BiovaxID yields 89% survival in patients with aggressive non-Hodgkins

Accentia Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. and its subsidiary, Biovest International, Inc., report follow-up data to a Phase 2 trial conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) that shows Biovest's BiovaxID yielded an 89% survival rate in mantle cell lymphoma patients. The median follow-up was 3.8 years. Historically, patients with this type of lymphoma only have had a 50% chance of surviving 3 years and 20% chance of surviving 5 years. more  

Background on immunotherapeutics for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Rituxan is a passive immunotherapeutic consisting of a monoclonal antibody administered intravenously. The monoclonal antibody is directed to an antigen (CD20) present on most B-lymphocytes. Accordingly, Rituxan promotes the elimination of cancerous and normal B-lymphocytes bearing this antigen. Rituxan therapy is typically repeated as necessary at intervals in order to control the lymphoma. Annual sales for Rituxan are about $1.5B. more

Emory study lights up the political brain

When it comes to forming opinions and making judgments on hot political issues, partisans of both parties don't let facts get in the way of their decision-making, according to a new Emory University study. The research sheds light on why staunch Democrats and Republicans can hear the same information, but walk away with opposite conclusions. more  

Unhappy marriages detrimental to self-esteem and health

Long-term, low-quality marriages have significant effects on overall well-being, according to a recent study by Penn State researchers. more

Common blood thinner increases risk of bone fracture 

Elderly patients taking the commonly prescribed blood thinner warfarin experience an increased risk for osteoporosis-linked bone fractures, according to a study at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The results suggest physicians should carefully monitor the bone health of patients placed on the medication and that their patients should take steps to decrease the risk of osteoporosis. more

Activation of a protein solidifies fear memory in the brain  

When activated, a specific protein in the brain enhances long-term storage of fearful memories and strengthens previously established fearful memories, Yale School of Medicine researchers report this week in Nature Neuroscience. more

White blood cell count, inflammation linked to cancer deaths

In a study of more than 3,000 older Australians, those with a higher white blood cell count, a sign of inflammation, were more likely to die of cancer, according to an article in the January 23 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. more