Inovio Pharmaceuticals {NASDAQ:  INO} announced today that pre-clinical testing of its synthetic vaccine for the Zika virus induced robust and durable immune responses, demonstrating the potential to prevent and treat infections from this harmful pathogen.

Inovio expects to test their Zika vaccine on humans in 2016.

Inovio Pharmaceutical’s DNA Vaccine for Zika Virus Induces Robust Immune Responses in Pre-clinical Study

 
PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. – February 17, 2016 – Inovio Pharmaceuticals {NASDAQ:  INO} announced today that pre-clinical testing of its synthetic vaccine for the Zika virus induced robust and durable immune responses, demonstrating the potential for a SynCon® vaccine to prevent and treat infections from this harmful pathogen. Health authorities have observed neurological and autoimmune complications potentially associated with Zika virus, including microcephaly in newborns and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Inovio is developing its Zika vaccine with GeneOne Life Sciences {KSE: 011000}  and academic collaborators.

Dr. J. Joseph Kim, Inovio’s President and CEO, said, “Using our SynCon® technology we rapidly generated a synthetic vaccine candidate that shows promise as a preventive and treatment. With robust antibody and killer T cell responses generated by our vaccine in mice, we will next test the vaccine in non-human primates and initiate clinical product manufacturing. We plan to initiate phase I human testing of our Zika vaccine before the end of 2016.”

In this pre-clinical study, DNA vaccine constructs targeting multiple Zika virus antigens were synthetically generated using Inovio’s SynCon vaccine technology. These SynCon constructs were administered using Inovio’s CELLECTRA® electroporation delivery technology. Inovio’s Zika DNA vaccine resulted in seroconversion, or the development of detectable specific antibodies in the blood, in all vaccinated mice. Researchers also observed that vaccination generated robust and broad T cell responses as analyzed by the standardized T cell ELISPOT assay. These findings are vital given the potential importance of neutralizing antibodies in preventing infection and the role T cells play in clearing infection by killing cells that harbor the virus.

Zika virus belongs to the flavivirus family, which includes dengue and West Nile virus (WNV). Inovio previously published robust immunogenicity and challenge protection data for its SynCon dengue and WNV vaccine candidates.

Inovio’s Zika program builds on its extensive previous pre-clinical development experience with flavivirus-related vaccines.

About Zika Virus

First identified in Uganda, Zika virus subsequently spread to equatorial Asia and over the past two years has rapidly spread through the South Pacific, including Hawaii, and to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Zika virus is a flavivirus, a family of viruses including yellow fever, dengue, and West Nile virus, which are introduced to people through mosquito bites. Because the Aedes species of mosquitoes that spread Zika virus is found throughout the world there is concern that outbreaks will spread to new countries. There is also concern that Zika can spread sexually, as has been reported for some returning travelers. In February 2016 WHO stated that 39 countries had reported locally acquired circulation of the Zika virus since January 2007. Geographical distribution of the virus has steadily expanded.

The most common symptoms of Zika virus are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. More seriously, a possible link to a severe birth defect called microcephaly has recently been observed resulting from infected mothers. Microcephaly is a rare condition marked by an abnormally small head and incomplete brain development. There may also be a link with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks peripheral nerves. Symptoms start with muscle weakness. In severe cases the person is almost totally paralyzed and the disorder can be life threatening.

No vaccine or therapy currently exists for the Zika virus.

About GeneOne Life Science

GeneOne Life Science Inc. is an international DNA vaccine developer and leading contract manufacturer of DNA plasmid-based agents for preclinical and clinical trials for global companies and institutions. It researches and develops DNA vaccines to prevent and treat incurable diseases in South Korea and internationally.

The company is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. VGXI, Inc., GeneOne’s wholly-owned manufacturing subsidiary located in Texas, is the largest pure-play cGMP DNA plasmid manufacturing facility in the world.

About Inovio Pharmaceuticals.

Inovio is taking immunotherapy to the next level in the fight against cancer and infectious diseases. We are the only immunotherapy company that has reported generating T cells in vivo in high quantity that are fully functional and whose killing capacity correlates with relevant clinical outcomes with a favorable safety profile. The company is advancing a growing clinical and preclinical stage product pipeline. Partners and collaborators include MedImmune, Roche, University of Pennsylvania, DARPA, GeneOne Life Science, Drexel University, NIH, HIV Vaccines Trial Network, National Cancer Institute, U.S. Military HIV Research Program, and University of Manitoba.

For more information, visit – www.inovio.com

 
CONTACTS:
Bernie Hertel.

+1 858 410 3101

bhertel@inovio.com

———————————

N.B.

