DHL research identifies five crucial implications and action opportunities for supply chain management in 2020 and beyond. Comprehensive report highlights trends for pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers.
DHL, the world’s leading logistics provider, has released an outlook on key logistics trends in the Life Sciences sector for 2020 and beyond. Compiled in a white paper by DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation based on current developments and megatrends, the report derives five key logistics implications and action needs for the industry: direct distribution to end consumers; increasing differentiation of supply chains; deepening access of emerging markets to tier-2 and tier-3 cities; rising importance of supply chain visibility to enable demand driven supply chains and process outsourcing; and finally the need for companies to keep their supply chain flexible to adapt to requirements of innovative products...
Read MoreJPK reports on single molecule research at IISER Pune in India using AFM and CellHesion techniquesJun 12, 2013
JPK Instruments, a world-leading manufacturer of nanoanalytic instrumentation for research in life sciences and soft matter, reports on the work of the Nano-Mechanics Laboratory at the Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Pune, India.
The Nano-mechanics group develops and uses novel techniques to understand molecular processes and has recently developed new instrumentation in the fields of single molecule force spectroscopy and correlation spectroscopy. There are three main areas of research: protein folding using AFM, measuring the mechanical properties of supported lipid bilayers and following the mechanical response of nano-confined fluids. This last area is performed on home-built instruments....
Read MoreBruker and 3M Sign Exclusive Patent License AgreementJun 12, 2013
Bruker Corporation today announced that it has signed an exclusive patent license agreement with 3M Company, which allows Bruker to include 3M patented innovations relating to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging.
The licensed 3M patents are directed to a technique for performing mass spectrometry analysis on proteins in tissue that has been preserved in paraffin. The technology enables researchers to more easily study formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue for life-science research and drug development. MALDI imaging has been increasingly used to analyze clinically relevant tissues such as tumor biopsies. The molecular phenotypes observed by MALDI imaging have been shown to correlate with parameters such as disease status or patient outcome, and have been successfully applied to the classification of tissue samples.
Market leaders in temperature controlled microscopy, Linkam Scientific Instruments report on the use of their popular CSS450 stage for polymer research at the New University of Lisbon, Portugal.
Liquid-crystalline polymers (LCPs) are materials with exceptionally useful mechanical properties compared with ordinary industrial polymers. LCPs are not frequently used in industry due to their prohibitive production costs, but blending an LCP with a relatively common polymer is one way to utilize them at a reduced cost. Only blends that fibrillate in situ during processing, and when the fibrils maintain a solid state, do they demonstrate these superior properties...
Read MoreSpicing up fingerprintsJun 11, 2013
It is most commonly used to spice up Indian cuisine, but scientists at Sheffield Hallam University have discovered turmeric could be used to help solve crimes.
Researchers at the University's Biomedical Research Centre have found that the gold-coloured powder can highlight fingerprints at crime scenes and can detect key characteristics of a suspect such as traces of drug abuse. After close analysis of the spice's main ingredient, curcumin, scientists found that the molecule shares the same structural characteristics as the chemicals used in Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) technology - a technique that allows scientists to detect and identify different molecules on surfaces.....
Buying technician workstations for your laboratory is a major capital expense, deserving of careful consideration to avoid making a costly mistake. The choice can be complicated and there are a number of factors that you should consider.
The key ones include initial purchase price, long term ownership cost, laboratory layout and workstation design, supplier support services, and flexibility. This last one is especially tricky, since it requires a bit of crystal ball to make sure your choice supports changing laboratory environments, due to expansion and consolidation, as well as changing trends in equipment design and usage. Follow these six tips for selecting a laboratory workstation that meets all your current needs, while positioning you to adapt to whatever comes down the parkway....
The iQ II EDXRF Spectrometer from SPECTRO Analytical gives precise, accurate results for low sulphur content analysis of fuels.
EDXRF analysis is widely used in this application, but the evolving regulatory environment requires constant development and advances in detection sensitivity. This is achieved in the iQ II through the use of polarised excitation. The instrument’s outstanding detection limit of ≤ 0.5 mg/kg sulphur and its compliance to EN ISO 13032 means it delivers reliable analysis of even sulphur-free fuels, placing it at the forefront of commercial benchtop EDXRF systems...
