Researchers from the University of Sydney develop a new X-ray method called X-ray rheography, which allows scientists to see flowing grains within opaque materials. The technique uses Sudoku-style puzzle-solving to gather information and has helped uncover unique patterns and waves in granular flows.
Scientists at John Innes Centre and University of Queensland have improved space-inspired speed breeding technique to breed disease-resistant, climate-resilient crops. By using enhanced LED lighting and day-long regimes, they can grow six generations of wheat per year, compared to two generations using traditional breeding methods.
A study by the University of Zurich found that even small gifts can significantly increase sales, particularly when given to the boss. In a controlled experiment, sales representatives gave customers six tubes of toothpaste worth around 10 francs, leading to orders almost twice as high.
A University of Sydney review of corporate influence on research agendas reveals industry prioritization of profitable product-focused research, compromising public health policies. The study also exposes Coca-Cola's attempts to shift attention from sugar-sweetened beverages to sedentary behavior.
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum have developed new phosphine ligands that enhance gold catalysts' activity and stability. These findings allow for more efficient reactions at lower temperatures with reduced catalyst quantities, promising economic benefits in industries.
A new study shows that combining machine learning and quantum chemistry can help chemical engineers at Rice University and Penn State find fundamental correlations in large amounts of data. This allows them to narrow down their search and design more efficient catalysts, which can translate into millions of dollars for companies.
A group of 21 physicians published a comprehensive proposal for universal access to safe, innovative, and affordable medications. The plan outlines seven critical areas for reform, including establishing national formularies, negotiating with manufacturers, and increasing transparency in clinical trials.
A study found that nonresearch payments from pharmaceutical industry marketing of opioid products were associated with higher opioid prescribing rates. The research used two U.S databases to identify all nonresearch payments and gather information on opioid prescriptions written by physicians for Medicare beneficiaries in 2015.
A study from Cass Business School reveals that Western Internet Firms (WIFs) fail in China due to cultural and competitive differences. CIFs' use of ancient Chinese military strategies and tactics gave them an advantage in competition, while WIFs' limited understanding of the local market hindered their success.
Professor William Lee's research uses mathematical modeling to investigate topics such as Guinness bubbles and filter coffee machines. His work has led to the development of a mathematical model for coffee brewing that can aid machine design, and he is now exploring the link between strength and flavor in espresso.
Researchers at Tufts University created a genetically modified yeast that can efficiently consume xylose, enabling faster growth and higher cell densities. The new synthetic regulon, dubbed XYL, preserved a natural interaction between feeding and survival genes, leading to improved survival of the xylose-eating yeast organism.
A new study found that medical expansion and increased specialization are associated with longer life expectancy and less mortality, but pharmaceutical industry growth is linked to negative health effects. The study suggests that the growing drug industry may be contributing to the rising costs of healthcare.
A team of researchers has developed a novel reaction to insert nitrogen into C-H bonds, creating useful ring-shaped molecules. The breakthrough synthesis uses inexpensive feedstock hydrocarbons as substrates, offering a new solution to the long-standing challenge in pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Scientists at University of Limerick are teaming up with Enterprise Ireland to commercialize continuous nanomanufacturing technology. The project aims to tackle the biggest challenge facing the pharmaceutical industry today, which is that seven out of ten drugs never reach patients due to poor solubility.
Researchers at KAUST and TUM have successfully identified and characterized an enzyme from a brine pool in the Red Sea, which shows promising characteristics for commercial use. The study uses single-amplified genomes to produce proteins and provides a roadmap for mining molecular riches of extreme environments.
Clinical commissioning groups in England received over £3.7 million in payments from drug companies that were not disclosed to patients and the public. The findings show that only two-thirds of payments and a quarter of their value were listed in registers or declarations published by CCGs.
The 2017 WRIB White Papers cover topics such as LCMS small molecules, hybrid LBA/LCMS biotherapeutics, and immunogenicity assays. An interactive Decennial Index of the White Papers provides a decade-long overview of recommendations on bioanalysis and biomarkers.
Researchers at RUDN University have developed a way to produce benzofurans, a key component in various pharmaceutical substances, from cheap agricultural and woody waste. The new approach uses salicyl alcohols derived from low-cost chemicals, enabling the creation of new benzofuran-based drug substances.
A study by University of Toronto professors found that approximately half of the editors of influential medical journals received payments from the pharmaceutical and medical device industry in 2014. The authors believe that similar policies for journal editors should be implemented to address conflicts of interest.