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements relating to our business, including our plans to develop electroporation-based drug and gene delivery technologies and DNA vaccines, our expectations regarding our research and development programs and our capital resources. Actual events or results may differ from the expectations set forth herein as a result of a number of factors, including uncertainties inherent in pre-clinical studies, clinical trials and product development programs (including, but not limited to, the fact that pre-clinical and clinical results referenced in this release may not be indicative of results achievable in other trials or for other indications, that the studies or trials may not be successful or achieve the results desired, including safety and efficacy for VGX-3100 and INO-3112, that pre-clinical studies and clinical trials may not commence or be completed in the time periods anticipated, that results from one study may not necessarily be reflected or supported by the results of other similar studies and that results from an animal study may not be indicative of results achievable in human studies), the availability of funding to support continuing research and studies in an effort to prove safety and efficacy of electroporation technology as a delivery mechanism or develop viable DNA vaccines, our ability to support our broad pipeline of SynCon® active immune therapy and vaccine products, our ability to advance our portfolio of immune-oncology products independently, the ability of our collaborators to attain development and commercial milestones for products we license and product sales that will enable us to receive future payments and royalties, the adequacy of our capital resources, the availability or potential availability of alternative therapies or treatments for the conditions targeted by the company or its collaborators, including alternatives that may be more efficacious or cost-effective than any therapy or treatment that the company and its collaborators hope to develop, our ability to enter into partnerships in conjunction with our research and development programs, evaluation of potential opportunities, issues involving product liability, issues involving patents and whether they or licenses to them will provide the company with meaningful protection from others using the covered technologies, whether such proprietary rights are enforceable or defensible or infringe or allegedly infringe on rights of others or can withstand claims of invalidity and whether the company can finance or devote other significant resources that may be necessary to prosecute, protect or defend them, the level of corporate expenditures, assessments of the company’s technology by potential corporate or other partners or collaborators, capital market conditions, the impact of government healthcare proposals and other factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015, and other regulatory filings from time to time. There can be no assurance that any product in Inovio’s pipeline will be successfully developed or manufactured, that final results of clinical studies will be supportive of regulatory approvals required to market licensed products, or that any of the forward-looking information provided herein will be proven accurate.

It has just been announced that Saudi Arabia and Russia have agreed to freeze their production at “January levels”.

Prima facie this looks a good first step, particularly as they were able to reach an agreement whilst on opposing sides of the Syrian conflict. However, is the deal worth the paper it’s written on and will it boost the price of oil?

That is doubtful as it’s a cap rather than a cut.

It has just been announced that a secret meeting between Saudi Arabian,  Russian, Qatari, and Venezuelan oil ministers in Doha has concluded with an agreement by all parties to freeze the maximum production level at their respective January output levels.

As these are some of  the world’s  largest oil exporting countries, this looks a good sign that the price of oil will at least stabilise, and gradually increase from here.

The deal may not be too significant though,  for a number of reasons:

• It is contingent on other producers participating.
• Iran did not participate, and is only just bring production back online, so had poor January numbers, and is looking to increase production substantially after the nuclear sanctions were lifted. It is hard to see Iran agreeing to the January figure when it was so low.
• January’s world oil production numbers were near record highs, so it’s a cap rather than a reduction!
• Iran and Iraq are in the next meeting, and as both are looking to increase production and win back former customers, it will be far harder to bring them into line.

So, this looks a good first step, but they clearly have not considered the special situation regarding Iranian oil exports needing to increase to pre sanctions levels, or perhaps they have, and this move is an attempt by Saudi Arabia to prevent the Iranians from rebuilding their economy?

It will be interesting to see how Iran and Iraq react, but I would suggest an agreement at January production levels would be hard to impossible for them to agree to in the current climate.

Subsequent to this, there will be meetings between other OPEC members

The price of gold has surprisingly fallen back after the recent steep gains, as investor appetite for risk returned.

Given the current hostilities and growing tension in Syria, it is surprising that safe haven gold is falling, along with the Japanese Yen.

The price of gold falling despite  war tensions growing.

Last week, unsurprisingly, the price of gold rose $50 in a day, on the back of the escalating conflict in Syria, and the threat of outside involvement further complicating the situation, pitting Turkey (a NATO member) and Saudi Arabia against Russia, Syria, and Iran.

Now the price is falling as investor appetite for risk is increasing, yet the war in Syria is rapidly escalating into a far more serious conflict, with news that Russia has dispatched a brand new cruise missile launching ship to the Mediterranean Sea in a clear warning to Turkey against ground troop involvement.

You have to wonder why the price of gold is falling against this backdrop of serious tension and escalating conflict, with Turkey violating the UN Charter by shelling across the border into Syria into areas recently won by Kurdish troops?

The Japanese Yen, also considered a safe haven in times of conflict, fell back v the US$.

Unsurprisingly, the price of oil is increasing, as Russia and Saudi Arabia put aside the Syrian dispute to discuss production quotas.

Nouveau Monde Mining {TSX.V: NOU} is pleased to report complete drilling results on its graphite property at Matawinie.

The objective is to define a mineral resource estimate before year end.

GATINEAU, QUEBEC – Nouveau Monde Mining {TSX.V: NOU} is pleased to report complete drilling results for the West Zone from its 2015 exploration program on the Tony claim block, part of its Matawinie graphite Property.

The project is located in the Saint-Michel-des-Saints area, some 130 km north of Montreal, Québec, Canada. An extensive trenching and drilling (totaling over 10,000 m) program was initiated in June of 2015 on the claim block. The objective of the work was to define before year-end a Mineral Resource Estimate, completed in accordance with the NI 43-101 guidelines, for the South-East and South-West zones (see December 15, 2015 press release).

Regarding the West Zone, the resource estimate is scheduled to be completed during the first quarter of 2016. A preliminary economic assessment regarding these three mineralised zones is expected during the first half of 2016.

Drilling

To date, 70 core drill holes ranging in length from 33 m to 253 m were drilled over the Tony claim block in 2015 for a total of 10,479 m. The operation generated 4,314 samples. Most of the drilling was concentrated on the South-East, South-West and West Zones. The graphitic mineralisation is mostly encased within paragneiss units. The West zone had seen prior trenching and channel sampling in 2014 (see September 23, 2014 press release).

The drilling campaign on the West Zone consists of 27 holes totaling 4,546 m. The complete West Zone drilling results can be consult in the downloading file whereas the main results are presented in Table 1 below. The highlight for this zone is the large width of the mineralized envelope which comprises four graphitic horizons numbered W0, W1, W2 and W3 (see the West Zone 3D Model). These horizons can be followed from sections W100 to W2100 (a distance of 2000 m).

