Academy fights to maintain research in the "Wild East." (Russian Academy of Sciences; includes related article on ecology plan for the Ussuri-Wasuli river watershed that separates China from Russia)

Article Abstract:

The Russian Academy of Sciences is struggling to keep its Far Eastern Branch (FEB) alive. In the 1980s, FEB had a $288-million budget and led as many as 36 expeditions. By 1996, the budget had dropped to $36 million, and only significant Japanese and US support will make its Kuril Islands expedition possible.

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Sweeping patents put biotech companies on warpath

Article Abstract:

Four genetic engineering patents issued since 1992 are facing challenges from biotech firms, who claim they are too broad in scope. The patents in question include two to Agracetus for all genetically altered cotton and soybeans and one to Enzo Biochem for agricultural use of antisense RNA.

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Deja vu guides the way to new antimicrobial steroid

Article Abstract:

Molecular biologist Michael Zasloff has isolated an antimicrobial steroid produced by the dogfish shark and named the substance squalamine. Squalamine may be effective in treating the fungal infections associated with AIDS and cancer.

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