By the Journal Staff

The Alaska Science & Technology Foundation board of directors will invest $299,756, with matching funds of $285,958, in three areas: the study of ulcer-causing bacteria, for a capital matching network and in dietary supplements to increase the life span of musk ox.

The study of Helicobacter pylori, funded by ASTF with $64,045 and in-kind contributions of $106,500, will attempt to determine the rate of antibiotic resistance and rate of reinfection of the spiral-shaped microorganisms in non-Natives living in Anchorage. The bacteria are believed to cause stomach ulcers and possibly stomach cancer. Preliminary studies indicate that Alaska Natives appear to have only a 65-percent cure rate as opposed to the Lower 48 states' cure rate of 80 percent to 90 percent.

The foundation also will grant $159,490 to be matched with $97,228 of in-kind contributions to Alaska InvestNet to continue establishing a network for Alaska investors wishing to be matched with capital-seeking Alaska entrepreneurs.

Perry Barboza of the University of Alaska Fairbanks will receive funding of $76,221, matched with $82,230, to determine if the cause of low musk ox calf survival could be corrected with copper enhancements in their diets.