The westernmost horizon, W0, begins at section W1200 where it shows a width of about 10 m. It thickens to 30 m at section W1500, from whence the width remains constant unto section W2100 (a distance of 900 m). The grade of horizon W0 ranges from 2.37% to 3.12% Cg between sections W1200 and W1300 and increases to around 5% Cg between sections W1500 and W2100. The best W0 intercept grades 6.10% Cg over 28.1 m (22.1 m true width) in section W1700.

The width of horizon W1 varies generally from 40 to 50 m between sections W0100 and W2100 (a distance of 2000 m). Meanwhile, the grade fluctuates from 3.13% to 4.78% Cg between sections W0100 to W1300 and between 4% and 5% Cg from section W1400 to W2100. The best W1 intercept grades 5.31% Cg over 57.7 m (57.5 m true width) in section W1000. Another feature of the W1 horizon is that the lower portion (W1A) generally grades between 3% and 4% Cg whereas the upper part (W1B) ranges between 4% and 5% Cg.

The width of horizon W2 is generally around 7 m. However, it occasionally increases to 20 m. The best intercept was provided in section W1700 where the W2 horizon is 33 m thick (26 m true width) grading 5.39% Cg. The grade of this horizon ranges from 2.91% to 5.39% Cg between sections W0100 and W2100 (a distance of 2000 m).

The width of horizon W3 ranges from 5 to 24 m between sections W0100 and W1500 (a distance of 1400 m). Its grade varies generally from 2.99% to 5.20% Cg. The best W3 intercept grades 4.98% Cg over 24.2 m (21 m true width) in section W0100.

An additional feature of the West Zone is that some of the horizons merge together between sections W1100 and W1900 (a distance of 800 m) to form a thick mineralised unit measuring 58.9 to 96.5 m. The best mineralised intersection from drilling on the West Zone is from Section W1900, with a grade of 5.10% Cg over 115.2 m (90.8 m true width).

The mineralized horizons all dip around 75° towards the east. The mineralisation remains open to the north, to the south and at depth.

The samples from the 2015 core drilling program were generally 2 m in length (see QC/QA section below). Core barrel size was BTW (4.2 cm). All the holes from sections W0100 to W1500 were more or less oriented N2930 (perpendicular to the long axis of the zone), with a dip of 450, while those from sections W1700 to W2100 were more or less oriented N3130.

Quality Assurance – Quality Control

The 2015 drilling program was supervised by Yvan Bussières, P.Eng. (Québec), B.Sc. A strict protocol, including the insertion of duplicate and blank samples within the sample stream was adopted as part of a quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program. Graphite standards were also included within the borehole sampling protocol. Duplicate, blank and graphite standard sample results returned values within acceptable limits. Verification, preparation and sample submittal for the drilling were done by Mr. Bussières.

Mineralized core samples were chosen for analysis either by Mr. Bussières or Mr. Bernard-Olivier Martel, P.Geo. (Québec), B.Sc. The mineralised drill core was split into quarters using a rock saw. The quarter core samples were then individually bagged and sent for analysis, and the remaining core was kept as a reference and for possible metallurgical testing. Samples were analysed for graphitic carbon (Cg) content by a LECO analyzer (ALS code; C-IR18) at the ALS Minerals laboratory in North Vancouver (BC), Canada. This laboratory is ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 17025 accredited.
GRANT OF OPTIONS

The Corporation announces the grant of 250,000 options to a consultant of the Corporation. Each option shall entitle its holder thereof to subscribe for one common share of the Corporation, at a price of $0.20 per common share, for a period of five years from the date of grant. These options will vest one quarter at issuance and by period of three months until November 11th, 2016. These options were granted in accordance with the terms of the current stock option plan of the Corporation.

The technical information in this news release was prepared by Yvan Bussières, P.Eng., drill program supervisor, and reviewed by Eric Desaulniers, MSc, P.Geo., President and CEO of Nouveau Monde. Mr. Bussières and Mr. Desaulniers are both Qualified Persons under National Instrument 43-101.

For further information, please contact:

Eric Desaulniers.

President and Chief Executive Officer.

+1 819 923 0333

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) has in any way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction or approved or disapproved the contents of this press release.

Except for historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated by such statements. Nouveau Monde will not update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Nouveau Monde.

Storedot, the Israeli based company focusing on non toxic molecular development have added a significant third string to their bow, enhanced graphic displays using newly developed molecules.

The company are already very advanced in commercialising their 30 second phone battery charger, and have a 5 minute car battery charger in late development stage.

Storedot are at the forefront of new technology, developing batteries and now displays that conform to the highest environmental standards, and are completely non toxic.

Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich invested $10 million in a Storedot financing recently.

To read about the new MolecuLED displays, please click HERE

To view a video demonstration of MolecuLED, please click HERE

Kootenay Silver {TSX.V: KTN} have announced that they have replaced the former binding agreement with Northair Silver, announced on January 13th.

Northair Silver will now become a wholly owned subsidiary of Kootenay Silver.

Comment.

Not quite sure why the original agreement has been replaced with this one, now  making Northair Silver a wholly owned Subsidiary of Kootenay Silver, but I will endeavour to find out, and pass on if I discover the definitive answer.

Kootenay Silver {TSX.V: KTN} the Mexican based  silver focused discovery and development company, announced today that the company has entered into a definitive arrangement with Northair Silver Corp., pursuant to which Kootenay has agreed to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Northair. This replaces the binding letter agreement previously announced on January 13, 2016.

Northair will now become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kootenay Silver once the transaction is completed. The combination of Kootenay and Northair will create a leading Mexican silver exploration and development company and consolidator.

