Time to relax research use of patents
Article Abstract:
Research-based companies are exempted from European patent law restrictions but the application of this exemption is ambiguous and the courts are interpreting the exemption very narrowly. If a researcher tries to use a patented substance on a patient for determining its further therapeutic applications, he could be charged with violation of patent laws. The courts are making a fine distinction between research use and research use that serves a commercial purpose such as satisfying regulators. The law must be interpreted more leniently to encourage companies to develop better products and improve overall technology.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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Trademarks must not go generic
Article Abstract:
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. has registered the name 'Taxol' as a trademark in almost 70 countries around the world. This elicited criticisms from some in the scientific community who think that it is unjust for a company to have a monopoly of a name that has been in use worldwide for many years to describe a chemical from the Pacific yew tree (Taxus breviofolia). It was argued that taxol is a generic name and should not be used as a trademark. Bristol-Myers Squibb's trademark may still be revoked as soon as other companies become more interested in exploiting the anti-cancer properties of taxol.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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Two cheers for small space missions
Article Abstract:
The European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Laboratory for Particle Physics (CERN) are planning cost reductions in space missions. A reduction in computer equipment and contracts with industry contribute 10% to the savings. A major space-based observatory can provide useful information for ESA's big missions. ESA's next medium mission will be a pilot project in the application of cost reduction.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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