Shares of MDRNA Inc. soared 17 percent, or 13 cents, Wednesday after the Bothell company announced that laboratory tests show its RNA interference-based technology may be effective against strains of the flu virus. Formerly known as Nastech, MDRNA has shifted its research focus to RNA interference, a cellular mechanism that block the expansion of viruses. MDRNA’s stock closed at 89 cents.
CombiMatrix narrows its losses
CombiMatrix Corp. of Mukilteo posted a net loss of $3.3 million for the second quarter, down from $3.6 million a year ago. Revenue for the quarter totaled $2.1 million, up 55 percent from the year-ago period. But operating expenses also went up, reaching $5.4 million in the last quarter. Because it raised $10 million from an investor last month, the company estimates it has enough cash to operate until late 2009.
Local stores add wine tasting
Two Snohomish County grocery stores will participate in the state’s yearlong pilot program that allows on-site wine and beer tastings. The Washington State Liquor Control Board randomly selected 15 independently owned stores, including Everett Grocery Outlet and the Lynnwood Grocery Outlet, to participate in the pilot starting Oct. 1. The state also will allow 15 stores picked from four national chains — Safeway, Fred Meyer/QFC, Haggen/Top Food and Albertsons — to take part as well. The locations for those stores will be named later. The stores can hold 12 tastings over the next year.
Vought stops 787 fuselage work
Workers at a South Carolina plant have stopped making rear fuselage sections for Boeing’s new 787 jet as the supplier adjusts to a delayed launch. Vought Aircraft Industries officials don’t think they’ll make any more of the barrel-shaped structural components for the 787 for at least several months. The Dreamliner jet is being assembled at Boeing’s plant in Everett. Boeing plans to deliver its first 787 next year.
American Airlines speeds 737 deal
American Airlines said Wednesday it will take delivery of another six Boeing 737-800s in 2010, in an effort to speed up the replacement of fuel-guzzling MD-80s in its fleet. The move brings the total number of 737-800s expected to be delivered in 2009 and 2010 to 76 aircraft. American said it has secured financing for about two-thirds of the Boeing 737-800 deliveries in 2009 and 2010. The airline said it still has “firm commitments” to its plan to take delivery of 11 737s in 2013, but it noted it is still looking to further speed up the fleet renewal process.
GIs get third bag from American Air
American Airlines said Wednesday it will waive the fee to check a third bag for active members of the U.S. military. Fees for first and second checked bags have always been waived for active service members, American said. Previously, military personnel had to pay the $100 fee for the third checked bag, and then fill out a form for a reimbursement.
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