By generating exploration targets that demonstrate potential to evolve into large scale discoveries and exploring joint venture partnerships, Kootenay aims to create shareholder value through discovery and acquisition of mineral resources.

“We could not be more pleased to complete our definitive agreement with  Kootenay,” said Andrea Zaradic, President, CEO & Director of Northair. “Through the consolidation, we will clearly be dealing from a position of strength. By combining our established assets, including two of the highest profile recent silver discoveries in Mexico, we will stand out from our peer group as a recognized leader in the Mexican silver sector. As the consolidation moves forward, we believe this transaction will substantially benefit both Northair and its security-holders. First, it will enable our shareholders to obtain an attractive premium on their shares. Secondly, it will allow them to continue to participate in the La Cigarra silver project within a larger, and more diversified company. Equally important to future development, we will be backed by an exploration and mining team with a proven track record of building high valued mining companies.”

Positive Preliminary Metallurgy Tests
This announcement is only one of many positive updates from Kootenay. Last year, the company received positive results from preliminary metallurgy tests conducted in October on samples from the company’s La Negra silver discovery. The discovery’s potential resource is estimated at over 65 million ounces of silver. Along with their La Negra discovery, which alone positions the company as a major player in the sector, and the announcement of this strategic consolidation, Kootenay is sure to continue furthering their goals.

“We are very pleased and excited to move forward with this milestone transaction with Northair,” said James McDonald, President and CEO of Kootenay. “This is a well-planned consolidation that has the potential to provide both companies and their shareholders with far reaching benefits well into the future. Combining the Promontorio, La Negra and La Cigarra projects will immediately position Kootenay as one of Mexico’s preeminent, asset-based, silver development companies. Moreover, the support of a newly invigorated treasury and growth plan will allow us to prioritize the expedited development of both the La Negra and La Cigarra projects, as we continue to advance our generative project portfolio and pursue further strategic opportunities in the sector.”

For more information about Kootenay Silver –  www.kootenaysilver.com

Gold {AU} shone on a day of rising international tensions focused on the Syrian civil war, fears about international growth weakness, and stress in the banking system.

Fears of a potential invasion of Syria by Saudi Arabian and Turkish forces has created the potential to escalate the conflict, with the Syrian government are their allies the Russian and Iranian forces opposed to such a move.

Gold rising as a safe haven in a rapidly deteriorating international environment

The price of gold soared by over $49 per ounce today, and the principal reason for such a sharp rise seems to be the rapidly deteriorating situation in Syria, with threats of invasion from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, as they seek to prop up their proxies, now being routed by the Syrian,Russian, Iranian and, Hezbollah alliance in Aleppo and elsewhere.

Having invested so much in supporting and financing the non ISIS groups opposing President Assad in Syria, the Sunni alliance of Saudi Arabia and Turkey are facing losing face as their groups are now being routed by a resurgent Syrian army backed by Russian air support, and Iranian and Lebanese forces on the ground.

Should the invasion occur, they would be in direct conflict with Shia Iranian soldiers on the ground, and the potential for a more widespread conflict would then be intense. Whilst the stated intention is to engage ISIS in northern Syria, the feeling is they could try and relieve their embattled proxies in Aleppo and elsewhere instead.

Add to this the weakness in international growth, causing the US dollar to decline, and signs of some potentially serious stress in the banking system. (check out the 3 year chart for Deutsche Bank!) and a declining dollar assisted the flight to the safe haven that is gold.

One source of banking stress could well occur in the US banking system with banks with large loan portfolios to the oil industry looking vulnerable in the wake of a continuously weak oil price, and rumours of non performing loans not been written down yet.

So against this uncertain background, the price of safe haven gold increased significantly today, and unless a late decision is made for a Syrian ceasefire in Munich this evening, this appreciation in value may well continue.

The other beneficiary of any escalation in the conflict will be the price of oil, as it is hard to see how a military engagement between Saudi Arabia and Iran would not escalate to involve attacks on each others facilities and refineries.

Obviously one hopes for a rapid and peaceful resolution to the conflict, and that an escalation does not occur, but this looks increasingly unlikely at the moment.

Avalon Rare Metals {TSX: AVL} have taken the prudent step to focus on lithium and tin in 2016, and have suspended activity on their rare earth project Nechalacho.

This ensures the focus of the company is on near term revenue for tin, and their high quality lithium project, at a time when demand for lithium is set to increase exponentially.

Avalon’s Nechalacho Rare Earths Project to remain inactive in
2016, while the Company focuses on Lithium and Tin

Toronto, ON – Avalon Rare Metals Inc.{TSX: AVL } provides the following update on activities on the Nechalacho Rare Earth Elements Project at , Thor Lake, NWT.

Project work in calendar 2015 consisted mainly of concluding the ongoing metallurgical research, disposal of process waste materials and storage of bulk samples for future use.

Rare Earths Markets
Markets for rare earth elements remain quiet with prices falling some 30-50% in 2015 despite a 7% increase in overall demand. Overall supply is estimated by IMCOA to have increased some 9% due mainly to increased illegal production in China. This market downturn has resulted in the bankruptcy of at least two potential new producers outside China and a dramatic decline in investor interest, which has significantly reduced the amount of capital available for new rare earths development projects like Nechalacho.

Consequently, expenditures on Avalon’s Nechalacho Project will remain minimal in 2016 as the Company re-focuses its efforts on the Separation Rapids Lithium Project and East Kemptville Tin-Indium Project.

Status of Toll-refining Agreement
With the Nechalacho Project now inactive and the Company’s priorities focused elsewhere, Avalon and Solvay have agreed to mutually terminate the tolling agreement first announced on March 3, 2014 to process and refine Avalon’s mixed rare earth concentrate.

