomas and Mack families continue to be strong supporters of the university.

Senator Harry Reid is receiving the Nevada Biotech award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Biotechnology in Nevada. The award is being presented by Dr. Maurizio Trevisan, CEO of the University of Nevada Health Sciences System.

Eight UNLV Scientists Displaying Latest Research at Nev Biotech Awards Luncheon

Eight scientists from the University of Nevada at Las Vegas (UNLV) will be displaying their research at the Nevada Biotech Awards luncheon on February 18th. UNLV Research Projects on Display:

“Identification of an In Vivo Inhibitor of Bacillus anthracis Stern Spore Germination”Ernesto Abel-Santos, Associate Professor, Chemistry Department

Spore germination is the first step in anthrax pathogenesis. Inhibition of germination implies no development of vegetative bacteria, no toxins and no death. There are seven putative germination receptors encoded by tricistronic operons and five germination pathways.

“A Mathematical Model for Polymorphism Within and Between Two Related Species”
Amei Amei, Assistant Professor, Mathematics Department

Characterizing the various forces that shape patterns of genetic polymorphism within and between species is a goal of population genetics (Hartl and Clark 2007). Statistical inference using Poisson random field models can provide powerful likelihood and Bayesian methods for quantifying some of the forces, such as mutation and directional selection.

“Life is Hard Then You Die: Age, Flight Behavior and Senescence in the Honey Bee”Michelle Elekonich, Associate Professor, School of Life Sciences

Foraging bees produce the highest mass-specific metabolic rate ever measured while flying. Conservative estimates suggest these hard working flight muscles contract over 4 million times per day. Thus foragers’ flight muscles may experience high levels of oxidative stress during normal daily activities. An average lifespan of bees is 3 -4 weeks.

“Effects of GSK-3B Inhibitors on Stabilization of p53 and B-Catenin”
Ron Gary, Associate Professor, Chemistry Department

B-catenin is a bifunctional protein. It associates with cadherins as part of a membrane-cytoskeletal linkage in cell-cell adhesions, and it acts as a transcription factor for cell proliferation in the Wnt signaling pathway. Levels of B-catenin are controlled mainly by glycogen synthase kinase 3B (GSK-3B), a constitutively active kinase that suppresses B-catenin. There appears to be a regulatory feedback mechanism that connects GSK-3B activity and B-catenin to changes in the p53 tumor suppressor protein.

“Thermodynamic Modeling as a Predictive Tool for Determining Energy Availability in Great Basin Hot Springs” Brian Hedlund, Assistant Professor, School of Life Sciences

Photosynthesis does not occur in geothermal systems above ~73ºC, so energy for primary production within these systems must come from chemolithotrophy.. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene libraries from many hot springs in the Great Basin are dominated by unknown groups of Archaea and Bacteria.

“Transferring Biomechanics Research to New Technologies in Robotic Locomotion”David Lee, Associate Professor, School of Life sciences

Comparative biomechanics can elucidate the complex dynamics that underly animal movement in terrestrial environments. Solutions have led to the locomotor principles which have informed the mechanical design and control of BigDog (Boston Dynamics, Inc.), the world’s most advanced legged robot, and continue to promote our understanding of mechanical design in animals.

“Insect Flapping Aerofoil Propulsion in Variable Density Atmospheres: A Model for the Design and Function of Micro Aerial Vehicles”
Stephen Roberts, Associate Professor, School of Life Sciences

The success of current efforts to develop micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) will depend on the ability of MAVs to vary aerodynamic forces during operation in variable-density atmospheres and exploration of novel, irregular landscapes. Flapping aerofoil propulsion (vs. fixed-wing design) is amenable to MAVs due to enhanced lift generation, drag reduction, and maneuverability.

“Roles and Regulation of the Shigella Outer Membrane Protease, IcsP”Helen Wing, Assistant Professor, School of Life Sciences

Omptins are a family of proteases that are found associated with outer membranes of a number of gram negative bacteria. In Salmonella, the omptin PgtE has been shown to provide resistance against cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) [1]. The overall aim of this study is to determine whether PgtE and IcsP can functionally substitute for each other.

