ALSO NOTED: Gates Foundation gives new grants; WellGen names CEO; Bayer Healthcare on lookout for acquisitions; and much more..

> The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will donate $68.2 million to develop cures for three parasitic diseases. Report (WSJ sub. req.)

> WellGen has named Dr. Kathleen P. Mullinix as its new president and CEO. Release

> Fresh from its acquisition of Schering, Bayer Healthcare says it is still on the lookout for new drug acquisitions. Report

> Bayer said it is selling its stake in GE Bayer Silicones to GE. Report

And Finally… The IOM reports that the rate of childhood obesity will spike to 20 percent by 2010 unless dramatic actions are taken. Currently, the rate is 17 percent with 16.5 percent tipping the scales close to obesity. Article