This will save Avalon money and free up capacity for Solvay at its La Rochelle refinery, should other toll refining opportunities emerge before work at Nechalacho resumes.

Avalon and Solvay have agreed to consider entering into a new agreement, should increased demand for rare earths create a new opportunity to advance the Project.

Avalon has benefited from its cooperation with Solvay and looks forward to renewing this cooperation when the market for rare earths recovers.

Potential for Production of Zirconium Chemicals
The Nechalacho deposit contains significant quantities of the zirconium mineral zircon, which the Company had planned to recover and process for its contained heavy rare earths. Recent metallurgical investigations have developed processes for recovering valuable zirconium chemicals from this mineral either as high quality zirconium basic sulphate (ZBS) or zirconium oxychloride (ZOC).

These chemicals have numerous applications including paper coatings, anti-perspirants, paint dryers and fire proofing. Zirconium metal and metal alloys provide excellent corrosion resistance, particularly at high temperatures and have found many applications in nuclear reactors, military vessels and commercial power generation.

Currently China is the primary source of all zirconium consumed in North America but the Nechalacho Project could satisfy the bulk of this demand once brought into production.

Avalon is planning to evaluate the economics of producing zirconium chemicals from the Nechalacho deposit as a primary product when funding becomes available.

Status of Nechalacho Project Permitting
Avalon is considering completing the permitting process under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act, which was initiated in 2012 and has been advancing slowly since then.

The Company is presently assessing the costs that will be associated with completing this process which it estimates could potentially be completed in nine months. The Company is also in discussions with senior officials of the newly elected Government of the Northwest Territories regarding the potential for implementation of significant improvements to the efficiency of the permitting process, that are presently being advocated by industry associations such as the NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines. Such improvements could significantly reduce the current high level of uncertainty around costs and timelines to complete the permitting process in the NWT.

About Avalon Rare Metals Inc.
Avalon Rare Metals Inc. is a Canadian mineral development company specializing in niche market metals and minerals with growing demand in new technology.

The Company has three advanced stage projects, all 100%-owned, providing investors with exposure to lithium, tin and indium, as well as rare earth elements, tantalum, niobium, and zirconium.

Avalon is currently focusing on its Separation Rapids Lithium Project, Kenora, ON and its East Kemptville Tin-Indium Project, Yarmouth, NS. Social responsibility and environmental stewardship are corporate cornerstones.

For questions and feedback, please e-mail the Company at:

ir@avalonraremetals.com

or phone

Don Bubar, President & CEO

+1 416 364 4938

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that expenditures on Avalon’s Nechalacho Project will remain minimal in 2016 as the Company re-focuses its efforts on the Separation Rapids Lithium Project and East Kemptville Tin-Indium Project, that Avalon and Solvay have agreed to consider entering into a new agreement, that looks forward to renewing this cooperation when the market for rare earths recovers, that Nechalacho project could satisfy the bulk of zirconium demand once brought into production, that Avalon is planning to evaluate the economics of producing zirconium chemicals from the Nechalacho deposit as a primary product when funding becomes available, that Avalon is considering completing the permitting process under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act, and that improvements could significantly reduce the current high level of uncertainty around costs and timelines to complete the permitting process . Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “potential”, “scheduled”, “anticipates”, “continues”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “scheduled”, “targeted”, “planned”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be” or “will not be” taken, reached or result, “will occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Avalon to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made. Although Avalon has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expected results described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to market conditions, and the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses as well as those risk factors set out in the Company’s current Annual Information Form, Management’s Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure documents available under the Company’s profile at www.SEDAR.com. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Such forward-looking statements have been provided for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company’s plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Avalon does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that are contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

130 Adelaide St. W, Suite 1901
Toronto, ON M5H 3P5
Tel: (416) 364-4938

Nymox Pharmaceutical Corp. {NASDAQ: NYMX}  announced results from the completion of the Company’s U.S. 40 month (18 month outcomes) localised prostate cancer Phase 2 NX03-0040 clinical trial of fexapotide triflutate (NX-1207).

The study successfully met its pre-determined endpoints.

Nymox Announces Prostate Cancer Clinical Trial Results From Completed 18 Month Endpoint Study

2016-02-09 10:00 ET – News Release
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, N.J., Feb. 09, 2016 – Nymox Pharmaceutical Corp. {NASDAQ: NYMX} today announced results from the completion of the Company’s U.S. 40 month (18 month outcomes) localised prostate cancer Phase 2 NX03-0040 clinical trial of fexapotide triflutate (NX-1207).

The study successfully met its pre-determined endpoints. Cancer progression clinical outcomes were significantly improved in the fexapotide treated patient groups.

The clinical trial commenced in February 2012 at 28 U.S. investigational clinical trial sites and enrolled 147 patients with low grade localized (T1c) prostate cancer. The study lasted 40 months overall from the first patient randomized to the last patient 18 month endpoints.

Results from the completed 18 month outcome study after a single injection of fexapotide included the following:

Absence of tumors (Primary Endpoint) controlled for size in baseline area: fexapotide 15 mg superior to control (p=.035); crossover fexapotide 15 mg superior to control (p=.002); crossover fexapotide overall superior to control (p=.014).

75.5% reduction in biopsy proven prostate cancer Gleason upgrades (pathological progression) after 18 months in fexapotide 15 mg treated patients compared to control (p=.0055). 71.7% reduction in prostate cancer Gleason upgrades in fexapotide treated patients overall (p=.0045 vs controls).

84.8% reduction after 18 months in surgery or radiotherapy instituted for prostate cancer Gleason upgrade (biopsy worsening) in fexapotide treated patients overall compared to control group (p=.014).

