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Cleveland Clinic Launches First-of-its Kind Preventive Breast Cancer Vaccine Study

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#October 30, 2021 – Cleveland Clinic researchers have opened a novel study for a vaccine aimed at eventually preventing triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and lethal form of the disease.

This phase I trial is designed to determine the maximum tolerated dose of the vaccine in patients with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer and to characterize and optimize the body’s immune response. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved an investigational new drug application for the vaccine, which permits Cleveland Clinic and partner Anixa Biosciences, Inc. (ANIX:NASDAQ) to start the study.

“We are hopeful that this research will lead to more advanced trials to determine the effectiveness of the vaccine against this highly aggressive type of breast cancer,” said G. Thomas Budd, M.D., of Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute and principal investigator of the study. “Long term, we are hoping that this can be a true preventive vaccine that would be administered to healthy women to prevent them from developing triple-negative breast cancer, the form of breast cancer for which we have the least effective treatments.”

There is a great need for improved treatments for triple-negative breast cancer, which does not have biological characteristics that typically respond to hormonal or targeted therapies. Despite representing only about 12-15% of all breast cancers, triple-negative breast cancer accounts for a disproportionately higher percentage of breast cancer deaths and has a higher rate of recurrence. This form of breast cancer is twice as likely to occur in African-American women, and approximately 70% to 80% of the breast tumors that occur in women with mutations in the BRCA1 genes are triple-negative breast cancer.

“This vaccine approach represents a potential new way to control breast cancer,” said Vincent Tuohy, Ph.D., the primary inventor of the vaccine and staff immunologist at Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute. “The long-term objective of this research is to determine if this vaccine can prevent breast cancer before it occurs, particularly the more aggressive forms of this disease that predominate in high-risk women.” Dr. Tuohy is named as inventor on the technology, which Cleveland Clinic exclusively licensed to Anixa Biosciences, Inc. He will receive a portion of commercialization revenues received by Cleveland Clinic for this technology and also holds personal equity in the company.

The investigational vaccine targets a breast-specific lactation protein, α-lactalbumin, which is no longer found post-lactation in normal, aging tissues but is present in the majority of triple-negative breast cancers. Activating the immune system against this “retired” protein provides pre-emptive immune protection against emerging breast tumors that express α-lactalbumin. The vaccine also contains an adjuvant that activates an innate immune response that allows the immune system to mount a response against emerging tumors to prevent them from growing.

The study is based on pre-clinical research led by Dr. Tuohy that showed that activating the immune system against the α-lactalbumin protein was safe and effective in preventing breast tumors in mice. The research also found that a single vaccination could prevent breast tumors from occurring in mouse models, while also inhibiting the growth of already existing breast tumors. The research, originally published in Nature Medicine, was funded in part by philanthropic gifts from more than 20,000 people over the last 12 years.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, the new study at Cleveland Clinic will include 18 to 24 patients who have completed treatment for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer within the past three years and are currently tumor-free but at high risk for recurrence. During the course of the study, participants will receive three vaccinations, each two weeks apart and will be closely monitored for side effects and immune response. The study is estimated to be completed in September 2022.

Researchers anticipate that a subsequent trial will involve healthy, cancer-free women at high risk for developing breast cancer who have decided to undergo voluntary bilateral mastectomy to lower their risk. Typically, those women carry mutations in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene and are therefore at risk of developing triple-negative breast cancer or have high familial risk for any form of breast cancer.

“This vaccine strategy has the potential to be applied to other tumor types,” added Dr. Tuohy. “Our translational research program focuses on developing vaccines that prevent diseases we confront with age, like breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers. If successful, these vaccines have the potential to transform the way we control adult-onset cancers and enhance life expectancy in a manner similar to the impact that the childhood vaccination program has had.”

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Concierge Auctions Anticipates Strong Bidding Activity for Unique Short-term Luxury Rental Properties Demand for The Bahamas & Caribbean Soars

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Coconut Island Estate Listed for $5.4M, a luxurious retreat in Casuarina Point, presents an exceptional beachfront opportunity with proven rental income potential.

The Bahamas, February 8, 2025 – Calling the demand for sophisticated short-term vacation rentals ‘unprecedented,’ a Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions executive anticipates strong activity when bidding opens on two unique Caribbean-based properties – one in The Bahamas, another in Jamaica – this month.

A heated pool overlooks pristine white sand beaches, while the beachfront bar and grill create an ideal entertainment setting. Immaculate landscaping enhances the natural beauty of this one-acre sanctuary.

“It is extraordinary that two distinct properties, each designed with spaciousness, attention to architectural style and detail, as well as amenities that cater to a highly sophisticated luxury market, come to market at the same time,” said Danny Prell, Vice President of Business Development at the world’s largest luxury real estate auction house.