John Laub, President of the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium said, “It’s exciting to see a portion of the research that is going on at UNLV and it's a great opportunity mort importantly, attendees will have a chance to talk to the scientists.”

The Nevada Biotechnology Awards luncheon will be held Monday, February 18, 2008 at the Wynn Hotel. Tickets for the luncheon are $75 and $125. The luncheon starts at 11:30.

NevBio to Honor Reid & UNLV College of Sciences at Awards Luncheon- Harry Reid

The Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium’s (NevBio) annual Nevada Biotechnology Awards Luncheon will be honoring Senator Harry Reid for his contributions to the advancement of biotechnology and bioscience in Nevada. The award will be presented at the NevBio and Regenerative Medicine Organization joint luncheon on Monday, February 18th, 2008 at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas. The UNLV College of Sciences is the honoree for the organization award. See http://www.nevbio.org/meetings.htm for registration information.

Senator Reid “has secured more than one hundred million dollars for the Nevada Universities and Colleges for curriculum development, research activities, technology advances, outreach and cultural programs.”

During the 109th Congress he played an instrumental role in the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, and in the 110th congress he continues his efforts to see this enacted. Senator Reid believes that this “will open new doors in the scientific world and generate hope for thousands of Nevadans and millions of Americans suffering from debilitating diseases.”

Throughout his career Senator Reid has supported increased funding for life-saving medical research in a belief that “we need to continue to invest in medical research that will lead to immeasurable contributions in the fight against a number of serious illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.” Senator Reid believes that “at a time when we are on the verge of major new breakthroughs and the burden of chronic disease continues to grow, we should not shortchange a priority as important as promising medical research.” Senator Reid has made it clear that he is “committed to making the investments necessary to accelerate the pace of current progress and to spur on new discoveries.”

And to that end, he has worked hard to garner federal support for initiatives to further expand Nevada’s biotechnology sector.” He had secured $300,000 for the Biotechnology Center at UNLV to develop new biotechnology initiatives that will add to the diversity of Nevada’s economy with high-paying, science based careers.”

He has “supported legislation to provide tax breaks for businesses that train workers here in American and provide scholarships for technical training. Such initiatives will not only strengthen the American workforce but also cement America’s global leadership in high technology.”

Senator Reid has secured millions of dollars in federal funding for the Nevada Cancer Institute in Las Vegas. This leading edge cancer center is designed to provide Nevadans close access to certain clinical trials that would otherwise be unavailable in the state. Senator Reid and the Nevada Delegation introduced legislation that provided federal land for an additional facility for the Nevada Cancer Institute “to ensure that all Nevadans have access to the latest in cancer prevention, education, detection, and treatment options.”

In 2007 he introduced two bills that helped to improve the health care for Nevadans. The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2007 will enable Nevada to be eligible for an additional 93 physicians in training positions. The Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act of 2007 which will fund critical research to study the links between the environment and breast cancer.

The UNLV School of Public Health’s Environmental and Occupational Health Lab, “was able to fund the construction of the new lab with help from a $500,000 federal appropriation secured by Senator Reid." Senator Reid stated that “Universities stand at the forefront of confronting illnesses and fostering our knowledge of public health.”

Senators Reid and Harkin secured funding of $900,000 in fiscal year '06 and $900,000 in fiscal year ’07 so the Center for Disease Control may begin pilot programs that will aid in the development of a National ALS registry.

For these and other countless contributions throughout his career the NevBio Organization is pleased and proud to announce the first ever recipient of The Harry Reid Award for Biotechnology and Bioscience Achievements to its namesake - Senator Harry Reid.

Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium’s annual Nevada Biotechnology Awards Luncheon will be Monday, February 18th at the Wynn Hotel. Check-in/Networking is at 11:30, 12 PM lunch. The tickets are $75 for general seating and $125 for VIP seats. RSVPs must be received by February 14th. Pay online at http://www.nevbio.org/meetings.htm or call Judith Rebholz at 839-7222 or email her at jrebholz@cvbt.com. Tables and sponsorships are available.

List of references:

1. Senator Harry Reid Website. Issues. Health Care.
http://reid.senate.gov/issues/health.cfm
2. Senator Harry Reid Website. Issues. Medical Research.
http://reid.senate.gov/issues/medicalresearch.cfm
3. Senator Harry Reid Website. Issues. Education.
http://reid.senate.gov/issues/education.cfm
4. Senator Harry Reid Website. Issues. Technology.
http://reid.senate.gov/issues/technology.cfm
5. Senator Harry Reid Website. Clark County.
http://reid.senate.gov/nevada/clark.cfm
6. Senator Harry Reid Website. News Releases.
http://reid.senate.gov/newsroom/index.cfm

7. “Vying for Research Grants. New Lab Brings High Hopes: UNLV Facility to Widen Testing for Poisons.” Lawrence Mower. The Las Vegas Review Journal. April 5, 2007.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/6881967.html

8. “Delegation Pursuing Federal Land Transfer for Nevada Cancer Institute Las Vegas Facility.” Press Release. Senator Harry Reid. December 7, 2006.
http://reid.senate.gov/newsroom/record.cfm?id=266620

9. “Reid Introduces Two Bills to Improve Health Care in Nevada.” Press Release Senator Harry Reid. February 14, 2007. http://reid.senate.gov/newsroom/record.cfm?id=269286

10. “Reid Reintroduces Legislation to Create ALS Registry: Bill to Help in Fight Against Lou Gehrig's Disease.” Press Release Senator Harry Reid. May 14, 2007.
http://reid.senate.gov/newsroom/record.cfm?id=274199

11. “Reid Hails Passage of Appropriations Bill.” Appropriations in Energy, Education and Research, Health, etc. Press Release Senator Harry Reid Office. December 19, 2007. http://reid.senate.gov/newsroom/records2.cfm?id=289534&

12. “Harry Reid UNLV Research and Technology Park to Open Near I-215.” Lora Griffin. The Rebel Yell. August 29, 2005. http://www.unlvrebelyell.com/article/2005/08/29/rebel-science/

13. “Reid's Leadership Delivers Additional Millions for Nevada As Democratic Leader, Reid Secures Record Funding in Appropriations Bill.” Appropriations for in Nevada in Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Office of Science, Nuclear Energy, etc. Press Release. Senate Democrats. June 16, 2005. http://democrats.senate.gov/newsroom/record.cfm?id=239036&

14. "Senator Harry Reid was also Instrumental in Bringing the Supercomputer to Nevada and to UNLV." Supercomputing in Nevada. SCENE. October 29, 1992.
http://www.nscee.edu/Publications/Newsletters/Scene_Oct92/

UNLV's College of Sciences Chosen for Nevada Biotechnology Award

Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium (NevBio) has chosen UNLV's College of Sciences to receive its first annual Nevada Biotechnology Award for an organization in recognition of the achievements they have made in contributing to the advancement of biotechnology and life sciences in Nevada. The award will be given at the NevBio and Regenerative Medicine Organization joint luncheon on February 18, 2008 at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas. Senator Harry Reid is the honoree for the individual award. See http://www.nevbio.org/meetings.htm for registration information.

John Laub, President of NevBio, said “Most of the advancements in biotechnology have occurred at universities which become the basis of new treatments for disease, economic diversification and improvements in the quality of life. The Board of NevBio is pleased to honor UNLV's College of Sciences in recognition of their impressive accomplishments they have made in the last few years.”

Some of UNLV Colleges of Sciences’ notable achievements:

1. Increase in research grants

UNLV’s College of Sciences brought in over $20 million in research grants in 2007 with the vast majority being in peer–reviewed grants. It is an increase in funding of over 267% since 2001. The amount is more than their state-supported funding. According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, 2007 has proven to be the UNLV College of Sciences' most successful year for receiving competitive federal grants.