54.8% reduction after 18 months in surgery or radiotherapy instituted for all causes with or without prostate cancer Gleason upgrade in fexapotide 15 mg treated patients compared to control (p=.026).

Significant improvement for fexapotide patients compared to controls in 4 out of 4 Secondary Endpoints. Tumor volume reduction in the treated area, combined dosages (p=.04); tumor volume change in prostate overall, fexapotide patients overall (p=.014); median tumor grade outcome in the treated area, all dosages (fexapotide median benign, vs control median Gleason 3+3), and superior median tumor grade in prostate overall, fexapotide 15 mg vs controls.

Consistent safety results with no significant drug-related adverse events and no significant related sexual adverse events.

Overall superior results for the fexapotide 15 mg dose compared to the 2.5 mg dose (dose-response).

Other statistically significant improvement outcomes in fexapotide patients compared to controls, to be presented comprehensively at medical meetings.

 
“These results demonstrate that a single targeted office injection of fexapotide has led to statistically significant improvement in outcomes with much less surgery or radiotherapy required after 18 months. This means a reduction in patient discomfort, and a reduction in permanent side effects and life changes when the more invasive treatments are required,” said Paul Averback, CEO of Nymox.

Dr. Averback added, “Based on these outcomes, we believe there are exciting potential patient benefits from one or more painless fexapotide office injections for this common and distressing condition.”

The Company will report at a later date concerning its plans for moving the compound forward toward the market for this important medical problem.

For more information please contact:

info@nymox.com

or

+1 800-936-9669

Forward Looking Statements

To the extent that statements contained in this press release are not descriptions of historical facts regarding Nymox, they are forward-looking statements reflecting the current beliefs and expectations of management made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the need for new options to treat BPH and prostate cancer, the potential of fexapotide to treat BPH and prostate cancer and the estimated timing of further developments for fexapotide. Such forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our clinical development program, future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainties inherent in the clinical drug development process, including the regulatory approval process, the timing of Nymox’s regulatory filings, Nymox’s substantial dependence on fexapotide, Nymox’s commercialisation plans and efforts and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of fexapotide. Nymox undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Nymox in general, see Nymox’s current and future reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2014, and its Quarterly Reports.
Paul Averback
Nymox Pharmaceutical Corp.

www.nymox.com

Condor Gold {AIM: CNR} has experienced some considerable share price volatility recently, and the share price is now showing some signs of stability, after halving, then quadrupling, then halving again, in short order.

The rapid rise was on the back of what looks suspiciously like a promotional campaign, backed up by bulletin board intensely bullish posting, known as’ ramping’

The recent activity in the price of Condor Gold {AIM: SNR} looks very familiar to old wags of the AIM market, otherwise known as the ‘casino’ after the comments made by a certain American a few years ago.

There are some signs to look for in order to be aware a placing might be imminent in a stock,and obviously the first one is to read the accounts and see the rate of cash burn, then calculate how long it will take for the remaining cash in the bank to be spent.

Clearly nobody runs it down to the wire, so a placing is likely several months before the cash is due to run out as a margin of safety in case of market volatility nearer the time, which could leave a company high and dry.

The next thing to look out for is a promotional campaign, when commissioned “research notes” are published by Eddison, GECR, etc.etc.  These reports are hugely expensive, and so are normally timed to coincide with a need to improve the shareprice. (Condor actually ditched Eddison in an RNS a couple of years ago citing the price as the reason!).

Then there are brief ‘mentions’ in the press (Condor were briefly mentioned in the Daily Mail) which are arranged through their IR Department.

The final sign can be a huge increase in activity on the bulletin boards, with a large group of bulls all arriving at the same time all sending out the same message.

The result is often a rapid increase in the price of the share in question, then a quietening down as those bulls cash out after the rise, and then everything returns to normal.

In the midst of this frenzy,a placing is often announced, discounted, but at a premium to the previous low price.

It would not surprise me if this is currently occurring at Condor.  All the above have been present, the cash is reducing and could be well under £1 million by now, so they will be focused on replenishing the treasury in my opinion.

The recent rally in the price of gold would also seem to be timely for them to raise finance, so I expect an announcement in the not too distant future. The price will be interesting in this weak market, but the recent rise gives them the opportunity to ‘discount’ it!

Neometals {ASX: NMT} are the subject of a new research report, by Euroz Securities.

The report is available via this link

Click here to access the Euroz Securities research report for NMT

Maybe there are some signs of a breakthrough in the bitter impasse between Saudi Arabia and Russia as rumours start to circulate that Russia is prepared to have a meeting with OPEC.

Everyone is hurting so maybe a deal could be done now to restrict quotas and cap production?

Was It Russia that blinked first in this game of bluff?

Apparently Russia is quoted as saying they “would be prepared to meet with OPEC” to discuss the low oil price and current glut of production. This is a change from the previous stance, and suggests the pain may be becoming too great, and a deal of some sort may have to be done.

Further evidence of the pain are reports that US banks have not been marking down non performing loans, a situation that may be about to change.

Citigroup, the fourth biggest by assets, said on Friday morning that it had recorded a 32 per cent rise in non-performing corporate loans in the fourth quarter from the previous year, mainly related to its North American energy book.

Wells Fargo Bank, third largest by assets, said net charges came to $831 million  in the period, up from $731 m in the third, mainly due to oil and gas.

Previously JP Morgan Chase, the number one, said it was “watching closely” for spillover effects. If oil stayed around present levels of $30 a barrel, it said it would be forced to add up to $750 m to reserves this year — which is roughly one-third of the benefit it expects from higher net interest income.