The School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham (UK) has placed a sizeable order with Asynt to upgrade their undergraduate teaching facilities with DrySyn Scholar Plus heating block systems
The School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham is one of the leading Chemistry departments in the UK and is recognised internationally for its world leading research portfolio, excellence in teaching and extensive engagement with Industry. Its expertise spans the spectrum of modern chemical technology including synthesis, analysis and characterisation, ranging from the core chemistry disciplines to areas at the interface with biological sciences and engineering (sustainable chemical processing)......
Read MoreResearchers Enlist Cameca Nanosims Microprobe to Determine Origins of Lunar WaterJun 10, 2013
Microprobe’s Results Indicate Water on Earth and Moon Has Similar Origin
A research team made up of scientists from Brown University, the Carnegie Institution for Science, and Case Western Reserve University has determined from lunar samples brought back by the Apollo 15 and 17 Moon missions that water from the interiors of the Earth and the Moon has a common origin. The team examined melt inclusions found in the lunar rock samples. Melt inclusions are tiny dots of volcanic glass trapped within rock crystals that prevent water from escaping during eruptions. They provide a unique snapshot of the Moon’s interior composition.
Sygnature Discovery, a leading provider of integrated drug discovery services to pharmaceutical and biotech companies has won the award for Excellence in Science and Technology at the annual Nottingham Post Business Awards.
Sygnature flew the flag for Nottingham’s growing life science industry when the team received the winner’s prize sponsored by leading law firm, Geldards. The company was selected and judged on the quality of its science, commitment to innovation and business sustainability, in the drive to discover the medicines of the future....
Discounted Attendee Passes Available for a Limited Time
Experts predict that the stem cell industry will be worth over $5 billion by 2014, reflecting the enormous potential of stem cell technologies in the pharmaceutical industry. In the light of this Oxford Global Conferences are proud to present our Stem Cell Congress, to be held on the 4th & 5th November 2013 at the Copthorne Tara, London Kensington. Over this two day conference our esteemed experts will offer invaluable insights into the latest stem cell applications in translational research as well as exploring advances in bioprocessing and engineering technologies...
Syngene, a world-leading manufacturer of image analysis solutions is delighted to announce that one of its G:BOX Chemi imaging systems is being used at the Wageningen UR (University & Research centre) to visualise and analyse bacterial proteins as part of a research programme to understand the molecular mechanisms behind bacterial immune systems.
Scientists in the Laboratory of Microbiology at Wageningen UR are using a G:BOX Chemi system to accurately image both chemiluminescent and fluorescently labelled Western blots of multi-functional protein complexes belonging to the CRISPR/Cas proteins. These proteins degrade foreign DNA, thus protecting bacteria from infection and by studying them, the scientists hope to unravel how bacterial immune systems function. Determining pathways of bacterial immunity could lead to a number of applications, such as being able to immunise industrially important bacteria used in food production and large-scale fermentations against phage infection....
Helpful technical information along with a comprehensive product selection
The new 2013/14 Cole-Parmer® Sourcebook combines the best of both for scientists, manufacturers, and purchasing managers. From conversion factors to regulatory agencies and approvals to selection guides, the catalogue is packed with reference material to make buying—and using—products easier. The 2,000+ page book also contains thousands of laboratory and industrial process offerings for fluid handling, water quality, research and biotech, and more....
Xmark Media announces the launch of Vacuum Expo and its partner conference, Vacuum Symposium. In response to industry needs and enthusiasm, the organisers have added a new meeting this year.
The UK's key event for vacuum and nano technologies and techniques taking place in a vacuum chamber is to be held on the 16th & 17th October 2013 at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. The past successes of these combined events have shown just how much enthusiasm there is for this a quality, well-organised and low cost event. The 2012 event saw a 30% growth in visitors indicating the healthy state of the industry in the UK....
Read MoreUK Life Science Skills Awards Recognise Value of Innovative Science CourseJun 6, 2013
Work by University of Hertfordshire and Melbourn Scientific to reduce the skills shortage in life sciences has been recognised in the national awards given to outstanding trainers.