The Science/Science Careers' 2017 Top Employers Survey ranked Regeneron the top biopharmaceutical employer, followed by Biogen and Pfizer. The survey received over 6,950 responses from employees in biotechnology, biopharmaceutical, and pharmaceutical companies worldwide.
The Center for Biorenewable Chemicals (CBiRC) at Iowa State University has introduced a new model for developing biorenewable technologies. By identifying 'bioprivileged molecules' with unique properties, researchers aim to create value from biomass and expand the bioproduct horizon beyond petrochemicals.
A research team led by Professor Bhesh Bhandari has discovered that small fat globules can impart stability to cream and give cold butter a softer texture. The breakthrough uses nanoemulsions to create innovative dairy ingredients with potential to increase the return on investment for dairy manufacturers.
The special focus issue of Bioanalysis examines models and trends in outsourcing, featuring insights from key opinion leaders. The issue highlights the rapidly evolving aspect of drug discovery and development.
A new study by UC San Francisco researchers found that tobacco companies knew NRT hardly ever works without counseling, but now sell it over-the-counter to complement smoking. The 'Tobacco Papers' reveal how industry documents show a shift in perception toward nicotine.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a new type of silica particle that can stabilize both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions using a single type of emulsifier. The particles' rough surface reduces their mobility, allowing them to form a stabilizing armour around droplets.
Rippleshot uses machine learning and data analytics to detect payment-card fraud, identifying at-risk cards and suggesting counteractions to prevent loss. The Innovate Indiana Fund investment will help expand the company's technical team and product offerings for merchants and banks.
A recent survey found that 65 percent of respondents had visited a physician who accepted industry payments, while only 5 percent knew if their own doctor received such favors. The study highlights the need for greater transparency in medical practices.
A new study found that 65% of patients visited a doctor who received payments from pharmaceutical or medical device companies within the last year. Only 5% of those surveyed knew about their doctor's payments, highlighting a need for transparency and patient awareness.
A study reveals widespread conflicts of interest among US-based patient-advocacy organizations, including funding from industry makers and board members with ties to pharmaceutical companies. The findings highlight the need for laws forcing organizations to disclose these connections.
The high cost of drugs has soured public sentiment towards the industry. Industry experts argue that more transparency and perspective are needed to understand the complex reasons behind price hikes.
A growing body of evidence suggests that patient advocacy groups funded by pharmaceutical companies may promote treatments that serve the companies' interests rather than patients' needs. Studies have found that these groups are often biased towards funding sources, with some reporting pressure to conform to industry positions.
A study by Michigan State University found that investors can only accurately predict product performance 48-55% of the time after a preannouncement. Researchers discovered certain conditions, such as detailed and truthful preannouncements in less competitive industries, can improve stock market reactions to preannouncements.
Key findings from 2016 pharmaceutical industry news include the fight against Zika and rare diseases, as well as failed deals and new players. The industry's top stories set the stage for 2017 with a focus on innovative treatments and regulatory changes.
Professor Rasmus Bro receives the first Nils Foss Excellence Prize for his groundbreaking work in process analytical technology (PAT) in the food industry. He has developed methods to analyse complex fluorescence data, revolutionizing water quality measurement.
A new study analyzed industry payments to 8,333 dermatologists in 2014, finding that the top 10% collected at least $3,940 and the top 1% received over $93,622. The majority of payments were for speaker fees, consulting, or research activities.
The John Innes Centre has developed a comprehensive online training hub for wheat researchers, providing essential information on experimental protocols, genomics tools, and cultivation techniques. The platform aims to break down barriers to wheat research, enabling new scientists to transition into the field.
The global seaweed industry is driving growth with valuable uses in food, fertilizer, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products. However, rapid expansion poses ecological and societal risks, including disease outbreaks and environmental degradation.
A study found that nearly nine out of ten physicians and researchers who developed leading cancer care guidelines in the US reported financial ties to the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. The majority of payments were within limits set by the NCCN, but eight guideline authors exceeded them.
Researchers at John Innes Centre discover a key 'twist' in producing heteroyohimbine compounds, which could lead to new and effective pharmaceuticals. The study reveals the importance of specific amino acid sequences in controlling stereoselectivity during compound synthesis.
Researchers have discovered a way to custom-build valuable triterpenes using 'chemical origami', a process inspired by the ancient Japanese art of origami. By modifying an enzyme called SAD1, they can produce different triterpene scaffolds and building blocks, leading to new medicines and industrial chemicals.
