Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Dealmaking column is a survey of recent health care transactions listed by relevant industry segment – In Vitro Diagnostics, Medical Devices, and Pharmaceuticals – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing. This month’s column covers deals announced January through February 2014.

Recent executive-level company changes and promotions in the biopharma, medical device, and diagnostics industries.

Ischemix, a US biotechnology company developing compounds to reduce and/or prevent cell and organ damage associated with ischaemia-reperfusion injury caused by cardiac surgery, heart attack and stenting procedures, has named Robert DuFresne chief executive officer. The company's former CEO, Dr Reinier Beeuwkes, will continue to serve as president and chairman. Mr DuFresne has more than 25 years' experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, having most recently worked as president and CEO of Pacgen Biopharmaceuticals. He has served on Ischemix's board of directors since May 2007, a role in which he will continue.

Pacgen Biopharmaceuticalsand Taiwan's Medigen Biotechnologyhave called off their planned merger next month, citing the expected cash cost of the transaction.