Current techniques for production of structures at the micron level can be labour-intensive, multi-stepped approaches and not necessarily suitable for truly rapid prototyping.

The latest developments in lab-on-a-chip technology include a breakthrough in protein scanning, a miniaturisation of genetics testing techniques and a possible 10000-fold increase in testing speed.

A new electrostatic-based DNA microarray technique and an advance in pharmacogenomics could hail the end of adverse drug reactions. Sean Ottewell reports.

With factors such as contamination-free operation, accuracy, dose repeatability, ease of operation and simple maintenance on its side, more and more laboratories are opting to use peristaltic pumping technology. Ashley Shepherd explains.

Researchers have begun to appreciate the benefits of imaging in the near infrared (NIR), especially around 800 nm. Numerous publications have demonstrated the rationale behind 800 nm imaging. Jeff Harford reports.

The study of the kinetics of a chemical reaction over time is one of the simplest and quickest ways of measuring the efficiency of active ingredients in drugs for the pharmaceutical industry.

Texas Instruments has announced a portfolio of more than 15 dedicated embedded processors which enable faster, more accurate results for doctors and clinicians while empowering imaging equipment manufacturers to develop new modalities or to make existing products smaller and more portable.

Although Laboratory Information Management (LIMS) systems have been used for more than 25 years and have extended their functionality to address the diverse requirements of many industries, the basic LIMS concepts and workflows have not changed significantly.

Ahe DeltaVision family of live-cell imaging systems, supplied by Image Solutions (UK) Ltd is helping to ensure that the College of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee, Scotland, maintains its premier position in Scotland for life sciences research.

Ulf Nobbmann uses two case studies to illustrate the practical application of different light scattering techniques.

Graham Rideal outlines some of the very latest technologies used in measuring pore sizes of filter media.

Vaisala HUMICAP Humidity and Temperature Transmitter Series HMT330 has been upgraded with LAN and WLAN communication options and a display alarm.

Specialist electrochemical sensor manufacturer Analytical Technology has announced the availability of its D12 2-wire loop powered Toxic/Combustible Gas Detector, a sensor which can provide accurate and reliable readings of over 30 gas concentrations.

An international team of researchers has identified genetic markers associated with risk for ulcerative colitis, bringing scientists closer to understanding the biological pathways involved in the disease.

Researchers have developed a versatile mouse model of glioblastoma - the most common and deadly brain cancer in humans - that closely resembles the development and progression of human brain tumours that arise naturally.

Two new studies suggest that taking maternity leave before and after the birth of a baby is a good investment in terms of health benefits for both mothers and newborns.

MIT engineers have developed a new, highly efficient way to pair up cells so they can be fusedtogether into a hybrid cell. It should make it much easier for scientists to study cell fusion.

A new epidemiological study has found that among women who have never used menopausal hormone therapy, obese women are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer compared with women of normal weight.

Adults with diabetes experience a slowdown in several types of mental processing, which appears early in the disease and persists into old age, according to new research.

Removing user fees for primary health care changed health utilization behaviour but did not improve health outcomes among households with children under the age of five in Ghana, says a new study.