The 2016 Blavatnik National Awards recognize David Charbonneau's exoplanet discoveries, Phil Baran's natural product synthesis research, and Michael Rape's fundamental discoveries in ubiquitylation. The three Laureates receive $250,000 cash awards to support their future work.
A study found that physicians who received pharmaceutical industry-sponsored meals were more likely to prescribe certain brand-name drugs, with the rate increasing with the number and cost of meals. The study highlights concerns about the potential influence of industry payments on prescribing patterns.
The National Cell Manufacturing Consortium has developed a national roadmap for advanced cell manufacturing, aiming to increase the production of high-quality living cells for cell-based therapies. The consortium, established by Georgia Tech and industry partners, aims to establish the US as a leader in cell therapy manufacturing.
Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully upgraded methane into methyl bromide, a base material for fuels and chemicals, through oxybromination chemistry. The new catalyst, vanadium phosphate, enables closed-bromine recycling, making the process more efficient and environmentally friendly.
York University researchers have received a $1.7 million grant to develop a platform that rapidly determines detailed information about biologic drug candidates. The project aims to accelerate and improve the quality of pharmaceutical companies' drug discovery and development processes.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new electrochemistry-based method for allylic oxidation reactions, which are used in pharmaceuticals, flavor, and fragrance industries. The new method uses inexpensive, safe chemicals and is scalable, producing better yields and reducing toxic waste.
A new study from the University of Sydney found that medical device and pharmaceutical companies interact with nurses, who have significant influence over hospital purchasing decisions. Nurses reported receiving gifts, product samples, and paid travel, and most acknowledged benefits in working with industry representatives.
Patients undergoing parathyroid surgery experienced fewer hip fractures and fractures of any type compared to those receiving bisphosphonates. Surgery also improved bone mineral density, while bisphosphonates had no impact on fracture risk.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to grow nanostructures that degrade organic matter when exposed to light, directly onto textiles. The technology has the potential to create fully self-cleaning textiles that can spontaneously clean stains and grime with minimal effort.
Researchers from the University of Surrey have discovered a new physical mechanism that separates particles according to their size during the drying of wet coatings. This 'self-layering' process creates two layers with independent properties, which could improve the performance of coatings across industries.
Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have pioneered sugar-powered catalysis, which could revolutionize industries such as agro-chemistry and pharmaceuticals. By harnessing the reducing potential of renewable sugars, scientists have developed a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for catalysis.
A study by Temple University researchers found that pharmaceutical companies can improve their performance by investing in commercial innovation and aligning their culture of execution. The study, published in the Journal of Medical Marketing, analyzed data from 26 large and medium-sized pharmaceutical companies.
SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Medical Marketing Device Diagnostic and Pharmaceutical Marketing·DateMar 1, 2016
The TPP may drive up pharmaceutical prices in low-income countries, diminishing access to essential medications. The agreement also raises concerns about individual country litigation against multi-national pharmaceutical companies.
Researchers have developed new humidity sensors with antibacterial properties to prevent biofilm formation and biofouling in high-humidity environments. The sensors combine nanotechnology and fibre optics, offering biocompatibility, low cost, and long-distance measuring capabilities.
Researchers at MIT Portugal have created eco-friendly green detergents using biosurfactants derived from lignocellulosic biomass, offering advantages in bio-degradability and non-toxicity. The technology reduces costs of raw materials and environmental impact on production, providing a cleaner alternative for home and industrial use.
The number of NIH-funded trials decreased by 328, while industry-funded trials increased by 1,965, during the period. The total number of newly registered trials increased by 5,410, with industry-funded trials accounting for the majority of growth.
Scientists have identified the 3D structure of iridoid synthase, an enzyme crucial for producing anticancer and antimalarial compounds from plant natural products. The discovery provides insights into the biosynthesis process, shedding light on the unique mechanism used by this enzyme to generate core iridoid structures.
A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 10 healthcare company board positions are held by top academics from renowned medical institutions. These directors receive significant compensation, including annual payments of $193,000 and stock options, posing major individual and institutional conflict of interests.
The MIT, Broad Institute Foundry aims to revolutionize genetic engineering by enabling the rapid design, testing, and fabrication of large sequences of genetic information. The facility collaborates with academic and industrial partners to develop innovative pipeline tools for efficient and precise DNA design.
Researchers at the John Innes Centre found that Euglena gracilis has over 32,000 active protein-encoding genes, significantly more than humans. The single cell algae can produce various natural compounds, including vitamins, essential amino acids, and a sugar polymer with anti-HIV effects.