Earlier this month, the Czech media reported that a highly efficient antiviral drug developed by Czech scientists has been shelved, reportedly for fear it would compete with existing medicines manufactured by pharmaceutical giants. The substance, known as MK-612, was designed at the Academy´s Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. Academic Bulletin interviewed Zdeněk Havlas, headmaster of the Institute, about next stage in the future of this efficient substance MK-612. and Marina Hužvárová.
The Learned Society’s two-day General Assembly took place at the Hall of Patriots of the Carolinum May and at the ASCR’s main building 17-18 May, 2010. The Society primarily encourages the free development of science in all its aspects through dissemination of scientific ideas and concepts to the general public, by awakening a thirst for and delight in scientific knowledge within society, and through supporting the enhancement of the level of education and a creative, rational and humanly responsible climate in this country. At this General Assembly, Ivan Hlaváček, well-known historiographer, and Karel Štulík, renowned chemist and former president of the Czech Science Foundation, were bestowed the Medal of the Learned Society of the Czech Republic for their contributions to the advancement of science. The Scientist Awards were presented to embryologist and histologist Jan Evangelista Jirásek of the Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, and sinologist Oldřich Král of Charles University. The Junior Scientist Awards were given to Jan Dušek also of Charles University and Jiří Šedý of Institute of Experimental Medicine ASCR. The Learned Society Awards were presented to pedagogues Jarmila Ichová and Helena Kommová for their significant work in advancement of science among young students. The Grammar School Student Awards were presented to 11 students from Czech primary schools. and Marina Hužvárová, Gabriela Adámková.