In addition, the College has recently been awarded a National Institute of Health postdoctoral fellowship for Dr. Jason Williams, a very prestigious and difficult award to obtain. Also, the College has received a National Science Foundation post-doctoral fellowship for Dr. Jennifer Utz, another prestigious fellowship.

2. Increase in published papers
The College of Sciences has increased its published articles by nearly 60%. In 2000 the College had Peer-Reviewed Publications of 200. In 2006 the number of articles increased to 317. In the August 3, 2007 issue of Science magazine, UNLV was listed as the 4th largest growing research university in the quantity of scientific and engineering publications since the 1990's.

3. Increase in programs – new and improved
In 2004 the Forensics and Biotechnology Center was opened, the School of Public Health was established and the School of Nursing began a Doctorate program to train badly needed nursing professors.

In 2007 the College of Sciences has began graduating students with a Doctorate of Chemistry.

Two of the units of The School of Life Sciences –Integrative Physiology and Microbiology have obtained national recognition for their recent success in obtaining National Science Foundation (NSF) grant support.

Students participating in the pre-medical program designed by Dr. Joseph Nika are now being admitted into Medical Schools at a rate of 84% of the time (almost double the national average) and into Dental School at 90% of the time.

In 2007 the College of Sciences started offering an MCAT preparatory course (Medical College Admissions Test). The course provides a significant tuition reduction over the commercial products that are available to UNLV students and UNLV is the only school in Nevada, and one of the few in the West that offers such a course.

The College of Sciences in conjunction with the School of Dental Medicine offers a course to prospective dental students to prepare them for the application process as well as inform them on what is expected from dental students and practicing dentists. UNLV is the only school in the West offering such a course.

Many of the departments and programs at the college are offering Tutoring Clinics (first pioneered by the Department of Mathematical Sciences) and Learning Centers (Physics and Astronomy) to help their students succeed. These programs are unique to UNLV’s College of Sciences.

4. Reaching out to the Community
The College of Sciences has set up educational/research centers in all of its departments that are available to the community that can support the growth of diversity in Nevada’s economic base.

The college has actively partnered with the Nevada Development Authority (NDA) and similar organizations to help attract new businesses to Nevada. The College is working to provide the trained work force necessary for these new businesses to prosper.

The Center for Math and Science Education is working in partnership with the Clark County School District (CCSD) to enhance math and science education as well as to provide support for the teachers. The College is working with CCSD in offering college-level courses in the high schools.

The college and its students participate in various community activities:

The Beal Savings Bank Southern Nevada Regional Science and Engineering Fair is open to students in the Clark County School District.

Southern Nevada Regional Science Bowl is a competition for high schools and gives students a chance to meet UNLV professors and graduate students and attend scientific presentations.

Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED), the pre-health honor society for undergrads, has initiated at UNLV an organ donor program, a bone marrow donor program and blood drives that take place each semester. The bone marrow donor registration drives are a coordinated effort with the College of Sciences’ Undergraduate Council. AED participated in several projects with Habitat for Humanity, the Community Food Bank and the Candle Lighters Organization.

5. Building for the Future

In 2005 construction was started on the Science and Engineering and Technology Building which will have 207,000 square feet of teaching space, laboratories and hi-tech conference rooms scheduled for completion in December 2008.

The College has built a genomics laboratory and is partnering with the University of Nevada in Reno to conduct Biomedical Research. In addition UNLV and University of Nevada are working together on Bioinfomatics.

In 2006 the College of Science reached closed to 1,700 undergraduate students, a growth of nearly double from 900 in 2000. UNLV has its first student accepted as a Harvard Postdoctoral fellow.