The company has helped the University to develop and deliver a new part-time MSc degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences that is heavily practically based and meets the needs of progressive companies. Government life sciences adviser and biotechnology entrepreneur George Freeman MP says, “Brilliance is often rewarded in science but practical skills are equally important to industry. I am delighted to see how business and academia have combined forces to create this joint initiative to address the skills shortage.”....
Recognising the high purchase price and ongoing support costs of many competitive Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Autoscribe has devised a payment scheme that would significantly reduce capital budget costs.
This is specifically designed for LIMS users who are looking to replace their existing system but may be finding it difficult to raise the required budget. The new scheme spreads the total cost of an Autoscribe Matrix Gemini LIMS over 5 years, including ongoing support. Autoscribe Managing Director, John Boother, explained: “We have had discussions with a number of users who are unhappy with their current system and although they would find it difficult to obtain more capital funding, they are already paying significant ongoing maintenance costs....
As part of the International Barcode of Life Project, the largest biodiversity genomics initiative ever undertaken, the Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding (CCDB) has chosen METTLER TOLEDO and its Rainin Liquidator 96 to fulfill fundamental roles in numerous liquid handling procedures required to process DNA samples.
Manual control of aspiration and dispensing, as well as the instrument’s flexible working platforms, helps the lab achieve the precision and processing speed it requires. “The Liquidator 96 system allows you to control the pipetting speed for slow aspiration and dispensing. You can also change volumes in a single motion and move to the next step without interruption. This prevents the introduction of air bubbles and contamination,” said Dr. Natalia Ivanova, lead DNA scientist, CCDB. Avoiding rework is critical, because the CCDB processes about 300,000 samples per year from animal, plant and fungal sources following a typical DNA extraction and PCR amplification workflow....
Annual conference will bring together industry leaders and the latest technologies.
An international conference and exhibition covering the latest developments in nanotechnology was announced today. Nano London will take place from 17th-19th June 2014 at Olympia and brings together industry leaders, academics, commentators, suppliers and sources of funding in the fast growing field of nanotechnology. The event, which is expected to attract over 3000 visitors and a minimum of 100 exhibitors will be a truly international event offering a combination of exhibitor space, a world class international conference, a funding forum and networking opportunities....
With laboratory automation constantly advancing, it is important that laboratories update their systems to keep up with current legislation and technology trends.
Pro-curo Software Ltd assists labs in introducing new systems by making the adoption and integration of the company’s sample tracking software as easy as possible. By ensuring that setup and installation of Pro-curo software is quick and simple, without posing any risks to existing data and through supplying complete training and 24-hour customer support, Pro-curo Software Ltd makes sure that the transition to their innovative, user-friendly tracking system runs smoothly....
Leading US University (Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics, Indiana) Contributes to Collaboration
Beckman Coulter Life Sciences, through a partnership with Illumina, offers automated methods to improve processes and throughput in next generation sequencing (NGS) sample preparation. Under the agreement, Beckman Coulter will use its extensive experience in automated NGS sample preparation to develop, distribute and support automation for Illumina’s TruSeq® and Nextera® sample preparation kits and Illumina will provide technical expertise on chemistry and protocols....
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., the world leader in serving science, has announced the introduction of its new Swap Out Program for the Thermo Scientific™ Orbitor® RS microplate mover, to maximize up-time in automated workflows.
One of the main advantages of laboratory automation is increased productivity. The Orbitor RS achieves this with rapid and flexible plate handling, allowing loading of multiple stacked or high-density instruments within a compact footprint. Supporting the robust and reliable technology of the Orbitor RS, the Thermo Scientific Swap Out Program guarantees quick and efficient instrument replacement in the unlikely event that performance drops...
Read MoreFlexicon machine aids biotherapeutics development work at Cancer Research UKJun 4, 2013
A Flexicon FP50 tabletop filling and stoppering machine from Watson-Marlow Pumps Group has automated a previously manual process at a Cancer Research UK facility in Hertfordshire. The FP50 is delivering increased speed and reliability into this critical operation, as well as enhanced vial filling accuracy.