Nymox Pharmaceutical Corp. {NASDAQ: NYMX} announced today private placement equity investment of US$2.1 Million. The investment was at $2.00 per share with no warrants.

The investment was made by long-term Nymox shareholders.

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, N.J., Feb. 04, 2016 – Nymox Pharmaceutical Corp. {NASDAQ: NYMX} announced today private placement equity investment of US$2.1 Million. The investment was at $2.00 per share with no warrants.

The investment was made by long-term Nymox shareholders. The Company has now closed private placements totalling $3.4 Million since November 5.

Erik Danielsen, Nymox Chief Financial Officer, said “We are very pleased with this equity infusion in these market conditions. The Company has strong long-term supporters who are very excited about our business plans, and who share our enthusiasm about near-term milestones.  We are particularly pleased to have raised $3.4 Million since November 5. This will allow the Company to continue to aggressively move our projects forward without delay.”

For more information please contact  info@nymox.com

Forward Looking Statements

To the extent that statements contained in this press release are not descriptions of historical facts regarding Nymox, they are forward-looking statements reflecting the current beliefs and expectations of management made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the need for new options to treat BPH and prostate cancer, the potential of fexapotide to treat BPH and prostate cancer and the estimated timing of further developments for fexapotide. Such forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our clinical development program, future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainties inherent in the clinical drug development process, including the regulatory approval process, the timing of Nymox’s regulatory filings, Nymox’s substantial dependence on fexapotide, Nymox’s commercialization plans and efforts and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of fexapotide. Nymox undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Nymox in general, see Nymox’s current and future reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2014, and its Quarterly Reports.

Contact:
Paul Averback
Nymox Pharmaceutical Corporation
800-93NYMOX
www.nymox.com

Cartier Resources Inc. (TSX.V: ECR} has announced the results of the OreVision geophysical survey, completed in 2015 on the Cadillac Extension property.

The results of this work will be used to define drill targets.

Nymox Pharmaceutical  {NASDAQ: NYMX} has fallen over 50% in the last six weeks on no negative news!

This is despite recent large purchases of shares by director James Robinson..

Nymox Pharmaceutical  {NASDAQ: NYMX} share price has been surprisingly weak in the last month, having more than halved in value since the 15th December.

This is quite surprising when you take into account the recent share purchases in the market by director Robinson, investing substantial sums of money at an average of around $2.60 – $2.80.

The company have not released any negative news to justify such a drop, and in fact the price was

You do have to wonder where the price would be today but for his substantial purchases!

Inovio Pharmaceuticals, {NASDAQ: INO} today announced that management will participate at three upcoming investor conferences in February.

All are located in New York.

Inovio Pharmaceuticals to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences.

PLYMOUTH MEETING, PA – February 2, 2016 – Inovio Pharmaceuticals, {NASDAQ: INO} today announced that management will participate at three upcoming investor conferences in February:

BIO CEO & Investor Conference
February 8-9, 2016
New York, NY

RBC Capital Markets Global Healthcare Conference
February 23-24, 2016
New York, NY

Sachs Cancer Bio-Partnering & Investment Forum
February 24, 2016
New York, NY

Dr. J. Joseph Kim, President and CEO, will give a corporate presentation at the BIO CEO & Investor Conference on February 8th at 15:00  GMT. A live and archived version of Dr. Kim’s presentation will be made available through the “Webcast” tab on Inovio’s home page at www.inovio.com as well as at the following URL: http://bit.ly/1Tsad4s

Dr. Kim will also present at the RBC Global Healthcare Conference on February 23rd at 14:00 GMT. A live and archived version of Dr. Kim’s presentation will be made available through the “Webcast” tab on Inovio’s home page at www.inovio.com.

Dr. Niranjan Sardesai, COO, will give a corporate presentation at the Sachs Cancer Bio-Partnering & Investment Forum on February 24th at 17:20 GMT. Dr. Sardesai will also participate in the Immuno-Oncology Combination Strategies panel being held on February 24th at 15:20 GMT.

About Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Inovio is taking immunotherapy to the next level in the fight against cancer and infectious diseases. We are the only immunotherapy company that is generating T cells in vivo in high quantity that are fully functional and whose killing capacity correlates with relevant clinical outcomes with a favorable safety profile. With an expanding portfolio of immune therapies, the company is advancing a growing pre-clinical and clinical stage product pipeline. Partners and collaborators include MedImmune, Roche, University of Pennsylvania, DARPA, GeneOne Life Science, Drexel University, NIH, HIV Vaccines Trial Network, National Cancer Institute, U.S. Military HIV Research Program, and University of Manitoba.