He stated that both properties offer a component critical to the demanding high-end vacation rental client – a unique location with unmatched beauty, privacy and serenity.

One of the properties, Coconut Island Estate in Abaco in the northern Bahamas, already has a proven track record of rental success, generating a significant six-figure income. Situated on a stretch of baby powder soft beach in the chain of islands known as the ‘sailing capital of The Bahamas’, the estate consists of four separate houses with a total of 10 bedrooms and nearly 9,000 square feet of space. The residence features a beachside bar and grill, a heated pool, and ample opportunities for guests to enjoy swimming and snorkeling without leaving the property. For those seeking adventure, nearby charter options offer boating, fishing, diving, or excursions to charming neighboring islands and settlements.

Kenyan Sunset Listed for $3.5M; offers a distinct fusion of Caribbean elegance and African inspiration across two majestic acres in prestigious Caribbean Heights. This exceptional estate comprises three thoughtfully designed structures, each embodying unique charm.

The second offering, Kenyan Sunset in Montego Bay, Jamaica is sprawled across two acres with three residences perched high atop a hill overlooking two world-famous golf courses and the historic Rose Hall Great House. Its fusion of Caribbean and African lends colour and features that give it the appeal of an architectural magazine cover. The main house features three bedrooms, a private office, a fully equipped kitchen designed for entertaining, a wine cellar, a media room, and a gym, all centered around a private pool. A second pool is located at one of the two cottages.

“The short-term vacation rental industry as we know it today was unheard of just a generation ago,” said Prell. “Globally, it is generating upwards of $87 billion annually and there is no sign of a slowdown. What is less well-known is the demand for luxury properties where those of a certain economic standing can enjoy all the family, friends and colleagues they want to have around them in a non-commercial environment. These properties, Coconut Island Estate in the Abacos of The Bahamas and Kenyan Sunset in Montego Bay, are quintessential opportunities for the client who wants everything at his or her fingertips in a location that is easy to access and hard to leave.”

The estate’s elevated position between the renowned White Witch and Cinnamon Hill golf courses delivers spectacular views, while sharing grounds with the historic Rose Hall Great House adds to its prestigious providence.

Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions is working in collaboration with local Sotheby’s associates in both locations. Coconut Island Estate is listed by Mitzi Pearce of Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty for $5.4 million with bidding expected to start between $1 million–$1.75 million. Kenya Sunset is listed by Coleen Samuels and Julian Dixon of Jamaica Sotheby’s International Realty for $3.5 million with bidding expected to open between $750,000 and $1.25 million. Both auctions are scheduled to open on February 21 and close on March 1 as part of an inaugural live sale event during ModaMiami in Coral Gables, Florida. Prell said he would not be surprised if a single bidder opts for both.

“Finding one revenue generating property at this level in excellent condition is rare, finding two in the same region at the same time is extraordinary,” he said. “It should be exciting and one of the most active auctions we have had in recent history because both lend themselves to the opportunity for owners to enjoy when they want and earn revenue when they wish.”

 

About Concierge Auctions

Concierge Auctions is the world’s largest luxury real estate auction marketplace, with a state-of-the-art digital marketing, property preview, and bidding platform. The firm matches sellers of one-of-a-kind homes with some of the most capable property connoisseurs on the planet. Sellers gain unmatched reach, speed, and certainty. Buyers receive curated opportunities. Agents earn their commission in 30 days. Acquired by Sotheby’s, the world’s premier destination for fine art and luxury goods, and Anywhere Real Estate, Inc (NYSE: HOUS), the largest full-service residential real estate services company in the United States, Concierge Auctions continues to operate independently, partnering with real estate agents affiliated with many of the industry’s leading brokerages to host luxury auctions for clients. For Sotheby’s International Realty listings and companies, Concierge Auctions provides Sotheby’s brand exclusivity as Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions. Since inception in 2008, the firm has generated billions of dollars in sales, broken world records for the highest-priced homes ever sold at auction and sold properties in 46 U.S. states and 35 countries. The firm owns one of the most comprehensive and intelligent databases of high-net-worth real estate buyers and sellers in the industry, and it has committed to build more than 300 homes through its Key For Key® giving program in partnership with Giveback Homes™, which funds new homes for families in need from every property the company sells. For more information, visit ConciergeAuctions.com.

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Exuma Airport Project On Target for December Completion for First Phase

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By BETTY VEDRINE

Bahamas Information Services

Nassau, The Bahamas, February 8, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, the Hon. Chester Cooper led a delegation of government officials, with the President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Ilan Goldfajn, and his team, on a tour of the Exuma Airport on Tuesday, 4th February.