The Cancer Research UK Biotherapeutics Development Unit (BDU) was constructed in 2010 at South Mimms near Potters Bar. It is a modern, MHRA licensed, fully cGMP-compliant, 2000 sq metre facility that is engaged in the process development and GMP production of novel Investigational Medicinal Products (IMPs) for phase I clinical trials sponsored by Cancer Research UK....
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DHL, the world’s leading logistics provider, has released an outlook on key logistics trends in the Life Sciences sector for 2020 and beyond. Compiled in a white paper by DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation based on current developments and megatrends, the report derives five key logistics implications and action needs for the industry: direct distribution to end consumers; increasing differentiation of supply chains; deepening access of emerging markets to tier-2 and tier-3 cities; rising importance of supply chain visibility to enable demand driven supply chains and process outsourcing; and finally the need for companies to keep their supply chain flexible to adapt to requirements of innovative products...
The Nano-mechanics group develops and uses novel techniques to understand molecular processes and has recently developed new instrumentation in the fields of single molecule force spectroscopy and correlation spectroscopy. There are three main areas of research: protein folding using AFM, measuring the mechanical properties of supported lipid bilayers and following the mechanical response of nano-confined fluids. This last area is performed on home-built instruments....
The licensed 3M patents are directed to a technique for performing mass spectrometry analysis on proteins in tissue that has been preserved in paraffin. The technology enables researchers to more easily study formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue for life-science research and drug development. MALDI imaging has been increasingly used to analyze clinically relevant tissues such as tumor biopsies. The molecular phenotypes observed by MALDI imaging have been shown to correlate with parameters such as disease status or patient outcome, and have been successfully applied to the classification of tissue samples.
Liquid-crystalline polymers (LCPs) are materials with exceptionally useful mechanical properties compared with ordinary industrial polymers. LCPs are not frequently used in industry due to their prohibitive production costs, but blending an LCP with a relatively common polymer is one way to utilize them at a reduced cost. Only blends that fibrillate in situ during processing, and when the fibrils maintain a solid state, do they demonstrate these superior properties...
Researchers at the University's Biomedical Research Centre have found that the gold-coloured powder can highlight fingerprints at crime scenes and can detect key characteristics of a suspect such as traces of drug abuse. After close analysis of the spice's main ingredient, curcumin, scientists found that the molecule shares the same structural characteristics as the chemicals used in Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) technology - a technique that allows scientists to detect and identify different molecules on surfaces.....
The key ones include initial purchase price, long term ownership cost, laboratory layout and workstation design, supplier support services, and flexibility. This last one is especially tricky, since it requires a bit of crystal ball to make sure your choice supports changing laboratory environments, due to expansion and consolidation, as well as changing trends in equipment design and usage. Follow these six tips for selecting a laboratory workstation that meets all your current needs, while positioning you to adapt to whatever comes down the parkway....
EDXRF analysis is widely used in this application, but the evolving regulatory environment requires constant development and advances in detection sensitivity. This is achieved in the iQ II through the use of polarised excitation. The instrument’s outstanding detection limit of ≤ 0.5 mg/kg sulphur and its compliance to EN ISO 13032 means it delivers reliable analysis of even sulphur-free fuels, placing it at the forefront of commercial benchtop EDXRF systems...
The School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham is one of the leading Chemistry departments in the UK and is recognised internationally for its world leading research portfolio, excellence in teaching and extensive engagement with Industry. Its expertise spans the spectrum of modern chemical technology including synthesis, analysis and characterisation, ranging from the core chemistry disciplines to areas at the interface with biological sciences and engineering (sustainable chemical processing)......
A research team made up of scientists from Brown University, the Carnegie Institution for Science, and Case Western Reserve University has determined from lunar samples brought back by the Apollo 15 and 17 Moon missions that water from the interiors of the Earth and the Moon has a common origin. The team examined melt inclusions found in the lunar rock samples. Melt inclusions are tiny dots of volcanic glass trapped within rock crystals that prevent water from escaping during eruptions. They provide a unique snapshot of the Moon’s interior composition.
Sygnature flew the flag for Nottingham’s growing life science industry when the team received the winner’s prize sponsored by leading law firm, Geldards. The company was selected and judged on the quality of its science, commitment to innovation and business sustainability, in the drive to discover the medicines of the future....
