Ames-based biopharmaceutical company NewLink Genetics reported a net loss of $18.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, or 49 cents per common share, compared with a loss of $20.9 million, or 72 cents per share, for the same period last year. The company ended its first quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $143.9 million, compared with $158.7 million for the year ending Dec. 31, 2017. Research and development expenses increased $4.6 million to $20.3 million over the quarter. General and administrative expenses rose $58,000 to $8.3 million.