The tour was conducted during the IDB’s team’s XIII Consultation with Caribbean Governors Conference in Nassau.

The Exuma Airport Project is part of the IDB-financed Airport Infrastructure Program loan in the amount of $35 million to support the upgrade and improve four airports in the Family islands, which include airdrome facilities in Exuma, North Eleuthera, Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay.

Minister Cooper delivered welcome remarks and said that the project is a ‘game changer’ for the economy of Exuma. “This project signals a great partnership between the Government of The Bahamas and the IDB,” said Mr. Cooper.  “It will improve and empower the economy and people of Exuma and the people of the South and Central Bahamas.”

President Goldfajn said that the project not only changes the economy but also increases the island’s resilience when faced with natural disaster, it will assist in health emergencies, and the flexibility of travel between the islands.

Engineer at the Ministry of Works, Charlene Collie led a guided tour of the site, explained the scope of work to be carried out, and gave an update on what has been completed.

The scope of work includes: pavement rehabilitation works for apron, taxiway and runway; new taxiway installation; installation of new fencing and new drainage infrastructure; installation of new airside lighting and electrical; installation of navigational aids and runway markings.

To date, the work completed includes: 100% of the clearing and grubbing drainage infrastructure, 100% of the fencing, 76% of earthworks and currently ongoing electrical and pavement works.

It is anticipated that the airport project will improve access to health care facilities, employment and services; benefit more than 258,000 passengers annually; facilitate greater access to domestic and international travel; improve safety and efficiency of air travel; and enhance climate resilient infrastructure.

The delegation was also given a tour of the island.

 

(BIS Photos/Carlyle Sands)

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Generous Emergency Response Vehicle Donation to the Police Force from the City of Miramar

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From: Bahamas Information Services

February 7, 2025

Hon. Leon Lundy

GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas — West Grand Bahama is set to benefit from a significant boost in public safety resources following a generous donation of emergency response vehicles from the City of Miramar, southern Broward County, Florida.  On Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Royal Bahamas Police Force received a total of 11 vehicles at a ‘Law Enforcement Vehicle Donation to the Royal Bahamas Police Force Surplus Handover Ceremony’ held at Miramar Town Center Plaza.  As part of this donation, the residents of West Grand Bahama will receive two police vehicles and one ambulance, enhancing the community’s emergency response capabilities.

The ceremony was attended by the Minister of State for Disaster Risk Management, the Hon. Leon Lundy, who led the Bahamas delegation; Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles; Kingsley Smith, Jr., Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini, along with other distinguished guests.

Minister of State Leon Lundy stated: “Hon. Mayor Messam, Hon. Kingsley Smith, my parliamentary colleague, Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles, Deputy Commissioner of Police Kirkwood Andrews, Consul General Curt Hollingsworth, Deputy Consul Sheila Cartwright, esteemed City Commissioners, City Manager, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

“It is with great appreciation that I stand before you today on behalf of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to formally accept these public safety vehicles from the City of Miramar. This generous contribution is not just a transfer of resources — it is a demonstration of the deep and enduring partnership between our communities.

“Public safety is the backbone of any thriving society. As our Family Islands continue to grow, so does the need for enhanced infrastructure, reliable transportation, and the tools necessary to protect and serve our communities effectively. These vehicles will be put to immediate and purposeful use, strengthening the ability of law enforcement officers to respond swiftly, safeguard our residents, and uphold the peace and security that is vital to our national development.

“We recognize that access to proper infrastructure should not be limited to our capital city or major population centers. Our smaller, less populated Islands deserve the same level of investment and support to ensure that every Bahamian — no matter where they live — can feel safe and protected. This exchange represents not just an upgrade in equipment but an investment in the well-being of our people and the future of our islands.

“On behalf of the Government and people of The Bahamas, I extend my sincere gratitude to Mayor Messam, the City Commissioners, and the people of Miramar for this meaningful gesture. Your commitment to strengthening ties between our nations and supporting public safety in The Bahamas is truly commendable.  “We look forward to continued collaboration, deeper friendships, and shared progress as we work together to enhance the lives of our citizens.”

Mr. Kingsley Smith expressed his appreciation for the donation, stating, “The people of West Grand Bahama and Bimini will benefit immensely from this generous gift. The vehicles that will be dispatched to our area will not only enhance our ability to respond to emergencies but also serve as a reminder of the strong bond that exists between our communities and the unwavering support we receive from our friends in Miramar.”

 

(Photos/Courtesy RBPF, Kingsley Smith, Adrian Thompson)

PHOTO CAPTIONS: 

Header: Minister Leon Lundy, centre; Mayor Wayne Messam, centre right; and Consul General Curt Hollingsworth, centre left

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