The College continues to retain and attract professors and researchers to UNLV.
Some of the new additions:

• Enesto V. Abel-Santos, – Ph.D., Washington School of Medicine
• Dentaro Nagamine – Ph.D., Princeton & Tokyo Universities
• Dennis Bazylinski – Ph.D., Univ. of New Hampshire
• Monika Neda – Ph.D., Univ. Pittsburgh
• Anton Westveld – Ph.D., Univ. Washington
• Kaushik Ghosh – Ph.D., Univ. Calif. Santa Barbara
• Amei Amei – Ph.D., Washington Univ., St. Louis
• Pamela Burnley, Ph.D., University of California, Davis
• David Vincent Lee, Ph.D., University of Utah
• Pengtao Sun, Ph.D., Institute of Mathematics (Academia Sinica, Beijing, China)
• Hongtao Yang, Ph.D., University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada)

Two Life Sciences Professors received CAREER Awards from the National Science Foundation of $840,000 and $745,000.

In addition the college continues to strengthen its research infrastructure by improving its research laboratories, information technology and core equipment laboratories.

UNLV’s College of Sciences has been building its programs on the dedicated work of many committed individuals. They have laid the groundwork for the future in which Nevada can become a center of biotechnology, research and top medical care.

NevBio's annual Nevada Biotechnology Awards Luncheon will be Monday, February 18th at the Wynn Hotel in conjunction with the Regenerative Medicine Conference. Check-in/Networking is at 11:30, 12 PM lunch. The tickets are $75 for general seating and $125 for VIP seats. RSVPs must be received by February 14th. Pay online at http://www.nevbio.org/meetings.htm or call Judith Rebholz at 839-7222 or email her at jrebholz@cvbt.com. Tables and sponsorships are available.

UNLV’s College of Sciences plans to have a number of poster presentations on their current research projects at the luncheon.

List of references:

1. College of Sciences: UNLV Gets National Attention. Lawrence Mower. The Las Vegas Review Journal. August 13, 2007. http://www.lvrj.com/news/9121541.html

2. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. August 2006.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2006/aug-2006.html
3. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. January 2006.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/jan-2007.html
4. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. March 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/march.html
5. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. April 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/april.html
6. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. May 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/may.html
7. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. June 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/june.html
8. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. September 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/september.html
9. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. November 2007.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2007/november.html
10. College of Sciences E-Newsletter. January 2008.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/enewsletter/2008/january.html

11. "High Pressure Research at UNLV. Melissa L. Denzler. The Rebel Yell.
September 5, 2002.
http://www.unlvrebelyell.com/article/2002/09/05/high-pressure-research-at-unlv/

12.“Star Trek Science Meets UNLV. Work in Tiny Nanotechnology Can Pay Huge Dividends." Christina Littlefield. The Las Vegas Sun. May 28, 2006.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2006/may/28/566647041.html

13. "Henderson Woman is First in Her Class. Chemistry Student Earns Doctorate From New UNLV Program." Amanda Llewellyn. Anthem View. July 31, 2007
http://www.viewnews.com/2007/VIEW-Jul-31-Tue-2007/anthem/15686968.html

14. “UNLV Seeks To Wield Economic Clout: New Direction Seen for Valley University.” Jennifer Robison. The Las Vegas Review Journal. July 13, 2007.
http://www.lvrj.com/business/8483227.html

15. "UNLV College of Sciences: Research and Teaching for Nevada." 2007 PowerPoint.
http://sciences.unlv.edu/advising/pdf/Counselor-College_Days_2007.ppt

16. “Vying for Research Grants. New Lab Brings High Hopes: UNLV Facility to Widen Testing for Poisons.” Lawrence Mower. The Las Vegas Review Journal. April 5, 2007.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/6881967.html

17. Nevada IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (Nevada INBRE).
http://www.unr.edu/inbre/default.asp

Viktoriya Montano to Give Presentation on Epigenetics at Las Vegas Future Salon

Viktoriya Montano, Board Member of the Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium is giving a talk on "Epigenetics" to the Las Vegas Future Salon on Friday, January 11, 2008 at 6:30 at UNLV’s Continuing Education –Paradise Campus, Room 100.