For more information, visit www.inovio.com

———————————

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements relating to our business, including our plans to develop electroporation-based drug and gene delivery technologies and DNA vaccines, our expectations regarding our research and development programs and our capital resources. Actual events or results may differ from the expectations set forth herein as a result of a number of factors, including uncertainties inherent in pre-clinical studies, clinical trials and product development programs (including, but not limited to, the fact that pre-clinical and clinical results referenced in this release may not be indicative of results achievable in other trials or for other indications, that the studies or trials may not be successful or achieve the results desired, including safety and efficacy for VGX-3100 and INO-3112, that pre-clinical studies and clinical trials may not commence or be completed in the time periods anticipated, that results from one study may not necessarily be reflected or supported by the results of other similar studies and that results from an animal study may not be indicative of results achievable in human studies), the availability of funding to support continuing research and studies in an effort to prove safety and efficacy of electroporation technology as a delivery mechanism or develop viable DNA vaccines, our ability to support our broad pipeline of SynCon® active immune therapy and vaccine products, our ability to advance our portfolio of immune-oncology products independently, the ability of our collaborators to attain development and commercial milestones for products we license and product sales that will enable us to receive future payments and royalties, the adequacy of our capital resources, the availability or potential availability of alternative therapies or treatments for the conditions targeted by the company or its collaborators, including alternatives that may be more efficacious or cost-effective than any therapy or treatment that the company and its collaborators hope to develop, our ability to enter into partnerships in conjunction with our research and development programs, evaluation of potential opportunities, issues involving product liability, issues involving patents and whether they or licenses to them will provide the company with meaningful protection from others using the covered technologies, whether such proprietary rights are enforceable or defensible or infringe or allegedly infringe on rights of others or can withstand claims of invalidity and whether the company can finance or devote other significant resources that may be necessary to prosecute, protect or defend them, the level of corporate expenditures, assessments of the company’s technology by potential corporate or other partners or collaborators, capital market conditions, the impact of government healthcare proposals and other factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015, and other regulatory filings from time to time. There can be no assurance that any product in Inovio’s pipeline will be successfully developed or manufactured, that final results of clinical studies will be supportive of regulatory approvals required to market licensed products, or that any of the forward-looking information provided herein will be proven accurate.

Neometals {ASX: NMT} have been the subject of a new research report, reflecting their current status and that of the lithium market.

State One Stockbroking produce commissioned research.

Neometals {ASX: NMT} are developing their lithium project in Western Australia, with a view to first production during 2016.

This is an excellent stage for investors to be looking at  company, with funding secured and lithium increasing in both demand and price.

To view the State Bank Research Report, please click HERE

Neometals {ASX: NMT} have reported positive drill results from expansion drilling at Mount Marion.

Generally the ore horizon is thicker than previously reported.

Neomotals {ASX: NMT} reports positive drill results at Mt. Marion.

During the December Quarter, 46 RC holes were drilled at the No.6 Deposit, for a total of 2,324 metres and 9 (83 mm‐PQ) Diamond holes were drilled for a total of 693.2 metres on Deposits 1,2 and 2 West.

The infill and extension drilling program has prioritised the near surface mineralisation.  The drilling to date has identified that the mineralisation is laterally wider to the east, open to the north and east and possibly faulted off to the west.  Generally the ore horizon is thicker than previously reported by Mineral Resources.

The first phase of the resource infill and extension project is targeted at extending the size and increasing the classification of the existing resources at Deposits 1,2,2 West and 6, and newly acquired lithium, rights on part of Hampton Location 53.

New mineral resource and ore reserve estimates are planned for completion in the June and September Quarters respectively.
Cross sections and drill results can be viewed in the complete announcement to the market – Click HERE to view the drill results

Neometals Ltd {ASX: NMT} and Mineral Resources Ltd.{ASX: MIN}
are pleased to advise that Ganfeng has agreed to expand the scope of the offtake
arrangements to take-or-pay an additional 80,000 tpa of spodumene concentrate of
between 4% and 6% Li2O content.

28 January 2016

Lithium offtake arrangements expanded at Mt Marion Project

Neometals Ltd {ASX: NMT} and Mineral Resources Ltd.{ASX: MIN}
refer to their announcement dated 28  September 2015 regarding financial close of
the Mt Marion Project Offtake and Equity Investment with China’s leading lithium
producer, Ganfeng Lithium Co.

Under the initial offtake arrangements between Ganfeng and the project vehicle, Reed
Industrial Minerals Pty Ltd, Ganfeng agreed to take-or-pay 100% of the 6% Li2O,
chemical grade spodumene concentrate produced from the Mt Marion Project.
Metallurgical test work has identified an additional spodumene product can be generated
through the addition of a flotation circuit to the current beneficiation plant. Neometals and
MIN are pleased to advise that Ganfeng has agreed to expand the scope of the offtake
arrangements to take-or-pay an additional 80,000 tpa of spodumene concentrate of
between 4% and 6% Li2O content, generated by flotation at agreed discounts to the market prices for the 6% Li2O product.
The expansion remains conditional on RIM and MIN (via its wholly owned subsidiary,
Process Minerals International Pty Ltd) agreeing and finalising the necessary variations to
the Mining Services Agreement to cover the production of the lower grade product, which
will include the addition of a flotation plant at the Mt Marion Project. The variation will be
concluded on completion of a detailed metallurgical test program currently being
undertaken.
For further information, please contact:
Chris Reed
Managing Director Neometals Ltd
info@neometals.com.au
Bruce Goulds
CFO/Company Secretary
Mineral Resources Limited
+61 8 9329 3600
bruce.goulds@mineralresources.com.au

Condor Gold PLC, {AIM: CNR} has announced that director Jim Mellon has increased his holding in the company by purchasing 160,000 shares at an average price of 27p each.

This purchase has preceded an increase in volume and a significant price increase.

Condor Gold Plc {AIM: CNR}, the Nicaraguan focused gold exploration and development company, was notified yesterday that, on 25 January 2016, Jim Mellon, a Director of the Company, purchased 160,000 Ordinary Shares at an average price of 27p per Ordinary Share for a total cost of some £40,000.

Following the share purchase, Jim Mellon has a direct interest in 198,820 and indirect interest in 4,499,496* Ordinary Shares representing a combined interest of 4,698,316 Ordinary Shares representing 10.26% of Condor’s issued share capital.

* 522,222 Ordinary Shares are held through Galloway Limited. Jim Mellon is a life tenant of a trust which is the owner of Galloway; 3,977,274 ordinary shares are held by Regent Pacific Group Limited.

Contact:

Condor Gold plc
Mark Child, Executive Chairman and CEO
0207 408 1067