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MEMPHIS, Tennessee, May 3, 2006 (ENS) - A commercially developed vaccine funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health has protected mice and ferrets against a deadly bird flu viral strain.

The success of the vaccine in protecting laboratory animals from bird flu virus during studies performed at St. Jude Children¹s Research Hospital in Memphis suggests that it would protect humans if the virus mutates and acquires the ability to spread from person to person, according to the investigator who led the study.

Every presidential election since 1980 has had a Bush or a Clinton on a major party ticket. And the pundits say we're likely to see a Clinton atop the next Democratic ticket.

Unlike the last seven presidential elections, I dream of a 2008 contest that is Bush- and Clinton-free. Our country needs new leadership and fresh ideas beyond the realm of just two families.

With the spread of genetically modified crops and agricultural products, many agricultural inputs, including organic, are at risk from GMO contamination. Organic and non-GMO producers need to be aware that animal feed, seed, and manufactured agricultural products may have been derived from or mixed with GMOs and must take steps to avoid or minimize the risk of contamination.

Feed used in organic meat, dairy, and poultry production must be from organic, non-GM sources, according to the US National Organic Program

The biotechnology industry has promised to deliver a cornucopia of more nutritious, cancer- fighting, better tasting, and more environmentally friendly foods to consumers. But after 10 years of production, most GM crops, such as corn, soybeans, canola, and cotton, are genetically altered to either withstand sprays of herbicides or kill pests. It remains to be seen whether GM crops will fulfill their promises.

Here is a look at GM products either recently introduced or in development:

GM grains/oilseeds