DNA Is Not Destiny: The new science of epigenetics rewrites the rules of disease, heredity, and identity.

Epigenetics is the study of reversible heritable changes in gene expression that are not actually encoded in the DNA of the genome. These effects are mediated by the covalent attachment of chemical groups to DNA and its associated proteins, histones and chromatin. A major current focus in epigenetic research has been the significant role of DNA methylation and multiple histone modifications in biological processes and their effect on gene expression.

Ms. Montano earned her Master Degree in Architecture from the State University of Kiev, Ukraine in 1996. She speaks five languages Russian, Ukrainian, Polish, English, French and some Greek. In 1996 she started her business career as an Architect for the city of Kiev government.

In 1998, because of her knowledge in foreign languages, she joined Phage Biotech in Kiev to assist in the technology transfer to the biological manufacturing processes to Phage Biotechnology in USA.

Ms Montano has continued as an Adviser to the Phage Biotechnology Corporation in their development of biological drugs, such as Human Growth Hormone, Interferon Alpha, Interferon Beta, Fiberblast Growth Factor, and more.

Ms. Montano has been an advisor to biotechnology investments of over $100 Million dollars.

From her in-depth exposure to biological research, she has developed an avant-garde understanding of the new Era of Epigenetics. Many leading experts in biotechnology area consult her on the dynamic area of biological mechanisms and potential medicines possibilities due to Epigenetics.

In 2004 she joined Regenerative Medicine Organization and 2007 to Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium as Member of the Board. She is 35 years old, married and has two kids

For more information, email Gilda Cabral at gcabral@korns.com

Varian Medical Systems is Expanding in Las Vegas

Varian Medical Systems, Inc. of Palo Alto, California, the world's leading manufacturer of medical devices for treating cancer with radiotherapy, radiosurgery, proton therapy, and brachytherapy is expanding its Las Vegas operations. The company is building the LV-5 Test Cell. The 85,754 square-foot project consists of four concrete test cell vaults, a production area and administrative offices. The project is slated for completion in the second quarter of 2008. The estimated construction costs for the project are approximately $12 million. Rob Silecchia of SR Construction announced that their company had been awarded the contract. The Las Vegas-based SR Construction has built numerous healthcare facilities in Las Vegas such as Valley Hospital’s two story expansion, Summerlin Hospital‘s 3 story addition, Spring Valley Hospital’s Remodel and the facilities for Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery, among others. Palo Alto-based Hoover Associates will serve as the architect for the project.

Varian has located logistics, training, technical support and certain manufacturing in Las Vegas. In June 2004 Varian moved all classroom training from Milpitas, CA to Las Vegas. The Las Vegas facility offers classroom and hands-on training using the latest hardware and software available. Over 500 clinical and technical courses are offered annually, training 200+ students per month.

Varian manufactures SIP linear accelerators and certain radiographic products at its Las Vegas facilities which cover 147,071 square feet of floor space and 8 acres of land. Varian is another example of the medical and life businesses that are coming to Las Vegas.

1. NAIOP Southern Nevada Chapter website. NAIOP Newsbites. Company: SR Construction. December 2007.

2. Varian Medical Systems Inc. Form 10-K. Filing November 26, 2007.

3. www.varian.com

MAKING UNIVERSAL BLOOD

Walter Goldstein, PhD., MBA, P.E. will talk about his patented method of creating a universal blood supply using bioreactors. He has co-founded a company, TransCyte, Inc. to develop the technology,

Tuesday, December 11th at 11:30 AM Check-in/Networking 12 PM Lunch
McCormick & Schmicks: Lunch $30. 355 Howard Hughes Parkway, Las Vegas, NV
R.S.V.P. Judith Lynn Rebholz 839-7201 or jrebholz@cvbt.com