Scientists in the Laboratory of Microbiology at Wageningen UR are using a G:BOX Chemi system to accurately image both chemiluminescent and fluorescently labelled Western blots of multi-functional protein complexes belonging to the CRISPR/Cas proteins. These proteins degrade foreign DNA, thus protecting bacteria from infection and by studying them, the scientists hope to unravel how bacterial immune systems function. Determining pathways of bacterial immunity could lead to a number of applications, such as being able to immunise industrially important bacteria used in food production and large-scale fermentations against phage infection....
The new 2013/14 Cole-Parmer® Sourcebook combines the best of both for scientists, manufacturers, and purchasing managers. From conversion factors to regulatory agencies and approvals to selection guides, the catalogue is packed with reference material to make buying—and using—products easier. The 2,000+ page book also contains thousands of laboratory and industrial process offerings for fluid handling, water quality, research and biotech, and more....
The UK's key event for vacuum and nano technologies and techniques taking place in a vacuum chamber is to be held on the 16th & 17th October 2013 at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. The past successes of these combined events have shown just how much enthusiasm there is for this a quality, well-organised and low cost event. The 2012 event saw a 30% growth in visitors indicating the healthy state of the industry in the UK....
The company has helped the University to develop and deliver a new part-time MSc degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences that is heavily practically based and meets the needs of progressive companies. Government life sciences adviser and biotechnology entrepreneur George Freeman MP says, “Brilliance is often rewarded in science but practical skills are equally important to industry. I am delighted to see how business and academia have combined forces to create this joint initiative to address the skills shortage.”....
This is specifically designed for LIMS users who are looking to replace their existing system but may be finding it difficult to raise the required budget. The new scheme spreads the total cost of an Autoscribe Matrix Gemini LIMS over 5 years, including ongoing support. Autoscribe Managing Director, John Boother, explained: “We have had discussions with a number of users who are unhappy with their current system and although they would find it difficult to obtain more capital funding, they are already paying significant ongoing maintenance costs....
Manual control of aspiration and dispensing, as well as the instrument’s flexible working platforms, helps the lab achieve the precision and processing speed it requires. “The Liquidator 96 system allows you to control the pipetting speed for slow aspiration and dispensing. You can also change volumes in a single motion and move to the next step without interruption. This prevents the introduction of air bubbles and contamination,” said Dr. Natalia Ivanova, lead DNA scientist, CCDB. Avoiding rework is critical, because the CCDB processes about 300,000 samples per year from animal, plant and fungal sources following a typical DNA extraction and PCR amplification workflow....
Pro-curo Software Ltd assists labs in introducing new systems by making the adoption and integration of the company’s sample tracking software as easy as possible. By ensuring that setup and installation of Pro-curo software is quick and simple, without posing any risks to existing data and through supplying complete training and 24-hour customer support, Pro-curo Software Ltd makes sure that the transition to their innovative, user-friendly tracking system runs smoothly....
Beckman Coulter Life Sciences, through a partnership with Illumina, offers automated methods to improve processes and throughput in next generation sequencing (NGS) sample preparation. Under the agreement, Beckman Coulter will use its extensive experience in automated NGS sample preparation to develop, distribute and support automation for Illumina’s TruSeq® and Nextera® sample preparation kits and Illumina will provide technical expertise on chemistry and protocols....
One of the main advantages of laboratory automation is increased productivity. The Orbitor RS achieves this with rapid and flexible plate handling, allowing loading of multiple stacked or high-density instruments within a compact footprint. Supporting the robust and reliable technology of the Orbitor RS, the Thermo Scientific Swap Out Program guarantees quick and efficient instrument replacement in the unlikely event that performance drops...
The Cancer Research UK Biotherapeutics Development Unit (BDU) was constructed in 2010 at South Mimms near Potters Bar. It is a modern, MHRA licensed, fully cGMP-compliant, 2000 sq metre facility that is engaged in the process development and GMP production of novel Investigational Medicinal Products (IMPs) for phase I clinical trials sponsored by Cancer Research UK....