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Laboratory Focus February/March 2015 www.laboratoryfocus.ca
app review PCR Essentials
New national hub for glycomics research launched
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lycoNet, a new national research network based in Edmonton, AB is receiving $27.3 million over five years to develop new drugs and vaccines for conditions such as influenza, genetic diseases and diabetes. The new national hub will unite more than 60 researchers across Canada working in the chemistry, biochemistry, biology and immunology fields. The primary objective of the network is to deliver glycomics-based solutions for key health issues improving Canadians’ quality of life. The network will also try and fulfill the role of a one-stop global destination focused on developing new therapeutics in collaboration with academic and industry organizations to address areas of need through applied glycomics and translational research. Canadian scientists have led the way in this area of research for over 50 years. According to those involved, this new national hub will further build upon these efforts. “The network will build on the activities of the Alberta Glycomics Centre and the tremendous jurisdictional strength Canada has in this important and rapidly evolving field,” said Dr. Todd Lowary, GlycoNet’s scientific director. He adds that GlycoNet will become a crucial driver for novel solutions to unmet medical needs, including vaccines, drugs and devices. As a branch of structural medicine, glycomics is the study of the structure and function of carbohydrates (sugars) in biological systems. It has led to the commercialization of several carbohydrate-based drugs, including ones that fight influenza, blood clots, diabetes, seizures and migraines. GlycoNet researchers will analyze the function of glycomes in the body and find ways to leverage their biological role to fight various diseases. The new hub will also serve a business development function, seeking to form and incubate new spin-out companies from its funded projects. On the training front, GlycoNet will help to develop a Canada-wide curriculum in glycomics for young researchers, industry and international partners who are training in the principles and practice of drug development, intellectual property management and ethical conduct of research. The funding for the new network is a result of the most recent competition in the Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) program.
By: Life Technologies Corporation https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/pcr-essentials/ id606990640?mt=8 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.com.lifetech. invitrogen.pcressentials&hl=en PCR Essentials is an app that caters to on-the-go genetic researchers who don’t have constant access to the lab, or who simply wish to work from home. Now, scientists and technicians can monitor instrument performance from home and conduct other tasks like obtaining and reviewing real-time data from Life Technologies’ ProFlex PCR System. The app comes equipped with other tools like the Master Mix Calculator, where recipes can be stored in the cloud for later access via other devices. PCR Essentials also comes laden with interactive and educational videos pertaining to strategies and techniques for using the app. This, in combination with a clear and straightforward interface, make for a noteworthy user experience.
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OTC Guide
By: MDNG https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/otc-guide/id475326173?mt=8 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=otc.guide For all the pharmacists out there: the OTC Product Guide app will guide users through the most recommended pharmaceutical products as per Pharmacy Time’s prestigious Survey of Pharmacists. With colour coded categorisation and extensive product details, this app is ideal for physicians who want to help their patients make the most informed choice when it comes to drugs and medications. Despite the convenience this free app offers, an unexceptional interface and small bugs and freezes compromise OTC Guide’s reliability.
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