Dr. Walter E. Goldstein is the former Coordinator of the UNLV Biotechnology Center. He is the co-founder of TransCyte, Inc. (a company formed to produce red cells from stem cells) as well as the President of Goldstein Consulting Company. He has led a research and development organization of 140 persons (35 Ph.D.'s) at Bayer (Miles, Inc.), a leading firm in biotechnology, clinical diagnostics, therapeutics, food ingredients, materials, chemicals, and consumer products. He led 35 persons (10 Ph.D.'s) at ESCAgenetics Corporation, which was a leading developer of plant-based technology for food, food ingredients and pharmaceuticals. He designed and developed cryogenic processes and equipment for Union Carbide Corporation. At the UNLV Biotechnology center he developed programs in forensic DNA profiling, microbiological identification, food safety, genetic basis for biotechnology improvements, and prevention of nosocomial infections.

Dr. Walter Goldstein holds a BS in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, an MS and PhD in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, and an MBA from Michigan State University, with emphasis in finance, marketing, business law, and business organization. He is a Registered Professional Engineer. He has held faculty and research appointments in both the University (Notre Dame, UNLV) and private sectors.

Dr. Goldstein holds a number of patents including the process for producing a transfusable, oxygenating composition of human red blood cells by the ex vivo culturing, expansion and differentiation of human primitive hematopoietic cells. The process involves expansion of primitive hematopoietic cells in a first bioreactor containing one or more growth factors, differentiating the cells into erythroid progenitor cells in a second bioreactor containing one or more differentiation factors and effecting maturation of the erythroid progenitor cells into mature erythrocytes in a third bioreactor containing one or more maturation factors. The invention also provides a process for producing a transfusable, oxygenating composition of red blood cells by expansion and differentiation of primitive hematopoietic cells in a bioreactor containing a nutrient medium which includes perfluorocarbons which improve the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the cells and the nutrient media.

NevBio Luncheon Showcases UNLV College of Sciences

NevBio showcased the UNLV College of Sciences at its November luncheon. The audience included a large number of local business people and a wide range of UNLV administration, faculty and students, including University Regent, Mark Alden who briefly spoke about his support for the university.

Dean Ron Yasbin provided an overview of the College of Sciences’ many accomplishments and previewed the new Science and Engineering Building now under construction.

UNLV EVP and Provost Neal Smatresk briefed the attendees on the challenges and opportunities facing UNLV. Dr. Helen Wing and a number of other researchers explained their research work on large posters that surrounded the room. (Thanks to Dave Archer who wrote this post from Nevada's Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology, a sponsor of NevBio.)

NevBio to Present at MedExpo at UNLV

Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium will be presenting at the 2007 MedExpo trade show on Friday, November 9, 2007 at the UNLV Student Union building.
The MedExpo Trade Show starts at 11AM and runs through to 5 PM and the admission is free. At 1:30 the Nevada Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium will make a presentation on “Building the Biotechnology Marketplace in Nevada, A Community Collaboration.” MedExpo 2007 targets medical professionals including physicians, nurses and health care professionals and is sponsored by M.D. NEWS Magazine, Southern Nevada Edition. Free parking for MedExpo 2007 is in the UNLV Parking Garage located off of Maryland Parkway on Cottage Grove Avenue (adjacent to Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall).

Cutting Edge Bisocience Research at UNLV Luncheon

The November 7th lunch meeting of Nevada Biotechnology & Bioscience Consortium will be hosted by the UNLV College of Sciences. The program will start with opening remarks from Executive Vice President and Provost Neal Smatresk and a powerpoint presentation on the College of Sciences from Dean Ron Yasbin and Associate Dean Carl Reiber. Faculty and students from the College of Science will have large posters that summarize their current research projects in bioscience and biotechnology fields.

Check in and networking will start at 11:30 AM and the program with lunch will start at 12 noon. The meeting will be in the Blasco Events Wing of the UNLV Foundation Building which is close to the corner of Cottage Avenue and Maryland Parkway, next to the Judy Bayley Theatre.

Parking for the event will be in the lot adjacent to the UNLV Foundation Building (Lot Y) and metered parking is also available in a nearby parking garage.